Bioactive Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (Bio-SNEDDS) for Combined Oral Delivery of Curcumin and Piperine

Black Seed Oil-Based Curcumin Nanoformulations Ameliorated Cuprizone-Induced Demyelination in the Mouse Hippocampus

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the demyelination of nerves, axonal damage, and neuroinflammation. Cognition impairment, pain, and loss of mobility are some of the usual complications of MS. It has been postulated that the overproduction of proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are the main factors that contribute to MS pathology. Among various animal models, the cuprizone model is the most widely used model for investigating MS-related pathology. We assessed the effects of cuprizone along with the protective effects of some black seed oil-based nanoformulations of curcumin with and without piperine, in mice hippocampus in terms of the changes in antioxidant enzymes, transcription factors, and cytokines during demyelination and remyelination processes. The results of behavioral studies point toward impairment in working memory following the feeding of cuprizone for 5 weeks. However, in treatment groups, mice seemed to prevent the toxic effects of cuprizone. Nanoformulations used in this study were found to be highly effective in lowering the amount of ROS as indicated by the levels of antioxidant enzymes like catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and glutathione peroxidase. Moreover, nanoformulations CCF and CCPF were observed resisting the toxic effects of cuprizone. We observed greater expression of NFκB-p65 in the CPZ group than in the control group. CCF nanoformulation had a better inhibitory effect on NFκB-p65 than other formulations. Histological examination of the hippocampus was also conducted. Nanoformulations used here were found effective in reversing MS-related pathophysiology and hence have the potential to be applied as adjuvant therapy for MS treatment.

Nutraceutically-enhanced oral delivery of vitamin D3 via Bio-SNEDDS: Demonstrating in vivo superiority over pediatric formulations

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D3 (VD3) deficiency among children in Saudi Arabia remains a pressing concern due to its poor bioavailability and the limitations of current pediatric formulations. To address this challenge, we developed a groundbreaking pediatric self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (Bio-SNEDDS) for VD3, fortified with black seed oil and moringa seed oil for dual therapeutic benefits. Through meticulous formulation optimization using ternary phase diagrams and comprehensive testing, our Bio-SNEDDS demonstrated exceptional performance.

METHODS

Bio-SNEDDS were manufactured by incorporating Black seed oil and moringa seed oil as bioactive nutraceutical excipients along with various cosurfactant and surfactants. Bio-SNEDDS were systematically optimized through ternary phase diagrams, visual tests, droplet size analysis, drug solubilization studies, dispersion assessments, and pharmacokinetic testing in rats compared to Vi-De 3®.

RESULTS

Pseudoternary phase diagrams identified oil blends producing large nanoemulsion regions optimal for SNEDDS formation. The optimized F1 Bio-SNEDDS showed a mean droplet diameter of 33.7 nm, solubilized 154.46 mg/g VD3 with no metabolite formation, and maintained >88% VD3 in solution during 24 h dispersion testing. Notably, in vivo pharmacokinetic evaluation at a high VD3 dose demonstrated an approximately two-fold greater relative bioavailability over Vi-De 3®, validating the superb oral delivery performance of Bio-SNEDDS even under challenging high-dose conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The Bio-SNEDDS provides an effective VD3 delivery strategy with established in vivo superiority over marketed products, along with offering additional health benefits from the natural oils.

A supercritical fluid co-extract of turmeric powder and dried coconut shreds shows neuroprotection against AlCl3-induced Alzheimer's disease in rats through nose to brain delivery

This study was aimed at investigating the neuroprotective potential of a co-extract obtained by supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) of turmeric powder and dried coconut shreds against aluminium chloride (AlCl3)-induced Alzheimer's disease (AD) in male Wistar rats. Fifty animals were allocated to five groups, which received saline (vehicle control, group 1), a combination of saline and aluminium chloride (AlCl3) (disease control, group 2), coconut oil (COO) (SFE extracted, treatment group 3), turmeric oleoresin (Cur) (SFE extracted, treatment group 4) and SFE co-extract of turmeric powder and coconut shreds (CurCOO) (treatment group 5). Animals were subjected to behavioural evaluation. In addition, the hippocampal section of the brain from all groups was subjected to biochemical, molecular and histopathological evaluations. The results showed CurCOO administered intranasally improved cognitive abilities, reversed histological alterations in the brain, reduced hippocampus inflammation studied through proinflammatory cytokine markers like TNF-α and IL-6 as compared to the disease control group. The impact of CurCOO on preventive neurodegeneration was also observed through a reduction in protein transcription factor NF-kB in the treated group 5 as compared to a disease control group. The effect of intranasal delivery of CurCOO on the neurons responsible for memory consolidation was evident from low acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme activity in the treated groups with respect to AlCl3 induced group. Summarily, the results demonstrated intranasal delivery of CurCOO to show better efficacy than Cur and COO in preventing neurodegeneration associated with AlCl3 induced Alzheimer's disease.

Development of a Multifunctional Oral Dosage Form via Integration of Solid Dispersion Technology with a Black Seed Oil-Based Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System

Lansoprazole (LZP) is used to treat acid-related gastrointestinal disorders; however, its low aqueous solubility limits its oral absorption. Black seed oil (BSO) has gastroprotective effects, making it a promising addition to gastric treatment regimens. The present study aims to develop a stable multifunctional formulation integrating solid dispersion (SD) technology with a bioactive self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) based on BSO to synergistically enhance LZP delivery and therapeutic effects. The LZP-loaded SNEDDS was prepared using BSO, Transcutol P, and Kolliphor EL. SDs were produced by microwave irradiation and lyophilization using different polymers. The formulations were characterized by particle apparent hydrodynamic radius analysis, zeta potential, SEM, DSC, PXRD, and in vitro dissolution testing. Their chemical and physical stability under accelerated conditions was also examined. Physicochemical characterization revealed that the dispersed systems were in the nanosize range (<500 nm). DSC and PXRD studies revealed that lyophilization more potently disrupted LZP crystallinity versus microwave heating. The SNEDDS effectively solubilized LZP but degraded completely within 1 day. Lyophilized SDs with Pluronic F-127 demonstrated the highest LZP dissolution efficiency (3.5-fold vs. drug) and maintained chemical stability (>97%) for 1 month. SDs combined with the SNEDDS had variable effects suggesting that the synergistic benefits were dependent on the formulation and preparation method. Lyophilized LZP-Pluronic F127 SD enabled effective and stable LZP delivery alongside the bioactive effects of the BSO-based SNEDDS. This multifunctional system is a promising candidate with the potential for optimized gastrointestinal delivery of LZP and bioactive components.

Curcumin Nanoemulsion: Unveiling Cardioprotective Effects via ACE Inhibition and Antioxidant Properties in Hypertensive Rats

Background and Objectives: Curcumin, derived from Curcuma longa, is a well-known traditional medicinal compound recognized for its therapeutic attributes. Nevertheless, its efficacy is hampered by limited bioavailability, prompting researchers to explore the application of nanoemulsion as a potential alternative. Materials and Methods: This study delves into the antihypertensive effects of curcumin nanoemulsion (SNEC) by targeting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and oxidative stress in deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) salt-induced hypertensive rats. To gauge the cardio-protective impact of SNEC in DOCA salt-induced hypertension, molecular docking was undertaken, uncovering curcumin's high affinity and adept binding capabilities to the active site of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). Additionally, the investigation employed uninephrectomized rats to assess hemodynamic parameters via an AD instrument. Serum ACE, angiotensin II, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine levels were quantified using ELISA kits, while antioxidant parameters were evaluated through chemical assays. Result: The outcomes of the molecular docking analysis revealed robust binding of curcumin to the ACE active site. Furthermore, oral administration of SNEC significantly mitigated systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure in contrast to the DOCA-induced hypertensive group. SNEC administration also led to a reduction in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and an elevation in the maximum rate of left ventricular pressure rise (LV (dP/dt) max). Moreover, SNEC administration distinctly lowered serum levels of ACE and angiotensin II compared to the hypertensive DOCA group. Renal markers, including serum creatinine and BUN, displayed a shift toward normalized levels with SNEC treatment. Additionally, SNEC showcased potent antioxidant characteristics by elevating reduced glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase levels, while decreasing the concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances. Conclusions: Collectively, these findings underscore that curcumin nanoemulsion exerts noteworthy cardio-protective effects through ACE activity inhibition and remarkable antioxidant properties.

Mannosylated preactivated hyaluronic acid-based nanostructures for bacterial infection treatment

Salmonella Typhi is an intracellular bacterium causing a variety of enteric diseases, being typhoid fever the most common. Current modalities for treating S. typhi infection are subjected to multi-drug resistance. Herein, a novel macrophage targeting approach was developed via coating bioinspired mannosylated preactivated hyaluronic acid (Man-PTHA) ligands on a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) loaded with the anti-bacterial drug ciprofloxacin (CIP). The shake flask method was used to determine the drug solubility in the different excipients (oil, surfactants and co-surfactants). Man-PTHA were characterized by physicochemical, in vitro, and in vivo parameters. The mean droplet size was 257 nm, with a PDI of 0.37 and zeta potential of -15 mV. In 72 h, 85 % of the drug was released in a sustained manner, and the entrapment efficiency was 95 %. Outstanding biocompatibility, mucoadhesion, muco-penetration, anti-bacterial action and hemocompatibility were observed. Intra-macrophage survival of S. typhi was minimal (1 %) with maximum nanoparticle uptake, as shown by their higher fluorescence intensity. Serum biochemistry evaluation showed no significant changes or toxicity, and histopathological evaluation confirmed the entero-protective nature of the bioinspired polymers. Overall, results confirm that Man-PTHA SNEDDS can be employed as novel and effective delivery systems for the therapeutic management of S. typhi infection.

Hot-Melt Extrusion as an Effective Technique for Obtaining an Amorphous System of Curcumin and Piperine with Improved Properties Essential for Their Better Biological Activities

Poor bioavailability hampers the use of curcumin and piperine as biologically active agents. It can be improved by enhancing the solubility as well as by using bioenhancers to inhibit metabolic transformation processes. Obtaining an amorphous system of curcumin and piperine can lead to the overcoming of these limitations. Hot-melt extrusion successfully produced their amorphous systems, as shown by XRPD and DSC analyses. Additionally, the presence of intermolecular interactions between the components of the systems was investigated using the FT-IR/ATR technique. The systems were able to produce a supersaturation state as well as improve the apparent solubilities of curcumin and piperine by 9496- and 161-fold, respectively. The permeabilities of curcumin in the GIT and BBB PAMPA models increased by 12578- and 3069-fold, respectively, whereas piperine's were raised by 343- and 164-fold, respectively. Improved solubility had a positive effect on both antioxidant and anti-butyrylcholinesterase activities. The best system suppressed 96.97 ± 1.32% of DPPH radicals, and butyrylcholinesterase activity was inhibited by 98.52 ± 0.87%. In conclusion, amorphization remarkably increased the dissolution rate, apparent solubility, permeability, and biological activities of curcumin and piperine.

Differential binding of piperine & curcumin with modified cellulose, alginate and pectin supports: In-vitro & in-silico studies

Use of natural polymer in the development of Drug Delivery Systems (DDS) has greatly increased in recent past because of their biocompatible, non-allergic and biodegradable nature. Natural polymers are usually hydrophilic supports, so in order to be a carrier of a hydrophobic drug their nature needs to be changed. Each developed system behaves differently towards different drugs in terms of loading and sustained release of the drug as well. In the present work we report differential binding of piperine & curcumin with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) modified cellulose, alginate and pectin. Difference in interaction between the piperine and curcumin with supports has been visualized using in-vitro as well as in-silico studies. Initial results obtained after in-silico studies have been validated via time dependent anti-trypsin, serum protein binding, anti-cathepsin, anti-oxidant, and anti-α-amylase activities. FT-IR, SEM, fluorescence and Particle size have been used to characterize the piperine loaded on CTAB-modified polymeric supports.

Development of Curcumin and Piperine-Loaded Bio-Active Self-Nanoemulsifying Drugs and Investigation of Their Bioactivity in Zebrafish Embryos and Human Hematological Cancer Cell Lines

Purpose

Curcumin (CUR) and piperine (PP) are bioactive compounds with prominent pharmacological activities that have been investigated for the treatment of various diseases. The aim of the present study is to develop Bio-SNEDDS for CUR and PP as a combined delivery system for cancer therapy.

Methods

CUR and PP loaded Bio-SNEDDSs with varying compositions of bioactive lipid oils, surfactants, and cosolvents were prepared at room temperature. Bio-SNEDDSs were characterized using a Zetasizer Nano particle size analyzer and further examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for morphology. The in vivo toxicity of the preparations of Bio-SNEDDS was investigated in wild-type zebrafish embryos and cytotoxicity in THP-1 (human leukemia monocytic cells), Jurkat (human T lymphocyte cells) and HUVEC (non-cancerous normal) cells.

Results

Bio-SNEDDSs were successfully developed with black seed oil, Imwitor 988, Transcutol P and Cremophor RH40 at a ratio of 20/20/10/50 (%w/w). The droplet size, polydispersity index and zeta potential of the optimized Bio-SNEDDS were found to be 42.13 nm, 0.59, and -19.30 mV, respectively. Bio-SNEDDS showed a spherical structure evident by TEM analysis. The results showed that Bio-SNEDDS did not induce toxicity in zebrafish embryos at concentrations between 0.40 and 30.00 μg/mL. In TG (fli1: EGFP) embryos treated with Bio-SNEDDS, there was no change in the blood vessel structure. The O-dianisidine staining of Bio-SNEDDS treated embryos at 48 h post-fertilization also showed a significant reduction in the number of blood cells compared to mock (DMSO 0.1% V/V) treated embryos. Bio-SNEDDS induced significant levels of cytotoxicity in the hematological cell lines THP-1 and Jurkat, while low toxicity in normal HUVEC cell lines was observed with IC50 values of 18.63±0.23 μg/mL, 26.03 ± 1.5 μg/mL and 17.52 ± 0.22 μg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion

Bio-SNEDDS exhibited enhanced anticancer activity and could thus be an important new pharmaceutical formulation to treat leukemia.

Piperine loaded metal organic frameworks reverse doxorubicin induced chemobrain in adult zebrafish

The study's primary goal was to enhance medicinal potential of piperine (PIP)-loaded zeolitic imidazolate frameworks-8 (PIP@ZIF-8) against doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cognitive impairments in zebrafish. Herein, PIP@ZIF-8 was synthesized via easy, economical and reproducible ultrasonication method followed by spray drying technology. ZIF-8's structural integrity has been confirmed by PXRD, and even after PIP was encapsulated, the structure of ZIF-8 remained unchanged. Pure ZIF-8 and PIP@ZIF-8 were subjected to TEM analysis, which revealed hexagonal morphology with a nanosize range. FTIR and UV-Visible spectroscopy studies confirmed the drug loading of ZIF-8. Studies on in vitro release revealed 71.48 ± 7.21% and 34.56 ± 5.35% PIP release from PIP@ZIF-8 and unformulated PIP, respectively in pH 7.4. The highest antioxidant scavenging results were obtained with vitamin C (73.77 ± 6.7%) at an intensity of 200 μg/ml, though it was 65.09 ± 2.5% and 57.99 ± 3.1% for PIP@ZIF-8 and PIP, respectively. In vivo studies on zebrafish showed that DOX administration remarkably impaired cognitive activity in T-Maze, and downregulated spatial memory and locomotor activity in the open field test. In addition, DOX administration caused a downregulation in GSH and SOD levels and increase in LPO, AChE and TNF-α levels compared to the vehicle group along with changes in brain histopathology. Further, PIP@ZIF-8 reversed the DOX-induced cognitive impairments by its antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. It can be concluded that PIP@ZIF-8 has a promising therapeutic potential against the chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairments in zebrafish.

Oral Bioactive Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems of Remdesivir and Baricitinib: A Paradigmatic Case of Drug Repositioning for Cancer Management

Oral anticancer therapy mostly faces the challenges of low aqueous solubility, poor and irregular absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, food-influenced absorption, high first-pass metabolism, non-targeted delivery, and severe systemic and local adverse effects. Interest has been growing in bioactive self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (bio-SNEDDSs) using lipid-based excipients within nanomedicine. This study aimed to develop novel bio-SNEDDS to deliver antiviral remdesivir and baricitinib for the treatment of breast and lung cancers. Pure natural oils used in bio-SNEDDS were analyzed using GC-MS to examine bioactive constituents. The initial evaluation of bio-SNEDDSs were performed based on self-emulsification assessment, particle size analysis, zeta potential, viscosity measurement, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The single and combined anticancer effects of remdesivir and baricitinib in different bio-SNEDDS formulations were investigated in MDA-MB-231 (breast cancer) and A549 (lung cancer) cell lines. The results from the GC-MS analysis of bioactive oils BSO and FSO showed pharmacologically active constituents, such as thymoquinone, isoborneol, paeonol and p-cymenene, and squalene, respectively. The representative F5 bio-SNEDDSs showed relatively uniform, nanosized (247 nm) droplet along with acceptable zeta potential values (+29 mV). The viscosity of the F5 bio-SNEDDS was recorded within 0.69 Cp. The TEM suggested uniform spherical droplets upon aqueous dispersions. Drug-free, remdesivir and baricitinib-loaded bio-SNEDDSs (combined) showed superior anticancer effects with IC50 value that ranged from 1.9-4.2 µg/mL (for breast cancer), 2.4-5.8 µg/mL (for lung cancer), and 3.05-5.44 µg/mL (human fibroblasts cell line). In conclusion, the representative F5 bio-SNEDDS could be a promising candidate for improving the anticancer effect of remdesivir and baricitinib along with their existing antiviral performance in combined dosage form.

The Development and Optimization of Lipid-Based Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems for the Intravenous Delivery of Propofol

PURPOSE

Propofol is a relatively short-acting potent anesthetic lipophilic drug used during short surgical procedures. Despite the success of propofol intravenous emulsions, drawbacks to such formulations include inherent emulsion instability, the lack of a safe vehicle to prevent sepsis, and concern regarding hyperlipidemia-related side effects. The aim of the current investigation was to develop a novel, lipid-based self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) for propofol with improved stability and anesthetic activity for human use.

METHODS

A series of SNEDDS formulations were developed using naturally obtained medium-chain/long-chain mono-, di-, and triglycerides, glyceryl monocaprylate, and water-soluble cosolvents with hydrogenated castor oil constructing ternary phase diagrams for propofol. The developed SNEDDS formulations were characterized using visual observation, particle size analysis, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy, equilibrium solubility, in vitro dynamic dispersion and stability, and in vivo sleeping disorder studies in rats. The in vivo bioavailability of the SNEDDSs in rats was also studied to compare the representative formulations with the marketed product Diprivan^®.

RESULTS

Medium-chain triglycerides (M810) with mono-diglycerides (CMCM) as an oil blend and hydrogenated castor oil (KHS15) as a surfactant were selected as key ingredients in ternary phase diagram studies. The nanoemulsifying regions were identified from the studies and a number of SNEDDSs were formulated. Results from the characterization studies demonstrated the formation of efficient nanosized particles (28-45 nm globule size, 0.10-0.20 PDI) in the optimized SNEDDS with a drug loading of 50 mg/g, which is almost 500-fold higher than free propofol. TEM analysis showed the formation of spherical and homogeneous nanoparticles of less than 50 nm. The dissolution rate of the representative SNEDDS was faster than raw propofol and able to maintain 99% propofol in aqueous solution for around 24 h. The optimized liquid SNEDDS formulation was found to be thermodynamically stable. The intravenous administration of the SNEDDS in male Wistar rats induced a sleeping time of 73-88 min. The mean plasma concentrations after the IV administration of propofol nano-formulations PF2-SNEDDS and PF8-SNEDDS were 1348.07 ± 27.31 and 1138.66 ± 44.97 µg/mL, as compared to 891.44 ± 26.05 µg/mL (p = 0.05) observed after the IV administration of raw propofol.

CONCLUSION

Propofol-loaded SNEDDS formulations could be a potential pharmaceutical product with improved stability, bioavailability, and anesthetic activity.

Formulation and Development of Curcumin-Piperine-Loaded S-SNEDDS for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

Curcumin (CUR) and piperine (PIP) are very well-known phytochemicals that claimed to have many health benefits and have been widely used in foods and traditional medicines. This study investigated the therapeutic efficacy of these compounds to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, poor oral bioavailability and permeability of curcumin are a major challenge for formulation scientists. In this research study, the researcher tried to enhance the bioavailability and permeability of curcumin by a nanotechnological approach. In this research study, we developed a CUR-PIP-loaded SNEDDS in various oils. Optimised formulation NF3 was subjected to evaluate its therapeutic effectiveness on AD animal model in comparison with untreated AD model and treated group (by market formulation donepezil). On the basis of characterisation results, it is confirmed that NF3 formulation is the best formulation. The optimised formulation shows a significant dose-dependent manner therapeutic effect on AD-induced model. Novel formulation CUR-PIP solid-SNEDDS was successfully developed and optimised. It is expected that the developed S-SNEDDS can be a potential, safe and effective carrier for the oral delivery of curcumin to the brain. To date, this article is the only study of CUR-PIP-loaded S-SNEDDS for the treatment of AD.

Adsorbent Precoating by Lyophilization: A Novel Green Solvent Technique to Enhance Cinnarizine Release from Solid Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (S-SNEDDS)

BACKGROUND

Solidification by high surface area adsorbents has been associated with major obstacles in drug release. Accordingly, new approaches are highly demanded to solve these limitations. The current study proposes to improve the drug release of solidified self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) to present dual enhancement of drug solubilization and formulation stabilization, using cinnarizine (CN) as a model drug.

METHODS

The solidification process involved the precoating of adsorbent by lyophilization of the aqueous dispersion of polymer-adsorbent mixture using water as a green solvent. Then, the precoated adsorbent was mixed with drug-loaded liquid SNEDDS to prepare solid SNEDDS. The solid-state characterization of developed cured S-SNEDDS was done using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). In vitro dissolution studies were conducted to investigate CN SNEDDS performance at pH 1.2 and 6.8. The solidified formulations were characterized by Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), powder flow properties, scanning electron microscopy, and droplet size analysis. In addition, the optimized formulations were evaluated through in vitro lipolysis and stability studies.

RESULTS

The cured solid SNEDDS formula by PVP k30 showed acceptable self-emulsification and powder flow properties. XRD and DSC revealed that CN was successfully amorphized into drug-loaded S-SNEDDS. The uncured solid SNEDDS experienced negligible drug release (only 5% drug release after 2 h), while the cured S-SNEDDS showed up to 12-fold enhancement of total drug release (at 2 h) compared to the uncured counterpart. However, the cured S- SNEDDS showed considerable CN degradation and decrease in drug release upon storage in accelerated conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The implemented solidification approach offers a promising technique to minimize the adverse effect of adsorbent on drug release and accomplish improved drug release from solidified SNEDDS.

Multivariate Data Analysis and Central Composite Design-Oriented Optimization of Solid Carriers for Formulation of Curcumin-Loaded Solid SNEDDS: Dissolution and Bioavailability Assessment

The study was initiated with two major purposes: investigating the role of isomalt (GIQ9) as a pharmaceutical carrier for solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (S-SNEDDSs) and improving the oral bioavailability of lipophilic curcumin (CUN). GIQ9 has never been explored for solidification of liquid lipid-based nanoparticles such as a liquid isotropic mixture of a SNEDDS containing oil, surfactant and co-surfactant. The suitability of GIQ9 as a carrier was assessed by calculating the loading factor, flow and micromeritic properties. The S-SNEDDSs were prepared by surface adsorption technique. The formulation variables were optimized using central composite design (CCD). The optimized S-SNEDDS was evaluated for differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), microscopy, dissolution and pharmacokinetic studies. The S-SNEDDS showed a particle size, zeta potential and PDI of 97 nm, -26.8 mV and 0.354, respectively. The results of DSC, XRD, FTIR and microscopic studies revealed that the isotropic mixture was adsorbed onto the solid carrier. The L-SNEDDS and S-SNEDDS showed no significant difference in drug release, indicating no change upon solidification. The optimized S-SNEDDS showed 5.1-fold and 61.7-fold enhancement in dissolution rate and oral bioavailability as compared to the naïve curcumin. The overall outcomes of the study indicated the suitability of GIQ9 as a solid carrier for SNEDDSs.

Combined Ramipril and Black Seed Oil Dosage Forms Using Bioactive Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (BIO-SNEDDSs)

Purpose: Ramipril (RMP)—an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor—and thymoquinone (THQ) suffer from poor oral bioavailability. Developing a combined liquid SNEDDS that comprises RMP and black seed oil (as a natural source of THQ) could lead to several formulations and therapeutic benefits. Methods: The present study involved comprehensive optimization of RMP/THQ liquid SNEDDS using self-emulsification assessment, equilibrium solubility studies, droplet size analysis, and experimentally designed phase diagrams. In addition, the optimized RMP/THQ SNEDDS was evaluated against pure RMP, pure THQ, and the combined pure RMP + RMP-free SNEDDS (capsule-in-capsule) dosage form via in vitro dissolution studies. Results: The phase diagram study revealed that black seed oil (BSO) showed enhanced self-emulsification efficiency with the cosolvent (Transcutol P) and hydrogenated castor oil. The phase diagram studies also revealed that the optimized formulation BSO/TCP/HCO-30 (32.25/27.75/40 % w/w) showed high apparent solubility of RMP (25.5 mg/g), good THQ content (2.7 mg/g), and nanometric (51 nm) droplet size. The in-vitro dissolution studies revealed that the optimized drug-loaded SNEDDS showed good release of RMP and THQ (up to 86% and 89%, respectively). Similarly, the isolation between RMP and SNEDDS (pure RMP + RMP-free SNEDDS) using capsule-in-capsule technology showed >84% RMP release and >82% THQ release. Conclusions: The combined pure RMP + RMP-free SNEDDS (containing black seed oil) could be a potential dosage form combining the solubilization benefits of SNEDDSs, enhancing the release of RMP/THQ along with enhancing RMP stability through its isolation from lipid-based excipients during storage.

A Unifying Perspective in Blunting the Limited Oral Bioavailability of Curcumin: A Succinct Look

BACKGROUND

Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound derived from rhizomes of Curcuma longa, the golden spice. Curcumin has drawn much attention in recent years of biomedical research owing to its wide variety of biologic and pharmacologic actions. It exerts antiproliferative, antifibrogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects, among various imperative pharmacologic actions. In spite of its well-documented efficacies against numerous disease conditions, the limited systemic bioavailability of curcumin is a continuing concern. Perhaps, the poor bioavailability of curcumin may have curtailed its significant development from kitchen to clinic as a potential therapeutic agent. Subsequently, there have been a considerable number of studies over decades researching the scientific basis of curcumin's reduced bioavailability and eventually improvement of its bioavailability employing a variety of therapeutic approaches, for instance, in combination with piperine, the bio-active constituent of black pepper. Piperine has remarkable potential to modulate the functional activity of metabolic enzymes and drug transporters, and thus there has been a great interest in the therapeutic application of this widely used spice as alternative medicine and bioavailability enhancer. Growing body of evidence supports the synergistic potential of curcumin against numerous pathologic conditions when administered with piperine.

CONCLUSION

In light of current challenges, the major concern pertaining to poor systemic bioavailability of curcumin, its improvement, especially in combination with piperine, and the necessity of additional research in this setting are together described in this review. Besides, the recent advances in the potential therapeutic rationale and efficacy of curcumin-piperine combination, a promising duo, against various pathologic conditions are delineated.

Three-Dimensional Printing of a Container Tablet: A New Paradigm for Multi-Drug-Containing Bioactive Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug-Delivery Systems (Bio-SNEDDSs)

This research demonstrates the use of fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing to control the delivery of multiple drugs containing bioactive self-nano emulsifying drug-delivery systems (SNEDDSs). Around two-thirds of the new chemical entities being introduced in the market are associated with some inherent issues, such as poor solubility and high lipophilicity. SNEDDSs provide for an innovative and easy way to develop a delivery platform for such drugs. Combining this platform with FDM 3D printing would further aid in developing new strategies for delivering poorly soluble drugs and personalized drug-delivery systems with added therapeutic benefits. This study evaluates the performance of a 3D-printed container system containing curcumin (CUR)- and lansoprazole (LNS)-loaded SNEDDS. The SNEDDS showed 50% antioxidant activity (IC₅₀) at concentrations of around 330.1 µg/mL and 393.3 µg/mL in the DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assay, respectively. These SNEDDSs were loaded with no degradation and leakage from the 3D-printed container. We were able to delay the release of the SNEDDS from the hollow prints while controlling the print wall thickness to achieve lag phases of 30 min and 60 min before the release from the 0.4 mm and 1 mm wall thicknesses, respectively. Combining these two innovative drug-delivery strategies demonstrates a novel option for tackling the problems associated with multi-drug delivery and delivery of drugs susceptible to degradation in, i.e., gastric pH for targeting disease conditions throughout the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). It is also envisaged that such delivery systems reported herein can be an ideal solution to deliver many challenging molecules, such as biologics, orally or near the target site in the future, thus opening a new paradigm for multi-drug-delivery systems.

Self-Emulsifying Systems for Delivery of Bioactive Compounds from Natural Origin

Nature has been used as therapeutic resources in the treatment of diseases for many years. However, some natural compounds have poor water solubility. Therefore, physicochemical strategies and technologies are necessary for development of systems for carrying these substances. The self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) have been used as carriers of hydrophobic compounds in order to increase the solubility and absorption, improving their bioavailability. SEDDS are constituted with a mixture of oils and surfactants which, when come into contact with an aqueous medium under mild agitation, can form emulsions. In the last years, a wide variety of self-emulsifying formulations containing bioactive compounds from natural origin has been developed. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the main excipients and natural bioactive compounds composing SEDDS. In addition, applications, new technologies and innovation are reviewed as well. Examples of self-emulsifying formulations administered in different sites are also considered for a better understanding of the use of this strategy to modify the delivery of compounds from natural origin.

Development of Dapagliflozin Solid Lipid Nanoparticles as a Novel Carrier for Oral Delivery: Statistical Design, Optimization, In-Vitro and In-Vivo Characterization, and Evaluation

Controlling hyperglycemia and avoiding glucose reabsorption are significant goals in type 2 diabetes treatments. Among the numerous modes of medication administration, the oral route is the most common. Introduction: Dapagliflozin is an oral hypoglycemic agent and a powerful, competitive, reversible, highly selective, and orally active human SGLT2 inhibitor. Dapagliflozin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are the focus of our present investigation. Controlled-release lipid nanocarriers were formulated by integrating them into lipid nanocarriers. The nanoparticle size and lipid utilized for formulation help to regulate the release of pharmaceuticals over some time. Dapagliflozin-loaded nanoparticles were formulated by hot homogenization followed by ultra-sonication. The morphology and physicochemical properties of dapagliflozin-SLNs have been characterized using various techniques. The optimized dapagliflozin-SLNs have a particle size ranging from 100.13 ± 7.2 to 399.08 ± 2.4 nm with 68.26 ± 0.2 to 94.46 ± 0.7% entrapment efficiency (%EE). Dapagliflozin-SLNs were optimized using a three-factor, three-level Box–Behnken design (BBD). Polymer concentration (X1), surfactant concentration (X2), and stirring duration (X3) were chosen as independent factors, whereas %EE, cumulative drug release (%CDR), and particle size were selected as dependent variables. Interactions between drug substances and polymers were studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis indicated the crystalline change from the drug to the amorphous crystal. Electron microscope studies revealed that the SLNs’ structure is nearly perfectly round. It is evident from the findings that dapagliflozin-SLNs could lower elevated blood glucose levels to normal in STZ-induced diabetic rats, demonstrating a better hypoglycemic impact on type 2 diabetic patients. The in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters of SLNs exhibited a significant rise in C_max (1258.37 ± 1.21 mcg/mL), AUC (5247.04 mcg/mL), and oral absorption (2-fold) of the drug compared to the marketed formulation in the Sprague Dawley rats.

Self-nanoemulsifying composition containing curcumin, quercetin, Ganoderma lucidum extract powder and probiotics for effective treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in streptozotocin induced rats

Liquid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (L-SNEDDS) of curcumin and quercetin were prepared by dissolving them in isotropic mixture of Labrafil M1944CS®, Capmul MCM®, Tween-80® and Transcutol P®. The prepared L-SNEDDS were solidified using Ganoderma lucidum extract, probiotics and Aerosil-200® using spray drying. These were further converted into pellets using extrusion-spheronization. The mean droplet size and zeta potential of L-SNEDDS were found to be 63.46 ± 2.12 nm and - 14.8 ± 3.11 mV while for solid SNEDDS pellets, these were 72.46 ± 2.16 nm and -38.7 ± 1.34 mV, respectively. The dissolution rate for curcumin and quercetin each was enhanced by 4.5 folds while permeability was enhanced by 5.28 folds (curcumin) and 3.35 folds (quercetin) when loaded into SNEDDS pellets. The Cmax for curcumin and quercetin containing SNEDDS pellets was found 532.34 ± 5.64 ng/mL and 4280 ± 65.67 ng/mL, respectively. This was 17.55 and 3.48 folds higher as compared to their naïve forms. About 50.23- and 5.57-folds increase in bioavailability was observed for curcumin and quercetin respectively, upon loading into SNEDDS pellets. SNEDDS pellets were found stable at accelerated storage conditions. The developed formulation was able to normalize the levels of blood glucose, lipids, antioxidant biomarkers, and tissue architecture of pancreas and liver in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats as compared to their naïve forms.

Combined Curcumin and Lansoprazole-Loaded Bioactive Solid Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (Bio-SSNEDDS)

BACKGROUND

The current study aimed to design a novel combination of lansoprazole (LNS) and curcumin (CUR) solid oral dosage form using bioactive self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (Bio-SSNEDDS).

METHODS

Liquid SNEDDS were prepared using the lipid-excipients: Imwitor988 (cosurfactant), Kolliphor El (surfactant), the bioactive black seed (BSO) and/or zanthoxylum rhetsa seed oils (ZRO). Liquid SNEDDS were loaded with CUR and LNS, then solidified using commercially available (uncured) and processed (cured) Neusilin^® US2 (NUS2) adsorbent. A novel UHPLC method was validated to simultaneously quantify CUR and LNS in lipid-based formulations. The liquid SNEDDS were characterized in terms of self-emulsification, droplet size and zeta-potential measurements. The solidified SNEDDS were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), in vitro dissolution and stability in accelerated storage conditions.

RESULTS

Liquid SNEDDS containing BSO produced a transparent appearance and ultra-fine droplet size (14 nm) upon aqueous dilution. The solidified SNEDDS using cured and uncured NUS2 showed complete solidification with no particle agglomeration. DSC and XRD confirmed the conversion of crystalline CUR and LNS to the amorphous form in all solid SNEDDS samples. SEM images showed that CUR/LNS-SNEDDS were relatively spherical and regular in shape. The optimized solid SNEDDS showed higher percent of cumulative release as compared to the pure drugs. Curing NUS2 with 10% PVP led to significant enhancement of CUR and LNS dissolution efficiencies (up to 1.82- and 2.75-fold, respectively) compared to uncured NUS2-based solid SNEDDS. These findings could be attributed to the significant (50%) reduction in the micropore area% in cured NUS2 which reflects blocking very small pores allowing more space for the self-emulsification process to take place in the larger-size pores. Solid SNEDDS showed significant enhancement of liquid SNEDDS stability after 6 months storage in accelerated conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The developed Bio-SSNEDDS of CUR and LNS using processed NUS2 could be used as a potential combination therapy to improve the treatment of peptic ulcers.

Improved anti-inflammatory effect of curcumin by designing self-emulsifying drug delivery system

Purpose of present study was to prepare and evaluate self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) of curcumin (Cur) to enhance its solubility and percentage release for the evaluation of anti-inflammatory effect. Curcumin loaded SEDDS formulation was prepared, and zones of self-emulsification were recognized by dilution method for the construction of phase diagram. Lauroglycol FCC, Tween 80 (surfactant), and Transcutol HP (co-surfactant) were selected based on their solubility and highest emulsion region in phase diagram. Thermodynamic stability of Cur-SEDDS was calculated through globule size, zeta potential, polydispersity index (PDI), viscosity and pH. Cur-SEDDS were also characterized by encapsulation efficiency (EE %), FT-IR, in vitro release, and in vivo anti-inflammatory effect. Results revealed that droplet size of Cur-SEDDS was 19.77 ± 0.03 nm with their PDI 0.22 ± 0.19, zeta potential -19.33 ± 0.94 and viscosity 25.68 ± 0.86 cp. EE % of Cur-SEDDS was found to be 94.99 ± 0.38%, percentage release 65.83% compared with pure curcumin powder. The designed formulation possesses significant anti-inflammatory activity in paw edema when compared with positive control in carrageenan induced rat paw edema assay. Newly developed Cur-SEDDS with enhanced curcumin solubility, percentage release and better anti-inflammatory action may be an alternative source of oral delivery of curcumin.

Development of mushroom polysaccharide and probiotics based solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system loaded with curcumin and quercetin to improve their dissolution rate and permeability: State of the art

The role of mushroom polysaccharides and probiotics as pharmaceutical excipients for development of nanocarriers has never been explored. In the present study an attempt has been made to explore Ganoderma lucidum extract powder (GLEP) containing polysaccharides and probiotics to convert liquid self nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) into solid free flowing powder. Two lipophilic drugs, curcumin and quercetin were used in this study due to their dissolution rate limited oral bioavailability and poor permeability. These were loaded into liquid SNEDDS by dissolving them into isotropic mixture of Labrafill M1944CS, Capmul MCM, Tween-80 and Transcutol P. The liquid SNEDDS were solidified using probiotics and mushroom polysaccharides as carriers and Aerosil-200 as coating agent. The solidification was carried out using spray drying process. The process and formulation variables for spray drying process of liquid SNEDDS were optimized using Box Behnken Design to attain required powder properties. The release of both drugs from the optimized spray dried (SD) formulation was found to be more than 90%, whereas, it was less than 20% for unprocessed drugs. The results of DSC, PXRD and SEM, showed that the developed L-SNEDDS preconcentrate was successfully loaded onto the porous surface of probiotics, mushroom polysaccharides and Aerosil-200.

A comprehensive study of the basic formulation of supersaturated self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) of albendazolum

Albendazolum (ABZ) is a BCS class II drug. It has challenging biopharmaceutical properties, which include poor solubility and dissolution rate. These properties have laid the ground for developing a supersaturated self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SNEDDS) to form oil-in-water nanoemulsion in situ to improve the oral bioavailability of ABZ. Based on the ABZ solubility, emulsifying ability, and stability after dispersion in an aqueous phase, an optimal self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) consisting of oleic acid, Tween^® 20, and PEG 600 (X:Y:Z, w/w) was identified, having 10% (w/w) hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) E15 lv as its precipitation inhibitor. The optimized system possessed a small mean globule size value (89.2 nm), good dispersion properties (polydispersity index (PDI): 0.278), and preserved the supersaturated state of ABZ. S-SNEDDS was transformed into solid supersaturated self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SS-SNEDDS) using microcrystalline cellulose as a solid material. The developed S-SNEDDS were characterized for globule size, pH, turbidity, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and flow properties. The data obtained from the results suggest that this S-SNEDDS formulation can enhance the solubility and oral bioavailability of ABZ for appropriate clinical application.

A review on the bioavailability, bio-efficacies and novel delivery systems for piperine

As the major naturally occurring alkaloid in pepper with a pungent taste, piperine is known for its beneficial biological functions and therapeutic effects. In this work, the bioavailability and biological activities of piperine were presented and discussed. Novel delivery systems for enhancing the bioavailability of piperine were also reviewed. This study could provide a better understanding of the physiological and biochemical aspects of piperine to be further developed in the food and nutraceutical industries.

Development and optimization of sitagliptin and dapagliflozin loaded oral self-nanoemulsifying formulation against type 2 diabetes mellitus

Control of hyperglycemia and prevention of glucose reabsorption (glucotoxicity) are important objectives in the management of type 2 diabetes. This study deals with an oral combined dosage form design for two anti-diabetic drugs, sitagliptin and dapagliflozin using self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS). The SNEDDS were developed using naturally obtained bioactive medium-chain/long-chain triglycerides oil, mixed glycerides and nonionic surfactants, and droplet size was measured followed by the test for antioxidant activities. Equilibrium solubility and dynamic dispersion experiments were conducted to achieve the maximum drug loading. The in vitro digestion, in vivo bioavailability, and anti-diabetic effects were studied to compare the representative SNEDDS with marketed product Dapazin^®. The representative SNEDDS containing black seed oil showed excellent self-emulsification performance with transparent appearance. Characterization of the SNEDDS showed nanodroplets of around 50–66.57 nm in size (confirmed by TEM analysis), in addition to the high drug loading capacity without causing any precipitation in the gastro-intestinal tract. The SNEDDS provided higher antioxidant activity compared to the pure drugs. The in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters of SNEDDS showed significant increase in C_max (1.99 ± 0.21 µg mL⁻¹), AUC (17.94 ± 1.25 µg mL⁻¹), and oral absorption (2-fold) of dapagliflozin compared to the commercial product in the rat model. The anti-diabetic studies showed the significant inhibition of glucose level in treated diabetic mice by SNEDDS combined dose compared to the single drug therapy. The combined dose of sitagliptin-dapagliflozin using SNEDDS could be a potential oral pharmaceutical product for the improved treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Nutraceutical Approach to Preventing Coronavirus Disease 2019 and Related Complications

Introduction

Several months ago, Chinese authorities identified an atypical pneumonia in Wuhan city, province of Hubei (China) caused by a novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV or SARS-CoV-2). The WHO announced this new disease was to be known as "COVID-19".

Evidence Acquisition

Several approaches are currently underway for the treatment of this disease, but a specific cure remains to be established.

Evidence Synthesis

This review will describe how the use of selected nutraceuticals could be helpful, in addition to pharmacological therapy, in preventing some COVID-19-related complications in infected patients.

Conclusions

Even if a specific and effective cure for COVID-19 still has some way to go, selected nutraceuticals could be helpful, in addition to pharmacological therapy, in preventing some COVID-19-related complications in infected patients.

Oral gel loaded with penciclovir-lavender oil nanoemulsion to enhance bioavailability and alleviate pain associated with herpes labialis

Herpes labialis, caused by herpes simplex virus type 1, is usually characterized by painful skin or mucosal lesions. Penciclovir (PV) tablets are found to be effective against herpes labialis but suffer from poor oral bioavailability. This study aimed to combine the benefits of PV and lavender oil (LO), which exhibits anesthetic activity, in the form of a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) for the treatment of herpes labialis. Toward this purpose, LO (oil), Labrasol:Labrafil M1944 CS in the ratio of 6:4 (surfactant mixture), and Lauroglycol-FCC (co-surfactant, selected based on the solubility of PV) were evaluated as the independent factors using a distance quadratic mixture design. The formulation was optimized for the minimum globule size and maximum stability index and was determined to contain 14% LO, 40.5% Labrasol:Labrafil 1944 (6:4), and 45.5% Lauroglycol-FCC. The optimized PV-LO-SNEDDS was embedded in chitosan hydrogel and the resulting formulations coded by (O3) were prepared and evaluated. The rheological studies demonstrated a combined pseudoplastic and thixotropic behavior with the highest flux of PV permeation across sheep buccal mucosa. Compared to a marketed 1% PV cream, the O3 formulation exhibited a significantly higher and sustained PV release, nearly twice the PV permeability, and a relative bioavailability of 180%. Overall, results confirm that the O3 formulation can provide an efficient delivery system for PV to reach oral mucosa and subsequent prolonged PV release. Thus, the PV-LO-SNEDDS embedded oral gel is promising and can be further evaluated in clinical settings to establish its therapeutic use in herpes labialis.

Combined Self-Nanoemulsifying and Solid Dispersion Systems Showed Enhanced Cinnarizine Release in Hypochlorhydria/Achlorhydria Dissolution Model

The study aims to design a novel combination of drug-free solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (S-SNEDDS) + solid dispersion (SD) to enhance cinnarizine (CN) dissolution at high pH environment caused by hypochlorhydria/achlorhydria. Drug-loaded and drug-free liquid SNEDDS were solidified using Neusilin^® US2 at 1:1 and 1:2 ratios. Various CN-SDs were prepared using freeze drying and microwave technologies. The developed SDs were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). In-vitro dissolution studies were conducted to evaluate CN formulations at pH 6.8. Drug-free S-SNEDDSs showed acceptable self-emulsification and powder flow properties. DSC and XRD showed that CN was successfully amorphized into SDs. The combination of drug-free S-SNEDDS + pure CN showed negligible drug dissolution due to poor CN migration into the formed nanoemulsion droplets. CN-SDs and drug-loaded S-SNEDDS showed only 4% and 23% dissolution efficiency (DE) while (drug-free S-SNEDDS + FD-SD) combination showed 880% and 160% enhancement of total drug release compared to uncombined SD and drug-loaded S-SNEDDS, respectively. (Drug-free S-SNEDDS + SD) combination offer a potential approach to overcome the negative impact of hypochlorhydria/achlorhydria on drug absorption by enhancing dissolution at elevated pH environments. In addition, the systems minimize the adverse effect of adsorbent on drug release.

A Hyaluronic Acid Functionalized Self-Nano-Emulsifying Drug Delivery System (SNEDDS) for Enhancement in Ciprofloxacin Targeted Delivery against Intracellular Infection

Ciprofloxacin (CIP), a potent anti-bacterial agent of the fluroquinolone family, shows poor solubility and permeability, thus leading to the development of intracellular pathogens induced multi-drug resistance and biofilms formation. To synergistically improve the biopharmaceutical parameters of CIP, a hyaluronic acid (FDA approved biocompatible polymer) functionalized self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system (HA-CIP-SNEDDS) was designed in the present study. SNEDDS formulations were tested via solubility, droplet size, zeta potential, a polydispersity index, thermodynamic stability, surface morphology, solid-state characterization, drug loading/release, cellular uptake, and biocompatibility. The final (HA-CIP-SNEDDS) formulation exhibited a mean droplet size of 50 nm with the 0.3 poly dispersity index and negative zeta potential (-11.4 mV). HA-based SNEDDS containing CIP showed an improved ability to permeate goat intestinal mucus. After 4 h, CIP-SNEDDS showed a 2-fold and HA-CIP-SNEDDS showed a 4-fold permeation enhancement as compared to the free CIP. Moreover, 80% drug release of HA-CIP-SNEDDS was demonstrated to be superior and sustained for 72 h in comparison to free CIP. However, anti-biofilm activity of HA-CIP-SNEDDS against Salmonella typhi was higher than CIP-SNEDDS and free CIP. HA-CIP-SNEDDS exhibited increased biocompatibility and improved oral pharmacokinetics as compared to free CIP. Taken together, HA-CIP-SNEDDS formulation seems to be a promising agent against Salmonella typhi with a strong targeting potential.

Improvement of the bioavailability of curcumin by a supersaturatable self nanoemulsifying drug delivery system with incorporation of a hydrophilic polymer: in vitro and in vivo characterisation

OBJECTIVES

The current study was focused on preparing curcumin (CUR) supersaturated self-nano-emulsion (PI-CUR-SNEDDS) using hydrophilic polymer and to study the influence of polymer precipitation inhibitor on the physicochemical and biopharmaceutical properties of the PI-CUR-SNEDDS.

METHODS

PI-CUR-SNEDDS were prepared using hydrophilic polymer in order to maintain the supersaturation of CUR in nano-emulsion solution, artificial gastrointestinal fluid (AGF), and the precipitates formed, and characterised by in vitro dispersion tests, in vitro intestinal absorption and in vivo pharmacokinetic and compared with CUR-SNEDDS.

KEY FINDINGS

PI-CUR-SNEDDS prepared with 2% hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 55-60 (HPMC55-60) as precipitation inhibitor (PI) significantly improved the viscosity, physical stability and CUR's equilibrium solubility of nanoemulsion. HPMC55-60 and CUR interact in AGF through intermolecular interactions, form hydrogen bonds, and produce amorphous precipitates. Compared with CUR-SNEDDS, the proportion of CUR in the hydrophilic phase increased by about 3-fold, and apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) in duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and colon increased by 2.30, 3.65, 1.54 and 2.08-fold, respectively, and the area under the plasma concentration-time curve0-12h of PI-CUR-SNEDDS also increased by 3.50-fold.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggested that HPMC55-60 maintained the CUR supersaturation state by forming hydrogen bonds with CUR, increasing the solution's viscosity and drug solubilisation, thus improving the absorption and bioavailability of CUR.

Self-Nano-Emulsifying Drug-Delivery Systems: From the Development to the Current Applications and Challenges in Oral Drug Delivery

Approximately one third of newly discovered drug molecules show insufficient water solubility and therefore low oral bio-availability. Self-nano-emulsifying drug-delivery systems (SNEDDSs) are one of the emerging strategies developed to tackle the issues associated with their oral delivery. SNEDDSs are composed of an oil phase, surfactant, and cosurfactant or cosolvent. SNEDDSs characteristics, their ability to dissolve a drug, and in vivo considerations are determinant factors in the choice of SNEDDSs excipients. A SNEDDS formulation can be optimized through phase diagram approach or statistical design of experiments. The characterization of SNEDDSs includes multiple orthogonal methods required to fully control SNEDDS manufacture, stability, and biological fate. Encapsulating a drug in SNEDDSs can lead to increased solubilization, stability in the gastro-intestinal tract, and absorption, resulting in enhanced bio-availability. The transformation of liquid SNEDDSs into solid dosage forms has been shown to increase the stability and patient compliance. Supersaturated, mucus-permeating, and targeted SNEDDSs can be developed to increase efficacy and patient compliance. Self-emulsification approach has been successful in oral drug delivery. The present review gives an insight of SNEDDSs for the oral administration of both lipophilic and hydrophilic compounds from the experimental bench to marketed products.

Nasr F, Noman O, Alharbi A, Alqahtani MS, Alanazi FK. Development, Characterization Optimization, and Assessment of Curcumin-Loaded Bioactive Self-Nanoemulsifying Formulations and Their Inhibitory Effects on Human Breast Cancer MCF-7 Cells

Curcumin (CUR) is an attractive polyphenol for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Poor solubility in water and sensitivity against sunlight are the most challenging characteristics in the development of CUR for clinical use. The aim is to develop oral lipid-based bioactive self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (Bio-SNEDDSs) for curcumin as a candidate for cancer therapy. Bio-SNEDDSs containing black seed oil, medium-chain mono- and diglycerides, and surfactants were prepared as CUR delivery vehicles. The morphology, droplet size, physical stability, encapsulation efficiency, risk of precipitation, lipid digestion, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial activity were evaluated for the representative formulations. Finally, an MTT assay was performed on MCF-7 cells to determine the cytotoxic effect of the different formulations. The results showed lower droplet size (28.53 nm) and higher drug-loading (CUR 20 mg, thymoquinone 1.2 mg) for the representative Bio-SNEDDS (black seed oil/Imwitor 988/KolliphorEL (35/15/50) % w/w), along with a transparent appearance upon aqueous dilution. The dynamic dispersion and in-vitro lipolysis data proved that the Bio-SNEDDS was able to keep the CUR in a solubilized form in the gastrointestinal tract. From the antioxidant and antimicrobial studies, it was suggested that the Bio-SNEDDS had the highest activity for disease control. The MTT assay showed that the representative Bio-SNEDDS treatment led to a reduction of cell viability of MCF-7 cells compared to pure CUR and conventional SNEDDSs. A Bio-SNEDDS with elevated entrapment efficiency, antioxidant/antimicrobial activities, and an antiproliferative effect could be the best anticancer drug candidate for potential oral delivery.

Enhancing Oral Bioavailability of Apigenin Using a Bioactive Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System (Bio-SNEDDS): In Vitro, In Vivo and Stability Evaluations

Apigenin (APG) is a very well-known flavonoid for its anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. The purpose of this study is to improve the solubility and bioavailability of APG using a stable bioactive self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (Bio-SNEDDS). APG was incorporated in an oil phase comprising coconut oil fatty acid, Imwitor 988, Transcutol P, and HCO30 to form a Bio-SNEDDS. This preparation was characterized for morphology, particle size, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The APG performance was investigated in terms of loading, precipitation, release and stability tests from the optimal Bio-SNEDDS. An antimicrobial test was performed to investigate the activity of the Bio-SNEDDS against the selected strains. Bioavailability of the Bio-SNEDDS was evaluated using Wister rats against the commercial oral product and the pure drug. The results demonstrated the formation of an efficient nanosized (57 nm) Bio-SNEDDS with a drug loading of 12.50 mg/gm which is around 500-fold higher than free APG. TEM analysis revealed the formation of spherical and homogeneous nanodroplets of less than 60 nm. The dissolution rate was faster than the commercial product and was able to maintain 90% APG in gastro intestinal solution for more than 4 h. A stability study demonstrated that the Bio-SNEDDS is stable at a harsh condition. The in vivo pharmacokinetics parameters of the Bio-SNEDDS formulation in comparison to the pure drug showed a significant increase in maximum concentration (C_max) and area under the curve (AUC _(0–t)) of 105.05% and 91.32%, respectively. Moreover, the antimicrobial study revealed moderate inhibition in the bacterial growth rate. The APG-Bio-SNEDDS could serve as potential carrier aimed at improving the clinical application of APG.