1
|
Cimino C, Sánchez López E, Bonaccorso A, Bonilla L, Musumeci T, Badia J, Baldomà L, Pignatello R, Marrazzo A, Barbaraci C, García ML, Carbone C. In vitro and in vivo studies of ocular topically administered NLC for the treatment of uveal melanoma. Int J Pharm 2024; 660:124300. [PMID: 38851409 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma is one of the most common and aggressive intraocular malignancies, and, due to its great capability of metastasize, it constitutes the most incident intraocular tumor in adults. However, to date there is no effective treatment since achieving the inner ocular tissues still constitutes one of the greatest challenges in actual medicine, because of the complex structure and barriers. Uncoated and PEGylated nanostructured lipid carriers were developed to achieve physico-chemical properties (mean particle size, homogeneity, zeta potential, pH and osmolality) compatible for the ophthalmic administration of (S)-(-)-MRJF22, a new custom-synthetized prodrug for the potential treatment of uveal melanoma. The colloidal physical stability was investigated at different temperatures by Turbiscan® Ageing Station. Morphology analysis and mucoadhesive studies highlighted the presence of small particles suitable to be topically administered on the ocular surface. In vitro release studies performed using Franz diffusion cells demonstrated that the systems were able to provide a slow and prolonged prodrug release. In vitro cytotoxicity test on Human Corneal Epithelium and Human Uveal Melanoma cell lines and Hen's egg-chorioallantoic membrane test showed a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect of the free prodrug on corneal cells, whose cytocompatibility improved when encapsulated into nanoparticles, as also confirmed by in vivo studies on New Zealand albino rabbits. Antiangiogenic capability and preventive anti-inflammatory properties were also investigated on embryonated eggs and rabbits, respectively. Furthermore, preliminary in vivo biodistribution images of fluorescent nanoparticles after topical instillation in rabbits' eyes, suggested their ability to reach the posterior segment of the eye, as a promising strategy for the treatment of choroidal uveal melanoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Cimino
- PhD in Biotechnology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Via Valdisavoia 5, 95123 Catania, Italy; Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; NANOMED, Research Centre for Nanomedicine and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, University of Catania
| | - Elena Sánchez López
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Unit of Synthesis and Biomedical Applications of Peptides, IQAC-CSIC, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Angela Bonaccorso
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Via Valdisavoia 5, 95123 Catania, Italy; NANOMED, Research Centre for Nanomedicine and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, University of Catania
| | - Lorena Bonilla
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Teresa Musumeci
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Via Valdisavoia 5, 95123 Catania, Italy; NANOMED, Research Centre for Nanomedicine and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, University of Catania
| | - Josefa Badia
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Biochemistry and Biomolecular Science, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Research Institute Sant Joan De Déu (IR-SJD), 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Baldomà
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Biochemistry and Biomolecular Science, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona (IBUB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Research Institute Sant Joan De Déu (IR-SJD), 08950 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosario Pignatello
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Via Valdisavoia 5, 95123 Catania, Italy; NANOMED, Research Centre for Nanomedicine and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, University of Catania
| | - Agostino Marrazzo
- Unit of Synthesis and Biomedical Applications of Peptides, IQAC-CSIC, 08034, Barcelona, Spain; Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Carla Barbaraci
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale A. Doria 6, 95124 Catania, Italy; Present address: Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry (CSIC Associated Unit), Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, and Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB), University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Luisa García
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Claudia Carbone
- Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology, Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Via Valdisavoia 5, 95123 Catania, Italy; NANOMED, Research Centre for Nanomedicine and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, University of Catania.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Parashar R, Vyas A, Sah AK, Hemnani N, Thangaraju P, Suresh PK. Recent Updates on Nanocarriers for Drug Delivery in Posterior Segment Diseases with Emphasis on Diabetic Retinopathy. Curr Diabetes Rev 2024; 20:e171023222282. [PMID: 37855359 DOI: 10.2174/0115733998240053231009060654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, various conventional formulations have been used for the treatment and/or management of ocular medical conditions. Diabetic retinopathy, a microvascular disease of the retina, remains the leading cause of visual disability in patients with diabetes. Currently, for treating diabetic retinopathy, only intraocular, intravitreal, periocular injections, and laser photocoagulation are widely used. Frequent administration of these drugs by injections may lead to serious complications, including retinal detachment and endophthalmitis. Although conventional ophthalmic formulations like eye drops, ointments, and suspensions are available globally, these formulations fail to achieve optimum drug therapeutic profile due to immediate nasolacrimal drainage, rapid tearing, and systemic tearing toxicity of the drugs. To achieve better therapeutic outcomes with prolonged release of the therapeutic agents, nano-drug delivery materials have been investigated. These nanocarriers include nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), dendrimers, nanofibers, in-situ gel, vesicular carriers, niosomes, and mucoadhesive systems, among others. The nanocarriers carry the potential benefits of site-specific delivery and controlled and sustained drug release profile. In the present article, various nanomaterials explored for treating diabetic retinopathy are reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Parashar
- University Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Technology, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, 492010, (C.G.), India
| | - Amber Vyas
- University Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Technology, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, 492010, (C.G.), India
| | - Abhishek K Sah
- Department of Pharmacy, Shri Govindram Seksariya Institute of Technology & Science (SGSITS), 23-Park Road, Indore, 452003 (M.P.), India
| | - Narayan Hemnani
- University Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Technology, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, 492010, (C.G.), India
| | | | - Preeti K Suresh
- University Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Technology, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, 492010, (C.G.), India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Abla KK, Mehanna MM. Lipid-based nanocarriers challenging the ocular biological barriers: Current paradigm and future perspectives. J Control Release 2023; 362:70-96. [PMID: 37591463 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Eye is the most specialized and sensory body organ and treating eye diseases efficiently is necessary. Despite various attempts, the design of a consummate ophthalmic drug delivery system remains unsolved because of anatomical and physiological barriers that hinder drug transport into the desired ocular tissues. It is important to advance new platforms to manage ocular disorders, whether they exist in the anterior or posterior cavities. Nanotechnology has piqued the interest of formulation scientists because of its capability to augment ocular bioavailability, control drug release, and minimize inefficacious drug absorption, with special attention to lipid-based nanocarriers (LBNs) because of their cellular safety profiles. LBNs have greatly improved medication availability at the targeted ocular site in the required concentration while causing minimal adverse effects on the eye tissues. Nevertheless, the exact mechanisms by which lipid-based nanocarriers can bypass different ocular barriers are still unclear and have not been discussed. Thus, to bridge this gap, the current work aims to highlight the applications of LBNs in the ocular drug delivery exploring the different ocular barriers and the mechanisms viz. adhesion, fusion, endocytosis, and lipid exchange, through which these platforms can overcome the barrier characteristics challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kawthar K Abla
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research lab, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohammed M Mehanna
- Department of Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Qi Q, Wei Y, Zhang X, Guan J, Mao S. Challenges and strategies for ocular posterior diseases therapy via non-invasive advanced drug delivery. J Control Release 2023; 361:191-211. [PMID: 37532148 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.07.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Posterior segment diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) are vital factor that seriously threatens human vision health and quality of life, the treatment of which poses a great challenge to ophthalmologists and ophthalmic scientists. In particular, ocular posterior drug delivery in a non-invasive manner is highly desired but still faces many difficulties such as rapid drug clearance, limited permeability and low drug accumulation at the target site. At present, many novel non-invasive topical ocular drug delivery systems are under development aiming to improve drug delivery efficiency and biocompatibility for better therapy of posterior segment oculopathy. The purpose of this review is to present the challenges in the noninvasive treatment of posterior segment diseases, and to propose strategies to tackle these bottlenecks. First of all, barriers to ocular administration were introduced based on ocular physiological structure and behavior, including analysis and discussion on the influence of ocular structures on noninvasive posterior segment delivery. Thereafter, various routes of posterior drug delivery, both invasive and noninvasive, were illustrated, along with the respective anatomical obstacles that need to be overcome. The widespread and risky application of invasive drug delivery, and the need to develop non-invasive local drug delivery with alternative to injectable therapy were described. Absorption routes through topical administration and strategies to enhance ocular posterior drug delivery were then discussed. As a follow-up, an up-to-date research advances in non-invasive delivery systems for the therapy of ocular fundus lesions were presented, including different nanocarriers, contact lenses, and several other carriers. In conclusion, it seems feasible and promising to treat posterior oculopathy via non-invasive local preparations or in combination with appropriate devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Qi
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Yidan Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jian Guan
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Shirui Mao
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lu J, Zhu X, Zhang M, Jiang X, Guo W, Jiang F, Cao F. In vitro and in vivo assessment of structural integrity for HPCD complex@Liposome nanocomposites from ocular surface to the posterior segment of the eye. Carbohydr Polym 2023; 315:120960. [PMID: 37230631 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.120960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Investigating the structural integrity of carriers in transit from ocular surface to ocular posterior segment is essential for an efficient topical drug delivery system. In this study, dual-carrier hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin complex@Liposome (HPCD@Lip) nanocomposites were developed for the efficient delivery of dexamethasone. Förster Resonance Energy Transfer with near-infrared I fluorescent dyes and in vivo imaging system were used to investigate the structural integrity of HPCD@Lip nanocomposites after crossing Human conjunctival epithelial cells (HConEpiC) monolayer and in ocular tissues. The structural integrity of inner HPCD complexes was monitored for the first time. The results suggested that 23.1 ± 6.4 % of nanocomposites and 41.2 ± 4.3 % of HPCD complexes could cross HConEpiC monolayer with an intact structure at 1 h. 15.3 ± 8.4 % of intact nanocomposites could reach at least sclera and 22.9 ± 1.2 % of intact HPCD complexes could reach choroid-retina after 60 min in vivo, which showed that the dual-carrier drug delivery system could successfully deliver intact cyclodextrin complexes to ocular posterior segment. In conclusion, in vivo assessment of structural integrity of nanocarriers is greatly significant for guiding the rational design, higher drug delivery efficiency and clinical transformation for topical drug delivery system to the posterior segment of the eye.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinhui Lu
- Department of Pharmaceutical, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, China; Department of Dizal Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., 199 Liangjing Rd, Pudong District, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaomeng Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xunchan Jiang
- Department of Pharmaceutical, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Feng Jiang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, School of Engineering, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Feng Cao
- Department of Pharmaceutical, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chang W, Shen J, Liu Z, Chen Q. Application of organic nanocarriers for intraocular drug delivery. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2023; 52:259-266. [PMID: 37476937 PMCID: PMC10409895 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
The application of intraocular drug delivery is usually limited due to special anatomical and physiological barriers, and the elimination mechanisms in the eye. Organic nano-drug delivery carriers exhibit excellent adhesion, permeability, targeted modification and controlled release abilities to overcome the obstacles and improve the efficiency of drug delivery and bioavailability. Solid lipid nanoparticles can entrap the active components in the lipid structure to improve the stability of drugs and reduce the production cost. Liposomes can transport hydrophobic or hydrophilic molecules, including small molecules, proteins and nucleic acids. Compared with linear macromolecules, dendrimers have a regular structure and well-defined molecular mass and size, which can precisely control the molecular shape and functional groups. Degradable polymer materials endow nano-delivery systems a variety of size, potential, morphology and other characteristics, which enable controlled release of drugs and are easy to modify with a variety of ligands and functional molecules. Organic biomimetic nanocarriers are highly optimized through evolution of natural particles, showing better biocompatibility and lower toxicity. In this article, we summarize the advantages of organic nanocarriers in overcoming multiple barriers and improving the bioavailability of drugs, and highlight the latest research progresses on the application of organic nanocarriers for treatment of ocular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wanwan Chang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials, Soochow University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
- Macao Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China
| | - Jingjing Shen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials, Soochow University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhuang Liu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials, Soochow University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu Province, China
- Macao Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau 999078, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials, Soochow University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Suzhou 215123, Jiangsu Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Romano GL, Gozzo L, Maurel OM, Di Martino S, Riolo V, Micale V, Drago F, Bucolo C. Fluoxetine Protects Retinal Ischemic Damage in Mice. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051370. [PMID: 37242611 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the neuroprotective effect of the topical ocular administration of fluoxetine (FLX) in a mouse model of acute retinal damage. METHODS Ocular ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in C57BL/6J mice was used to elicit retinal damage. Mice were divided into three groups: control group, I/R group, and I/R group treated with topical FLX. A pattern electroretinogram (PERG) was used as a sensitive measure of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function. Finally, we analyzed the retinal mRNA expression of inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α, Iba-1, IL-1β, and S100β) through Digital Droplet PCR. RESULTS PERG amplitude values were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the I/R-FLX group compared to the I/R group, whereas PERG latency values were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in I/R-FLX-treated mice compared to the I/R group. Retinal inflammatory markers increased significantly (p < 0.05) after I/R injury. FLX treatment was able to significantly (p < 0.05) attenuate the expression of inflammatory markers after I/R damage. CONCLUSIONS Topical treatment with FLX was effective in counteracting the damage of RGCs and preserving retinal function. Moreover, FLX treatment attenuates the production of pro-inflammatory molecules elicited by retinal I/R damage. Further studies need to be performed to support the use of FLX as neuroprotective agent in retinal degenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Lucia Gozzo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Oriana Maria Maurel
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Serena Di Martino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina Riolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
- Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Nanostructured Lipid Carriers Aimed to the Ocular Delivery of Mangiferin: In Vitro Evidence. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030951. [PMID: 36986812 PMCID: PMC10053599 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Although mangiferin (MGN) is a natural antioxidant that could be a good candidate for the treatment of ocular diseases, its use in ophthalmology is strongly compromised due to its high lipophilicity. Its encapsulation in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) seems to be an interesting strategy for improving its ocular bioavailability. As reported in our previous work, MGN–NLC showed high ocular compatibility and fulfilled the nanotechnological requirements needed for ocular delivery. The aim of the present work was to investigate, in vitro and ex vivo, the capability of MGN–NLC to act as a potential drug delivery system for MGN ocular administration. The data obtained in vitro on arising retinal pigment epithelium cells (ARPE-19) did not show cytotoxic effects for blank NLC and MGN–NLC; likewise, MGN–NLC showed the maintenance of the antioxidant role of MGN by mitigating ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) formation and GSH (glutathione) depletion induced by H2O2. In addition, the capacity of MGN-released to permeate through and accumulate into the ocular tissues was confirmed ex vivo using bovine corneas. Finally, the NLC suspension has been formulated as a freeze-dried powder using mannitol at a concentration of 3% (w/v) in order to optimize its storage for long periods of time. All this evidence suggests a potential application of MGN–NLC in the treatment of oxidative stress-related ocular diseases.
Collapse
|
9
|
Development of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles as Dry Powder: Characterization and Formulation Considerations. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28041545. [PMID: 36838532 PMCID: PMC9967033 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28041545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are lipid-based colloidal systems used for the delivery of active compounds. Although SLNs have many benefits, they show important issues due to physical and chemical instability phenomena during storage. For these reasons, it is highly desirable to have a dried SLN formulation available. Therefore, the aim of the project was to identify suitable methods to obtain a dry powder formulation from an SLN suspension. The nanoparticle suspension was dried using both freeze- and spray-drying techniques. The suitability of these methods in obtaining SLN dry powders was evaluated from the analyses of nanotechnological parameters, system morphology and thermal behavior using differential scanning calorimetry. Results pointed out that both drying techniques, although at different yields, were able to produce an SLN dry powder suitable for pharmaceutical applications. Noteworthily, the freeze-drying of SLNs under optimized conditions led to a dry powder endowed with good reconstitution properties and technological parameters similar to the starting conditions. Moreover, freeze-thaw cycles were carried out as a pretest to study the protective effect of different cryoprotectants (e.g., glucose and mannitol with a concentration ranging from 1% to 10% w/v). Glucose proved to be the most effective in preventing particle growth during freezing, thawing, and freeze-drying processes; in particular, the optimum concentration of glucose was 1% w/v.
Collapse
|
10
|
Bucolo C, Maugeri G, Giunta S, D’Agata V, Drago F, Romano GL. Corneal wound healing and nerve regeneration by novel ophthalmic formulations based on cross-linked sodium hyaluronate, taurine, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1109291. [PMID: 36817120 PMCID: PMC9932323 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1109291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: To evaluate the pharmacological profile of ocular formulations based on cross-linked sodium hyaluronate (CL-SH), taurine (Tau), vitamin B6 (Vit B6) and vitamin B12 (Vit B12) using in vitro and in vivo paradigms. Methods: Rabbit corneal epithelial cells were used to assess wound healing and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation by scratch assay and oxidative stress (0.3 mM H2O2; 30 min), respectively with or without ocular formulations exposure. In vivo studies were carried out on albino rabbits to evaluate corneal nerve regeneration and corneal wound healing with or without treatment with six different formulations. Animals were anesthetized, the corneal epithelium was removed, and formulations were topically administered (30 μL/eye; 3 times/day for 6 days). Slit-lamp observation was carried out at different time points. After 6 days the animals were killed, and corneas were collected to evaluate corneal re-innervation by immunohistochemistry of selective neuronal marker β-III tubulin. Results: Formulations containing the concentrations 0.16% or 0.32% of cross-linked sodium hyaluronate, taurine, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 accelerated corneal wound healing. Cells exposed to H2O2 led to significant (p < 0.05) increase of reactive oxygen species concentration that was significantly (p < 0.05) counteract by formulations containing cross-linked sodium hyaluronate (0.32%) and taurine with or without vitamins. The extent of re-innervation, in terms of β-III tubulin staining, was 5-fold greater (p < 0.01) in the eye of rabbits treated with formulation containing 0.32% cross-linked sodium hyaluronate, taurine, vitamins (RenerviX®) compared with the control group (no treatment). Furthermore, re-innervation elicited by RenerviX® was significantly greater (p < 0.01) compared with the group treated with the formulation containing 0.32% cross-linked sodium hyaluronate and taurine without vitamins, and with the group treated with the formulation containing 0.5% linear sodium hyaluronate (SH), taurine, and vitamin B12, respectively. Discussion: In conclusion, among the formulations tested, the new ophthalmic gel RenerviX® was able to contrast oxidative stress, to accelerate corneal re-epithelization and to promote nerve regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Bucolo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,*Correspondence: Claudio Bucolo,
| | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Giunta
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Velia D’Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,Center for Research in Ocular Pharmacology-CERFO, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bioequivalence, Drugs with Narrow Therapeutic Index and the Phenomenon of Biocreep: A Critical Analysis of the System for Generic Substitution. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10081392. [PMID: 35893214 PMCID: PMC9394341 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10081392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The prescription of generic drugs represents one of the main cost-containment strategies of health systems, aimed at reducing pharmaceutical expenditure. In this context, most regulatory authorities encourage or obligate dispensing generic drugs because they are far less expensive than their brand-name alternatives. However, drug substitution can be critical in particular situations, such as the use of drugs with a narrow therapeutic index (NTI). Moreover, generics cannot automatically be considered bioequivalent with each other due to the biocreep phenomenon. In Italy, the regulatory authority has established the Transparency Lists which include the medications that will be automatically substituted for brand-name drugs, except in exceptional cases. This is a useful tool to guide prescribers and guarantee pharmaceutical sustainability, but it does not consider the biocreep phenomenon.
Collapse
|
12
|
Zingale E, Romeo A, Rizzo S, Cimino C, Bonaccorso A, Carbone C, Musumeci T, Pignatello R. Fluorescent Nanosystems for Drug Tracking and Theranostics: Recent Applications in the Ocular Field. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14050955. [PMID: 35631540 PMCID: PMC9147643 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14050955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The greatest challenge associated with topical drug delivery for the treatment of diseases affecting the posterior segment of the eye is to overcome the poor bioavailability of the carried molecules. Nanomedicine offers the possibility to overcome obstacles related to physiological mechanisms and ocular barriers by exploiting different ocular routes. Functionalization of nanosystems by fluorescent probes could be a useful strategy to understand the pathway taken by nanocarriers into the ocular globe and to improve the desired targeting accuracy. The application of fluorescence to decorate nanocarrier surfaces or the encapsulation of fluorophore molecules makes the nanosystems a light probe useful in the landscape of diagnostics and theranostics. In this review, a state of the art on ocular routes of administration is reported, with a focus on pathways undertaken after topical application. Numerous studies are reported in the first section, confirming that the use of fluorescent within nanoparticles is already spread for tracking and biodistribution studies. The first section presents fluorescent molecules used for tracking nanosystems’ cellular internalization and permeation of ocular tissues; discussions on the classification of nanosystems according to their nature (lipid-based, polymer-based, metallic-based and protein-based) follows. The following sections are dedicated to diagnostic and theranostic uses, respectively, which represent an innovation in the ocular field obtained by combining dual goals in a single administration system. For its great potential, this application of fluorescent nanoparticles would experience a great development in the near future. Finally, a brief overview is dedicated to the use of fluorescent markers in clinical trials and the market in the ocular field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elide Zingale
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (E.Z.); (A.R.); (S.R.); (C.C.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (T.M.)
| | - Alessia Romeo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (E.Z.); (A.R.); (S.R.); (C.C.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (T.M.)
| | - Salvatore Rizzo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (E.Z.); (A.R.); (S.R.); (C.C.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (T.M.)
| | - Cinzia Cimino
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (E.Z.); (A.R.); (S.R.); (C.C.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (T.M.)
| | - Angela Bonaccorso
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (E.Z.); (A.R.); (S.R.); (C.C.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (T.M.)
- NANO-i—Research Center for Ocular Nanotechnology, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Claudia Carbone
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (E.Z.); (A.R.); (S.R.); (C.C.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (T.M.)
- NANO-i—Research Center for Ocular Nanotechnology, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Teresa Musumeci
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (E.Z.); (A.R.); (S.R.); (C.C.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (T.M.)
- NANO-i—Research Center for Ocular Nanotechnology, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Rosario Pignatello
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (E.Z.); (A.R.); (S.R.); (C.C.); (A.B.); (C.C.); (T.M.)
- NANO-i—Research Center for Ocular Nanotechnology, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Albarry MA, Parekh M, Ferrari S, Eltahir HM, Shehata AM, Shaker MA, Elbadawy HM. Incremental Concentrations of Tacrolimus Eye Drops as a Strategy for the Management of Severe Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:798998. [PMID: 35401178 PMCID: PMC8990096 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.798998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To assess the effect of different concentrations of tacrolimus eye suspension on the epithelium and stromal keratocytes of human corneas and investigate whether it can be safely used for severe cases of vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). Methods: Tacrolimus eye suspension was prepared in a range of concentrations of 0.005%, 0.01%, 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.2%. Molecular analysis was performed ex vivo on human corneas (n = 18), obtained from the eye bank. Transparency and thickness of each cornea were measured while live/dead staining was performed using a triple labeling assay. An incremental concentration approach was then tested on three severe cases of VKC. Results: All tested tacrolimus concentrations showed no significant changes in corneal thickness or transparency. In corneas treated with 0.1%, rare scattered dead cells were observed, while the folds of corneal surfaces were mostly viable, unlike concentrations higher than 0.1% and lower than 0.05%. Stromal cell densities were highest in the 0.1% tacrolimus treatment condition. Incremental concentrations of tacrolimus suspension were shown to significantly improve VKC cases, where the concentration used for each case depended on the severity of the case. Conclusions: Topical administration of tacrolimus was not toxic to human corneal cells at all tested concentrations, and the 0.1% concentration has shown the best viability of the corneal tissue. Tacrolimus eye suspension was shown to be safe and effective for use in severe VKC and is proposed as a topical ocular immunosuppressant drug enabling clinicians to incrementally increase the drug concentration according to the clinical severity of the disease to achieve the optimal therapeutic response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maan Abdullah Albarry
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohit Parekh
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- International Center for Ocular Physiopathology, Veneto Eye Bank Foundation, Venice, Italy
| | - Stefano Ferrari
- International Center for Ocular Physiopathology, Veneto Eye Bank Foundation, Venice, Italy
| | - Heba Mahmoud Eltahir
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed M Shehata
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Shaker
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology Department, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmaceutics Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hossein Mostafa Elbadawy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
- *Correspondence: Hossein Mostafa Elbadawy,
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Design of Nanotechnological Carriers for Ocular Delivery of Mangiferin: Preformulation Study. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27041328. [PMID: 35209120 PMCID: PMC8880740 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27041328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Mangiferin (MGN) is a natural compound, showing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities for the potential treatment of eye diseases. The poor physicochemical features of MGN (low solubility and high instability) justify its nanoencapsulation into nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) to improve its ocular bioavailability. (2) Methods: Firstly, MGN-NLC were prepared by the high shear homogenization coupled with the ultrasound (HSH−US) method. Finally, unloaded and MGN-loaded NLC were analyzed in terms of ocular tolerance. (3) Results: MGN-NLC showed good technological parameters suitable for ocular administration (particle size below 200 nm). The ORAC assay was performed to quantify the antioxidant activity of MGN, showing that the antioxidant activity of MGN-NLC (6494 ± 186 μM TE/g) was higher than that of the free compound (3521 ± 271 μM TE/g). This confirmed that the encapsulation of the drug was able to preserve and increase its activity. In ovo studies (HET-CAM) revealed that the formulation can be considered nonirritant. (4) Conclusions: Therefore, NLC systems are a promising approach for the ocular delivery of MGN.
Collapse
|
15
|
Bonilla L, Espina M, Severino P, Cano A, Ettcheto M, Camins A, García ML, Souto EB, Sánchez-López E. Lipid Nanoparticles for the Posterior Eye Segment. Pharmaceutics 2021; 14:90. [PMID: 35056986 PMCID: PMC8779178 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
This review highlights the application of lipid nanoparticles (Solid Lipid Nanoparticles, Nanostructured Lipid Carriers, or Lipid Drug Conjugates) as effective drug carriers for pathologies affecting the posterior ocular segment. Eye anatomy and the most relevant diseases affecting the posterior segment will be summarized. Moreover, preparation methods and different types and subtypes of lipid nanoparticles will also be reviewed. Lipid nanoparticles used as carriers to deliver drugs to the posterior eye segment as well as their administration routes, pharmaceutical forms and ocular distribution will be discussed emphasizing the different targeting strategies most recently employed for ocular drug delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Bonilla
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (L.B.); (M.E.); (A.C.); (M.L.G.)
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Espina
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (L.B.); (M.E.); (A.C.); (M.L.G.)
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia Severino
- Industrial Biotechnology Program, University of Tiradentes (UNIT), Av. Murilo Dantas 300, Aracaju 49032-490, Brazil;
| | - Amanda Cano
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (L.B.); (M.E.); (A.C.); (M.L.G.)
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (A.C.)
| | - Miren Ettcheto
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (A.C.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antoni Camins
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (A.C.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Luisa García
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (L.B.); (M.E.); (A.C.); (M.L.G.)
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eliana B. Souto
- CEB—Centre of Biological Engineering, Campus de Gualtar, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Elena Sánchez-López
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (L.B.); (M.E.); (A.C.); (M.L.G.)
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (M.E.); (A.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cellulosic Polymers for Enhancing Drug Bioavailability in Ocular Drug Delivery Systems. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14111201. [PMID: 34832983 PMCID: PMC8621906 DOI: 10.3390/ph14111201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the major impediments to drug development is low aqueous solubility and thus poor bioavailability, which leads to insufficient clinical utility. Around 70–80% of drugs in the discovery pipeline are suffering from poor aqueous solubility and poor bioavailability, which is a major challenge when one has to develop an ocular drug delivery system. The outer lipid layer, pre-corneal, dynamic, and static ocular barriers limit drug availability to the targeted ocular tissues. Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS) class II drugs with adequate permeability and limited or no aqueous solubility have been extensively studied for various polymer-based solubility enhancement approaches. The hydrophilic nature of cellulosic polymers and their tunable properties make them the polymers of choice in various solubility-enhancement techniques. This review focuses on various cellulose derivatives, specifically, their role, current status and novel modified cellulosic polymers for enhancing the bioavailability of BCS class II drugs in ocular drug delivery systems.
Collapse
|
17
|
Ting DSJ, Li J, Verma CS, Goh ETL, Nubile M, Mastropasqua L, Said DG, Beuerman RW, Lakshminarayanan R, Mohammed I, Dua HS. Evaluation of Host Defense Peptide (CaD23)-Antibiotic Interaction and Mechanism of Action: Insights From Experimental and Molecular Dynamics Simulations Studies. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:731499. [PMID: 34690770 PMCID: PMC8528955 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.731499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/Aim: Host defense peptides (HDPs) have the potential to provide a novel solution to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in view of their unique and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities. We had recently developed a novel hybrid HDP based on LL-37 and human beta-defensin-2, named CaD23, which was shown to exhibit good in vivo antimicrobial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus in a bacterial keratitis murine model. This study aimed to examine the potential CaD23-antibiotic synergism and the secondary structure and underlying mechanism of action of CaD23. Methods: Peptide-antibiotic interaction was evaluated against S. aureus, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa using established checkerboard and time-kill assays. Fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) was calculated and interpreted as synergistic (FIC<0.5), additive (FIC between 0.5-1.0), indifferent (FIC between >1.0 and ≤4), or antagonistic (FIC>4). SYTOX green uptake assay was performed to determine the membrane-permeabilising action of CaD23. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed to evaluate the interaction of CaD23 with bacterial and mammalian mimetic membranes. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy was also performed to examine the secondary structures of CaD23. Results: CaD23-amikacin and CaD23-levofloxacin combination treatment exhibited a strong additive effect against S. aureus SH1000 (FICI = 0.60-0.69) and MRSA43300 (FICI = 0.56-0.60) but an indifferent effect against P. aeruginosa (FIC = 1.03-1.15). CaD23 (at 25 μg/ml; 2xMIC) completely killed S. aureus within 30 min. When used at sub-MIC concentration (3.1 μg/ml; 0.25xMIC), it was able to expedite the antimicrobial action of amikacin against S. aureus by 50%. The rapid antimicrobial action of CaD23 was attributed to the underlying membrane-permeabilising mechanism of action, evidenced by the SYTOX green uptake assay and MD simulations studies. MD simulations revealed that cationicity, alpha-helicity, amphiphilicity and hydrophobicity (related to the Trp residue at C-terminal) play important roles in the antimicrobial action of CaD23. The secondary structures of CaD23 observed in MD simulations were validated by CD spectroscopy. Conclusion: CaD23 is a novel alpha-helical, membrane-active synthetic HDP that can enhance and expedite the antimicrobial action of antibiotics against Gram-positive bacteria when used in combination. MD simulations serves as a powerful tool in revealing the peptide secondary structure, dissecting the mechanism of action, and guiding the design and optimisation of HDPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darren Shu Jeng Ting
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,Department of Ophthalmology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jianguo Li
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore.,Bioinformatics Institute (AStar), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chandra S Verma
- Bioinformatics Institute (AStar), Singapore, Singapore.,School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Eunice T L Goh
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mario Nubile
- Ophthalmic Clinic, University "G d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Dalia G Said
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,Department of Ophthalmology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Roger W Beuerman
- Anti-Infectives Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Imran Mohammed
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Harminder S Dua
- Academic Ophthalmology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,Department of Ophthalmology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zoratto N, Forcina L, Matassa R, Mosca L, Familiari G, Musarò A, Mattei M, Coviello T, Di Meo C, Matricardi P. Hyaluronan-Cholesterol Nanogels for the Enhancement of the Ocular Delivery of Therapeutics. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13111781. [PMID: 34834195 PMCID: PMC8619261 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The anatomy and physiology of the eye strongly limit the bioavailability of locally administered drugs. The entrapment of therapeutics into nanocarriers represents an effective strategy for the topical treatment of several ocular disorders, as they may protect the embedded molecules, enabling drug residence on the ocular surface and/or its penetration into different ocular compartments. The present work shows the activity of hyaluronan-cholesterol nanogels (NHs) as ocular permeation enhancers. Thanks to their bioadhesive properties, NHs firmly interact with the superficial corneal epithelium, without penetrating the stroma, thus modifying the transcorneal penetration of loaded therapeutics. Ex vivo transcorneal permeation experiments show that the permeation of hydrophilic drugs (i.e., tobramycin and diclofenac sodium salt), loaded in NHs, is significantly enhanced when compared to the free drug solutions. On the other side, the permeation of hydrophobic drugs (i.e., dexamethasone and piroxicam) is strongly dependent on the water solubility of the entrapped molecules. The obtained results suggest that NHs formulations can improve the ocular bioavailability of the instilled drugs by increasing their preocular retention time (hydrophobic drugs) or facilitating their permeation (hydrophilic drugs), thus opening the route for the application of HA-based NHs in the treatment of both anterior and posterior eye segment diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Zoratto
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (N.Z.); (T.C.); (C.D.M.)
| | - Laura Forcina
- DAHFMO-Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Scarpa, 14, 00161 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Roberto Matassa
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161 Rome, Italy; (R.M.); (G.F.)
| | - Luciana Mosca
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “A. Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Familiari
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161 Rome, Italy; (R.M.); (G.F.)
| | - Antonio Musarò
- DAHFMO-Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Scarpa, 14, 00161 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Maurizio Mattei
- Interdepartmental Center for Comparative Medicine, Alternative Techniques and Aquaculture (CIMETA), University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Tommasina Coviello
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (N.Z.); (T.C.); (C.D.M.)
| | - Chiara Di Meo
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (N.Z.); (T.C.); (C.D.M.)
| | - Pietro Matricardi
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (N.Z.); (T.C.); (C.D.M.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|