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Martínez-Razo G, Pires PC, Domínguez-López ML, Veiga F, Vega-López A, Paiva-Santos AC. Norcantharidin Nanoemulsion Development, Characterization, and In Vitro Antiproliferation Effect on B16F1 Melanoma Cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16040501. [PMID: 37111258 PMCID: PMC10143330 DOI: 10.3390/ph16040501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a highly lethal type of cancer that has had an increase in incidence in the last decades. Nevertheless, current therapies lack effectiveness and have highly disabling side effects, which calls for new therapeutic strategies. Norcantharidin (NCTD) is an acid derivative with potential antitumor activity isolated from natural blister beetles. However, its solubility limitations restrict its use. To address this issue, we developed an oil-in-water nanoemulsion using commonly available cosmetic ingredients, which increased NCTD solubility 10-fold compared to water. The developed nanoemulsion showed a good droplet size and homogeneity, with adequate pH and viscosity for skin application. In vitro drug release studies showed a sustained release profile, ideal for prolonged therapeutic effects. Accelerated stability studies proved that the formulation was reasonably stable under stress conditions, with particle separation fingerprints, instability index, particle size, and sedimentation velocity analyses being conducted. To assess the therapeutic potential of the developed formulation, in vitro studies were conducted on melanoma B16F1 cells; results showed an IC50 of 1.026 +/− 0.370 mg/kg, and the cells’ metabolic activity decreased after exposure to the NCTD nanoemulsion. Hence, a new “easy-to-make” nanoformulation with therapeutic potential on melanoma cells was developed, as a possible adjuvant for future melanoma treatment.
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Transmission Electron Microscopy as a Powerful Tool to Investigate the Interaction of Nanoparticles with Subcellular Structures. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312789. [PMID: 34884592 PMCID: PMC8657944 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanomedical research necessarily involves the study of the interactions between nanoparticulates and the biological environment. Transmission electron microscopy has proven to be a powerful tool in providing information about nanoparticle uptake, biodistribution and relationships with cell and tissue components, thanks to its high resolution. This article aims to overview the transmission electron microscopy techniques used to explore the impact of nanoconstructs on biological systems, highlighting the functional value of ultrastructural morphology, histochemistry and microanalysis as well as their fundamental contribution to the advancement of nanomedicine.
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Lyu J, Wang L, Bai X, Du X, Wei J, Wang J, Lin Y, Chen Z, Liu Z, Wu J, Zhong Z. Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis by Serum Albumin Nanoparticles Coated with Mannose to Target Neutrophils. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:266-276. [PMID: 33379867 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c19468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an angiogenic and chronic inflammatory disease. One of the most extensively used first-line drugs against RA is methotrexate (MTX), but it shows poor solubility, short in vivo circulation, and off-target binding, leading to strong toxicity. To overcome these shortcomings, the present study loaded MTX into nanoparticles of human serum albumin modified with mannose (MTX-M-NPs) to target the drug to neutrophils. MTX-M-NPs were prepared, and their uptake by neutrophils was studied using laser confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. A chick chorioallantoic membrane assay was used to assess their ability to inhibit angiogenesis. The pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of MTX-M-NPs were investigated using fluorescence microscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography. Their pharmacodynamics was evaluated in a rat model with arthritis induced by collagen. Neutrophils took up MTX-M-NPs significantly better than the same nanoparticles (NPs) without mannose. MTX-M-NPs markedly suppressed angiogenesis in chick embryos, and the MTX circulation was significantly longer when it was delivered as MTX-M-NPs than as a free drug. MTX-M-NPs accumulated mainly in arthritic joints. The retention of NPs was promoted by mannose-derived coating in arthritic joints. Serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, joint swelling, and bone erosion were significantly decreased by MTX-M-NPs. In conclusion, these NPs can prolong the in vivo circulation of MTX and target it to the sites of inflammation in RA, reducing drug toxicity. MTX-M-NPs allow the drug to exert its intrinsic anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, and analgesic properties, making it a useful drug delivery system in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayao Lyu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Ziyang Psychiatric Hospital, Ziyang 641300, Sichuan, China
| | - Lujun Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Xiaosheng Bai
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Xingjie Du
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Jun Wei
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Jianxin Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yan Lin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Zhenyu Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Zhongbing Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Jianming Wu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Zhirong Zhong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
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Murata Y, Yoshida M, Sakamoto N, Morimoto S, Watanabe T, Namba K. Iron uptake mediated by the plant-derived chelator nicotianamine in the small intestine. J Biol Chem 2020; 296:100195. [PMID: 33334885 PMCID: PMC7948497 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.015861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron is an essential metal for all living organisms that is absorbed in the intestinal cells as a heme-chelated or free form. It is unclear how important plant-derived chelators, such as nicotianamine (NA), an organic small molecule that is ubiquitous in crops, vegetables, and various other foods, contribute to iron bioavailability in mammals. We performed electrophysiological assays with Xenopus laevis oocytes and radioactive tracer experiments with Caco-2 cells. The findings revealed that the proton-coupled amino acid transporter SLC36A1 (PAT1) transports iron in the form of NA-Fe (II) complex in vitro. Decreased expression of hPAT1 by RNA interference in Caco-2 cells reduced the uptake of NA-59Fe (II) complex. The uptake of inorganic 59Fe (II) was relatively unaffected. These results imply that PAT1 transports iron as a NA-Fe (II) complex. The rate of 59Fe absorption in the spleen, liver, and kidney was higher when mice were orally administered NA-59Fe (II) compared with free 59Fe (II). The profile of site-specific PAT1 expression in the mouse intestine coincided with those of NA and iron contents, which were the highest in the proximal jejunum. Orally administered NA-59Fe (II) complex in mice was detected in the proximal jejunum by thin layer chromatography. In contrast, much less 59Fe (or NA) was detected in the duodenum, where the divalent metal transporter SLC11A2 (DMT1) absorbs free Fe (II). The collective results revealed the role of PAT1 in NA-Fe (II) absorption in the intestine and potential implication of NA in iron uptake in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiko Murata
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Soraku-gun, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Masami Yoshida
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Soraku-gun, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Naho Sakamoto
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Soraku-gun, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shiho Morimoto
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Soraku-gun, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takehiro Watanabe
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Soraku-gun, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kosuke Namba
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
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Zhang Y, Liang RJ, Xu JJ, Shen LF, Gao JQ, Wang XP, Wang NN, Shou D, Hu Y. Efficient induction of antimicrobial activity with vancomycin nanoparticle-loaded poly(trimethylene carbonate) localized drug delivery system. Int J Nanomedicine 2017; 12:1201-1214. [PMID: 28243084 PMCID: PMC5315202 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s127715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Surgery and the local placement of an antibiotic are the predominant therapies to treat chronic osteomyelitis. Vancomycin-loaded N-trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles (VCM/TMC NPs) as a potential drug delivery system have high intracellular penetration and effective intracellular antibacterial activity. This study investigated the effects of a biocompatible material, poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC), to increase the sustained effectiveness of an intracellular antibiotic and its potential application in antibiotic delivery. VCM/TMC NP-PTMC was characterized using scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to determine the morphology, stability and chemical interaction of the drug with the polymer. Further, the biodegradation, antibacterial activity, protein adsorption, cell proliferation and drug release characteristics were evaluated. In addition, a Staphylococcus aureus-induced osteomyelitis rabbit model was used to investigate the antibiotic activity and bone repair capability of VCM/TMC NP-PTMC. The results showed that the composite beads of VCM/TMC NPs followed a sustained and slow release pattern and had excellent antibacterial activity and a higher protein adsorption and cell proliferation rate than the VCM-PTMC in vitro. Furthermore, VCM/TMC NP-PTMC inhibits bacteria and promotes bone repair in vivo. Thus, VCM/TMC NP-PTMC might be beneficial in periodontal management to reduce the bacterial load at the infection site and promote bone repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Ruo-jia Liang
- Department of Gynaecology, Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou
| | | | - Li-feng Shen
- Department of Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Jian-qing Gao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xu-ping Wang
- Department of Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Na-ni Wang
- Department of Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Dan Shou
- Department of Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine
| | - Ying Hu
- Zhejiang Pharmaceutical College, Ningbo
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Malatesta M. Transmission electron microscopy for nanomedicine: novel applications for long-established techniques. Eur J Histochem 2016; 60:2751. [PMID: 28076938 PMCID: PMC5178805 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2016.2751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
During the last twenty years, the research in nanoscience and nanotechnology has dramatically increased and, in the last decade, the interest has progressively been oriented towards biomedical applications, giving rise to a new field termed nanomedicine. Transmission electron microscopy is a valuable technique not only for the thorough physico-chemical characterization of newly synthesized nanoparticulates, but especially to explore the effects of nanocomposites on biological systems, providing essential information for the development of efficient therapeutic and diagnostic strategies. Thus, for the progress of nanotechnology in the biomedical field, experts in cell biology, histochemistry and ultramicroscopy should always support the chemists, physicists and pharmacologists engaged in the synthesis and characterization of innovative nanoconstructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Malatesta
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona.
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Costanzo M, Carton F, Marengo A, Berlier G, Stella B, Arpicco S, Malatesta M. Fluorescence and electron microscopy to visualize the intracellular fate of nanoparticles for drug delivery. Eur J Histochem 2016; 60:2640. [PMID: 27349319 PMCID: PMC4933830 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2016.2640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to design valid protocols for drug release via nanocarriers, it is essential to know the mechanisms of cell internalization, the interactions with organelles, and the intracellular permanence and degradation of nanoparticles (NPs) as well as the possible cell alteration or damage induced. In the present study, the intracellular fate of liposomes, polymeric NPs and mesoporous silica NPs (MSN) has been investigated in an in vitro cell system by fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. The tested nanocarriers proved to be characterized by specific interactions with the cell: liposomes enter the cells probably by fusion with the plasma membrane and undergo rapid cytoplasmic degradation; polymeric NPs are internalized by endocytosis, occur in the cytoplasm both enclosed in endosomes and free in the cytosol, and then undergo massive degradation by lysosome action; MSN are internalized by both endocytosis and phagocytosis, and persist in the cytoplasm enclosed in vacuoles. No one of the tested nanocarriers was found to enter the nucleus. The exposure to the different nanocarriers did not increase cell death; only liposomes induced a reduction of cell population after long incubation times, probably due to cell overloading. No subcellular damage was observed to be induced by polymeric NPs and MSN, whereas transmission electron microscopy revealed cytoplasm alterations in liposome-treated cells. This important information on the structural and functional relationships between nanocarriers designed for drug delivery and cultured cells further proves the crucial role of microscopy techniques in nanotechnology.
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Jin X, Zhang SB, Li SM, Liang K, Jia ZY. Influence of Chitosan Nanoparticles as the Absorption Enhancers on Salvianolic acid B In vitro and In vivo Evaluation. Pharmacogn Mag 2016; 12:57-63. [PMID: 27019562 PMCID: PMC4787338 DOI: 10.4103/0973-1296.176047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Salvianolic acid B (SalB) represents the most abundant and bio-active phenolic constituent among the water-soluble compounds of Salvia miltiorrhiza. But the therapeutic potential of SalB has been significantly restricted by its poor absorption. Methods: In this study, chitosans (CS) and CS nanoparticles (NPs) with different molecular weights (MWs), which have influence on the absorption of SalB, was also investigated. Results: As a preliminary study, water-soluble CS with various MWs (3, 30, 50, and 100 kDa) was chosen. We investigated the MW-dependent Caco-2 cell layer transport phenomena in vitro of CS and NPs at concentrations (4 μg/ml, w/v). SalB, in presence CS or NPs has no significant toxic effect on Caco-2 cell. As the MW increases, the absorption enhancing effect of CS increases. However, as the MW decreases, the absorption enhancing effect of NPs increases. The AUC0–∞ of the SalB-100 kDa CS was 4.25 times greater than that of free SalB. And the AUC0–∞ of the SalB-3 kDa NPs was 16.03 times greater than that of free SalB. Conclusion: CS and NPs with different MWs as the absorption enhancers can promote the absorption of SalB. And the effect on NPs is better than CS. SUMMARY Formation mechanism for NPs
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Jin
- Department of Pharmacy, The SuqianFirst Hospital, Suqian, Jiangsu 223800, China
| | - Shi-Bing Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The SuqianFirst Hospital, Suqian, Jiangsu 223800, China
| | - Shi-Meng Li
- Department of Pharmacy, The SuqianFirst Hospital, Suqian, Jiangsu 223800, China
| | - Ke Liang
- Depratment of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215006, China
| | - Zeng-Yong Jia
- Department of Pharmacy, The SuqianFirst Hospital, Suqian, Jiangsu 223800, China
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Chen WL, Yuan ZQ, Liu Y, Yang SD, Zhang CG, Li JZ, Zhu WJ, Li F, Zhou XF, Lin YM, Zhang XN. Liposomes coated with N-trimethyl chitosan to improve the absorption of harmine in vivo and in vitro. Int J Nanomedicine 2016; 11:325-36. [PMID: 26855571 PMCID: PMC4725628 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s95540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, harmine liposomes (HM-lip) were prepared through the thin-film hydration-pH-gradient method and then coated with N-trimethyl chitosan (TMC). Particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro release of HM-lip and TMC-coated harmine liposomes (TMC-HM-lip) were also determined. Sprague Dawley rats were further used to investigate the pharmacokinetics in vivo. Retention behavior in mouse gastrointestinal tract (GIT) was studied through high-performance liquid chromatography and near-infrared imaging. Degradation was further evaluated through incubation with Caco-2 cell homogenates, and a Caco-2 monolayer cell model was used to investigate the uptake and transport of drugs. HM-lip and TMC-HM-lip with particle size of 150-170 nm, an entrapment efficiency of about 81%, and a zeta potential of negative and positive, respectively, were prepared. The release of HM from HM-lip and TMC-HM-lip was slower than that from HM solution and was sensitive to pH. TMC-HM-lip exhibited higher oral bioavailability and had prolonged retention time in GIT. HM-lip and TMC-HM-lip could also protect HM against degradation in Caco-2 cell homogenates. The uptake amount of TMC-HM-lip was higher than that of HM and HM-lip. TMC-HM-lip further demonstrated higher apparent permeability coefficient (P(app)) from the apical to the basolateral side than HM and HM-lip because of its higher uptake and capability to open tight junctions in the cell monolayers. TMC-HM-lip can prolong the retention time in the GIT, protect HM against enzyme degradation, and improve transport across Caco-2 cell monolayers, thus enhancing the oral bioavailability of HM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Liang Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Yuan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Shu-di Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Chun-ge Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Ji-Zhao Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-jing Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-feng Zhou
- Department of Radiobiology, College of Radiological Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China; Changshu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changshu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-mei Lin
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue-nong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
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Malatesta M, Grecchi S, Chiesa E, Cisterna B, Costanzo M, Zancanaro C. Internalized chitosan nanoparticles persist for long time in cultured cells. Eur J Histochem 2015; 59:2492. [PMID: 25820565 PMCID: PMC4378219 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2015.2492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chitosan-based nanoparticles (chiNPs) are considered to be potentially good carriers for the sustained intracellular delivery of specific molecules. However, scarce attention has been paid to the long-lasting permanence of these NPs in the intracellular milieu, as well as to their intracellular fate (i.e., distribution, interaction with cell organelles, and degradation) in the long term. In the present study, the presence and subcellular location of FITC-labelled chiNPs were monitored in HeLa cells up to 14 days post-administration using multicolorfluorescence confocal microscopy and diaminobenzidine photo-oxidation at transmission electron microscopy. The main result of the present study is the demonstration that internalized chiNPs persist inside the cell up to two weeks, occurring in both the cytoplasm and nucleus; accordingly, chiNPs are able to pass from mother to daughter cells through several mitotic cycles. The cells did not show increased mortality or structural damage up to 14 days after chiNP exposure.
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Study on the mechanism of intestinal absorption of epimedins a, B and C in the Caco-2 cell model. Molecules 2014; 19:686-98. [PMID: 24402200 PMCID: PMC6270917 DOI: 10.3390/molecules19010686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 12/27/2013] [Accepted: 12/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epimedium spp. is commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Epimedins A, B, and C are three major bioactive flavonoids found in Epimedium spp. that share similar chemical structures. In this study, the intestinal absorption mechanism of these three compounds was investigated using the Caco-2 cell monolayer model in both the apical-to-basolateral (A-B) and the basolateral-to-apical (B-A) direction. The absorption permeability (PAB) of epimedins A, B, and C were extremely low and increased as the concentration of the epimedins increased from 5 to 20 μM, but, at 40 μM, the PAB values were reduced. Meanwhile, the amount of transported compounds increased in a time-dependent manner. The PAB of epimedins A and C were significantly increased and efflux ratios decreased in the presence of verapamil (an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein) and dipyridamole (an inhibitor of breast cancer resistance protein) while, in the presence of MK571 (an inhibitor of multidrug resistance proteins), the absorption of epimedins A and C did not change significantly, indicating that P-gp and BCRP might be involved in the transport of epimedins A and C. The PAB of epimedin B significantly increased while its secretory permeability (PBA) significantly decreased in the presence of dipyridamole, indicating that BCRP might be involved in the transport of epimedin B. No obvious changes in the transport of epimedin B were observed in the presence of verapamil and MK571. In summary, our results clearly demonstrate, for the first time, that poor bioavailability of these three prenylated flavonoids is the result of poor intrinsic permeability and efflux by apical efflux transporters.
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Norcantharidin, derivative of cantharidin, for cancer stem cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:838651. [PMID: 24073010 PMCID: PMC3773992 DOI: 10.1155/2013/838651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2013] [Revised: 07/28/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) existing in human cancers have been demonstrated to be a major cause of cancer treatment resistance, invasion, metastasis, and relapse. Self-renewal pathways, Wnt/β-catenin, Sonic hedgehog (Shh), and the Notch signaling pathway play critical roles in developing CSCs and lead to angiogenesis, migration, invasion, and metastasis. Multidrug resistance (MDR) is an unfavorable factor causing the failure of treatments against cancer cells. The most important and thoroughly studied mechanism involved in MDR is the active efflux of chemotherapeutic agents through membrane drug transporters. There is growing evidence that Norcantharidin (NCTD), a water-soluble synthetic small molecule derivative of naturally occurring cantharidin from the medicinal insect blister beetle (Mylabris phalerata Pallas), is capable of chemoprevention and tumor inhibition. We summarize investigations into the modulation of self-renewal pathways and MDR in CSCs by NCTD. This review may aid in further investigation of using NCTD to develop more effective strategies for cancer treatment to reduce resistance and recurrence.
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Xia HJ, Zhang ZH, Jin X, Hu Q, Chen XY, Jia XB. A novel drug-phospholipid complex enriched with micelles: preparation and evaluation in vitro and in vivo. Int J Nanomedicine 2013. [PMID: 23431115 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s39526.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mixed micelles are widely used to increase solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. One promising antitumor drug candidate is 20(S)-protopanaxadiol (PPD), although its clinical application is limited by low water solubility and poor bioavailability after oral administration. In this study, we developed mixed micelles consisting of PPD-phospholipid complexes and Labrasol(®) and evaluated their potential for oral PPD absorption. Micelles were prepared using a solvent-evaporation method, and their physicochemical properties, including particle size, zeta potential, morphology, crystal type, drug loading, drug entrapment efficiency, and solubility, were characterized. Furthermore, in vitro release was investigated using the dialysis method, and transport and bioavailability of the mixed micelles were investigated through a Caco-2 cell monolayer and in vivo absorption studies performed in rats. Compared with the solubility of free PPD (3 μg/mL), the solubility of PPD in the prepared mixed micelles was 192.41 ± 1.13 μg/mL in water at room temperature. The in vitro release profiles showed a significant difference between the more rapid release of free PPD and the slower and more sustained release of the mixed micelles. At the end of a 4-hour transport study using Caco-2 cells, the apical-to-basolateral apparent permeability coefficients (P(app)) increased from (1.12 ± 0.21) × 10(6) cm/s to (1.78 ± 0.16) × 10(6) cm/s, while the basolateral-to-apical P(app) decreased from (2.42 ± 0.16) × 10(6) cm/s to (2.12 ± 0.32) × 10(6). In this pharmacokinetic study, compared with the bioavailability of free PPD (area under the curve [AUC](0-∞)), the bioavailability of PPD from the micelles (AUC(0-∞)) increased by approximately 216.36%. These results suggest that novel mixed micelles can significantly increase solubility, enhance absorption, and improve bioavailability. Thus, these prepared micelles might be potential carriers for oral PPD delivery in antitumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-jian Xia
- Key Laboratory of New Drug Delivery System of Chinese Materia Medica, Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Jin X, Zhang ZH, Sun E, Tan XB, Li SL, Cheng XD, You M, Jia XB. Enhanced oral absorption of 20(S)-protopanaxadiol by self-assembled liquid crystalline nanoparticles containing piperine: in vitro and in vivo studies. Int J Nanomedicine 2013; 8:641-52. [PMID: 23426652 PMCID: PMC3576041 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s38203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background 20(S)-protopanaxadiol (PPD), similar to several other anticancer agents, has low oral absorption and is extensively metabolized. These factors limit the use of PPD for treatment of human diseases. Methods In this study, we used cubic nanoparticles containing piperine to improve the oral bioavailability of PPD and to enhance its absorption and inhibit its metabolism. Cubic nanoparticles loaded with PPD and piperine were prepared by fragmentation of glyceryl monoolein (GMO)/poloxamer 407 bulk cubic gel and verified using transmission electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. We evaluated the in vitro release of PPD from these nanoparticles and its absorption across the Caco-2 cell monolayer model, and subsequently, we examined the bioavailability and metabolism of PPD and its nanoparticles in vivo. Results The in vitro release of PPD from these nanoparticles was less than 5% at 12 hours. PPD-cubosome and PPD-cubosome loaded with piperine (molar ratio PPD/piperine, 1:3) increased the apical to basolateral permeability values of PPD across the Caco-2 cell monolayer from 53% to 64%, respectively. In addition, the results of a pharmacokinetic study in rats showed that the relative bioavailabilities of PPD-cubosome [area under concentration–time curve (AUC)0–∞] and PPD-cubosome containing piperine (AUC0–∞) compared to that of raw PPD (AUC0–∞) were 166% and 248%, respectively. Conclusion The increased bioavailability of PPD-cubosome loaded with piperine is due to an increase in absorption and inhibition of metabolism of PPD by cubic nanoparticles containing piperine rather than because of improved release of PPD. The cubic nanoparticles containing piperine may be a promising oral carrier for anticancer drugs with poor oral absorption and that undergo extensive metabolism by cytochrome P450.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Jin
- Key Laboratory of New Drug Delivery System of Chinese Materia Medica, Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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Xia HJ, Zhang ZH, Jin X, Hu Q, Chen XY, Jia XB. A novel drug-phospholipid complex enriched with micelles: preparation and evaluation in vitro and in vivo. Int J Nanomedicine 2013; 8:545-54. [PMID: 23431115 PMCID: PMC3575161 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s39526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mixed micelles are widely used to increase solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. One promising antitumor drug candidate is 20(S)-protopanaxadiol (PPD), although its clinical application is limited by low water solubility and poor bioavailability after oral administration. In this study, we developed mixed micelles consisting of PPD–phospholipid complexes and Labrasol® and evaluated their potential for oral PPD absorption. Micelles were prepared using a solvent-evaporation method, and their physicochemical properties, including particle size, zeta potential, morphology, crystal type, drug loading, drug entrapment efficiency, and solubility, were characterized. Furthermore, in vitro release was investigated using the dialysis method, and transport and bioavailability of the mixed micelles were investigated through a Caco-2 cell monolayer and in vivo absorption studies performed in rats. Compared with the solubility of free PPD (3 μg/mL), the solubility of PPD in the prepared mixed micelles was 192.41 ± 1.13 μg/mL in water at room temperature. The in vitro release profiles showed a significant difference between the more rapid release of free PPD and the slower and more sustained release of the mixed micelles. At the end of a 4-hour transport study using Caco-2 cells, the apical-to-basolateral apparent permeability coefficients (Papp) increased from (1.12 ± 0.21) × 106 cm/s to (1.78 ± 0.16) × 106 cm/s, while the basolateral-to-apical Papp decreased from (2.42 ± 0.16) × 106 cm/s to (2.12 ± 0.32) × 106. In this pharmacokinetic study, compared with the bioavailability of free PPD (area under the curve [AUC]0–∞), the bioavailability of PPD from the micelles (AUC0–∞) increased by approximately 216.36%. These results suggest that novel mixed micelles can significantly increase solubility, enhance absorption, and improve bioavailability. Thus, these prepared micelles might be potential carriers for oral PPD delivery in antitumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-jian Xia
- Key Laboratory of New Drug Delivery System of Chinese Materia Medica, Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Jin X, Zhang ZH, Sun E, Qian Q, Tan XB, Jia XB. Preparation of a nanoscale baohuoside I-phospholipid complex and determination of its absorption: in vivo and in vitro evaluations. Int J Nanomedicine 2012; 7:4907-16. [PMID: 23028219 PMCID: PMC3446837 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s35965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Baohuoside I is a potential anticancer drug for a variety of malignancies and has been approved for in vitro use. However, baohuoside I has very poor oral absorption. Methods In the present study, we prepared baohuoside I-phospholipid complexes of different diameters and determined their physicochemical properties using transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. The in vitro absorption of baohuoside I and baohuoside I-phospholipid complexes of different sizes were compared using the Caco-2 cell culture model, and subsequently, the bioavailability of baohuosidel and its complexes were estimated in vivo. Results Compared with the large-sized phospholipid complexes, a nanoscale phospholipid complex improved the oral bioavailability of baohuoside I. In addition, our results suggest that the smaller the particle size, the faster the complexes crossed the Caco-2 monolayer and the faster they were resorbed after oral administration in rats. The relative oral bioavailability of a nanoscale size 81 ± 10 nm baohuoside I-phospholipid complex (area under the concentration-time curve [AUC]0–∞) was 342%, while that of baohuoside I and a 227.3 ± 65.2 μm baohuoside I-phospholipid complex was 165%. Conclusion We enhanced the oral bioavailability of baohuoside I by reducing the particle size of the phospholipid complex to the nanometer range, thereby improving its potential for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Jin
- Key Laboratory of New Drug Delivery System of Chinese Materia Medica, Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
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Hu K, Cao S, Hu F, Feng J. Enhanced oral bioavailability of docetaxel by lecithin nanoparticles: preparation, in vitro, and in vivo evaluation. Int J Nanomedicine 2012; 7:3537-45. [PMID: 22848177 PMCID: PMC3405895 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s32880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this research work was to investigate the potential of lecithin nanoparticles (LNs) in improving the oral bioavailability of docetaxel. Docetaxel-loaded LNs (DTX-LNs) were prepared from oil-in-water emulsions and characterized in terms of morphology, size, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency. The in vitro release of docetaxel from the nanoparticles was studied by using dialysis bag method. Caco-2 cell monolayer was used for the in vitro permeation study of DTX-LNs. Bioavailability studies were conducted in rats and different pharmacokinetic parameters were evaluated after oral administration of DTX-LNs. The results showed that DTX-LNs had a mean diameter of 360 ± 8 nm and exhibited spherical shape with smooth surface under transmission electron microscopy. The DTX-LNs showed a sustained-release profile, with about 80% of docetaxel released within 72 hours. The apical to basolateral transport of docetaxel across the Caco-2 cell monolayer from the DTX-LNs was 2.14 times compared to that of the docetaxel solution (0.15 × 10−5 ± 0.016 × 10−5 cm/second versus 0.07 × 10−5 ± 0.003 × 10−5 cm/second). The oral bioavailability of the DTX-LNs was 3.65 times that of docetaxel solution (8.75% versus 2.40%). These results indicate that DTX-LNs were valuable as an oral drug delivery system to enhance the absorption of docetaxel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaili Hu
- Murad Research Center for Modernized Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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