Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Chitosan and 5-Amino Salicylic Acid Combinations in Experimental Colitis

The renoprotective activity of amikacin-gamma-amino butyric acid-chitosan nanoparticles: a comparative study

The development of nanoparticles (NPs) with active components with upgraded stability, and prolonged release helps in enhanced tissue regeneration. In addition, NPs are feasible strategy to boost antibiotic effectiveness and reduce drug side effects. Our study focuses on the use of amikacin (AMK) and gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) unloaded combinations or loaded on chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) for kidney protection. The AMK-GABA-CSNPs were prepared with the ionic gelation method, the morphology was studied using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), zetasizer and the Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectrum of the synthesized NPs was observed. The average size of AMK-GABA-CSNPs was 77.5 ± 16.5 nm. Zeta potential was + 38.94 ± 2.65 mV. AMK-GABA-CSNPs revealed significant in vitro antioxidant, anti-coagulation, non-hemolytic properties and good cell compatibility. To compare the effects of the unloaded AMK-GABA combination and AMK-GABA-CSNPs on the renal tissue, 42 healthy Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into seven groups. G1: normal control (NC), normal saline; G2: low-dose nephrotoxic group (LDN), AMK (20 mg/kg/day; i.p.); G3: unloaded AMK (20 mg/kg/day; i.p.) and GABA (50 mg/kg/day; i.p.); G4: AMK-GABA-CSNPs (20 mg/kg/day; i.p.); G5: high-dose nephrotoxic group (HDN), AMK (30 mg/kg/day; i.p.); G6: unloaded AMK (30 mg/kg/day; i.p.) and GABA (50 mg/kg/day; i.p.) and G7: AMK-GABA-CSNPs (30 mg/kg/day; i.p.). The results showed that AMK-GABA-CSNPs formulation is superior to unloaded AMK-GABA combination as it ameliorated kidney functions, oxidative stress and displayed a significant homeostatic role via suppression of inflammatory cytokines of Th1, Th2 and Th17 types. Hence, AMK-GABA-CSNPs could afford a potential nano-based therapeutic formula for the management of AMK-nephrotoxicity.

Unveiling the Unexplored Multifactorial Potential of 5-Aminosalicylic Acid in Diabetic Wound Therapy

Diabetic wounds (DWs) are considered chronic complications observed in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Usually, DWs originate from the interplay of inflammation, oxidation, impaired tissue re-epithelialization, vasculopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy, all of which are related to insulin resistance and sensitivity. The conventional approaches available for the treatment of DWs are mainly confined to the relief of wound pressure, debridement of the wound, and management of infection. In this paper, we speculate that treatment of DWs with 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) and subsequent activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) via the AhR pathway might be highly beneficial for DW patients. This estimation is based on several lines of evidence showing that 5-ASA and PPAR-γ activation are involved in the restoration of insulin sensitivity, re-epithelialization, and microcirculation. Additionally, 5-ASA and TGF-β activate inflammation and the production of pro-inflammatory mediators. Suitable stabilized formulations of 5-ASA with high absorption rates are indispensable for scrutinizing its probable pharmacological benefits since 5-ASA is known to possess lower solubility profiles because of its reduced permeability through skin tissue. In vitro and in vivo studies with stabilized formulations and a control (placebo) are mandatory to determine whether 5-ASA indeed holds promise for the curative treatment of DWs.

Synthesis and characterization of chitosan for medical applications: A review

Chitosan has gained considerable recognition within the field of medical applications due to its exceptional biocompatibility and diverse range of properties. Nevertheless, prior reviews have primarily focused on its applications, offering limited insights into its source materials. Hence, there arises a compelling need for a comprehensive review that encompasses the entire chitin and chitosan life cycle: from the source of chitin and chitosan, extraction methods, and specific medical applications, to the various techniques employed in evaluating chitosan's properties. This all-encompassing review delves into the critical aspects of chitin and chitosan extraction, with a strong emphasis on the utilization of natural raw materials. It elucidates the various sources of these raw materials, highlighting their abundance and accessibility. Furthermore, a meticulous examination of extraction methods reveals the prevalent use of hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the demineralization process, alongside citric, formic, and phosphoric acids. Based on current review information, these acids constitute a substantial 69.2% of utilization, surpassing other mentioned acids. Of notable importance, the review underscores the essential parameters for medical-grade chitosan. It advocates for a degree of deacetylation (DDA) falling within the range of 85%-95%, minimal protein content <1%, ash content <2%, and moisture content <10%. In conclusion, these crucial factors contribute to the understanding of Chitosan's production for medical applications, paving the way for advancements in biomedical research and development.

Multi-functional pH-responsive and biomimetic chitosan-based nanoplexes for targeted delivery of ciprofloxacin against bacterial sepsis

Bacterial sepsis is a mortal syndromic disease characterized by a complex pathophysiology that hinders effective targeted therapy. This study aimed to develop multifunctional, biomimetic and pH-responsive ciprofloxacin-loaded chitosan (CS)/sodium deoxycholic acid (SDC) nanoplexes (CS/SDC) nanoplexes with the ability to target and modulate the TLR4 pathway, activated during sepsis. The formulated nanoplexes were characterized in terms of physicochemical properties, in silico and in vitro potential biological activities. The optimal formulation showed good biocompatibility and stability with appropriate physicochemical parameters. The surface charge changed from negative at pH 7.4 to positive at pH 6.0 accompanied with a significantly faster release of CIP at pH 6.0 compared to 7.4. The biomimicry was elucidated by in silico tools and MST and results confirmed strong binding between the system and TLR4. Furthermore, the system revealed 4- and 2-fold antibacterial enhancement at acidic pH, and 3- and 4-fold better antibiofilm efficacy against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) respectively, compared to bare CIP. In addition, enhanced bacterial efflux pump inhibition was demonstrated by CS/SDC nanoplexes. Finally, the developed nanosystem showed excellent antioxidant activity against DPPH radicals. Taken together, the study confirmed the multi-functionalities of CS/SDC nanoplexes and their potential benefits in improving bacterial sepsis therapy.

Nanomedicine-mediated drug delivery for potential treatment of inflammatory bowel disease: a narrative review

Background & aims: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, manifesting as either Crohn's disease (CrD) or ulcerative colitis (UC). Current treatment options for CrD and UC primarily focus on symptom management. In recent years, advancements in nanotechnology have increased the clinical applicability of nanoparticles (NPs) in treating IBD. This review explores the current research on NP-mediated drug-delivery systems for IBD treatment and assesses its advantages and limitations. Results: The authors examine diverse nanomedicine applications for IBD and address the current challenges and prospects in the field to advance nanomediated therapies in the future. Conclusion: Innovative NP-based treatment strategies promise a reliable and effective approach to IBD management.

Enhanced immune responses in dexamethasone immunosuppressed male rats supplemented with herbal extracts, chitosan nanoparticles, and their conjugates

Nowadays, the world is challenged with highly contagious diseases, one of their preliminary virulence mechanisms is the suppression of innate immunity. Therefore, promoting natural immunity is a good precautionary strategy. we investigated and compared the effects of several natural herbal extracts -Moringa oleifera, Ziziphus spina christi, and Saussurea costus, and chitosan nanoparticles (CS NPs)- as well as conjugated extracts with CS NPs on the immunological parameters of dexamethasone immunosuppressed (IS) male rats. The plant extracts were assessed for total flavonoids, phenolics, and antioxidant activity. The CS NPs and their conjugates were characterized using particles size, zeta potentials, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analyses. The chemical analysis of the plant extracts, CS NPs, and their conjugates was performed using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence, and their cytotoxicity was evaluated in human lung fibroblast (WI-38) and human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cell lines. For in vivo evaluations, 72 adult male rats were divided into 9 groups: control, IS, three plant extracts, CS, and conjugates of the three plant extracts and CS NPs. Oral supplementation (day after day) lasted for 28 days. Liver, kidney, and spleen tissue samples were collected for histopathology and Ki-67 expression analyses. The results revealed that the plant extracts and CS improved the total leukocyte counts, complement 3, complement 4, interferon-gamma, and tumor necrosis factor levels at day 28. However, the plant extract-CS NPs conjugates faster and have higher immunostimulatory effects at day 14. Furthermore, the atrophied white pulp of the spleen induced by dexamethasone was alleviated, and Ki-67 expression was elevated in all the treated groups. Conclusively, the conjugates of Moringa oleifera, Ziziphus spina christi, and Saussurea costus extract with CS NPs demonstrated more potent and rapid immune responses at lower doses and concentrations compared to the plant extracts or CS NPs alone, without causing liver or kidney injuries. Thus, supplementation of these conjugated plant extracts at lower doses and concentrations is recommended to improve immunity while considering safety considerations.

Chitosan-Based Hydrogels for Infected Wound Treatment

Wound infections slow down the healing process and lead to complications such as septicemia, osteomyelitis, and even death. Although traditional methods relying on antibiotics are effective in controlling infection, they have led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Hydrogels with antimicrobial function become a viable option for reducing bacterial colonization and infection while also accelerating healing processes. Chitosan is extensively developed as antibacterial wound dressings due to its unique biochemical properties and inherent antibacterial activity. In this review, the recent research progress of chitosan-based hydrogels for infected wound treatment, including the fabrication methods, antibacterial mechanisms, antibacterial performance, wound healing efficacy, etc., is summarized. A concise assessment of current limitations and future trends is presented.

The possible effect of lycopene in ameliorating experimentally induced ulcerative colitis in adult male albino rats (A histological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural study)

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is considered a long-term inflammatory disorder worldwide. Its pathogenesis is associated with reduced antioxidant capacity. Lycopene (LYC) is a powerful antioxidant with strong free radical scavenging property. The present work has done to assess changes of colonic mucosa in induced UC and the possible ameliorative effects of LYC. Forty-five adult male albino rats were randomly divided into four groups: group I (control), group II was given 5 mg/kg/day (LYC) by oral gavage for 3 weeks. Group III (UC) was received single intra-rectal injection of acetic acid. Group IV (LYC+UC) received LYC in same dose and duration as before and acetic acid on 14th day of the experiment. UC group showed loss of surface epithelium with destructed crypts. Congested blood vessels with heavy cellular infiltration were observed. Significant decrease in goblet cell numbers and the mean area percentage of ZO-1 immunoexpression were noticed. Significant increase in the mean area percentage of collagen and the mean area percentage of COX-2 were also noticed. Ultrastructural changes were matched with light microscopic results that showed abnormal destructive columnar and goblet cells. Histological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural findings in group IV supported the ameliorative role of LYC against destructive changes induced by UC.

The Studies on Chitosan for Sustainable Development: A Bibliometric Analysis

Chitosan is a biocompatible polymer with vast applications in pharmacology, medicine, paper making, agriculture, and the food industry due to its low toxicity. Chitosan also plays an important role in the sustainable environment since chitosan is able to absorb greenhouse gases, harmful organic matter, and heavy ions. Therefore, this paper conducts a bibliometric analysis of chitosan for sustainable development using the Scopus database from 1976 to 2023. A performance analysis on the 8002 documents was performed with Harzing's Publish or Perish. Science mapping was conducted using VOSviewer. The annual publication on chitosan for sustainable development showed an upward trend in recent years as the annual publication peaked in 2022 with 1178 documents with most of the documents being articles and published in journals. Material science, chemistry, and engineering are tightly related subject areas. China had the highest publication of 1560 total documents while the United States had the most impactful publication with 55,019 total citations, 68.77 citations per document, 77.6 citations per cited document, h-index 110, and g-index of 211. India had the largest international collaboration with 572 total link strength. "International Journal of Biological Macromolecules", "Carbohydrate Polymers", and "Polymers" have been identified as the top three source titles that publish the most documents on chitosan for sustainable development. The emerging trends in chitosan on sustainable development focus on the application of chitosan as an antibacterial agent and biosorbent for contaminants, especially in water treatment.

Multifunctional hydrogels based on chitosan, hyaluronic acid and other biological macromolecules for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease: A review

Hydrogel is a three-dimensional network polymer material rich in water. It is widely used in the biomedical field because of its unique physical and chemical properties and good biocompatibility. In recent years, the incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has gradually increased, and the disadvantages caused by traditional drug treatment of IBD have emerged. Therefore, there is an urgent need for new treatments to alleviate IBD. Hydrogel has become a potential therapeutic platform. However, there is a lack of comprehensive review of functional hydrogels for IBD treatment. This paper first summarizes the pathological changes in IBD sites. Then, the action mechanisms of hydrogels prepared from chitosan, sodium alginate, hyaluronic acid, functionalized polyethylene glycol, cellulose, pectin, and γ-polyglutamic acid on IBD were described from aspects of drug delivery, peptide and protein delivery, biologic therapies, loading probiotics, etc. In addition, the advanced functions of IBD treatment hydrogels were summarized, with emphasis on adhesion, synergistic therapy, pH sensitivity, particle size, and temperature sensitivity. Finally, the future development direction of IBD treatment hydrogels has been prospected.

Assessment of joint pharmacokinetics and consequences for the intraarticular delivery of biologics

Intraarticular (IA) injections provide the opportunity to deliver biologics directly to their site of action for a local and efficient treatment of osteoarthritis. However, the synovial joint is a challenging site of administration since the drug is rapidly eliminated across the synovial membrane and has limited distribution into cartilage, resulting in unsatisfactory therapeutic efficacy. In order to rationally develop appropriate drug delivery systems, it is essential to thoroughly understand the unique biopharmaceutical environments and kinetics in the joint to adequately simulate them in relevant experimental models. This review presents a detailed view on articular kinetics and drug-tissue interplay of IA administered drugs and summarizes how these can be translated into reasonable formulation strategies by identification of key factors through which the joint residence time can be prolonged and specific structures can be targeted. In this way, pros and cons of the delivery approaches for biologics will be evaluated and the extent to which biorelevant models are applicable to gain mechanistic insights and ameliorate formulation design is discussed.

The Use of Chitosan-Coated Nanovesicles in Repairing Alcohol-Induced Damage of Liver Cells in Mice

Background and Objectives In the past few decades, the studies concerning the natural polysaccharide chitosan have been centered on a new direction: its hepatoprotective action. The aim of our study was to evaluate the influence of previously designed chitosan lipid vesicles on the liver damage induced by alcohol consumption in mice. Materials and Methods The study involved the oral administration of substances in one daily dose as follows: Group 1 (control): water; Group 2 (control alcohol): 5% alcohol in water; Group 3 (CHIT): 0.1 mL/10 g body weight chitosan solution in animals treated with alcohol; Group 4 (CHIT-ves): 0.1 mL/10 g body chitosan vesicles in animals treated with alcohol; Group 5 (AcA): 200 mg/kg body ascorbic acid in animals treated with alcohol. In order to evaluate liver damage after alcohol consumption, the following hematological parameters were tested: the activity of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase; serum values of urea and creatinine; the phagocytic capacity of polymorphonuclear neutrophilsin peripheral blood;serum opsonic capacity;bactericidal capacity of peritoneal macrophages; and the activity of malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and lactate dehydrogenase. Results and Conclusions The treatment with chitosan vesicles decreased liver enzyme activity and reduced the oxidative stress disturbances in alcoholic mice, thus repairing the hepatic functional and structural damages. These beneficial activities of chitosan vesicles were comparable with ascorbic acid effects in alcoholic mice.

Multiple Roles of Chitosan in Mucosal Drug Delivery: An Updated Review

Chitosan (CS) is a linear polysaccharide obtained by the deacetylation of chitin, which, after cellulose, is the second biopolymer most abundant in nature, being the primary component of the exoskeleton of crustaceans and insects. Since joining the pharmaceutical field, in the early 1990s, CS attracted great interest, which has constantly increased over the years, due to its several beneficial and favorable features, including large availability, biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxicity, simplicity of chemical modifications, mucoadhesion and permeation enhancer power, joined to its capability of forming films, hydrogels and micro- and nanoparticles. Moreover, its cationic character, which renders it unique among biodegradable polymers, is responsible for the ability of CS to strongly interact with different types of molecules and for its intrinsic antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and hemostatic activities. However, its pH-dependent solubility and susceptibility to ions presence may represent serious drawbacks and require suitable strategies to be overcome. Presently, CS and its derivatives are widely investigated for a great variety of pharmaceutical applications, particularly in drug delivery. Among the alternative routes to overcome the problems related to the classic oral drug administration, the mucosal route is becoming the favorite non-invasive delivery pathway. This review aims to provide an updated overview of the applications of CS and its derivatives in novel formulations intended for different methods of mucosal drug delivery.

Nanoencapsulation of Gla-Rich Protein (GRP) as a Novel Approach to Target Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a major driver of chronic inflammatory diseases (CIDs), with a tremendous impact worldwide. Besides its function as a pathological calcification inhibitor, vitamin K-dependent protein Gla-rich protein (GRP) was shown to act as an anti-inflammatory agent independently of its gamma-carboxylation status. Although GRP’s therapeutic potential has been highlighted, its low solubility at physiological pH still constitutes a major challenge for its biomedical application. In this work, we produced fluorescein-labeled chitosan-tripolyphosphate nanoparticles containing non-carboxylated GRP (ucGRP) (FCNG) via ionotropic gelation, increasing its bioavailability, stability, and anti-inflammatory potential. The results indicate the nanosized nature of FCNG with PDI and a zeta potential suitable for biomedical applications. FCNG’s anti-inflammatory activity was studied in macrophage-differentiated THP1 cells, and in primary vascular smooth muscle cells and chondrocytes, inflamed with LPS, TNFα and IL-1β, respectively. In all these in vitro human cell systems, FCNG treatments resulted in increased intra and extracellular GRP levels, and decreased pro-inflammatory responses of target cells, by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammation mediators. These results suggest the retained anti-inflammatory bioactivity of ucGRP in FCNG, strengthening the potential use of ucGRP as an anti-inflammatory agent with a wide spectrum of application, and opening up perspectives for its therapeutic application in CIDs.

Evaluation of the antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties of chitosan in methotrexate-induced oral mucositis in rats

BACKGROUND

Methotrexate (MTX), a chemotherapeutic agent, is known to cause oral mucositis. Chitosan has been shown to have a protective effect in inflammatory animal models. This research aimed to examine the protective effect of chitosan against oral mucositis caused by MTX.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into three groups. Control (n = 8), (saline via oral gavage for 5 days), MTX (n = 8), (60 mg/kg single dose MTX intraperitoneally on the 1st day and for the following 4 days saline via oral gavage), and MTX + chitosan (n = 8), (1st day single dose 60 mg/kg MTX intraperitoneally and followed with 200 mg/kg chitosan via oral gavage for 4 days). After 24 h of the last dose, the animals were euthanised. Blood, tongue, buccal and palatal mucosa tissues were collected. Serum interleukin 1-beta (IL1-β), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-1, and MMP-2) activities, tissue bcl-2/bax ratio and the expression of caspase-3 (casp-3), and casp-9 were detected. The tissues were also examined histologically. Serum TNF-α, IL1-β, MMP-1 and MMP-2 activities and tissue casp-3 and casp-9 activities significantly increased but the bcl-2/bax ratio significantly decreased in the MTX group compared those of the control group. Histologically, diffuse inflammatory cells were observed in MTX group. However, In the MTX + chitosan group, all the values were close to those of the control group.

CONCLUSION

It was demonstrated that chitosan has a protective effect against oral mucosal damage caused by MTX. Thus, it may be a candidate agent against MTX induced oral mucositis.

Early Application of Quaternized Chitin Derivatives Inhibits Hypertrophic Scar Formation

Various treatments for hypertrophic scars (HS) are applied after wound re-epithelialization. However, the lack of early intervention within the wound bed leads to poor HS treatment outcomes. In this study, quaternized chitin (QC) derivatives with different degrees of deacetylation (7.4% and 78.9%) are synthesized and their effects on HS formation are evaluated in a rabbit ear scar model. Early application of QC alleviates scar hypertrophy without delayed wound healing. Fibroblast count, collagen content, and α-smooth muscle actin expression are decreased, while matrix metalloproteinase-1 is upregulated on day 35 in the QC treatment group. QC suppresses inflammatory cell infiltration and IL-6 expression. A subsequent reduction in transforming growth factor β1 expression is also observed. The inhibitory effect of QC on HS formation is eliminated through the administration of exogenous IL-6. Taken together, early application of QC inhibits HS formation by downregulating IL-6 expression, and QC with a low degree of deacetylation tends to be more effective. Considering its potential for accelerating wound healing, inhibiting HS formation, and its antibacterial activity, QC may be used as an effective dressing in clinical wound management.

Effects of molecular weight of chitosan on anti-inflammatory activity and modulation of intestinal microflora in an ulcerative colitis model

This study investigated the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of chitosans (CSs) with different molecular weights on ulcerative colitis (UC). Three size classes of CSs (Mw ≤ 3, 50, and 200 kDa) were used in this study. The effect of large CSs (Mw ≤ 200 kDa) on UC was the best, followed by that of medium CSs (Mw ≤ 50 kDa), and that of small CSs (Mw ≤ 3 kDa) was the least in the LPS-induced Raw 264.7 cell model and DSS-induced UC mice model. The therapeutic mechanisms of three CSs are related to anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, and regulation of immunoglobulin and intestinal flora by attenuating body weight loss, decreasing the disease activity index (DAI) and MPO activity, suppressing proinflammatory cytokines and IgG levels, down-regulating the level of oxidative stress, increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines, SOD activity and Prevotellaceae_UCG-001 levels, and reducing the abundance of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Escherichia-Shigella. In general, the molecular weight of CSs influences their efficacy against UC. CSs with an optimal molecular weight demonstrate good development prospects for ameliorating UC.

A review of the biological and pharmacological activities of mesalazine or 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA): an anti-ulcer and anti-oxidant drug

Mesalazine, also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA), is a synthetic drug from the family of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used for inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. However, 5-ASA has also been used for various other diseases due to its pharmacological effects, but they are usually scattered across various publications, which may limit further research and clinical use of this drug. This review is a summary of published information on the biological and pharmacological effects of 5-ASA with the aim of identifying its anti-oxidant role and medicinal use. 5-ASA data have been collected from 1987 to February 2021 using major databases such as Web of Science, PubMed, Elsevier, Wiley Online Library, Springer, Google Scholar, etc. According to research, the pharmacological and biological effects of 5-ASA include treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, and anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, anti-amyloid, gastric protection (gastroprotective), and antidiverticulosis properties. Numerous pharmacological studies have shown that 5-ASA is an anti-oxidant and anti-ulcer compound with high therapeutic potential that, if the appropriate dose is discovered, its chemical structure changes and its effectiveness is optimized, 5-ASA has been used experimentally for other diseases.

Drug delivery to the inflamed intestinal mucosa - targeting technologies and human cell culture models for better therapies of IBD

Current treatment strategies for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) seek to alleviate the undesirable symptoms of the disorder. Despite the higher specificity of newer generation therapeutics, e.g. monoclonal antibodies, adverse effects still arise from their interference with non-specific systemic immune cascades. To circumvent such undesirable effects, both conventional and newer therapeutic options can benefit from various targeting strategies. Of course, both the development and the assessment of the efficiency of such targeted delivery systems necessitate the use of suitable in vivo and in vitro models representing relevant pathophysiological manifestations of the disorder. Accordingly, the current review seeks to provide a comprehensive discussion of the available preclinical models with emphasis on human in vitro models of IBD, along with their potentials and limitations. This is followed by an elaboration on the advancements in the field of biology- and nanotechnology-based targeted drug delivery systems and the potential rooms for improvement to facilitate their clinical translation.

Anti-inflammatory effects of acacia and guar gum in 5-amino salicylic acid formulations in experimental colitis

Findings from recent studies revealed a significant anti-inflammatory effect of polysaccharide-based excipients when formulated with classical drugs in experimental inflammatory bowel disease models. In this study, acacia and guar gum were investigated beyond their typical functionality for a possible additive anti-inflammatory effect when administered with 5-amino salicylic acid (5ASA) in murine experimental colitis. Anti-inflammatory effects of acacia and guar gum-based aqueous suspensions of 5ASA were evaluated in a murine experimental colitis. Acacia or guar gum (30 or 300 mg/kg) were administered via rectal administration alone or in combination with 5ASA (30 mg/kg). Disease activity, myeloperoxidase activity (MPO) and intratissue concentrations of various cytokines were assessed. Both acacia and guar gum separately showed significant effects in reducing the inflammatory markers in murine colitis model in vivo. When combined with the anti-inflammatory drug 5ASA, acacia showed a stronger therapeutic effect than guar gum, especially at the higher dose of acacia (300 mg/kg) which significantly reduced the inflammation in vivo compared to 5ASA alone (MPO, 5ASA: 5743 ± 1334, 5ASA + 30 mg/kg acacia: 3762 ± 2342; 5ASA + 30 mg/kg guar gum: 7373 ± 2115, 5ASA + 300 mg/kg acacia: 3131 ± 1012, 5ASA + 300 mg/kg guar gum: 6358 ± 2379; all U/g tissue). Acacia and guar gum separately showed significant anti-inflammatory effects in murine colitis, and furthermore, high dose acacia led to an additional therapeutic benefit when co-administered with 5ASA. These results indicate that further investigations are surely warranted in the search of better colitis therapy.