Encapsulation of podophyllotoxin and etoposide in biodegradable poly-d,l-lactide nanoparticles improved their anticancer activity

Innovative Encapsulation Strategies for Food, Industrial, and Pharmaceutical Applications

Bioactive metabolites obtained from fruits and vegetables as well as many drugs have various capacities to prevent or treat various ailments. Nevertheless, their efficiency, in vivo, encounter many challenges resulting in lower efficacy as well as different side effects when high doses are used resulting in many challenges for their application. Indeed, demand for effective treatments with no or less unfavorable side effects is rising. Delivering active molecules to a particular site of action within the human body is an example of targeted therapy which remains a challenging field. Developments of nanotechnology and polymer science have great promise for meeting the growing demands of efficient options. Encapsulation of active ingredients in nano-delivery systems has become as a vitally tool for protecting the integrity of critical biochemicals, improving their delivery, enabling their controlled release and maintaining their biological features. Here, we examine a wide range of nano-delivery techniques, such as niosomes, polymeric/solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, and nano-emulsions. The advantages of encapsulation in targeted, synergistic, and supportive therapies are emphasized, along with current progress in its application. Additionally, a revised collection of studies was given, focusing on improving the effectiveness of anticancer medications and addressing the problem of antimicrobial resistance. To sum up, this paper conducted a thorough analysis to determine the efficacy of encapsulation technology in the field of drug discovery and development.

L-Cysteine-Modified Transfersomes for Enhanced Epidermal Delivery of Podophyllotoxin

The purpose of this study was to evaluate L-cysteine-modified transfersomes as the topical carrier for enhanced epidermal delivery of podophyllotoxin (POD). L-cysteine-deoxycholic acid (LC-DCA) conjugate was synthesized via an amidation reaction. POD-loaded L-cysteine-modified transfersomes (POD-LCTs) were prepared via a thin membrane dispersion method and characterized for their particle size, zeta potential, morphology, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and in vitro release. Subsequently, in vitro skin permeation and retention, fluorescence distribution in the skin, hematoxylin-eosin staining and in vivo skin irritation were studied. The POD-LCTs formed spherical shapes with a particle size of 172.5 ± 67.2 nm and a zeta potential of -31.3 ± 6.7 mV. Compared with the POD-Ts, the POD-LCTs provided significantly lower drug penetration through the porcine ear skin and significantly increased the skin retention (p < 0.05). Meaningfully, unlike the extensive distribution of the POD-loaded transfersomes (POD-Ts) throughout the skin tissue, the POD-LCTs were mainly located in the epidermis. Moreover, the POD-LCTs did not induce skin irritation. Therefore, the POD-LCTs provided an enhanced epidermal delivery and might be a promising carrier for the topical delivery of POD.

Evaluation of the effect of nano-encapsulated lactoferrin on the expression of Bak and Bax genes in gastric cancer cell line AGS and study of the molecular docking of lactoferrin with these proteins

lactoferrin (Lf) is a glycoprotein with various biological activities, including antibacterial, antiviral, anti-cancer, etc. In the present study, the effect of different concentrations of nano-encapsulated lactoferrin (NE-Lf) on the expression of Bax and Bak genes was evaluated in stomach cancer cell line AGS using real-time PCR technique and cytotoxicity of NE-Lf on the growth cells as well as the molecular mechanism of these two genes and their proteins in the apoptosis pathway and the relationship between lactoferrin and these proteins were investigated by bioinformatics studies. In the viability test, the results showed that the growth inhibition effect of nano-lactoferrin was greater than lactoferrin in both concentrations, and chitosan had no inhibitory effect on the cells. In concentrations of 250 and 500 µg of NE-Lf Bax gene expression increased by 2.3 and 5 times, respectively, and Bak gene expression increased by 1.94 and 1.74 times, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that there is a significant difference in the relative amount of gene expression between the treatments in both genes (P < 0.05). The binding mode of lactoferrin with Bax and Bak proteins was obtained using docking. According to docking results, the N-lobe region of lactoferrin interacts with the Bax protein, as well as the Bak protein. The results show that lactoferrin, in addition to acting on the gene, interacts with Bax and Bak proteins. Since two proteins are components of apoptosis, lactoferrin can induce apoptosis in this way.

In vitro and in silico cytotoxicity of hinokinin-loaded PLGA microparticle systems against tumoral SiHa cells

This work aimed to synthesize poly (D, L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles containing hinokinin (HNK) and to evaluate their cytotoxic activity against tumoral SiHa cells and non-tumoral HaCaT cells. Hinokinin was incorporated into PLGA (PLGA-HNK) with an encapsulation efficiency of 84.18 ± 2.32%. PLGA and PLGA-HNK were characterized by SEM microscopy and showed spherical morphology with an average size of ∼3.33. Encapsulation efficiency was determined by a calibration curve using UV-vis spectroscopy. PLGA-HNK more active inhibiting proliferation of SiHa cells (IC₅₀ = 14.68 µM) than free HNK (IC₅₀ = 225.5 µM). In relation to HaCaT cells, PLGA-HNK showed no significant difference compared to the negative control. These results led to an increase in HNK bioavailability and thereby, biological activity. In silico prediction analysis suggests that HNK is cytotoxic against SiHa cells with E6 and MDM2 inhibition as possible main mechanism of action.

Nano-bio surface interactions, cellular internalisation in cancer cells and e-data portals of nanomaterials: A review

Nanomaterials (NMs) have abundant applications in areas such as electronics, energy, environment industries, biosensors, nano devices, theranostic platforms, etc. Nanoparticles can increase the solubility and stability of drug-loaded materials, enhance their internalisation, protect them from initial destruction in the biological system, and lengthen their circulation time. The biological interaction of proteins present in the body fluid with NMs can change the activity and natural surface properties of NMs. The size and charge of NMs, properties of the coated and uncoated NMs, nature of proteins, cellular interactions direct their internalisation pathway in the cellular system. Thus, the present review emphasises the impact of coated, uncoated NMs, size and charge, nature of proteins on nano-bio surface interactions and on internalisation with specific focus on cancer cells. The increased activity of NPs may also result in toxicity on health and environment, thus emphasis should be given to assess the toxicity of NMs in the medical field. The e-data sharing portals of NMs have also been discussed in this review that will be helpful in providing the information about the chemical, physical, biological properties and toxicity of NMs.

Chitosan Nanoparticles of Gamma-Oryzanol: Formulation, Optimization, and In vivo Evaluation of Anti-hyperlipidemic Activity

The elevated blood levels of cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins result in hyperlipidemia. The available expensive prophylactic treatments are kindred with severe side effects. Therefore, we fabricated the polymeric nanoparticles of gamma-oryzanol to achieving the improved efficacy of drug. The nanoparticles were prepared by ionic gelation method and optimized using 2³ full factorial design taking drug/polymer ratio (X₁), polymer/cross linking agent ratio (X₂), and stirring speed (X₃) as independent variables. The average particle size, percentage entrapment efficiency, and in vitro drug release at 2, 12, and 24 h were selected as response parameters. The factorial batches were statistically analyzed and optimized. The optimized nanoparticles were characterized with respect to particle size (141 nm) and zeta potential (+ 6.45 mV). Results obtained with the prepared and characterized formulation showed 83% mucoadhesion towards the intestinal mucosa. The in vitro findings were complemented well by in vivo anti-hyperlipidemic activity of developed formulation carried out in Swiss albino mouse model. The in vivo studies showed improved atherogenic index, malondialdehyde, and superoxide dismutase levels in poloxamer-407-induced hyperlipidemic animals when treated with oryzanol and gamma-oryzanol nanoformulation. Based on our findings, we believe that chitosan-mediated delivery of gamma-oryzanol nanoparticles might prove better in terms of anti-hyperlipidemic therapeutics.

Alkaline phosphatase-triggered assembly of etoposide enhances its anticancer effect

With the assistance of a hydrogelator precursor 1P, etoposide phosphate (EP) was subjected to alkaline phosphatase-triggered assembly which obviously enhanced its anticancer efficacy.

Botanicals With Dermatologic Properties Derived From First Nations Healing: Part 2-Plants and Algae

INTRODUCTION

Plants and algae have played a central role in the treatment of skin conditions in both traditional First Nations healing and in modern dermatology. The objective of this study was to examine the evidence supporting the dermatological use of seaweed, witch hazel, bearberry, and mayapple.

METHODS

Four plants and algae used in traditional First Nations treatments of skin disease were selected based on expert recommendations. Several databases were searched to identify relevant citations without language restrictions.

RESULTS

Seaweed has potential clinical use in the treatment of acne and wrinkles and may be incorporated into biofunctional textiles. Witch hazel is an effective and well-tolerated treatment of inflammation and diaper dermatitis. Bearberry leaves contain arbutin, a skin-lightening agent that is an alternative for the treatment of hyperpigmentation. Mayapple contains podophyllotoxin, a treatment for condyloma accuminata, molluscum contagiosum, and recalcitrant palmoplantar warts.

DISCUSSION

Common plants and algae are replete with bioactive agents that may have beneficial effects on the skin. Further research will open the door to new and innovative products in the future. Limitations of this study include that the scope of our study is limited to 4 plants and algae, a small sample of the breadth of plants used by First Nations for dermatological treatments.

Recent Advances in the Chemistry and Biology of Podophyllotoxins

Podophyllotoxin and its related aryltetralin cyclolignans belong to a family of important products that exhibit various biological properties (e.g., cytotoxic, insecticidal, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, neurotoxic, immunosuppressive, antirheumatic, antioxidative, antispasmogenic, and hypolipidemic activities). This Review provides a survey of podophyllotoxin and its analogues isolated from plants. In particular, recent developments in the elegant total chemical synthesis, structural modifications, biosynthesis, and biotransformation of podophyllotoxin and its analogues are summarized. Moreover, a deoxypodophyllotoxin-based chemosensor for selective detection of mercury ion is described. In addition to the most active podophyllotoxin derivatives in each series against human cancer cell lines and insect pests listed in the tables, the structure-activity relationships of podophyllotoxin derivatives as cytotoxic and insecticidal agents are also outlined. Future prospects and further developments in this area are covered at the end of the Review. We believe that this Review will provide necessary information for synthetic, medicinal, and pesticidal chemistry researchers who are interested in the chemistry and biology of podophyllotoxins.

Development of nanoformulation of picroliv isolated from Picrorrhiza kurroa

Picroliv, a mixture of picroside I and kutkoside isolated from rhizome of Picrorrhiza kurroa has been reported for many pharmaceutical properties such as hepatoprotective, anticholestatic, antioxidant and immune-modulating activity. However, picroliv possessed lesser efficacy due to its poor aqueous solubility and lesser bioavailability. To find solution, picroliv was loaded into biodegradable poly lactic acid nanoparticles (PLA NPs) using solvent evaporation method. The picroliv-loaded PLA NPs were characterised by UV-vis spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared and Zeta sizer. The size of picroliv-loaded PLA NPs was 182 ± 20 nm. Zeta potential of picroliv-loaded PLA NPs was -23.5 mV, indicated their good stability. In vitro picroliv release from picroliv-loaded PLA NPs showed an initial burst release followed by slow and sustained release. The efficacy of picroliv-loaded PLA NPs was assessed against KB cell lines. Blank PLA NPs showed no cytotoxicity on KB cells. The picroliv-loaded PLA NPs showed more cytotoxic activity on KB cells as compared to the pure drug. Hence, the developed picroliv nanoformulation would find potential application in pharma-sector.

Formulation and evaluation of novel glycyrrhizic acid micelles for transdermal delivery of podophyllotoxin

CONTEXT

As the first-line agent for genital warts, podophyllotoxin (POD) could induce extensively skin burning, itching, and erythema. Meanwhile, as a common anti-inflammatory agent, glycyrrhizic acid (GA), also has amphipathic and solubilizing properties, indicating that it might be a promising drug carrier.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to formulate and characterize the POD-loaded GA micelles preparation and to evaluate its drug release characteristics and anti-inflammatory properties.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The novel micelles preparation was prepared by ultrasonic dispersion method and characterized using different scanning calorimetries, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopies. Subsequently, its encapsulation efficiency (EE), drug-loading content (LC), in vitro skin permeation, in vivo drug retention, and distribution of POD were detected. The anti-inflammatory effect of the preparation was reflected by HE staining and immunohistochemistry in the rat skin.

RESULTS

The POD-loaded GA micelles formed spherical shapes (approximately 10 nm) with an EE of 78.53 ± 2.17% and a LC of 7.293 ± 0.42%. Meaningfully, unlike the extensive distribution of the POD tincture throughout the skin tissue, POD released from the POD-loaded GA micelles mainly located in the epidermis and could maintain steady skin retention for 12 h. Moreover, the POD-loaded GA micelles induced less leukocyte infiltration and inflammatory factors (IL-6 and TNF-α) expression when compared with the POD tincture.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that the POD-loaded GA micelles could achieve a higher POD distribution in the epidermal layer as well as a lighter skin inflammation. This new POD delivery system might be a potential and promising candidate for genital warts and deserved further researches.

Synthesis and antitumor evaluation of 5-(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-ylmethyl)-4-(tert-butyl)-N-arylthiazol-2-amines

The strategy for designing target compounds as antitumor agents.

A bimodal molecular imaging probe based on chitosan encapsulated magneto-fluorescent nanocomposite offers biocompatibility, visualization of specific cancer cells in vitro and lung tissues in vivo

Multifunctional hybrid nanocomposite material, consists of chitosan encapsulated iron oxide (as MRI contrasting agent), CdS (as fluorescent probe) nanoparticles and podophyllotoxin (as anticancer drug) was synthesized and characterized. The TEM studies suggested the size of the NPs to be in the range of 80-100 nm. These nanocomposites were treated with different cancer cell lines viz., KB, C6 and A549 cells. Fluorescence imaging and Perl's Prussian blue staining confirmed the presence of these nanocomposites inside both KB and C6 cells but not in A549 cells. Cytotoxicity experiments revealed that these biopolymer coated nanocomposites showed minimal toxicity towards cancerous cells. Further the intraperitoneal administration of one of the nanoformulations to Wistar rats suggested deposition of these nanocomposites in the lungs. The hematological, biochemical and histopathological analysis confirmed that these nanocomposites are safe to use as a novel dual mode imaging material.

Development of a high-content screen for the identification of inhibitors directed against the early steps of the cytomegalovirus infectious cycle

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a latent and persistent virus whose proliferation increases morbidity and mortality of immune-compromised individuals. The current anti-CMV therapeutics targeting the viral DNA polymerase or the major immediate-early (MIE) gene locus are somewhat effective at limiting CMV-associated disease. However, due to low bioavailability, severe toxicity, and the development of drug resistant CMV strains following prolonged treatment, current anti-CMV therapeutics are insufficient. To help address this shortfall, we established a high-content assay to identify inhibitors targeting CMV entry and the early steps of infection. The infection of primary human fibroblasts with a variant of the CMV laboratory strain AD169 expressing a chimeric IE2-yellow fluorescence protein (YFP) (AD169IE2-YFP) provided the basis for the high-content assay. The localization of IE2-YFP to the nucleus shortly following an AD169IE2-YFP infection induced a robust fluorescent signal that was quantified using confocal microscopy. The assay was optimized to achieve outstanding assay fitness and high Z' scores. We then screened a bioactive chemical library consisting of 2080 compounds and identified hit compounds based on the decrease of fluorescence signal from IE2-YFP nuclear expression. The hit compounds likely target various cellular processes involved in the early steps of infection including capsid transport, chromatin remodeling, and viral gene expression. Extensive secondary assays confirmed the ability of a hit compound, convallatoxin, to inhibit infection of both laboratory and clinical CMV strains and limit virus proliferation. Collectively, the data demonstrate that we have established a robust high-content screen to identify compounds that limit the early steps of the CMV life cycle, and that novel inhibitors of early infection events may serve as viable CMV therapeutics.

Nanoencapsulation for drug delivery

Nanoencapsulation of drug/small molecules in nanocarriers (NCs) is a very promising approach for development of nanomedicine. Modern drug encapsulation methods allow efficient loading of drug molecules inside the NCs thereby reducing systemic toxicity associated with drugs. Targeting of NCs can enhance the accumulation of nanonencapsulated drug at the diseased site. This article focussed on the synthesis methods, drug loading, drug release mechanism and cellular response of nanoencapsulated drugs on liposomes, micelles, carbon nanotubes, dendrimers, and magnetic NCs. Also the uses of these various NCs have been highlighted in the field of nanotechnology.