Development and Characterization of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Loaded with a Highly Active Doxorubicin Derivative

Natural compounds-based nanomedicines for cancer treatment: Future directions and challenges

Several efforts have been extensively accomplished for the amelioration of the cancer treatments using different types of new drugs and less invasives therapies in comparison with the traditional therapeutic modalities, which are widely associated with numerous drawbacks, such as drug resistance, non-selectivity and high costs, restraining their clinical response. The application of natural compounds for the prevention and treatment of different cancer cells has attracted significant attention from the pharmaceuticals and scientific communities over the past decades. Although the use of nanotechnology in cancer therapy is still in the preliminary stages, the application of nanotherapeutics has demonstrated to decrease the various limitations related to the use of natural compounds, such as physical/chemical instability, poor aqueous solubility, and low bioavailability. Despite the nanotechnology has emerged as a promise to improve the bioavailability of the natural compounds, there are still limited clinical trials performed for their application with various challenges required for the pre-clinical and clinical trials, such as production at an industrial level, assurance of nanotherapeutics long-term stability, physiological barriers and safety and regulatory issues. This review highlights the most recent advances in the nanocarriers for natural compounds secreted from plants, bacteria, fungi, and marine organisms, as well as their role on cell signaling pathways for anticancer treatments. Additionally, the clinical status and the main challenges regarding the natural compounds loaded in nanocarriers for clinical applications were also discussed.

Green Solid Lipid Nanoparticles by Fatty Acid Coacervation: An Innovative Nasal Delivery Tool for Drugs Targeting Cerebrovascular and Neurological Diseases

Cerebrovascular and neurological diseases are characterized by neuroinflammation, which alters the neurovascular unit, whose interaction with the choroid plexus is critical for maintaining brain homeostasis and producing cerebrospinal fluid. Dysfunctions in such process can lead to conditions such as idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus, a common disease in older adults. Potential pharmacological treatments, based upon intranasal administration, are worthy of investigation because they might improve symptoms and avoid surgery by overcoming the blood-brain barrier and avoiding hepatic metabolism. Nasal lipid nanocarriers, such as solid lipid nanoparticles, may increase the nasal retention and permeation of drugs. To this aim, green solid lipid nanoparticles, obtained by coacervation from natural soaps, are promising vehicles due to their specific lipid matrix composition and the unsaponifiable fraction, endowed with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and thus suitable for restoring the neurovascular unit function. In this experimental work, such green solid lipid nanoparticles, fully characterized from a physico-chemical standpoint, were loaded with a drug combination suitable for reverting hydrocephalus symptoms, allowing us to obtain a non-toxic formulation, a reduction in the production of the cerebrospinal fluid in vitro, and a vasoprotective effect on an isolated vessel model. The pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of fluorescently labelled nanoparticles were also tested in animal models.

Nanoparticle-mediated metronomic chemotherapy in cancer: A paradigm of precision and persistence

Current methods of cancer therapy have demonstrated enormous potential in tumor inhibition. However, a high dosage regimen of chemotherapy results in various complications which affect the normal body cells. Tumor cells also develop resistance against the prescribed drugs in the whole treatment regimen increasing the risk of cancer relapse. Metronomic chemotherapy is a modern treatment method that involves administering drugs at low doses continuously, allowing the drug sufficient time to take its effect. This method ensures that the toxicity of the drugs is to a minimum in comparison to conventional chemotherapy. Nanoparticles have shown efficacy in delivering drugs to the tumor cells in various cancer therapies. Combining nanoparticles with metronomic chemotherapy can yield better treatment results. This combination stimulates the immune system, improving cancer cells recognition by immune cells. Evidence from clinical and pre-clinical trials supports the use of metronomic delivery for drug-loaded nanoparticles. This review focuses on the functionalization of nanoparticles for improved drug delivery and inhibition of tumor growth. It emphasizes the mechanisms of metronomic chemotherapy and its conjunction with nanotechnology. Additionally, it explores tumor progression and the current methods of chemotherapy. The challenges associated with nano-based metronomic chemotherapy are outlined, paving the way for prospects in this dynamic field.

Preparation and characterization of the myricetin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles decorated with folic acid-bound chitosan and evaluation of its antitumor and anti-angiogenic activities in vitro and in vivo in mice bearing tumor models

Myricetin is a flavonoid with anticancer properties. This study aimed to formulate myricetin in the form of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), decorated with chitosan (CS) and active-targeted with folic acid (FA). After characterization, the in vitro release, cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and ability of the formulation to induce apoptosis using flow cytometry, fluorescent microscopy, and real-time qPCR were examined. Then in vivo anti-angiogenesis on chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and antitumor activities on mice bearing tumor models were investigated. The present study showed that the size of 310 nm and zeta potential of + 30 mV were acceptable for oral administration. The Michaelis–Menten model fitted the drug release pattern with lag during 144 h of the study. The cytotoxicity assay showed that myricetin-SLN-CS-FA significantly killed cancer cells at the concentrations of 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50 and 100 µg/mL (*p < 0.05, **p < 0.01, and ***p < 0.001). The highest level of apoptosis was shown at the concentration of 45 µg/ml in flow cytometry, and fluorescent studies. These results showed the anticancer properties of myricetin-SLN-CS-FA in a dose-dependent manner. The real-time results also indicated that the formulation exerted its cytotoxic effect by activating apoptosis genes. The DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP studies also demonstrated the significant antioxidant properties of the myricetin-SLN-CS-FA (*p < 0.05, **p < 0.01, and ***p < 0.001). The anti-angiogenic activities of the formulations depicted in the CAM assay significantly decrease the number and length of the vessels (*p < 0.05, **p < 0.01, and ***p < 0.001), and also affect VEGF and VEGFR, genes involved in angiogenesis (**p < 0.01, and ***p < 0.001). The antitumor studies indicated the statistically significant effects of myricetin-SLN-CS-FA on reducing tumor volume (*p < 0.05 and ***p < 0.001). The H&E staining of the liver and monitoring of the animal weights also indicated the safety of the formulation. The analysis of mRNA expression in liver and tumor demonstrated that myricetin-SLN-CS-FA exerts its antitumor activities by modulating the inflammatory and oxidative responses in the tissues.

Anthracycline chemicals with anthracyclinone structure exert antitumor effects by inhibiting angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in a xenografted gastric tumor model

BACKGROUND

It is vital to screen or develop alternative therapeutic drugs with higher curative characteristics and fewer side effects for the clinical treatment of gastric cancer.

METHODS

Gastric cancer cells were exposed to different auramycin G doses while determining the impact on cell viability, migration, and invasion. Then the antitumor effects of auramycin G, 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) and their combination were evaluated. Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms of angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis regulated by auramycin G and its analogs were investigated.

RESULTS

Auramycin G inhibited cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, with a 50% inhibitory concentration of 23.72 ± 6.36 mg/L and 32.54 ± 5.91 mg/L for AGS and MGC803 cells, respectively. The migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells were significantly inhibited by 10 mg/L auramycin G, which was consistent with the down-regulation of the VEGFR2-VEGFA-pPI3K-pAkt-pErk1 and VEGFR3-VEGFC-pPI3K-pAkt-pmTOR proteins. Notably, the average tumor weights were significantly reduced in both the auramycin G (2.21 ± 0.45 g) of 50 mg/kg body weight and auramycin G + 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) groups (1.33 ± 0.28 g), compared with the control (3.73 ± 0.56 g). Considering that auramycin G decreased the growth of blood and lymphatic vessels while reducing the degree of tumor malignancy, it effectively suppressed tumors by regulating the angiogenic and lymphangiogenic pathways.

CONCLUSION

The present study confirmed that auramycin G displayed a prominent antitumor activity in gastric tumor models, both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, it was confirmed that auramycin G played a specific role in certain gastric cancer cell types, while the mechanism was validated to be associated with angiogenesis- and lymphangiogenesis-related pathway suppression.

Quercetin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles exhibit antitumor activity and suppress the proliferation of triple-negative MDA-MB 231 breast cancer cells: implications for invasive breast cancer treatment

BACKGROUND

Quercetin (QC) is a naturally occurring flavonoid found in abundance in fruits and vegetables. Its anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties have been previously demonstrated, but its low bioavailability hampers its clinical use. Triple-negative breast cancer is a subtype of breast cancer with a poor response to chemotherapy. This study investigates the anti-cancer effects of quercetin-solid lipid nanoparticles (QC-SLN) on the triple-negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB231.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MCF-7 and MDA-MB231 cells were treated with 18.9 µM of QC and QC-SLN for 48 h. Cell viability, apoptosis, colony formation assay, and the anti-angiogenic effects of the treatment were evaluated.

RESULTS

QC-SLN displayed optimal properties (particle size of 154 nm, zeta potential of -27.7 mV, encapsulation efficiency of 99.6%, and drug loading of 1.81%) and exhibited sustained release of QC over 72 h. Compared to the QC group, the QC-SLN group showed a significant decrease in cell viability, colony formation, angiogenesis, and a substantial increase in apoptosis through the modulation of Bax and Bcl-2 at both gene and protein levels. The augmentation in the proportion of cleaved-to-pro caspases 3 and 9, as well as poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), under the influence of QC-SLN, was conspicuously observed in both cancer cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showcases quercetin-solid lipid nanoparticles (QC-SLN) as a promising therapy for triple-negative breast cancer. The optimized QC-SLN formulation improved physicochemical properties and sustained quercetin release, resulting in reduced cell viability, colony formation, angiogenesis, and increased apoptosis in the MDA-MB231 cell line. These effects were driven by modulating Bax and Bcl-2 expression, activating caspases 3 and 9, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). Further in vivo studies are needed to confirm QC-SLN's efficacy and safety.

Stimuli-responsive (nano)architectures for phytochemical delivery in cancer therapy

The use of phytochemicals for purpose of cancer therapy has been accelerated due to resistance of tumor cells to conventional chemotherapy drugs and therefore, monotherapy does not cause significant improvement in the prognosis and survival of patients. Therefore, administration of natural products alone or in combination with chemotherapy drugs due to various mechanisms of action has been suggested. However, cancer therapy using phytochemicals requires more attention because of poor bioavailability of compounds and lack of specific accumulation at tumor site. Hence, nanocarriers for specific delivery of phytochemicals in tumor therapy has been suggested. The pharmacokinetic profile of natural products and their therapeutic indices can be improved. The nanocarriers can improve potential of natural products in crossing over BBB and also, promote internalization in cancer cells through endocytosis. Moreover, (nano)platforms can deliver both natural and synthetic anti-cancer drugs in combination cancer therapy. The surface functionalization of nanostructures with ligands improves ability in internalization in tumor cells and improving cytotoxicity of natural compounds. Interestingly, stimuli-responsive nanostructures that respond to endogenous and exogenous stimuli have been employed for delivery of natural compounds in cancer therapy. The decrease in pH in tumor microenvironment causes degradation of bonds in nanostructures to release cargo and when changes in GSH levels occur, it also mediates drug release from nanocarriers. Moreover, enzymes in the tumor microenvironment such as MMP-2 can mediate drug release from nanocarriers and more progresses in targeted drug delivery obtained by application of nanoparticles that are responsive to exogenous stimulus including light.

Design, development, and in-vitro/in-vivo evaluation of Docetaxel-loaded PEGylated Solid Lipid Nanoparticles in Prostate Cancer Therapy

Docetaxel (DOC) is a potent anticancer molecule widely used to treat various cancers. However, its therapeutic efficacy as a potential anticancer agent has been limited owing to poor aqueous solubility, short circulation time, rapid reticuloendothelial system uptake, and high renal clearance, which consecutively showed poor bioavailability. In the present investigation, we developed polyethylene glycol (PEG) decorated solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) using the solvent diffusion method to increase the biopharmaceutical properties of DOC. PEG monostearate (SA-PEG₂₀₀₀) was initially synthesized and characterized using various analytical techniques. Afterwards, DOC-loaded SLN was synthesized with and without SA-PEG₂₀₀₀and systematically characterized for in-vitro and in-vivo properties. Spherical-shaped SA-PEG₂₀₀₀-DOC SLN showed hydrodynamic diameter and zeta potential of 177 nm and -13 mV, respectively. During the in-vitro release study DOC-loaded SLN showed a controlledrelease of approximately 54.35 % ±5.46 within 12 h with Higuchi release kinetics in the tumor microenvironment (pH 5.5).In an in-vitro cytotoxicity study,SA-PEG₂₀₀₀-DOC SLN showedsignificantlylower IC₅₀values(p < 0.001)compared to DOC-SLN and DOC aloneagainst prostate cancer cell lines (PC-3). Similarly, an in-vitro cellular uptake study showed a significant increase in intracellular DOC concentration for SA-PEG₂₀₀₀-DOC SLN. Additionally, inin-vivostudies,PEGylated SLN of DOC showed around 2- and 15-fold increase in the maximum concentration of drug (Cmax) and area under the curve (AUC), respectively, as compared to plain DOC solution due to the uniquehydrophilicity and hydrophobicity balance and electrical neutrality of specially designed PEG architect. The biological half-life (t_1/2) and mean residence time (MRT) was found to increase from 8.55 and 11.43 to 34.96 and 47.68 h, respectively, with SA-PEG₂₀₀₀-DOC SLN. Moreover, the bio-distribution study indicates high DOC concentration in the plasma which signifies the more pronounced blood residence time of SA-PEG₂₀₀₀-DOC SLN. In a nutshell, SA-PEG₂₀₀₀-DOC SLNwasfound to bea promising and efficient drug delivery platform for the management of Metastatic Prostate cancer.

Effective inhibition of breast cancer stem cell properties by quercetin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles via reduction of Smad2/Smad3 phosphorylation and β-catenin signaling pathway in triple-negative breast cancer

BACKGROUND

The presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) is a major cause of resistance to cancer therapy and recurrence. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype that responds poorly to therapy, making it a significant global health issue. Quercetin (QC) has been shown to affect CSC viability, but its low bioavailability limits its clinical use. This study aims to increase the effectiveness of QC in inhibiting CSC generation by using solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) in MDA-MB231 cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After treating MCF-7 and MDA-MB231 cells with 18.9 μM and 13.4 μM of QC and QC-SLN for 48 h, respectively, cell viability, migration, sphere formation, protein expression of β-catenin, p-Smad 2 and 3, and gene expression of EMT and CSC markers were evaluated.

RESULTS

The QC-SLN with particle size of 154 nm, zeta potential of -27.7 mV, and encapsulation efficacy of 99.6% was found to be the most effective. Compared to QC, QC-SLN significantly reduced cell viability, migration, sphere formation, protein expression of β-catenin and p-Smad 2 and 3, and gene expression of CD₄₄, zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1), vimentin, while increasing the gene expression of E-cadherin.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that SLNs improve the cytotoxic effect of QC in MDA-MB231 cells by increasing its bioavailability and inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), thereby effectively inhibiting CSC generation. Therefore, SLNs could be a promising new treatment for TNBC, but more in vivo studies are needed to confirm their efficacy.

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Multitasking Nano-Carriers for Cancer Treatment

Despite all the advances seen in recent years, the severe adverse effects and low specificity of conventional chemotherapy are still challenging problems regarding cancer treatment. Nanotechnology has helped to address these questions, making important contributions in the oncological field. The use of nanoparticles has allowed the improvement of the therapeutic index of several conventional drugs and facilitates the tumoral accumulation and intracellular delivery of complex biomolecules, such as genetic material. Among the wide range of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems (nanoDDS), solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have emerged as promising systems for delivering different types of cargo. Their solid lipid core, at room and body temperature, provides SLNs with higher stability than other formulations. Moreover, SLNs offer other important features, namely the possibility to perform active targeting, sustained and controlled release, and multifunctional therapy. Furthermore, with the possibility to use biocompatible and physiologic materials and easy scale-up and low-cost production methods, SLNs meet the principal requirements of an ideal nanoDDS. The present work aims to summarize the main aspects related to SLNs, including composition, production methods, and administration routes, as well as to show the most recent studies about the use of SLNs for cancer treatment.

GLUT1 transporter-facilitated solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with anti-cancer therapeutics for ovarian cancer targeting

The therapeutics available for cancer treatment have the major hurdle of site-specific delivery of anti-cancer drugs to the tumor site and non-target specific side effects. The standard therapy for ovarian cancer still poses numerous pitfalls due to the irrational use of drugs affecting healthy cells. As an appealing approach, nanomedicine could revamp the therapeutic profile of anti-cancer agents. Owing to the low manufacturing cost, increased biocompatibility, and modifiable surface properties, lipid-based nanocarriers, particularly solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), have remarkable drug delivery properties in cancer treatment. Given the extra-ordinary benefits, we developed anti-neoplastic (paclitaxel) drug-loaded SLN (PTX-SLN) and functionalized with N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (GLcNAc) (GLcNAc-PTX-SLN) to reduce the rate of proliferation, growth, and metastasis of ovarian cancer cells over-expressing GLUT1 transporters. The particles presented considerable size and distribution while demonstrating haemocompatibility. Using GLcNAc modified form of SLNs, confocal microscopy, MTT assay, and flow cytometry study demonstrated higher cellular uptake and significant cytotoxic effect. Also, molecular docking results established excellent binding affinity between GLcNAc and GLUT1, complimenting the feasibility of the therapeutic approach in targeted cancer therapy. Following the compendium of target-specific drug delivery by SLN, our results demonstrated a significant response for ovarian cancer therapy.

Nanocarriers: A Reliable Tool for the Delivery of Anticancer Drugs

Nanomedicines have gained popularity due to their potential therapeutic applications, especially cancer treatment. Targeted nanoparticles can deliver drugs directly to cancer cells and enable prolonged drug release, reducing off-target toxicity and increasing therapeutic efficacy. However, translating nanomedicines from preclinical to clinical settings has been difficult. Rapid advancements in nanotechnology promise to enhance cancer therapies. Nanomedicine offers advanced targeting and multifunctionality. Nanoparticles (NPs) have several uses nowadays. They have been studied as drug transporters, tumor gene delivery agents, and imaging contrast agents. Nanomaterials based on organic, inorganic, lipid, or glycan substances and synthetic polymers have been used to enhance cancer therapies. This review focuses on polymeric nanoparticle delivery strategies for anticancer nanomedicines.

Satureja khuzistanica Essential Oil-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Modified With Chitosan-Folate: Evaluation of Encapsulation Efficiency, Cytotoxic and Pro-apoptotic Properties

The study aimed to synthesize Satureja khuzistanica essential oil-loaded SLN nanoparticles and to modify the surface of nanoparticles with folate-bound chitosan (SEO-SCF-NPs), and finally to investigate the effects of its toxicity and pro-apoptosis. For this purpose, the SEO-SLN nanoparticles were prepared using stearic acid, lecithin, tween 80, and water by high-pressure homogenization method. After characterization by FTIR, SEM, DLS, and ZETA potential methods, its toxicity effect against normal (HFF) and cancer (MCF-7) cells were evaluated by MTT assay. The occurrence of apoptosis in MCF-7 cells was assessed by flow cytometry and molecular analysis. The obtained results revealed the formation of round nanoparticles with a size of 279.40 nm, single dispersed (PDI: 0.3) and stable (ζ–potential: +31.69 mV). SEO-SCF-NPs indicated the effect of selective toxicity against MCF-7 cells (IC₅₀: 88 μg/ml). Molecular analysis showed that SEO-SCF-NPs could inhibit cancer cells by activating the internal pathway of apoptosis as well as cell cycle disruption. Our finding suggests that SEO-SCF-NPs is a suitable candidate for preclinical cancer studies.

Nanocarriers System for Vitamin D as Nutraceutical in Type 2 Diabetes: A Review

Incidence of diabetes are common among population around the world. Diabetes may lead to other complication and increasing morbidity and mortality. Many ways have been done to treat and prevent the development of diabetes. In addition of conventional pharmacotherapy, therapeutic therapy shown good opportunity to maintain and improve diabetic conditions. Vitamin D3 is known as nutraceutical and has good opportunity to develop the medication of type 2 diabetes. In another way, vitamin D3 naturally easy to damage by environmental condition. To overcome this weakness, researcher around the world have developed the method for protecting unstable compound as vitamin D3 with encapsulation. Liprotide is one of the various materials which can be used for encapsulation. Combination of lipid and protein molecules is expected to be a carrier and protector of vitamin D3 in gastrointestinal system. Here we review the research advances of liprotide as nanocarriers and vitamin D3 as nutraceuticals to discuss in applied on type 2 diabetes.

Antiproliferative and apoptotic potential of methotrexate lipid nanoparticle in murine breast cancer model

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of novel methotrexate-loaded nanoparticles (MTX-NPs) in vitro and in vivo in the treatment of breast cancer. Materials & methods: MTX-NPs were tested for cellular uptake, cell viability, cell cycle, cellular wound migration and changes in tumor volume using characterized NPs. Results: The solid lipid NPs (SLNPs) showed strong cellular uptake, increased apoptosis, controlled cytotoxicity at lower IC50 of methotrexate and a sizable reduction in tumor burden. Conclusion: MTX-NP oral formulation can be a promising candidate in breast cancer treatment with improved cellular uptake and in vivo efficacy.

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.

Combination of lipid nanoparticles and iontophoresis for enhanced lopinavir skin permeation: Impact of electric current on lipid dynamics

Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC)-loaded with lopinavir (LPV) were developed for its iontophoretic transdermal delivery. Electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy of fatty acid spin labels and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were applied to investigate the lipid dynamic behavior of NLC before and after the electrical current. In vitro release and permeation studies, with and without anodic and cathodic iontophoresis were also performed. NLC-LPV had nanometric size (179.0 ± 2.5 nm), high drug load (∼x223C 4.14%) and entrapment efficiency (EE) (∼x223C 80%). NLC-LPV was chemically and physically stable after applying an electric current. The electrical current reduced EE after 3 h (67.21 ± 2.64%), resulting in faster LPV in vitro release. EPR demonstrated that iontophoresis decreased NLC lipid dynamics, which is a long-lasting effect. DSC studies demonstrated that electrical current could trigger the polymorphic transition of NLC and drug solubilization in the lipid matrix. NLC-LPV, combined with iontophoresis, allowed drug quantification in the receptor medium, unlike unloaded drugs. Cathodic iontophoresis enabled the quantification of about 7.9 µg/cm² of LPV in the receptor medium. Passive NLC-LPV studies had to be done for an additional 42 h to achieve similar concentrations. Besides, anodic iontophoresis increased by 1.8-fold the amount of LPV in the receptor medium, demonstrating a promising antiviral therapy strategy.

DR-5 and DLL-4 mAb Functionalized SLNs of Gamma-Secretase Inhibitors- An Approach for TNBC Treatment

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive and heterogeneous cancer subtypes. High rates of metastasis, poor prognosis, and drug resistance are the major problems associated with TNBC. The current chemotherapeutics eliminate only the bulk tumor cells (non-BCSCs) and do not affect breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). The BCSCs which are left behind after chemotherapy is reported to promote recurrence and metastasis of TNBC. Death receptor-5 (DR-5) is exclusively expressed in TNBCs and mediates the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis. DR-5, therefore, can be exploited for targeted drug delivery and to induce apoptosis. Gamma-secretase mediated Notch signaling in BCSCs regulates its proliferation, differentiation, and metastasis. The endogenous ligand, Delta-like ligand 4 (DLL4), is reported to activate this Notch signaling in TNBC. Blocking this signaling pathway using both gamma-secretase inhibitors (GSIs) and DLL4 monoclonal antibody (mAb) may produce synergistic benefits. Further, the GSIs (DAPT, LY-411575, RO4929097, MK0752, etc.) suffer from poor bioavailability and off-target side effects such as diarrhea, suppression of lymphopoiesis, headache, hypertension, fatigue, and ventricular dysfunctions. In this hypothesis, we discuss Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) based drug delivery systems containing GSIs and surface modified with DR-5 and DLL4 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) to effectivity target and treat TNBC. The delivery system is designed to deliver the drug cargo precisely to TNBCs through its DR-5 receptors and hence expected to reduce the off-target side effects of GSIs. Further, DLL4 mAb and GSIs are expected to act synergistically to block the Notch signal mediated BCSCs proliferation, differentiation, and metastasis.

Decapeptide Modified Doxorubicin Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles as Targeted Drug Delivery System against Prostate Cancer

Growing instances of prostate cancer with poor prognosis have become a challenging task in cancer therapy. Luteinizing-hormone-releasing-hormone (LHRH) receptors are overexpressed in prostate cancer cells. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) conjugated lipids exhibit superiority in terms of retention/circulation in biological systems. PEGylated dipalmitoylphosphatedylethanolamine (DPPE-PEG), covalently linked with 6-hydrazinopyridine-3-carboxylic-acid, was conjugated with new LHRH-receptor positive peptide analog (DPPE-PEG-HYNIC-d-Glu-His-Trp-Ser-Tyr-d-Asn-Leu-d-Gln-Pro-Gly-NH₂). Surface modified doxorubicin (DOX) loaded solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) was prepared using soylecithin, stearic acid and Poloxamer-188 by solvent emulsification/evaporation method for targeted delivery of DOX into prostate cancer cells. SLN, DOX loaded SLN (DSLN) and surface modified DSLN (M-DSLN) were characterized by means of their size, zeta potential, morphology, storage time, drug payload, and subsequent release kinetics studies. Homogeneity of surface morphology, upon modification of SLN, was revealed from the dynamic light scattering, atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopic studies. Homogeneous adsolubilization of DOX throughout the hydrophobic moiety of SLN was established by the differential scanning calorimetric studies. Release of DOX were sustained in DSLN and M-DSLN. Cellular uptake and in vitro activities of formulations against LHRH positive PC3/SKBR3 cancer cell lines revealed higher cellular internalization, cytotoxicity that followed the sequence DOX < DSLN < M-DSLN. Dye staining and flow cytometry studies revealed higher apoptosis in cancer cells. Such receptor specific drug delivery systems are considered to have substantial potential in prostate cancer therapy.

Pharmaceutical-loaded contact lenses as an ocular drug delivery system: A review of critical lens characterization methodologies with reference to ISO standards

Therapeutic contact lenses for ocular drug delivery have received considerable interest as they can potentially enhance ocular bioavailability, increase patient compliance, and reduce side effects. Along with the successful in vitro and in vivo studies on sustained drug delivery through contact lenses, lens critical properties such as water content, optical transparency and modulus have also been investigated. Aside from issues such as drug stability or burst release, the potential for the commercialization of pharmaceutical-loaded lenses can be limited by the alteration of lens physical and chemical properties upon the incorporation of therapeutic or non-therapeutic components. This review outlines advances in the use of pharmaceutical-loaded contact lenses and their relevant characterization methodologies as a potential ocular drug delivery system from 2010 to 2020, while summarizing current gaps and challenges in this field. A key reference point for this review is the relevant ISO standards on contact lenses, relating to the associated characterization methodologies. The content of this review is categorized based on the chemical, physical and mechanical properties of the loaded lens with the shortcomings of such analytical technologies examined.

Solid lipid nanoparticles for hydrophilic drugs

Hydrophilic drugs are proficient therapeutic agents however, delivery of these drugs is a difficult task. Hence, developing an efficient drug delivery system may require a multipronged approach. Colloidal drug delivery systems such as emulsions, liposomes, nanoemulsions, polymeric nanoparticles, and niosomes are known to enhance drug entrapment, bioavailability, and to improve the pharmacokinetic profiles of hydrophilic drugs. However, issues such as drug leakage and burst release are frequently reported with such systems. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were developed as an alternative to the traditional colloidal drug carriers to overcome these issues. Although SLNs have been widely studied as carriers for hydrophobic drugs, delivery of hydrophilic molecules remains a challenge. Hence, the current review focuses on different approaches that have been used for the delivery of hydrophilic drugs using SLNs. It not only discusses various modifications in the traditional methods for the synthesis but also emphasizes modifications of the hydrophilic drugs itself that can help in their efficient entrapment into SLNs drug carriers.

Gemcitabine Lipid Prodrugs: The Key Role of the Lipid Moiety on the Self-Assembly into Nanoparticles

A small library of amphiphilic prodrugs has been synthesized by conjugation of gemcitabine (Gem) (a hydrophilic nucleoside analogue) to a series of lipid moieties and investigated for their capacity to spontaneously self-assemble into nanosized objects by simple nanoprecipitation. Four of these conjugates formed stable nanoparticles (NPs), while with the others, immediate aggregation occurred, whatever the tested experimental conditions. Whether such capacity could have been predicted based on the prodrug physicochemical features was a matter of question. Among various parameters, the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value seemed to hold a predictive character. Indeed, we identified a threshold value which well correlated with the tendency (or not) of the synthesized prodrugs to form stable nanoparticles. Such a hypothesis was further confirmed by broadening the analysis to Gem and other nucleoside prodrugs already described in the literature. We also observed that, in the case of Gem prodrugs, the lipid moiety affected not only the colloidal properties but also the in vitro anticancer efficacy of the resulting nanoparticles. Overall, this study provides a useful demonstration of the predictive potential of the HLB value for lipid prodrug NP formulation and highlights the need of their opportune in vitro screening, as optimal drug loading does not always translate in an efficient biological activity.

Rosemary oil nano-emulsion potentiates the apoptotic effect of mitomycin C on cancer cells in vitro

Purpose: To formulate nano-emulsified rosemary oil (REO/NE) and determine its effect on the anticancer agent, mitomycin C (MC) when used as a carrier for the drug.

Methods: The droplet size of REO/NE was markedly enlarged when mixed with MC. The cytotoxicity of the formulations on HeLa and MCF-7 cells was determined using MTT assay. The combination index (CI) values were estimated with CompuSyn software, while apoptosis was determined using DAPI fluorescent dye.

Results: Treatment of MCF-7 cells and HeLa cells with REO/NE (1% v:v and 1.33% v:v, respectively) reduced the IC50 of MC 33 and 15 folds, respectively. Under fluorescent microscopy, cells treated with REO/NE+MC had more marked reduction of the nuclear area than MC-treated cells.

Conclusion: These results indicate that REO/NE is an efficient carrier for MC since it enhanced MC delivery and increased its effect on the cells through the induction of apoptosis at low concentrations of MC.

Solid Lipid Particles for Lung Metastasis Treatment

Solid lipid particles (SLPs) can sustainably encapsulate and release therapeutic agents over long periods, modifying their biodistribution, toxicity, and side effects. To date, no studies have been reported using SLPs loaded with doxorubicin chemotherapy for the treatment of metastatic cancer. This study characterizes the effect of doxorubicin-loaded carnauba wax particles in the treatment of lung metastatic malignant melanoma in vivo. Compared with the free drug, intravenously administrated doxorubicin-loaded SLPs significantly reduce the number of pulmonary metastatic foci in mice. In vitro kinetic studies show two distinctive drug release profiles. A first chemotherapy burst-release wave occurs during the first 5 h, which accounts for approximately 30% of the entrapped drug rapidly providing therapeutic concentrations. The second wave occurs after the arrival of the particles to the final destination in the lung. This release is sustained for long periods (>40 days), providing constant levels of chemotherapy in situ that trigger the inhibition of metastatic growth. Our findings suggest that the use of chemotherapy with loaded SLPs could substantially improve the effectiveness of the drug locally, reducing side effects while improving overall survival.

Curcumin Loaded Polymeric vs. Lipid Nanoparticles: Antioxidant Effect on Normal and Hypoxic Olfactory Ensheathing Cells

Background: Curcumin (Cur) shows anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on central nervous system diseases. The aim of this study was to develop Cur-loaded polymeric and lipid nanoparticles for intranasal delivery to enhance its stability and increase antioxidant effect on olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs). Methods: The nanosuspensions were subjected to physico-chemical and technological evaluation through photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and UV-spectrophotometry. The cytotoxicity studies of nanosuspensions were carried out on OECs. A viability test was performed after 24 h of exposure of OECs to unloaded and curcumin-loaded nanosuspensions. The potential protective effect of Cur was assessed on hypoxic OECs cells. Uptake studies were performed on the same cell cultures. Thermal analysis was performed to evaluate potential interaction of Cur with a 1,2-Dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DMPC) biomembrane model. Results: PCS analysis indicated that lipid and polymeric nanosuspensions showed a mean size of 127.10 and 338.20 nm, respectively, high homogeneity and negative zeta potential. Incorporation of Cur into both nanocarriers increased drug stability up to 135 days in cryoprotected freeze-dried nanosuspensions. Cell viability was improved when hypoxic OECs were treated with Cur-loaded polymeric and lipid nanosuspensions compared with the control. Conclusions: Both nanocarriers could improve the stability of Cur as demonstrated by technological studies. Biological studies revealed that both nanocarriers could be used to deliver Cur by intranasal administration for brain targeting.

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: A Promising Nanomaterial in Drug Delivery

The solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) usually consists of active drug molecules along with solid lipids, surfactants, and/or co-surfactants. They possess some potential features such as nano-size, surface with a free functional group to attach ligands, and as well they prove safe homing for both lipophilic as well as hydrophilic molecules. As far as synthesis is concerned, SLNs can be prepared by employing various techniques viz., homogenization techniques (e.g., high-pressure, high-speed, cold, or hot homogenization), spray drying technique, ultrasonication, solvent emulsification, double emulsion technique, etc. Apart from this, they are characterized by different methods for determining various parameters like particle-size, polydispersity-index, surface morphology, DSC, XRD, etc. SLNs show good stability as well as the ability for surface tailoring with the specific ligand, which makes them a suitable candidate in the therapy of numerous illnesses, especially in the targeting of the cancers. In spite of this, SLNs have witnessed their application via various routes e.g., oral, parenteral, topical, pulmonary, rectal routes, etc. Eventually, SLNs have also shown great potential for delivery of gene/DNA, vaccines, as well as in cosmeceuticals. Hence, SLNs have emerged as a promising nanomaterial for efficient delivery of various Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs).

Primary Studies on Construction and Evaluation of Ion-Sensitive in situ Gel Loaded with Paeonol-Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Intranasal Drug Delivery

BACKGROUND

Paeonol (PAE) is a potential central neuroprotective agent with poor water solubility and rapid metabolism in vivo. The key to improve the clinical application of PAE in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases is to improve the brain delivery of it. The purpose of this study was to construct a paeonol-solid lipid nanoparticles-in situ gel (PAE-SLNs-ISG) drug delivery system based on nose-brain transport pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, the stability of PAE in simulated biological samples was studied firstly in order to clarify the reasons for low oral bioavailability. Paeonol-solid lipid nanoparticles (PAE-SLNs) were prepared by high-temperature emulsification-low-temperature curing combined with ultrasound. The PAE-SLNs-ISG drug delivery system was constructed, and related formulation optimization, preparation characterization, cell evaluation and in vivo evaluation were performed.

RESULTS

The metabolic mechanism of PAE incubated in the liver microsomes metabolic system was in accordance with the first-order kinetics, and the half-life was 0.23 h. PAE-SLNs were polyhedral or spherical particles with good dispersion and the particle size was 166.79 nm ± 2.92 nm. PAE-SLNs-ISG solution was a Newtonian fluid with a viscosity of 44.36 mPa · S ± 2.89 mPa · S. The viscosity of PAE-SLNs-ISG gel was 1542.19 mPa · S ± 19.30 mPa · S, and the rheological evaluation showed that the gel was a non-Newtonian pseudoplastic fluid with shear thinning, thixotropy and yield value. The release mechanism of PAE from PAE-SLNs was drug diffusion; the release mechanism of PAE from PAE-SLNs-ISG was a synergistic effect of skeleton erosion and drug diffusion. The cell viabilities of PAE-SLNs and PAE-SLNs-ISG in the concentration range of 0.001 µg/mL to 10 µg/mL were higher than 90%, showing a low level of cytotoxicity. The geometric mean fluorescent intensities of RPMI 2650 cells incubated with fluorescein isothiocyanate-solid lipid nanoparticles (FITC-SLNs) for 1 h, 4 h and 6 h were 1841 ± 24, 2261 ± 27 and 2757 ± 22, respectively. Cyanine7 NHS ester-solid lipid nanoparticles-in situ gel (Cy7-SLNs-ISG) accumulated effectively in the brain area after administration through the olfactory area, and the fluorescence response was observed in olfactory bulb, cerebellum and striatum.

CONCLUSION

SLNs-ISG nose-brain drug delivery system can effectively deliver SLNs to brain regions, and it is a potentially effective strategy to realize the brain region delivery of PAE.

Talazoparib nanoparticles for overcoming multidrug resistance in triple-negative breast cancer

Herein, we investigated efflux pumps-mediated talazoparib-resistance in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Furthermore, we produced a novel talazoparib-solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and then explored in vitro therapeutic efficacy of talazoparib-SLNs to overcome talazoparib-resistance in TNBC cells. Talazoparib-SLNs formulation was produced and then characterized. Calcein and Rho-123 were used to analyze the functional activity of drug efflux pumps in these cells. Additionally, RT-PCR, western blot and immunofluorescence analysis were used to detect the messenger RNA, and protein expression level, and cellular localization of the multidrug resistance (MDR1), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), and MRP1. We found that talazoparib efflux was mediated by BCRP and MRP1 pumps in TNBC cells. Talazoparib-SLNs could significantly enhance therapeutic efficacy of talazoparib. Furthermore, talazoparib-SLNs were more effective in the suppression of MDR1, BCRP, and MRP1 gene and protein expression levels than talazoparib. Consequently, this study suggests that talazoparib-SLNs formulation represents a promising therapeutic carrier to reverse MDR-mediated resistance in TNBC.

Effects of Quercetin-Loaded Nanoparticles on MCF-7 Human Breast Cancer Cells

Background and objectives: Previous studies have shown anti-tumor activity of quercetin (QT). However, the low bioavailability of QT has restricted its use. This study aimed to assess the toxic effect of QT encapsulated in solid lipid nanoparticles (QT-SLNs) on the growth of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Materials and Methods: MCF-7 and MCF-10A (non-tumorigenic cell line) cell lines treated with 25 µmol/mL of QT or QT-SLNs for 48 h. Cell viability, colony formation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis were evaluated to determine the toxic effects of the QT-SLNs. Results: The QT-SLNs with appropriate characteristics (particle size of 85.5 nm, a zeta potential of −22.5 and encapsulation efficiency of 97.6%) were prepared. The QT-SLNs showed sustained QT release until 48 h. Cytotoxicity assessments indicated that QT-SLNs inhibited MCF-7 cells growth with a low IC₅₀ (50% inhibitory concentration) value, compared to the free QT. QT-SLNs induced a significant decrease in the viability and proliferation of MCF-7 cells, compared to the free QT. QT-SLN significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and MDA contents and significantly decreased antioxidant enzyme activity in the MCF-7 cells. Following QT-SLNs treatment, the expression of the Bcl-2 protein significantly decreased, whereas Bx expression showed a significant increase in comparison with free QT-treated cells. Furthermore, The QT-SLNs significantly increased apoptotic and necrotic indexes in MCF-7 cells. Viability, proliferation, oxidative stress and apoptosis of MCF-10A cells were not affected by QT or QT-SLNs. Conclusions: According to the results of this study, SLN significantly enhanced the toxic effect of QT against human breast cancer cells.

Poly (N-isopropylacrylamide) based hydrogels as novel precipitation and stabilization media for solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs)

In this work, poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) based chemically cross-linked hydrogels are used as novel precipitation and stabilization media for solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) for the first time. The hydrogels and the hybrid thermoresponsive composite hydrogels with SLNs were characterized by SEM, DSC, DLS and rheometric analysis. The results showed that the SLNs obtained directly in the gel matrix by the newly devised method were well-dispersed and remained stable for one month. A remarkable advantage of this approach is that it yields the thermoresponsive nanocomposite hydrogels in a single step. This approach is a significant advancement in the preparation of hybrid thermoresponsive nanocomposite systems based on smart gels and SLNs for their use in biomedical applications.

Exploiting PLGA-Based Biocompatible Nanoparticles for Next-Generation Tolerogenic Vaccines against Autoimmune Disease

Tolerogenic vaccines are aimed at inhibiting antigen-specific immune responses. Antigen-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) have been recently emerged as ideal tools for tolerogenic vaccination because their composition, size, and capability of loading immunomodulatory molecules can be readily exploited to induce peripheral tolerance. Among polymeric NPs, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) NPs have the advantage of currently holding approval for several applications in drug delivery, diagnostics, and other clinical uses by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). PLGA-NPs are non-toxic and display excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability properties. Moreover, surface functionalization may improve their interaction with biological materials, thereby optimizing targeting and performance. PLGA-NPs are the most extensively studied in pre-clinical model in the field of tolerogenic vaccination. Thus, this review describes their potential applications in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

A Promising Biocompatible Platform: Lipid-Based and Bio-Inspired Smart Drug Delivery Systems for Cancer Therapy

Designing new drug delivery systems (DDSs) for safer cancer therapy during pre-clinical and clinical applications still constitutes a considerable challenge, despite advances made in related fields. Lipid-based drug delivery systems (LBDDSs) have emerged as biocompatible candidates that overcome many biological obstacles. In particular, a combination of the merits of lipid carriers and functional polymers has maximized drug delivery efficiency. Functionalization of LBDDSs enables the accumulation of anti-cancer drugs at target destinations, which means they are more effective at controlled drug release in tumor microenvironments (TMEs). This review highlights the various types of ligands used to achieve tumor-specific delivery and discusses the strategies used to achieve the effective release of drugs in TMEs and not into healthy tissues. Moreover, innovative recent designs of LBDDSs are also described. These smart systems offer great potential for more advanced cancer therapies that address the challenges posed in this research area.

Doxorubicin-loaded dextran-based nano-carriers for highly efficient inhibition of lymphoma cell growth and synchronous reduction of cardiac toxicity

Purpose

Cardiac side effects of doxorubicin (Dox) have limited its clinical application. The aim of this study was to explore new Dox-loaded dextran-based nano-carriers (NCs) in efficiently targeting tumor growth with less cardiac toxicity.

Methods

Inspired by recent reports that polymeric NCs could function as sustained, controlled and targeted drug delivery systems, we developed Dox-loaded NCs which displayed a 2-fold release ratio of Dox in the mimic tumor site condition (pH 5.0 with 10 mM glutathione, GSH) as much as that in systemic circulation condition (pH 7.4).

Results

Lymphoma cells treated with Dox-NCs had significantly higher intracellular Dox concentrations and more apoptotic induction, with lower P-gp expression, when compared with those treated with Dox alone. The identified mechanism of action, apoptosis, was triggered through survivin reduction and caspase-3 activation. Even in the Dox-resistant cells, Dox-NCs could significantly inhibit cell growth and induce apoptosis. In murine lymphoma xenograft models, Dox-NCs also remarkably significantly retarded tumor growth, assessed by murine weight, and demonstrated less cytotoxicity. Noticeably, apoptotic myocardial cells were decreased in the Dox-NCs-treated group, when compared with the control group, which was consistent with low intracellular Dox concentration in the cardiac cell line H9C2.

Conclusion

Dox-NCs showed an anti-lymphoma effect with reduced cardiac toxicity in both in vivo and in vitro models and, therefore, could be a potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of lymphoma.

Curcumin-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Enhanced Anticancer Efficiency in Breast Cancer

Curcumin (Cur) has been widely used in medicine, due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor effects. However, its clinic application is limited by its instability and poor solubility. In the present wok, curcumin was loaded into solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), in order to improve the therapeutic efficacy for breast cancer. The results measured using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicated that Cur-SLNs have a well-defined spherical shape; the size was about 40 nm with a negative surface charge. The drug loading and encapsulation efficiency in SLNs reached 23.38% and 72.47%, respectively. The Cur-SLNs showed a stronger cytotoxicity against SKBR3 cells. In vitro cellular uptake study demonstrated a high uptake efficiency of the Cur-SLNs by SKBR3 cells. Moreover, Cur-SLNs induced higher apoptosis in SKBR3 cells, compared to cells treated by free drug. In addition, Western blot analysis revealed that Cur-SLNs could promote the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2, but decreased the expression of cyclin D1 and CDK4. These results suggested that Cur-SLNs could be a potential useful chemotherapeutic formulation for breast cancer therapy.

Nano-delivery systems for encapsulation of dietary polyphenols: An experimental approach for neurodegenerative diseases and brain tumors

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) and brain tumors are severe, disabling, and incurable disorders that represent a critical problem regarding human suffering and the economic burden on the healthcare system. Because of the lack of effective therapies to treat NDs and brain tumors, the challenge for physicians is to discover new drugs to improve their patients' quality of life. In addition to risk factors such as genetics and environmental influences, increased cellular oxidative stress has been reported as one of the potential common etiologies in both disorders. Given their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, dietary polyphenols are considered to be one of the most bioactive natural agents in chronic disease prevention and treatment. Despite the protective activity of polyphenols, their inefficient delivery systems and poor bioavailability strongly limit their use in medicine and functional food. A potential solution lies in polymeric nanoparticle-based polyphenol delivery systems that are able to enhance their absorption across the gastrointestinal tract, improve their bioavailability, and transport them to target organs. In the present manuscript, we provide an overview of the primary polyphenols used for ND and brain tumor prevention and treatment by focusing on recent findings, the principal factors limiting their application in clinical practice, and a promising delivery strategy to improve their bioavailability.