Advances in Chitosan-Based Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery

Preassembled complexes of hAgo2 and ssRNA delivered by nanoparticles: a novel silencing gene expression approach overcoming the absence of the canonical pathway of siRNA processing in the apicomplexan parasite Babesia microti, blood parasite of veterinary and zoonotic importance

Due to the lack of efficacy of the currently used chemical drugs, poor tick control, and lack of effective vaccines against Babesia, novel control strategies are urgently needed. In this regard, searching for anti-Babesia gene therapy may facilitate the control of this infection. Following this pattern, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are widely used to study gene function and hence open the way to control the parasite. However, the primary constraint of this approach is the lack of Babesia to RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) enzymes, making siRNA impractical. In this study, we preassembled complexes with the human enzyme argonaute 2 (hAgo2) and a small interfering RNA (siRNA)/single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) against B. gibsoni and B. microti metabolite transporters. The assembled complexes were generated by developing a gene delivery system with chitosan dehydroascorbic acid nanoparticles. The delivery system effectively protected the loaded RNAi and targeted Babesia-infected RBCs with a relatively high internalization rate. The assembled complexes were successfully transfected into live parasites for specific slicing of Babesia targets. We demonstrated a reduction in the expression of target genes at the mRNA level. Furthermore, this silencing inhibited Babesia growth in vitro and in vivo. For the first time, we used this method to confirm the role of the assembled complexes in manipulating the noncanonical pathway of RNAi in Babesia parasites. This novel method provides a means of silencing Babesia genes to study their role in host-parasite interactions and as potential targets for gene therapy and control.

Chitosan Nanoparticles: Approaches to Preparation, Key Properties, Drug Delivery Systems, and Developments in Therapeutic Efficacy

The integration of nanotechnology into drug delivery systems holds great promise for enhancing pharmaceutical effectiveness. This approach enables precise targeting, controlled release, improved patient compliance, reduced side effects, and increased bioavailability. Nanoparticles are vital for transporting biomolecules-such as proteins, enzymes, genes, and vaccines-through various administration routes, including oral, intranasal, vaginal, buccal, and pulmonary. Among biodegradable polymers, chitosan, a linear polysaccharide derived from chitin, stands out due to its biocompatibility, safety, biodegradability, mucoadhesive properties, and ability to enhance permeation. Its cationic nature supports strong molecular interactions and provides antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and hemostatic benefits. However, its solubility, influenced by pH and ionic sensitivity, poses challenges requiring effective solutions. This review explores chitosan, its modified derivatives and chitosan nanoparticles mainly, focusing on nanoparticles physicochemical properties, drug release mechanisms, preparation methods, and factors affecting their mean hydrodynamic diameter (particle size). It highlights their application in drug delivery systems and disease treatments across various routes. Key considerations include drug loading capacity, zeta potential, and stability, alongside the impact of molecular weight, degree of deacetylation, and drug solubility on nanoparticle properties. Recent advancements and studies underscore chitosan's potential, emphasizing its modified derivatives'versatility in improving therapeutic outcomes.

Thermosensitive Chitosan Hydrogel Loaded Cetuximab: A novel Approach for Parenteral Controlled Delivery

OBJECTIVE

The controlled release method improves the stability of cetuximab (CTX), which is typically impacted by the environmental variables present in regular formulations.

SIGNIFICANT

It is possible to preserve the effectiveness of CTX by encapsulating it in a chitosan hydrogel to reach the target site via direct injection easily.

METHOD

CTX was loaded into the thermosensitive polymer-based hydrogel, namely chitosan (CH) with the aid of a crosslinking β-glycerophosphate (β-GP) alone or in combination with Pluronic F127 ( Pl F 127 ). The formulated hydrogels were subjected to different types of characterizations, such as stability and rheological studies. Furthermore, they were tested for their antiproliferative activities against HEPG2 (hepatic cancer cell lines).

THE RESULTS

hydrogels had a homogeneous preparation, were transparent, and showed no signs of aggregation. Moreover, CH/β-GP gel type recorded a lower viscosity in comparison to the other hydrogel type CH / β - GP / Pl F 127 system of (110.3 ± 5.2, and 148.4 ± 4.4 Cp, respectively). The conducted pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated a continued increase in rabbits' plasma throughout the first four days (Tmax) with Cmax of 3.663 μg/mL which also showed a decline below the detected limit after 15 days. Nevertheless, the formulated CH-based hydrogel showed a sustained release with a longer value of MRT of more than 9 days with an estimated AUC0-t of 41.917 μg/L/day.

CONCLUSION

The medicated CH/β-GP hydrogel formula demonstrated superior targeting-controlled efficiency compared to free CTX.

Dual-Loaded Chitosan-Based Nanoparticles: A Novel approach for treating polymicrobial osteomyelitis

Developing innovative approaches to target osteomyelitis caused by polymicrobial infections remains a significant therapeutic challenge. In this study, monodispersed chitosan nanoparticles co-loaded with antibacterial (minocycline) and antifungal (voriconazole) agents were successfully prepared. Minocycline presented higher encapsulation efficiency as compared to voriconazole. Thermostability analysis suggested interactions between the co-loaded drugs within the dual-delivery system, potentially limiting voriconazole release. The dual-loaded chitosan nanoparticles exhibited significant in vitro anti-biofilm activity, achieving up to a 90% reduction in polymicrobial biofilms of S. aureus and C. albicans. Additionally, the nanoparticles showed cytocompatibility with a human osteoblast cell line. These findings highlight the potential of this dual-delivery chitosan-based nanoparticle system to address a critical gap in osteomyelitis treatment by targeting both bacterial and fungal pathogens.

Chitosan, derivatives, and its nanoparticles: Preparation, physicochemical properties, biological activities, and biomedical applications - A comprehensive review

Chitosan, derived from the deacetylation of chitin, is the second most widely used natural polymer, valued for its nontoxic, biocompatible, and biodegradable properties. These attributes have driven extensive research into diverse applications of chitosan and various derivatives. The key characteristics of chitosan muco-adhesion, permeability enhancement, drug release modulation, and antimicrobial activity are primarily due to its amino and hydroxyl groups. However, the limited solubility of raw chitosan in water and most organic solvents has posed challenges for broader application. Numerous chemically modified derivatives have been developed to address these inadequacies with improved physical and chemical properties. Among these derivatives, chitosan nanoparticles have emerged as versatile drug carriers with precise release kinetics and the capacity for targeted delivery, greatly enhancing drug efficacy and safety profiles for therapeutic applications. Due to these unique physicochemical properties, chitosan and chitosan nanoparticles are promising for improved drug delivery, vaccine administration, transplantation, gene therapy, and diagnostics. This review examines the physicochemical properties and bioactivities of chitosan and chitosan nanoparticles, emphasizing their broad-ranging biomedical applications.

Novel strategies in topical delivery for psoriasis treatment: nanocarriers and energy-driven approaches

INTRODUCTION

Psoriasis is characterized by abnormal differentiation and hyperproliferation of epidermal keratinocytes. This condition presents significant challenges for effective drug delivery. In addition to overcoming the thickness of the skin, topical treatments must navigate the complex hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties of the skin barrier. Recent advancements in nanocarrier technologies, including energy-driven methods and microneedles that penetrate the stratum corneum, present promising strategies for enhancing drug permeation through tailored physicochemical properties. A literature search was performed using the databases of Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect.

AREAS COVERED

This review highlights recent studies on novel topical delivery methods for psoriasis treatment, addressing current therapeutic options and their limitations. We provide a comprehensive overview of chemical nanoformulations and explore physical strategies to improve delivery rates. Furthermore, we discuss the advantages of various formulations that can carry different types of payloads, offering patients diverse strategies for symptom management. The review covers conventional treatments, emphasizing advancements in nanoparticle design and novel macromolecular drugs. This includes Ribonucleic acid (RNA)-based therapies that protect macromolecular drugs from rapid clearance in the body.

EXPERT OPINION

We argue that intelligent design approaches can enhance efficacy across delivery applications while allowing for precision in treatment strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Chitosan: An overview of its properties, solubility, functional technologies, food and health applications

The properties and potential applications of chitosan have attracted a lot of interest; each year, the number of publications and patents based on this polymer increases. A significant obstacle to the application of chitosan is its limited solubility in basic and neutral solutions. The fact that chitosan is a series of molecules with variations in size, content, and monomer distribution rather than a single polymer with a well-defined structure and a natural origin is another significant barrier. Some of the claimed biological qualities are distinct, and these characteristics have a fundamental effect on the polymer's technological and biological performance. The poor solubility of the polymer can be improved by chitosan chemistry, and in this assessment, we discuss the changes made to make chitosan more soluble and its possible uses. We concentrate on a few of the primary biological characteristics of chitosan and how they relate to the physicochemical characteristics of the polymer. The use of chitosan in the environmentally friendly manufacture of metallic nanoparticles as well as its usage as a booster for biocatalysts are two further applications of polymers that are linked to green processes that we revisit. This study also presents information about utilizing chitosan's technological advantages.

Dual Biopolymer Layer Using Nanoparticles with Active Substance Enclosed in Microcapsules: Innovative Solution for Slow Release of Ginkgo biloba L. Extract for Potential Therapies

The dynamic development of various branches of medicine and pharmacy, along with the emergence of new preventive and alternative therapies for various diseases, creates opportunities for new solutions utilizing carriers of active substances. Their therapeutic effect may occur through direct contact with skin lesions or indirectly, where medicinal substances penetrate the capillary network in the deeper layers of the skin and reach the bloodstream. The aim of the research was to obtain carriers with a matrix consisting of two renewable-source polymers (chitosan and ethylcellulose) and a core material derived from Ginkgo biloba green leaf extract (GBE). The obtained ethylcellulose microcapsules with encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles with extract {Et[Ch(GB)NP]} were characterized with respect to size, shape, surface morphology (SEM microscopy), and active substance release kinetics (UV-VIS and mathematical release models). The kinetics of active substance release were analyzed using UV-VIS spectroscopy and mathematical release models. The released active components were assessed microbiologically for activity against six bacterial strains and two fungal strains, as well as chromatographically using HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS fingerprinting. The microcapsules with a dual polymer layer exhibited a slow release of the core material, which demonstrated microbiological activity. The strongest antimicrobial effects were observed against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella enteritidis, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 410 µg/mL. The release of the core material from the double-layer polymer structures was more efficient in a physiological saline environment, with the best fit for the extract release kinetics following a zero-order model (regression coefficient R2 = 0.9939). The obtained microcapsules with a dual polymer layer show great potential for therapeutic applications in the medical industry. Their controlled release properties and antibacterial effectiveness make them a promising carrier for active substances in modern therapies.

Sourcing Interchangeability in Commercial Chitosan: Focus on the Physical-Chemical Properties of Six Different Products and Their Impact on the Release of Antibacterial Agents

Sourcing and batch differences are often cited as intrinsic drawbacks for all natural polymers. Chitosan makes no exception. Chitosan is a biocompatible and biodegradable biopolymer with high potential for several biomedical applications, especially for releasing drugs and bactericidal and virucidal agents. Despite the potential of chitosan as a matrix for producing antibacterial films, the variability in its composition, stemming from its natural sources, can hinder the translation from bench to industry. To overcome this concern, we conducted a study to access the interchangeability of chitosan for the development of antibacterial drug release systems, in particular one system crosslinked with tannic acid and iron sulfate. Chitosans from different suppliers were characterized and used to synthetize films containing gentamicin, according to a previously reported protocol. The impact of molecular weight (MW), deacetylation degree and purity on film properties and antibiotic release kinetics was assessed and results were compared. The films exhibited different initial bursts followed by similar sustained release profiles. All films exhibited antibacterial activity against both E. coli and S. aureus for at least 42 days. Moreover, films were cyto- and hemocompatible. Therefore, despite some differences in physicochemical properties, the interchangeability among the studied chitosan suppliers to produce antibacterial films is feasible, and the final product properties and performances are not significantly altered.

Design, preparation, and characterization of bovine papillomavirus chitosan-based nanoparticles as a prototype for a bovine papillomatosis vaccine

The bovine papillomavirus (BPV) is known to cause lesions in the epithelial tissue of cattle, which causes bovine papillomatoses. This disease is characterized by wart lesions in different body parts, causing losses in the animal value. Despite the economic impact, there are no effective vaccines available at this moment. The present study aims to develop a nanoformulated autogenous vaccine using the inactivated virus present in warts to control the diseases associated with BPV. To this end, papillomavirus was collected from infected bovines on a farm in Goiás, Brazil. The warts containing the viruses were macerated to obtain the inactivated viruses to be formulated within chitosan nanoparticles. The chitosan nanoparticles containing the inactivated viruses presented 330.7 nm in size, a polydispersity index of 0.41, and a positive Zeta potential of 38.2 mV. The association efficiency was 58.3%. The nanoparticles containing the inactivated virus were stable for up to 30 days and presented no hemolysis toxicity. This could be an interesting approach to develop a vaccine to protect bovines from BPV infection.

Auranofin-loaded chitosan-lipid hybrid nanoparticle protects against rotenone model of Parkinson's disease via modulation of GSK-3β/ Nrf2/HO-1 signaling

Auranofin (AUF) is a gold-based compound that has demonstrated a wide range of biological effects, such as anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. However, the neuronal use of AUF is restricted due to its low bioavailability. Thus, to improve blood brain barrier (BBB) penetration and investigate its antiparkinsonian impact, the researchers developed AUF-loaded hybrid nanoparticles (AUFHNPs). This research delves into the neuroprotective potential of AUFHNPs against rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease (PD). The MTT assay, Acridine orange/Ethidium bromide (AO/EB) staining, RT-PCR, and Western blot analysis were performed on SH-SY5Y lines. Also, AUFHNPs were prepared and characterized. For the in-vivo study, AUF, its NPs and rotenone were administered for 28 days, and behavioral parameters were performed on day 27 and 28. On the 29th day, animals were sacrificed, and brains were isolated for biochemical assessment, apoptotic and inflammatory markers evaluation, histopathology, and molecular examination. In-vitro results showed that AUF significantly restored cell viability and reduced apoptosis. Spherical-shaped NPs were observed under FE-SEM/TEM analysis. Administration of AUFHNPs in rats significantly restored motor activity and neuronal morphological changes by phosphorylating GSK-3β to increase the expression of Nrf2/HO-1. This study concludes that developing AUFHNPs increases AUF's bioavailability in the brain and exerts neuroprotection via modulating GSK-3β/Nrf2/HO-1 pathways.

Harnessing the immunomodulatory potential of chitosan and its derivatives for advanced biomedical applications

The success of biomaterial applications in medicine, particularly in tissue engineering, relies on achieving a balance between promoting tissue regeneration and controlling the immune response. Due to its natural origin, high biocompatibility, and versatility, chitosan has emerged as a promising biomaterial especially for immunomodulation purposes. Immunomodulation, refers to the deliberate alteration of the immune system's activity to achieve a desired therapeutic effect either by enhancing or suppressing the function of specific immune cells, signaling pathways, or cytokine production. This modulation opens up the unlimited possibilities for the use of biomaterials, especially about the use of natural polymers such as chitosan. Although numerous chitosan-based immunoregulatory strategies have been demonstrated over the past two decades, the lack of in-depth exploration hinders the full potential of strategies that include chitosan and its derivatives in biomedical applications. Thus, in this review, the possible immunomodulatory effects of chitosan, chitosan derivatives and their potential combined with various agents and therapies are investigated in detail. Moreover, this report includes agents for localized immune response control, chitosan-based strategies with complementary immunomodulatory properties to create synergistic effects that will influence the success of cell therapies for enhanced tissue acceptance and regeneration. Finally, the challenges and outlook of chitosan-based therapies as a powerful tool for improving immunomodulatory applications are discussed for paving the way for further studies.

Chitosan and Its Derivatives as Nanocarriers for Drug Delivery

Chitosan (CS) occurs naturally as an alkaline polysaccharide and has been demonstrated to have several activities of a biological nature. Additionally, as CS chains have functional hydroxyl and amino groups that are active, their applications can be expanded by chemically or molecularly altering the molecules to incorporate new functional groups. Due to its outstanding qualities, including biodegradability, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and accessibility, it has received significant interest in all areas of biomedicine and nanomaterials being extremely promising as drug nanocarrier. The last decades have produced a lot of interest in CS-based nanoparticles (CSNPs), with an increasing number of research papers from around 1500 in 2015 to almost 5000 in 2024. The degree of crosslinking, the particulate system's shape, size, and density, in addition to the drug's physical and chemical properties, all have a role in how the drug is transported and released from CSNPs. When creating potential drug delivery systems based on CSNPs, all these factors must be considered. In earlier, CSNPs were employed to enhance the pharmacotherapeutics, pharmacokinetics, and solubility properties of drugs. By investigating its positively charged characteristics and changeable functional groups, CS has evolved into a versatile drug delivery system. The drug release from CSNPs will definitely be influenced by various changes to the functional groups, charges, and polymer backbone. This review mainly discusses the most important results published in the last decade. Despite the promising advantages of CSNPs, challenges related to the translation into clinical stages remain and further in vitro and in vivo studies are mandatory.

Chitosan-based structures for skin repair: A literature review

The use of chitosan in technological and biomedical applications has gained significant relevance due to its functional properties. Among its biological activities, its hemostatic, analgesic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities make this natural biopolymer one of the most promising in the development of structures for skin repair. Its application and effects can be optimized by exploring efficient structuring techniques. In this context, this review is based on scientific evidence reported in the last decade regarding the development and use of chitosan-based structures in the skin repair process to show the most common structuring methods, the main mechanisms of action of chitosan, and its potential applications in skin repair processes. Additionally, this article brings a compilation of scientific and commercial works on the use of chitosan-based structures, in addition to vitro and/or in vivo results.

A review of chitosan-based multifunctional nanocomposites for drug/gene/protein delivery and gene therapy in cancer treatments: Promises, challenges and outlooks

This study provides a comprehensive examination of chitosan-based multifunctional nanocomposites and their extensive applications in drug/gene/protein delivery, tissue engineering and cancer therapy. As a natural polymer with eco-friendly characteristics and both antimicrobial and anti-cancer properties, chitosan has garnered attention in numerous medical and pharmaceutical domains. The research explores diverse chitosan nanocomposites, including those incorporating magnetic nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and clay- and alginate-based nanocomposites. Additionally, the study addresses the obstacles encountered in developing these materials and their potential for creating advanced drug delivery systems and targeted treatments. The study highlights the applications of these nanocomposites in bone, cartilage, and skin tissue regeneration, as well as their potential in neural tissue engineering. in conclusion, the research underscores the promising future of chitosan-based nanocomposites in revolutionizing drug delivery, tissue engineering, and cancer therapy. It emphasizes the need for further studies to fully harness the potential of these materials and translate laboratory findings into clinical applications, paving the way for more effective and personalized medical treatments. Our reason for writing this article appears to be a comprehensive exploration of the potential and challenges of chitosan-based multifunctional nanocomposites in medicine, particularly in drug/gene/protein delivery and cancer therapy. The aim is to provide a detailed analysis of the material's versatility, its integration with advanced nanotechnologies, and its applications in targeted treatments, and regenerative medicine. we seek to address existing challenges, such as safety, scalability, and regulatory compliance, while highlighting the promising future of these materials in personalized and efficient medical treatments.

A mechanistic overview on green assisted formulation of nanocomposites and their multifunctional role in biomedical applications

The importance of nanocomposites constantly attains attention because of their unique properties all across the fields especially in medical perspectives. The study of green-synthesized nanocomposites has grown to be extremely fascinating in the field of research. Nanocomposites are more promising than mono-metallic nanoparticles because they exhibit synergistic effects. This review encapsulates the current development in the formulation of plant-mediated nanocomposites by using several plant species and the impact of secondary metabolites on their biocompatible functioning. Phyto-synthesis produces diverse nanomaterials with biocompatibility, environment-friendliness, and in vivo actions, characterized by varying sizes, shapes, and biochemical nature. This process is advantageous to conventional physical and chemical procedures. New studies have been conducted to determine the biomedical efficacy of nanocomposites against various diseases. Unfortunately, there has been inadequate investigation into green-assisted nanocomposites. Incorporating phytosynthesized nanocomposites in therapeutic interventions not only enhances healing processes but also augments the host's immune defenses against infections. This review highlights the phytosynthesis of nanocomposites and their various biomedical applications, including antibacterial, antidiabetic, antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal, anti-cancer, and other applications, as well as their toxicity. This review also explores the mechanistic action of nanocomposites to achieve their designated tasks. Biogenic nanocomposites for multimodal imaging have the potential to exchange the conventional methods and materials in biomedical research. Well-designed nanocomposites have the potential to be utilized in various biomedical fields as innovative theranostic agents with the subsequent objective of efficiently diagnosing and treating a variety of human disorders.

Chitosan nanoparticles encapsulating farnesol show potent antifungal activity against Candida albicans biofilms

Candida albicans biofilms are characterized as the main virulence factor responsible for therapeutic failure with antifungals and the development of resistant strains. Chitosan nanoparticles with farnesol (NF) may be able to penetrate biofilms due to their small size and enable the delivery of molecules to specific locations. The objective of the study was to assess the in vitro effectiveness of NF on C. albicans biofilms, as an additional study of the previously presented in vivo data. In the antifungal tests with C. albicans ATCC 10231, NF showed an IC50 of 73.25 µg/mL and inhibited biofilm formation at concentrations of up to 146.5 µg/mL. Images obtained by scanning electron microscopy demonstrated the ability of NF to inhibit the development of biofilms in vitro. In addition to their in vivo effectiveness against C. albicans infections, the produced nanoparticles could serve as a promising alternative to inhibit the formation of C. albicans biofilms on surfaces.

Advancing neurological disorders therapies: Organic nanoparticles as a key to blood-brain barrier penetration

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays a vital role in protecting the central nervous system (CNS) by preventing the entry of harmful pathogens from the bloodstream. However, this barrier also presents a significant obstacle when it comes to delivering drugs for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and brain cancer. Recent breakthroughs in nanotechnology have paved the way for the creation of a wide range of nanoparticles (NPs) that can serve as carriers for diagnosis and therapy. Regarding their promising properties, organic NPs have the potential to be used as effective carriers for drug delivery across the BBB based on recent advancements. These remarkable NPs have the ability to penetrate the BBB using various mechanisms. This review offers a comprehensive examination of the intricate structure and distinct properties of the BBB, emphasizing its crucial function in preserving brain balance and regulating the transport of ions and molecules. The disruption of the BBB in conditions such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease highlights the importance of developing creative approaches for delivering drugs. Through the encapsulation of therapeutic molecules and the precise targeting of transport processes in the brain vasculature, organic NP formulations present a hopeful strategy to improve drug transport across the BBB. We explore the changes in properties of the BBB in various pathological conditions and investigate the factors that affect the successful delivery of organic NPs into the brain. In addition, we explore the most promising delivery systems associated with NPs that have shown positive results in treating neurodegenerative and ischemic disorders. This review opens up new possibilities for nanotechnology-based therapies in cerebral diseases.

A comprehensive insight of innovations and recent advancements in nanocarriers for nose-to-brain drug targeting

Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders are the leading cause of illness and affect the everyday lives of people all around the globe and are predicted to increase tremendously in the upcoming decades. Traditional methods of delivering drugs to the CNS face considerable limitations. Nose-to-brain targeting offers a promising alternative that bypasses the blood-brain barrier (BBB), enabling targeted drug administration to the central nervous system (CNS). Nanotechnology has brought forward innovative solutions to the challenges of drug delivery in CNS disorders. Nanocarriers such as liposomes, nanoparticles, nanoemulsions and dendrimers can enhance drug stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery to the brain. These nanocarriers are designed to overcome physiological barriers and provide controlled and sustained drug release directly to the CNS. Nanocarrier technology has made significant strides in recent years, enabling more effective and targeted delivery of drugs to the brain. With recent advancements, intranasal delivery coupled with nanocarriers seems to be a promising combination that can provide better clinical profiles, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics for neurodegenerative disorders. This study focuses on exploring the nose-to-brain drug delivery system, emphasizing the use of various nanocarriers designed for this purpose. Additionally, the study encompasses recent advancements in nanocarrier technology tailored specifically to improve the efficiency of drug administration through the nasal route to the brain.

Chitosan and its derivatives: A novel approach to gut microbiota modulation and immune system enhancement

Chitosan, a biopolymer derived from the deacetylation of chitin found in crustacean shells and certain fungi, has attracted considerable attention for its promising health benefits, particularly in gut microbiota maintenance and immune system modulation. This review critically examines chitosan's multifaceted role in supporting gut health and enhancing immunity, beginning with a comprehensive overview of its sources, chemical structure, and its dual function as a dietary supplement and biomaterial. Chitosan's prebiotic effects are highlighted, with a focus on its ability to selectively stimulate beneficial gut bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus, while enhancing gut barrier integrity and inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. The review delves deeply into chitosan's immunomodulatory mechanisms, including its impact on antigen-presenting cells, cytokine profiles, and systemic immune responses. A detailed comparative analysis assesses chitosan's efficacy relative to other prebiotics and immunomodulatory agents, examining challenges related to bioavailability and metabolic activity. Beyond its role in gut health, this review explores chitosan's potential as a dual-action agent that not only supports gut microbiota but also fortifies immune resilience. It introduces emerging research on novel chitosan derivatives, such as chitooligosaccharides, and evaluates their enhanced bioactivity for functional food applications. Special attention is given to sustainability, with an exploration of alternative, plant-based sources of chitosan and their implications for both health and environmental stewardship. Also, the review identifies new research avenues, such as the growing interest in chitosan's role in the gut-brain axis and its potential mental health benefits through microbial interactions. By addressing these innovative areas, the review aims to shift the focus from basic health effects to chitosan's broader impact on public health. The findings encourage further exploration, particularly through human trials, and emphasize chitosan's untapped potential in revolutionizing health and disease management.

Active packaging film based on chitosan/gelatin blend incorporated with mango peel carbon dots: Properties and shelf life extension of minced pork

Active packaging is essential for reducing food quality loss and ensuring consumer safety. Recently, carbon dots, synthesized from agricultural bio-wastes, have been used as active nanofillers. Mango peels, generally discarded as waste, can serve as potential precursor for synthesis of carbon dots. Mango peel carbon dots (MPCD) were prepared and characterized. Characteristics of active film based on chitosan (CS)/fish gelatin (FG) blend incorporated with MPCD at different concentrations (1, 3, and 5 wt%) were investigated. MPCD with augmenting concentrations enhanced mechanical properties of CS/FG film. Film containing 5 % MPCD had 15 % higher tensile strength than the control (without MPCD). The film containing MPCD showed the improved antioxidant activity, antimicrobial and UV barrier properties. The pouch (5 × 5 cm2) made from film added with 5 % MPCD via heat sealing was used for packaging minced pork. Minced pork packed in the pouch showed lower bacterial growth (below 6 log CFU/g) and chemical changes than that packed in polyethylene pouch during 15 days of storage at 4 °C. Therefore, the conversion of mango peel into valuable carbon dots promotes a zero-waste sustainable approach in line with the biocircular economy. Active pouch could be employed as novel biodegradable active and green packaging for the food industry.

The role of metal nanocarriers, liposomes and chitosan-based nanoparticles in diabetic retinopathy treatment: A review study

Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a significant and progressive eye complication associated with diabetes mellitus, leading to potential vision loss. The pathophysiology of DR involves complex neurovascular changes due to prolonged hyperglycemia, resulting in microangiopathy and neurodegeneration. Current treatment modalities come with limitations such as low bioavailability of therapeutic agents, risk of side effects, and surgical complications. Consequently, the prevention and management of DR, particularly in its advanced stages, present ongoing challenges. This review investigates recent advancements in nanotechnology as a novel approach to enhance the treatment of DR. A comprehensive literature review of recent studies focusing on nanocarriers for drug delivery in DR treatment and an analysis of their efficacy compared to traditional methods was conducted for this study. The findings indicate that nanotechnology can significantly enhance the bioavailability of therapeutic agents while minimizing systemic exposure and associated side effects. The novelty of this study lies in its focus on the intersection of nanotechnology and ophthalmology, exploring innovative solutions that extend beyond existing literature on DR treatments. By highlighting recent advancements in this field, the study paves the way for future research aimed at developing more effective therapeutic strategies for managing DR.

Targeted delivery of curcumin and CM11 peptide against hepatocellular carcinoma cells based on binding affinity of PreS1-coated chitosan nanoparticles to SB3 protein

In recent years, the use of cationic peptides as alternative drugs with anticancer activity has received attention. In this study, the targeted release of curcumin (Cur) and CM11 peptide alone and together against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was evaluated using chitosan nanoparticles (CS NPs) coated with Pres1 that target the SB3 antigen of HCC cells (PreS1-Cur-CM11-CS NPs). SB3 protein is the specific antigen of HCC and the PreS1 peptide is a part of the hepatitis B antigen, which can specifically bind to the SB3 protein. Chitosan was used to prepare NPs. To Cur and CM11 loading, drugs were added to the CS solution in appropriate concentrations. Pres1 was coupled to the surface of the NPs using EDC catalyst to target NPs against HepG2 cells. SEM and DLS analysis confirmed that the PreS1-Cur-CM11-CS NPs had a size of about 132 nm, the ideal size for penetrating the cell membrane. The loading of Cur and CM11 was equal to 87% and 65%, respectively, which had a sustained and better release in the acidic environment than in the physiological environment. The MTT assay showed that PreS1-Cur-CM11-CS NPs act in a targeted and specific manner with the highest toxicity on the HepG2 cells compared to the control by a decrease in viability of about 26% after 48 h based on cell apoptosis. The results showed that PreS1-Cur-CM11-CS NPs are capable of targeted and specific drug release against HepG2 cancer cells and have significant potential to fight this cancer.

Phytonanoparticles as novel drug carriers for enhanced osteogenesis and osseointegration

Phytonanoparticles have emerged as a promising class of biomaterials for enhancing bone regeneration and osseointegration, offering unique advantages in biocompatibility, multifunctionality, and sustainability. This comprehensive review explores the synthesis, characterization, and applications of phytonanoparticles in bone tissue engineering. The green synthesis approach, utilizing plant extracts as reducing and stabilizing agents, yields nanoparticles with intrinsic bioactive properties that can synergistically promote osteogenesis. We examine the mechanisms by which phytonanoparticles, particularly those derived from gold, silver, and zinc oxide, influence key molecular pathways in osteogenesis, including RUNX2 and Osterix signaling. The review discusses advanced strategies in phyto-nanoparticle design, such as surface functionalization and stimuli-responsive release mechanisms, which enhance their efficacy in bone regeneration applications. Preclinical studies demonstrating improved osteoblast proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization are critically analyzed, along with emerging clinical data. Despite promising results, scalability, standardization, and regulatory approval challenges persist. The review also addresses the economic and environmental implications of phyto-nanoparticle production. Looking ahead, we identify key research directions, including developing personalized therapies, combination approaches with stem cells or gene delivery, and long-term safety assessments. By harnessing the power of plant-derived nanomaterials, phytonanoparticles represent an innovative approach to addressing the complex challenges of bone regeneration, with potential applications spanning dental, orthopedic, and maxillofacial surgery.

Chitosan-modified polymeric nanoparticles for the nose-to-brain drug delivery of paroxetine: an in vitro and in vivo evaluation

This work focuses on the development of PLGA nanoparticles and their surface modification by chitosan to enhance the mucoadhesive properties and colloidal stability for intranasal delivery. Chitosan-coated paroxetine-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (PAR-CS-PLGA-NPs) were developed and characterized along with in vitro and in vivo evaluation. Particle size of 181.8 nm with a zeta potential of 36.3 mV was obtained. Entrapment efficiency % and drug loading % were 87.5% and 13.4%, respectively. TEM, FTIR, and DSC were also performed. In vitro drug release studies were conducted in phosphate buffered saline (pH 7.4) and simulated nasal fluid (pH 5.5), and sustained release was found until 72 h. Cellular assays on mammalian cells depicted the cell viability to be >60% even at the maximum concentration of PAR-CS-PLGA-NPs and showed significantly higher uptake than PLGA-NPs. Histopathological studies on the nasal epithelium showed no damage or inflammation when treated with PAR-CS-PLGA-NPs. In vivo studies were performed using Swiss albino mice to estimate the drug biodistribution after intranasal delivery of PAR-CS-PLGA-NPs. A significantly increased drug concentration was observed in the mouse brains (p < 0.05). Pharmacodynamics studies of the PAR-CS-PLGA-NPs were carried out by forced swimming test and locomotor activity test, demonstrating improved behavioral analysis parameters (p < 0.05). Thus, intranasal delivery of paroxetine-loaded mucoadhesive chitosan-coated PLGA nanoparticles could be potentially used for the treatment of depression.

Chitosan nanoencapsulation of Turbinaria triquetra metabolites in the management of podocyturia in nephrotoxic rats

Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic drug, which exhibits undesirable side effects. Chitosan nanoparticles are promising for drug delivery. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the brown alga Turbinaria triquetra ethyl acetate fraction and polysaccharides, either loaded on chitosan nanoparticles or free, against podocyturia and cisplatin nephrotoxicity in rats. Sixty-six male rats were distributed into 11 equal groups: untreated control, chitosan (CSNPs), ethyl acetate fraction (EAE), polysaccharide (PS), EAE loaded on chitosan nanoparticles (EAE-CSNPs), PS loaded on chitosan nanoparticles (PS-CSNPs), Cisplatin or cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) (CDDP), CDDP + EAE, CDDP + PS, CDDP + EAE-CSNPs, and CDDP + PS-CSNPs. Serum urea, creatinine, creatinine clearance, renal malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, paraoxonase 1, renal nephrin, and podocin, and their renal mRNA gene expressions, as well as urinary nephrin and podocin were determined. The results indicated that the ethyl acetate fraction and polysaccharides, either free or loaded, efficiently attenuated podocyturia and cisplatin nephrotoxicity compared to the Cis group. However, the improvement was higher in the nephrotoxic groups treated with EAE-CSNPs and PS-CSNPs. The current study revealed that chitosan nanoencapsulation showed ameliorative effects against podocyturia and cisplatin nephrotoxicity in rats compared to free extracts, offering a new therapeutic strategy for attenuating podocyturia and CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity.

Tricine-modified chitosan as a strategy for enhancing hydrophilicity and gene delivery

In this study, we investigated the effect of chitosan modification with tricine on transfection efficiency by preserving its ability to form complexes with plasmid DNA (pDNA) and increasing its hydrophilicity. The inherent limitations of chitosan, such as poor solubility at physiological pH, insufficient cellular uptake, and strong ionic interactions with pDNA, typically result in low transfection efficiency. To overcome these challenges, Tricine, a hydrophilic molecule containing a secondary amine group, was conjugated to chitosan. Chitosan of three different molecular weights (low, medium, and high) was modified with tricine. Structural characterization of the modified chitosan was conducted using Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) analyses. The effects of tricine modification were assessed in terms of hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity, proton buffering capacity, particle size, PDI and zeta potential. Tricine modified low molecular weight chitosan nanoparticles (nLMWChiTri), which exhibit suitable properties for gene transfer studies, were evaluated regarding pDNA complexation ability, cytotoxicity and in vitro transfection efficiency. The results demonstrated that tricine modification enhanced the gene transfer potential of chitosan, making it competitive with the commercial transfection agent Lipofectamine™ 2000 and offering a promising strategy for non-viral gene therapy applications. Furthermore, the biocompatibility and biodegradability of chitosan, combined with the improved hydrophilicity provided by tricine, makes nLMWChiTri a safer and more sustainable option for repeated use in gene delivery, overcoming the major limitations associated with other synthetic vectors such as Lipofectamine™ 2000.

Graphene/carbohydrate polymer composites as emerging hybrid materials in tumor therapy and diagnosis

Despite the introduction of various types of treatments for cancer control, cancer therapy faces several challenges such as aggressive behavior, heterogeneous characteristics, and the development of resistance. In contrast, the methods have depended on the creation and formulation of nanoparticles to impede tumor growth. Carbon nanoparticles have attracted considerable attention for cancer therapy, with graphene nanoparticles emerging as promising vehicles for delivering drugs and genes. Moreover, graphene composites can enhance immunotherapy, phototherapy, and combination therapies. Nonetheless, the biocompatibility and toxicity of graphene composites present difficulties. Consequently, this manuscript assesses the alteration of graphene nanocomposites using carbohydrate polymers. Altering graphene composites with carbohydrate polymers such as chitosan, hyaluronic acid, cellulose, and starch can enhance their efficacy in cancer treatment. Furthermore, graphene composites functionalized with carbohydrate polymers for tumor ablation induced by phototherapy. Graphene oxide and graphene quantum dots have been modified with carbohydrate polymers to enhance their therapeutic and diagnostic uses. These nanoparticles can transport gene therapy techniques like siRNA in the treatment of cancer. Despite the breakdown of these nanoparticles within the body, they maintain excellent biosafety and biocompatibility.

Innovative nanocarrier systems for enhanced delivery of phyto-active compounds in cancer therapy

Millions of people worldwide suffer from cancer, facing challenges such as treatments affecting healthy cells, suboptimal responses, adverse effects, recurrence risk, drug resistance, and nonspecific targeting. Chemoresistance leads to fatalities, but phytoactives show promise in cancer management despite limitations such as high metabolism, poor absorption, and high dosage requirements. Challenges in the large-scale isolation of phytoactive compounds, solubility, bioavailability, and targeting limit their development. Recent developments, including carbohydrate, lipid, and protein-based nanoparticles, have enhanced cancer treatment by improving the bioavailability and targeted delivery of phytoactives such as polyphenols, alkaloids, sulfur-containing compounds, flavonoids, and terpenes. Despite advancements, clinical application faces hurdles such as poor bioavailability and inconsistent immune responses. This article discusses the promise of phytoactive-loaded nanoformulations in cancer management, highlighting targeted drug delivery, unmet needs, and challenges. Further research is needed to overcome these challenges and fully understand the potential of phytoactives in cancer management.

Chitosan-casein as novel drug delivery system for transferring Phyllanthus emblica to inhibit Pseudomonas aeruginosa

This study investigated the ability of Phyllanthus emblica encapsulated within chitosan-coated casein (CS-casein-Amla) nanoparticles to inhibit the growth of multi-drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) bacteria and prevent the formation of biofilms. The MDR strains underwent screening, and the morphological characteristics of the resulting nanoparticles were assessed using SEM, DLS, and FTIR. In addition, the efficacy of encapsulation, stability, and drug release were evaluated. The PpgL, BdlA, and GacA biofilm gene transcription quantities were quantified by quantitative real-time PCR. Simultaneously, the nanoparticles were assessed for their antibacterial and cytotoxic effects using the well diffusion and MTT procedures. CS-casein-Amla nanoparticles with a size of 500.73 ± 13 nm, encapsulation efficiency of 76.33 ± 0.81%, and stability for 60 days at 4 °C (Humidity 30%) were created. The biological analysis revealed that CS-casein-Amla nanoparticles exhibited strong antibacterial properties. This was shown by their capacity to markedly reduce the transcription of PpgL, BdlA, and GacA biofilm genes at a statistically significant value of p ≤ 0.01. The nanoparticles demonstrated decreased antibiotic resistance compared to unbound Amla and CS-casein. Compared to Amla, CS-casein-Amla nanoparticles showed very little toxicity against HDF cells at dosages ranging from 1.56 to 100 µg/mL (p ≤ 0.01). The results highlight the potential of CS-casein-Amla nanoparticles as a significant advancement in combating highly resistant P. aeruginosa. The powerful antibacterial properties of CS-casein-Amla nanoparticles against P. aeruginosa MDR strains, which are highly resistant pathogens of great concern, may catalyze the development of novel antibacterial research approaches.

Enhanced Stability and In Vitro Biocompatibility of Chitosan-Coated Lipid Vesicles for Indomethacin Delivery

BACKGROUND

Lipid vesicles, especially those utilizing biocompatible materials like chitosan (CHIT), hold significant promise for enhancing the stability and release characteristics of drugs such as indomethacin (IND), effectively overcoming the drawbacks associated with conventional drug formulations.

OBJECTIVES

This study seeks to develop and characterize novel lipid vesicles composed of phosphatidylcholine and CHIT that encapsulate indomethacin (IND-ves), as well as to evaluate their in vitro hemocompatibility.

METHODS

The systems encapsulating IND were prepared using a molecular droplet self-assembly technique, involving the dissolution of lipids, cholesterol, and indomethacin in ethanol, followed by sonication and the gradual incorporation of a CHIT solution to form stable vesicular structures. The vesicles were characterized in terms of size, morphology, Zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency and the profile release of drug was assessd. In vitro hemocompatibility was evaluated by measuring erythrocyte lysis and quantifying hemolysis rates.

RESULTS

The IND-ves exhibited an entrapment efficiency of 85%, with vesicles averaging 317.6 nm in size, and a Zeta potential of 24 mV, indicating good stability in suspension. In vitro release kinetics demonstrated an extended release profile of IND from the vesicles over 8 h, contrasting with the immediate release observed from plain drug solutions. The hemocompatibility assessment revealed that IND-ves exhibited minimal hemolysis, comparable to control groups, indicating good compatibility with erythrocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

IND-ves provide a promising approach for modified indomethacin delivery, enhancing stability and hemocompatibility. These findings suggest their potential for effective NSAID delivery, with further in vivo studies required to explore clinical applications.

Magnetic and pH sensitive nanocomposite microspheres for controlled temozolomide delivery in glioblastoma cells

Controlled drug delivery systems have been intensively researched for cancer treatment to increase precision targeting and therapeutic efficacy. In this context, novel magnetic-/pH-sensitive graphene oxide/chitosan/iron oxide magnetic nanocomposite microspheres were synthesized. Fe3O4 (IO) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized via the green synthesis method in the presence of Salvia officinalis extract. The graphene oxide (GO) NPs were prepared using the Staudenmaier method, and synthesized materials were characterized. Chitosan (CS) was used to prepare microspheres. GO/CS/IO microspheres were investigated as prospective vehicles for controlled temozolomide delivery in the presence and absence of an external magnetic field. The release percentage of temozolomide molecules in the presence of 100 Hz reached a maximum in 90 min. This is approximately twice the amount of drug release in the absence of a magnetic field and more than that in the presence of a 50 Hz magnetic field. Also, the highest degree of swelling was observed at a pH of 4.5, higher than at a pH of 7.4. Also, the MTT assay results indicated the cytotoxicity of the synthesized microspheres for glioblastoma cells; notably, a significant difference was observed between the groups exposed to the magnetic field and those not, with exposure to the magnetic field further reducing survival. These results indicated that the magnetic microspheres potentially apply to controlled drug delivery systems.

Enhancing gene delivery efficiency with amphiphilic chitosan modified by myristic acid and tertiary amino groups

The aim of this study is to synthesize new amphiphilic chitosan containing myristic acid as the hydrophobic tail and tertiary amine groups as the hydrophilic head and to evaluate the gene delivery efficiency. In this context, the primary amine groups of chitosan were first modified with myristic acid (Chi-M), followed by the modification of the methylol groups with 3-dimethylamino-1-propyl chloride hydrochloride. The chemical characterization of this chitosan formulation (Chi-MA) was determined using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis and gel permeation chromatography-size exclusion chromatography. Chi-MA nanoparticles were prepared via ionic gelation, and particle size, polydispersity and zeta potential were determined. The nanoparticles were evaluated for their proton buffering capacity and gene complexing capacity. Additionally, the cytotoxicity of Chi-MA on HEK293T cells was determined via MTT assay, and the transfection efficiency of Chi-MA was analyzed by a flow cytometer. The results indicate a significant increase in gene complexing capacity (8-fold) and nanoparticle formation ability of Chi-MA compared to other chitosan formulations. Chi-MA nanoparticles showed no toxicity against HEK293T cells and exhibited the highest transfection efficiency with significantly lower nanoparticle: gene ratios compared to previous studies. These findings demonstrate the effective use of amphiphilic Chi-MA as a gene carrier.

Advances in the delivery of anticancer drugs by nanoparticles and chitosan-based nanoparticles

Cancer is the leading cause of death globally, and conventional treatments have limited efficacy with severe side effects. The use of nanotechnology has the potential to reduce the side effects of drugs by creating efficient and controlled anticancer drug delivery systems. Nanoparticles (NPs) used as drug carriers offer several advantages, including enhanced drug protection, biodistribution, selectivity and, pharmacokinetics. Therefore, this review is devoted to various organic (lipid, polymeric) as well as inorganic nanoparticles based on different building units and providing a wide range of potent anticancer drug delivery systems. Within these nanoparticulate systems, chitosan (CS)-based NPs are discussed with particular emphasis due to the unique properties of CS and its derivatives including non-toxicity, biodegradability, mucoadhesivity, and tunable physico-chemical as well as biological properties allowing their alteration to specifically target cancer cells. In the context of streamlining the nanoparticulate drug delivery systems (DDS), innovative nanoplatform-based cancer therapy pathways involving passive and active targeting as well as stimuli-responsive DDS enhancing overall orthogonality of developed NP-DDS towards the target are included. The most up-to-date information on delivering anti-cancer drugs using modern dosage forms based on various nanoparticulate systems and, specifically, CSNPs, are summarised and evaluated concerning their benefits, limitations, and advanced applications.

Influence of Chitosan Purification on the Immunomodulator Potential of Chitosan Nanoparticles on Human Monocytes

The deproteinization of chitosan is a necessary purification process for materials with biomedical purposes; however, chitosan sourcing and purification methods can modify its molecular weight, deacetylation degree, and residual proteins. These factors affect the reactive groups that affect the immunomodulatory activities of cells, particularly macrophages and monocytes; considering this activity is key when developing successful and functional biomaterials. Here, two brands of chitosan were purified and used to synthesize nanoparticles to evaluate their immunomodulatory effect on monocyte and macrophage differentiation. Chitosan FT-IR showed bands related to its purification process, with increased OH group intensity. Nanoparticles (CtsNps) synthesized with purified chitosan were of a smaller size compared to those using unpurified chitosan due to the alkaline purification process's shortening of the polymeric chain. At low concentrations (50 μg/mL), CtsNps showed a lower expression of CD80 and CD14, corroborating the differentiation effect of chitosan. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is related to a pro-inflammatory response and M1 macrophage polarization was detected in monocytes treated with purified and unpurified nanoparticles. Sigma-purified chitosan nanoparticles (CtsNps SigmaP), at 300 μg/mL, showed arginase production related to an anti-inflammatory response and M2 macrophage polarization. The chitosan purification process induces a shift in the polarization of macrophages to an anti-inflammatory M2 profile. This effect is concentration-dependent and should be further studied in each use case to favor the suitable biological response.

Advancements in Nanoparticle-Based Adjuvants for Enhanced Tuberculosis Vaccination: A Review

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, necessitating the development of more effective vaccines. Nanoparticle-based adjuvants represent a promising approach to enhancing tuberculosis vaccine efficacy. This review focuses on the advantages of nanoparticulate-loaded vaccines, emphasizing their ability to improve antigen delivery, safety, and immunogenicity. We discuss the various types of nanoparticles and their unique physicochemical properties that contribute to improved antigen delivery and sustained immune activation. Additionally, we highlight the advantages of nanoparticle-based adjuvants in inducing strong cellular and humoral immunity, enhancing vaccine stability, and reducing adverse effects. Finally, we address current challenges and future perspectives in the application of these novel adjuvants, emphasizing their potential to transform TB vaccine strategies and ultimately contribute to better global health outcomes.

Stability, challenges, and prospects of chitosan for the delivery of anticancer drugs and tissue regenerative growth factors

Chitosan, a biopolymer derived from chitin, offers significant potential for regulated anticancer drug administration and tissue regeneration growth factors, owing to its biocompatibility, low toxicity, biodegradability, and little immunogenicity. Moreover, its structure can be extensively modified, for example, to create scaffolds, hydrogels, nanoparticles, and membranes, allowing it to be engineered precisely to achieve specific outcomes However, the therapeutic utilisation of chitosan is impeded by significant challenges, such as its inadequate hemocompatibility, durability, and uniformity in commercial manufacturing. Additionally, there is insufficient research offering a thorough examination of the capabilities, limitations, and challenges related to chitosan as carriers for anticancer drugs and growth factors. This article examines the stability, challenges, and advanced application of chitosan as a drug carrier in anti-cancer therapy and growth factor delivery. The problems of unregulated chitosan degradation arising from unsuitable storage conditions are considered and potential solutions, and areas for future research, are proposed to deal with such problems. Consequently, this review is expected to be highly valuable for aspiring scientists studying chitosan-related systems for delivery of anti-cancer drugs and growth factors.

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of tedizolid nanoparticle incorporated buccal films for oromucosal infections

A novel tedizolid phosphate (TZP) nanoparticle (NP)-loaded buccal film formulation was developed for the treatment of buccal wounds infected with S. aureus. TZP-loaded chitosan NPs were produced and characterized to prepare this composite system. The optimum NP formulation was then loaded into mucoadhesive buccal films. The antibacterial effects of the obtained buccal films were evaluated by in vitro and in vivo studies. The optimum TZP-NP formulation (F8) had a particle size of 177.40 ± 2.97 nm and PDI and ZP values were 0.437 ± 0.002 and 33.9 ± 0.5, respectively. In antibacterial efficacy tests, the optimum NP containing buccal film formulation was used, which released approximately 90 % of TZP within 5 h. TZP-NP-loaded buccal films achieved a 3 log10 reduction in S. aureus within just 3 h. It was also administered to Wistar albino rats with S. aureus-infected buccal wounds. As a result of in vivo studies, a significant decrease in the number of S. aureus was detected in wound samples treated with TZP-NP-loaded buccal films. In addition, a complete inhibition of growth was observed on the fifth day of the film application. The current work suggested that the TZP-NP-loaded composite films could be promising candidates for effective and long-acting antibacterial treatment of buccal wounds.

Biodegradable ICG-Conjugated Germanium Nanoparticles for In Vivo Near-Infrared Dual-Modality Imaging and Photothermal Therapy

Theranostics, by integrating diagnosis and therapy on a single platform, enables real-time monitoring of tumors during treatment. To improve the accuracy of tumor diagnosis, the fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging modalities can complement each other to achieve high resolution and a deep penetration depth. Despite the superior performance, the biodegradability of theranostic agents plays a critical role in enhancing nanoparticle excretion and reducing chronic toxicity, which is essential for clinical applications. Herein, we synthesize biocompatible and biodegradable indocyanine green (ICG)-conjugated germanium nanoparticles (GeNPs) and investigate their biodistributions in nude mice and 4T1 tumor models after intravenous injections using near-infrared (NIR) dual-modality fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging. The ICG-conjugated GeNPs have strong NIR absorption due to the NIR-absorbing ICG and Ge in combination, emit strong NIR fluorescence due to the multilayered ICG coatings, and exhibit very low in vitro and in vivo toxicity. After tail vein injections, the ICG-conjugated GeNPs mainly accumulate in the liver and spleen as well as the tumor with the help of the enhanced permeability and retention effect. The tumor's fluorescence signal is much stronger than that of the control group injected with pure ICG solution, as the GeNPs can function as biodegradable carriers for efficiently delivering the ICG molecules to the tumor. Lastly, the ICG-conjugated GeNPs accumulated in the tumor can also be utilized for photothermal treatment under NIR laser irradiation, after which the tumor volume almost diminishes after 14 days. The experimental findings in this work demonstrate that the ICG-conjugated GeNPs are promising theranostic agents with exceptional biodegradability for in vivo NIR dual-modality imaging and photothermal therapy.

Chitosan-Based Nanoformulations: Preclinical Investigations, Theranostic Advancements, and Clinical Trial Prospects for Targeting Diverse Pathologies

Chitosan, a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer, has attracted significant interest in the development of nanoformulations for targeted drug delivery and therapeutic applications. The versatility of chitosan lies in its modifiable functional groups, which can be tailored to diverse applications. Nanoparticles derived from chitosan and its derivatives typically exhibit a positive surface charge and mucoadhesive properties, enabling them to adhere to negatively charged biological membranes and gradually release therapeutic agents. This comprehensive review investigates the manifold roles of chitosan-based nanocarriers, ranging from preclinical research to theranostic applications and clinical trials, across a spectrum of diseases, including neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, wound healing, gastrointestinal disorders, and pulmonary diseases. The exploration starts with an overview of preclinical studies, emphasizing the potential of chitosan-based nanoformulations in optimizing drug delivery, improving therapeutic outcomes, and mitigating adverse effects in various disease categories. Advancements in theranostic applications of chitosan-based nanoformulations highlight their adaptability to diverse diseases. As these nanoformulations progress toward clinical translation, this review also addresses the regulatory challenges associated with their development and proposes potential solutions.

Rapid wound healing with silver nanoparticle-decorated miswak-derived carbon quantum dots

BACKGROUND

Oxidants are pivotal in combating aging, cancer, and weakened immunity. Shielding the body from free radicals is crucial for an extended lifespan. The development of effective systems for this purpose is paramount. This study investigated the impact of miswak carbon quantum dots (M-CQD) on radical elimination and wound healing.

METHODS

M-CQD were synthesized via a hydrothermal method using miswak water extract at 220 °C for 8 h. Chitosan-modified Ag@M-CS-CQD were produced. The characterization involved SEM, XRD, and FTIR analysis. M-CQD and Ag@M-CS-CQD emitted bluish-white light under UV excitation.

RESULTS

At 10, 30, and 50 μg/mL, DPPH• and phosphomolybdenum complex radicals inhibited 67 %, 82 %, and 98 %, respectively, with Ag@M-CS-CQD demonstrating the highest activity. The IC50 values for M-CQD and Ag@M-CS-CQD were 0.91 ± 0.010 and 1.183 ± 0.033, respectively. Ag@M-CS-CQD NPs displayed remarkable wound healing efficacy at 20 μg/L, highlighting their potential as potent antioxidants. Immunohistochemical analyzes also showed that Ag@M-CS-CQD increased TGF-β expression levels, which was associated with wound healing.

CONCLUSION

This eco-friendly synthesis method yielded Ag@M-CS-CQD, which exhibited robust antioxidant properties and efficacy in wound healing. This study emphasizes the potential of these nanoparticles as effective therapeutic agents.

Bile acid conjugated chitosan nanoparticles promote the proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway

Bile acids have been known to play significant roles at certain physiological levels in gastrointestinal metabolism. Yet, they are known to be carcinogenic and aid in tumor progression in most cases, although the roles remain uncertain. Hence, we tested the cytotoxic potential of cholic acid (CA) loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) on Hep3B cells. The physicochemical properties of the CNPs synthesized with CA load (CA-CNPs) were determined using standard techniques such as ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry (UV-Vis), fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The characteristic peak for chitosan nanoparticles were observed for plain CNPs (pCNPs) and CA-CNPs at around 300 nm as per UV-Vis analysis. FTIR analysis indicated the possible trapping of CA onto CNPs as certain peaks were retained and some peaks were shifted. XRD analysis determined that the peaks representing CA and pCNPs were collectively obtained in CA-CNPs. As per DLS analysis, the particle size, PDI and ζ-potential of the CA-CNPs were 259 nm, 0.284 and 30.4 mV. Further, the CA-CNPs were non-cytotoxic on Hep3B cells at the maximum tested concentration of 500 μg/mL. The viability at 500 μg/mL of CA-CNPs was two-fold higher than 500 μg/mL of pCNPs. Also, the pCNPs were not hemolytic and therefore could not have played a role in the increase of viability after treatment with CA-CNPs, which indicates that CA posed a major role in increased viability of Hep3B cells. As per quantitative PCR (qPCR), the upregulated gene expressions of PI3K, Akt, mTORC2, cMyc, Fibronectin, hVPS34, Slug and ZEB1 and the downregulated expression of the tumor suppressor PTEN indicates that PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway mediated the induction of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in response to CA-CNPs treatment on Hep3B cells.

Exploring the therapeutic applications of nano-therapy of encapsulated cisplatin and anthocyanin-loaded multiwalled carbon nanotubes coated with chitosan-conjugated folic acid in targeting breast and liver cancers

This study aimed to assess the targeted nano-therapy of encapsulated cisplatin (Cis) and anthocyanin (Ant)-loaded multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNT) coated with chitosan conjugated folic acid on breast MCF7 and liver HepG2 cancer cells. Zeta potential, UV-spectroscopy, FTIR, TEM, and SEM were used to evaluate CNT, its modified form (CNT Mod), CNT-loaded Cis NPs, CNT-loaded Ant NPs, and CNT- Cis + Ant NPs. All treatments induced apoptosis-dependent cytotoxicity in both cell lines as revealed functionally by the MTT assay, morphologically (DNA degradation) by acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) double staining, and molecularly (Bax upregulation and Bcl2 downregulation) by real-time PCR, with best effect for the combined treatment (CNT- Cis + Ant NPs). This combined treatment also significantly reduced inflammation (low TNFα), migration (low MMP9 and high TIMP1), and angiogenesis (low VEGF), while significantly increasing antioxidant status (high Nrf2 and OH-1) in MCF7 and HepG2 cells compared to other treatments. Interestingly, cells treated with CNT Mod exhibited higher cytotoxic, apoptotic, anti-migratory, and anti-angiogenic potentials relative to CNT-treated cells. In conclusion, targeted nano-therapy of encapsulated cisplatin and anthocyanin-loaded carbon nanotubes coated with chitosan conjugated folic acid can efficiently combat breast and liver cancers by sustained release, in addition to its apoptotic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-metastatic, and anti-angiogenic effects.

Bio-Composite Nanogels Based on Chitosan and Hyaluronic Acid for the Treatment of Lung Infections

Pathogen infections constitute a serious problem in the field of lung diseases, especially in severe conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Exacerbations of COPD and ARDS can be significantly influenced by bacterial infections from Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, which can hasten the decline of lung function. Moreover, the abuse of high-dose antibiotics used to treat obstinate infections is contributing to the growing issue of multidrug resistance (MDR) by microorganisms. Currently, new therapeutic strategies capable of surprising and fighting pathogens with new modalities are missing. In this framework, bio-composite nanogels (NGs) based on natural polymers with intrinsic antimicrobial properties such as chitosan (CS) and hyaluronic acid (HA) have been developed for the treatment of lung infections. The DLS and TEM results showed that NGs have a spherical shape with a size smaller than 100 nm, making it possible for them to potentially reach the lung site and evade the clearance of alveolar macrophages. FTIR spectra demonstrated that only electrostatic interactions, not chemical reactions, occur between NG precursors. Rheological analysis highlighted NGs' injectability and mucoadhesive capacity. Moreover, an MTT assay on human lung fibroblast cells for biocompatibility evaluation showed good viability up to 48 h. Finally, an antimicrobial test on P. aeruginosa and S. aureus showed an increase in antimicrobial activity as the NG concentration increases, with a reduction in bacterial growth of around 60% at 375 μg/mL.

Inhalable chitosan-coated nano-assemblies potentiate niclosamide for targeted abrogation of non-small-cell lung cancer through dual modulation of autophagy and apoptosis

Lung carcinoma, particularly non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), accounts for a significant portion of cancer-related deaths, with a fatality rate of approximately 19 %. Niclosamide (NIC), originally an anthelmintic drug, has attracted attention for its potential in disrupting cancer cells through various intracellular signaling pathways. However, its effectiveness is hampered by limited solubility, reducing its bioavailability. This study investigates the efficacy of NIC against lung cancer using inhalable hybrid nano-assemblies with chitosan-functionalized Poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL) as a carrier for pulmonary delivery. The evaluation encompasses various aspects such as aerodynamic and physicochemical properties, drug release kinetics, cellular uptake, biocompatibility, cell migration, autophagic flux, and apoptotic cell death in A549 lung cancer cells. Increasing NIC dosage correlates with enhanced inhibition of cell proliferation, showing a dose-dependent profile (approximately 75 % inhibition efficiency at 20 μg/mL of NIC). Optimization of inhaled dosage and efficacy is conducted in a murine model of NNK-induced tumor-bearing lung cancer. Following inhalation, NIC-CS-PCL-NA demonstrates significant lung deposition, retention, and metabolic stability. Inhalable nano-assemblies promote autophagy flux and induce apoptotic cell death. Preclinical trials reveal substantial tumor regression with minimal adverse effects, underscoring the potential of inhalable NIC-based nano-formulation as a potent therapeutic approach for NSCLC, offering effective tumor targeting and killing capabilities.

Oral Patch/Film for Drug Delivery-Current Status and Future Prospects

In recent years, there has been extensive research into drug delivery systems aimed at enhancing drug utilization while minimizing drug toxicities. Among these systems, oral patches/films have garnered significant attention due to their convenience, noninvasive administration, ability to bypass hepatic first-pass metabolism, thereby enhancing drug bioavailability, and their potential to ensure good compliance, particularly among special patient populations. In this review, from the perspective of the anatomical characteristics of the oral cavity and the advantages and difficulties of oral drug delivery, we illustrate the design ideas, manufacturing techniques, research methodologies, and the essential attributes of an ideal oral patch/film. Furthermore, the applications of oral patches/films in both localized and systemic drug delivery were discussed. Finally, we offer insights into the future prospects of the oral patch/film, aiming to provide valuable reference for the advancement of oral localized drug delivery systems.

Advances in Chitosan Derivatives: Preparation, Properties and Applications in Pharmacy and Medicine

Chitosan (CS) derivatives have been extensively investigated to enhance the physicochemical and biological properties of CS, such as its solubility, biocompatibility, and bioactivity, which are required in various areas of pharmacy and medicine. The present work emphasizes the ongoing research and development in this field, suggesting that the further exploration of CS derivatives could lead to innovative solutions that benefit society. The physicochemical properties, biological activities, methods of preparation, advantages, limitations, intended application areas, and realized practical implementations of particular CS derivatives are summarized and discussed herein. Despite the numerous promising attributes of CS derivatives as reported in this paper, however, challenges like target selectivity, standardization (purity, chitosan structural variability), and cost-effectiveness still need addressing for widespread implementation, especially in drug delivery. Therefore, basic research studies still prevail in CS drug delivery systems. However, for specific applications such as wound healing and tissue engineering, implementations of CS derivatives in practice are found to be more frequent. To obtain a more complex view of the topic, information from the scientific papers reviewed is supplemented with information from actual patents and clinical studies. Both basic research advances and the most successful and important medical implementations of CS derivatives are discussed concerning further challenges and future perspectives.

Bio-Based and Biodegradable Polymeric Materials for a Circular Economy

Nowadays, plastic contamination worldwide is a concerning reality that can be addressed with appropriate society education as well as looking for innovative polymeric alternatives based on the reuse of waste and recycling with a circular economy point of view, thus taking into consideration that a future world without plastic is quite impossible to conceive. In this regard, in this review, we focus on sustainable polymeric materials, biodegradable and bio-based polymers, additives, and micro/nanoparticles to be used to obtain new environmentally friendly polymeric-based materials. Although biodegradable polymers possess poorer overall properties than traditional ones, they have gained a huge interest in many industrial sectors due to their inherent biodegradability in natural environments. Therefore, several strategies have been proposed to improve their properties and extend their industrial applications. Blending strategies, as well as the development of composites and nanocomposites, have shown promising perspectives for improving their performances, emphasizing biopolymeric blend formulations and bio-based micro and nanoparticles to produce fully sustainable polymeric-based materials. The Review also summarizes recent developments in polymeric blends, composites, and nanocomposite plasticization, with a particular focus on naturally derived plasticizers and their chemical modifications to increase their compatibility with the polymeric matrices. The current state of the art of the most important bio-based and biodegradable polymers is also reviewed, mainly focusing on their synthesis and processing methods scalable to the industrial sector, such as melt and solution blending approaches like melt-extrusion, injection molding, film forming as well as solution electrospinning, among others, without neglecting their degradation processes.