Particle and Gel Characterization of Irinotecan-Loaded Double-Reverse Thermosensitive Hydrogel

Injectable dual thermoreversible hydrogel for sustained intramuscular drug delivery

Herein, we reported novel docetaxel-decorated solid lipid nanoparticle (DCT-SLN)-loaded dual thermoreversible system (DCT-DRTS) for intramuscular administration with reduced burst effect, sustained release and improved antitumor efficacy. The optimized DCT-DRTs was subjected to in-vitro and in-vivo analyses. Antitumor evaluation of the DCT-DRTS was executed and compared with DCT-hydrogel, and DCT-suspension trailed by the histopathological and immune-histochemical analyses. The DCT-SLN gave a mean particle size of 157 nm and entrapment efficiency of 93 %. It was a solid at room temperature, and changed to liquid at physiological temperature due to its melting point of about 32 °C. Unlikely, poloxamer mixture remained liquefied at 25-27 °C, however converted to gel at physiological temperature. This behavior demonstrated opposed reversible property of the DCT-SLN and poloxamer hydrogel in DCT-DRTS system, making it ideal for intramuscular administration and quick gelation inside the body. The DCT-DRTS sustained the drugs release and unlike DCT-hydrogel, the preliminary plasma concentration of DCT-DRTS was significantly reduced, overcoming the burst release. A meaningfully enhanced antitumor efficacy and improved survival rate was observed from DCT-DRTS in tumor cell xenograft athymic nude mice. Additionally, increased apoptotic and reduced proliferation markers were observed in DCT-DRTS treated tumor masses. It was concluded that DCT-DRTS may be a suitable choice for intramuscular administration of DCT with sustained release, improved bioavailability, reduced toxicity and enhanced antitumor effects.

Statistical design and optimization of nano-transfersomes based chitosan gel for transdermal delivery of cefepime

OBJECTIVES

This research aimed to overcome challenges posed by cefepime excessive elimination rate and poor patient compliance by developing transdermal delivery system using nano-transfersomes based chitosan gel.

METHODS

Rotary evaporation-sonication method and the Box-Behnken model were used to prepare cefepime loaded nano-transfersomes (CPE-NTFs). The physiochemical characterization of CPE-NTFs were analyzed including DLS, deformability index, DSC and antimicrobial study. Optimized CPE-NTFs loaded into chitosan gel and appropriately characterized. In vitro release, ex vivo and in vivo studies were performed.

RESULTS

The CPE-NTFs were physically stable with particle size 222.6 ± 1.8 nm, polydispersity index 0.163 ± 0.02, zeta potential -20.8 ± 0.1 mv, entrapment efficiency 81.4 ± 1.1% and deformability index 71 ± 0.2. DSC analysis confirmed successful drug loading and thermal stability. FTIR analysis showed no chemical interaction among the excipients of CPE-NTFs gel. The antibacterial activity demonstrated a remarkable reduction in the minimum inhibitory concentration of cefepime when incorporated into nano-transfersomes. CPE-NTFs based chitosan gel (CPE-NTFs gel) showed significant physicochemical properties. In vitro release studies exhibited sustained release behavior over 24 h, and ex vivo studies indicated enhanced permeation and retention compared to conventional cefepime gel. In vivo skin irritation studies confirmed CPE-NTFs gel was nonirritating and biocompatible for transdermal delivery.

CONCLUSION

This research showed nano-transfersomes based chitosan gel is a promising approach for cefepime transdermal delivery and provides sustained release of cefepime.

Development and Evaluation of Tacrolimus Loaded Nano-Transferosomes for Skin Targeting and Dermatitis Treatment

Tacrolimus (TRL) is used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) due to its T-cell stimulation effect. However, its significantly poor water solubility, low penetration and cytotoxicity have reduced its topical applications. Herein, tacrolimus loaded nano transfersomes (TRL-NTs) were prepared, followed by their incorporation into chitosan gel to prepare tacrolimus loaded nano transfersomal gel (TRL-NTsG). TEM analysis of the TRL-NTs was performed to check their morphology. DSC, XRD and FTIR analysis of the TRL-NTs were executed after lyophilization. Similarly, rheology, spreadability and deformability of the TRL-NTsG were investigated. In vitro release, ex vivo permeation and in vitro interaction of TRL-NTsG with keratinocytes and fibroblasts as well as their co-cultures were investigated along with their in vitro cell viability analysis. Moreover, in vivo skin deposition, ear thickness, histopathology and IgE level were also determined. Besides, 6 months stability study was also performed. Results demonstrated the uniformly distributed negatively charged nanovesicles with a mean particle size distribution of 163 nm and zeta potential of -27 mV. DSC and XRD exhibited the thermal stability and amorphous form of the drug, respectively. The TRL-NTsG showed excellent deformability, spreadability and rheological behavior. In vitro release studies exhibited an 8-fold better release of TRL from the TRL-NTsG. Similarly, 6-fold better permeation and stability of the TRL-NTsG with keratinocytes and fibroblasts as well as their co-cultures was observed. Furthermore, the ear thickness (0.6 mm) of the TRL-NTsG was found significantly reduced when compared with the untreated (1.7 mm) and TRL conventional gel treated mice (1.3 mm). The H&E staining showed no toxicity of the TRL-NTsG with significantly reduced IgE levels (120 ng/mL). The formulation was found stable for at least 6 months. These results suggested the efficacy of TRL in AD-induced animal models most importantly when incorporated in NTsG.

Sodium alginate-based smart gastro-retentive drug delivery system of revaprazan loaded SLNs; Formulation and characterization

Revaprazan (REV), a novel reversible Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) used to treat peptic ulcers, faces challenges in therapeutic efficacy due to its poor dissolution properties and a short half-life. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have emerged as a drug delivery system capable of enhancing dissolution and bioavailability of lipid soluble drugs. Here, we report on the development and optimization of a smart gastro-retentive raft system of REV-loaded SLNs (GRS/REV-SLNs) to enhance drug bioavailability and gastric retention. The optimized REV-SLNs had a particle size of 120 nm, a Polydispersity Index (PDI) of 0.313, a zeta potential of -20.7 mV, and efficient drug incorporation of 88 %. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) affirmed the spherical morphology of these REV-SLNs, while Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed no chemical interactions among components. In-vitro assessment of the final GRS/REV-SLNs demonstrated sustained gelation and buoyancy for over 12 h, which would significantly enhance REV retention and its release within the stomach. Further assessments in rats confirmed successful gel transformation within the stomach, resulting in the improved bioavailability of REV. Thus, the development of GRS/REV-SLNs significantly improved the delivery and bioavailability of REV within the stomach, and offers a potentially improved method of treating peptic ulcers.

Co-delivery of amphotericin B and pentamidine loaded niosomal gel for the treatment of Cutaneous leishmaniasis

Topical drug delivery is preferable route over systemic delivery in case of Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Among the available agents, amphotericin B (AmB) and pentamidine (PTM) showed promising result against CL. However, monotherapy is associated with incidences of reoccurrence and resistance. Combination therapy is therefore recommended. Thin film hydration method was employed for amphotericin B-pentamidine loaded niosomes (AmB-PTM-NIO) preparation followed by their incorporation into chitosan gel. The optimization of AmB-PTM-NIO was done via Box Behnken Design method and in vitro and ex vivo analysis was performed. The optimized formulation indicated 226 nm particle size (PS) with spherical morphology, 0.173 polydispersity index (PDI), -36 mV zeta potential (ZP) and with entrapment efficiency (EE) of 91% (AmB) and 79% (PTM), respectively. The amphotericin B-pentamidine loaded niosomal gel (AmB-PTM-NIO-Gel) showed desirable characteristics including physicochemical properties, pH (5.1 ± 0.15), viscosity (31870 ± 25 cP), and gel spreadability (280 ± 26.46%). In vitro release of the AmB and PTM from AmB-PTM-NIO and AmB-PTM-NIO-Gel showed more prolonged release behavior as compared to their respective drug solution. Higher skin penetration, greater percentage inhibition and lower IC50 against the promastigotes shows that AmB-PTM-NIO has better antileishmanial activity. The obtained findings suggested that the developed AmB-PTM-NIO-Gel has excellent capability of permeation via skin layers, sustained release profile and augmented anti-leishmanial outcome of the incorporated drugs.

Quality by design for sumatriptan loaded nano-ethosomal mucoadhesive gel for the therapeutic management of nitroglycerin induced migraine

Migraine is a progressive neurological condition often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Various drugs have recently been used in the treatment of migraine, including sumatriptan (SUT). However, SUT has poor pharmacological effects mainly due to its reduced permeability, blood brain barrier (BBB) effect, half-life and bioavailability. Herein, we developed SUT loaded nano-ethosomes (SUT-NEs) for intranasal (IN) delivery, after their incorporation into chitosan based mucoadhesive gel (SUT-NEsG). The observed mean particle size of SUT-NEs was 109.45 ± 4.03 nm with spherical morphology, mono dispersion (0.191 ± 0.001), negatively charged (-20.90 ± 1.98 mV) and with excellent entrapment efficiency (96.90 ± 1.85 %). Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra have depicted the compatibility of the components. Moreover, SUT-NEsG was homogeneous having suitable viscosity and mucoadhesive strength. In vitro release and ex vivo permeation analysis showed sustained release and improved permeation of the SUT-NEsG, respectively. Additionally, histopathological studies of nasal membrane affirmed the safety of SUT-NEsG after IN application. In vivo pharmacokinetic study demonstrated improved brain bioavailability of SUT-NEsG as compared to orally administered sumatriptan solution (SUT-SL). Furthermore, significantly enhanced pharmacological effect of SUT-NEsG was observed in behavioral and biochemical analysis, immunohistochemistry for NF-κB, and enzyme linked immuno assay (ELISA) for IL-1β and TNF-α in Nitroglycerin (NTG) induced migraine model. It can be concluded that migraine may be successfully managed through IN application of SUT-NEsG owing to the direct targeted delivery to the brain.

Rivaroxaban-loaded SLNs with treatment potential of deep vein thrombosis: in-vitro, in-vivo, and toxicity evaluation

OBJECTIVES

Rivaroxaban (RXB), a novel Xa inhibitor having groundbreaking therapeutic potential. However, this drug is associated with few limitations, including its pharmacokinetics related toxicities. Here, we developed RXB-loaded SLNs (RXB-SLNs) to improve its biopharmaceutical profile. Methods: High pressure homogenizer was used to prepare RXB-SLNs, followed by their particle characterization, Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Dynamic light scattering (DSC), and Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) analysis. Beside this, in-vitro, ex-vivo, and in-vivo evaluation, prothrombin time assessment and toxicity was investigated.

RESULTS

RXB-SLNs had their particle size in nano range (99.1 ± 5.50 nm) with excellent morphology and low polydispersity index (0.402 ± 0.02) and suitable zeta potential (-25.9 ± 1.4 mV). The incorporation efficiency was observed around 95.9 ± 3.9%. In-vitro release profiles of the RXB-SLNs exhibited enhanced dissolution (89 ± 9.91%) as compared to pure drug (11 ± 1.43%) after 24 h of the study. PK study demonstrated a seven times enhanced bioavailability of RXB-SLNs when compared with pure drug. Furthermore, RXB-SLNs exhibited an expressive anti-coagulant behavior in human and rat blood plasma. Also, the final formulation exhibited no toxicity after oral administration of the SLNs.

CONCLUSIONS

All together, these studies revealed the capability of the SLNs for carrying the RXB with enhanced therapeutic efficacy and no toxicity, most importantly for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis.

Injectable Thermoresponsive Hydrogels for Cancer Therapy: Challenges and Prospects

The enervating side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs have necessitated the use of targeted drug delivery in cancer therapy. To that end, thermoresponsive hydrogels have been employed to improve the accumulation and maintenance of drug release at the tumour site. Despite their efficiency, very few thermoresponsive hydrogel-based drugs have undergone clinical trials, and even fewer have received FDA approval for cancer treatment. This review discusses the challenges of designing thermoresponsive hydrogels for cancer treatment and offers suggestions for these challenges as available in the literature. Furthermore, the argument for drug accumulation is challenged by the revelation of structural and functional barriers in tumours that may not support targeted drug release from hydrogels. Other highlights involve the demanding preparation process of thermoresponsive hydrogels, which often involves poor drug loading and difficulties in controlling the lower critical solution temperature and gelation kinetics. Additionally, the shortcomings in the administration process of thermosensitive hydrogels are examined, and special insight into the injectable thermosensitive hydrogels that reached clinical trials for cancer treatment is provided.

Development and In Vitro/Ex Vivo Evaluation of Lecithin-Based Deformable Transfersomes and Transfersome-Based Gels for Combined Dermal Delivery of Meloxicam and Dexamethasone

Transfersomes (TFS) are the promising carriers for transdermal delivery of various low and high molecular weight drugs, owing to their self-regulating and self-optimizing nature. Herein, we report synthesis and characterization of TFS loaded with meloxicam (MLX), an NSAID, and dexamethasone (DEX), a steroid, for simultaneous transdermal delivery. The different formulations of TFS containing varying amounts of lecithin, Span 80, and Tween 80 (TFS-1 to TFS-6) were successfully prepared by thin-film hydration method. The size of ranged between 248 and 273 nm, zeta potential values covering from -62.6 to -69.5 mV, polydispersity index (PDI) values in between 0.329 and 0.526, and entrapment efficiency of MLX and DEX ranged between 63-96% and 48-81%, respectively. Release experiments at pH 7.4 demonstrated higher cumulative drug release attained with Tween 80 compared to Span 80-based TFS. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of selected formulations -1 and TFS-3 revealed spherical shape of vesicles. Furthermore, three optimized transfersomal formulations (based on entrapment efficiency, TFS-1, TFS-3, and TFS-5) were incorporated into carbopol-940 gels coded as TF-G1, TF-G3, and TF-G5. These transfersomal gels were subjected to pH, spreadability, viscosity, homogeneity, skin irritation, in vitro drug release, and ex vivo skin permeation studies, and the results were compared with plain (nontransfersomal) gel having MLX and DEX. TFS released 71.72% to 81.87% MLX in 12 h; whereas, DEX release was quantified as 74.72% to 83.72% in same time. Nevertheless, TF-based gels showed slower drug release; 51.54% to 59.60% for MLX and 48.98% to 61.23% for DEX. The TF-G systems showed 85.87% permeation of MLX (TF-G1), 68.15% (TF-G3), and 68.94% (TF-G5); whereas, 78.59%, 70.54%, and 75.97% of DEX was permeated by TF-G1, TF-G3, and TF-G5, respectively. Kinetic modeling of release and permeation data indicated to follow Korsmeyer-Peppas model showing diffusion diffusion-based drug moment. Conversely, plain gel influx was found mere 26.18% and 22.94% for MLX and DEX, respectively. These results suggest that TF-G loaded with MLX and DEX can be proposed as an alternate drug carriers for improved transdermal flux that will certainly increase therapeutic outcomes.

Transdermal delivery of allopurinol-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier in the treatment of gout

BACKGROUND

Allopurinol (ALP), a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, is a first line drug for the treatment of gout and hyperuricemia. Being the member of BCS class II drugs, ALP has solubility problem, which affects its bioavailability. Also, ALP has shorter half-life and showed GI related problems. In present study, ALP was encapsulated in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) to ensure enhanced bioavailability, improved efficacy and safety in vivo.

METHODOLOGY

ALP-loaded NLCs were fabricated by micro-emulsion technique. The prepared NLCs were optimized via design expert in term of particle size, zeta potential and entrapment efficiency. FTIR, PXRD and TEM analysis were carried out to check chemical interaction, polymorphic form and surface morphology of the optimized formulation. ALP-loaded NLCs were then loaded into HPMC based poloxamer-407 gel and were characterized. In vitro and ex vivo analysis were carried out via dialysis membrane method and franz diffusion cell, respectively. Uric acid was used for induction of gout and the anti-gout activity of ALP-loaded NLCs gel was performed and compared with ALP suspension.

RESULTS

The optimized formulation had particles in nano-range (238.13 nm) with suitable zeta potential (-31.5 mV), poly-dispersity index (0.115) and entrapment of 87.24%. FTIR results confirmed absence of chemical interaction among formulation ingredients. XRD indicated amorphous nature of ALP-loaded NLCs, whereas TEM analysis confirmed spherical morphology of nanoparticles. The optimized formulation was successfully loaded in to gel and characterized accordingly. The in vitro release and drug release kinetics models showed sustained release of the drug from ALP-loaded NLCs gel. Furthermore, about 28 fold enhanced permeation was observed from ALP-loaded NLCs gel as compared to conventional gel. Skin irritation study disclosed safety of ALP-loaded NLCs gel for transdermal application. Furthermore, ALP-loaded NLCs gel showed significantly enhanced anti-gout activity in Sprague-Dawley rats after transdermal administration as compared to oral ALP suspension.

CONCLUSION

ALP-loaded NLCs gel after transdermal administration sustained the drug release, avoid gastrointestinal side effects and enhance the anti-gout performance of ALP. It can be concluded, that NLCs have the potential to deliver drugs via transdermal route as indicated in case of allopurinol.

Advancements in Rectal Drug Delivery Systems: Clinical Trials, and Patents Perspective

The rectal route is an effective route for the local and systemic delivery of active pharmaceutical ingredients. The environment of the rectum is relatively constant with low enzymatic activity and is favorable for drugs having poor oral absorption, extensive first-pass metabolism, gastric irritation, stability issues in the gastric environment, localized activity, and for drugs that cannot be administered by other routes. The present review addresses the rectal physiology, rectal diseases, and pharmaceutical factors influencing rectal delivery of drugs and discusses different rectal drug delivery systems including suppositories, suspensions, microspheres, nanoparticles, liposomes, tablets, and hydrogels. Clinical trials on various rectal drug delivery systems are presented in tabular form. Applications of different novel drug delivery carriers viz. nanoparticles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, microspheres, transferosomes, nano-niosomes, and nanomicelles have been discussed and demonstrated for their potential use in rectal administration. Various opportunities and challenges for rectal delivery including recent advancements and patented formulations for rectal drug delivery have also been included.

Macrophage targeting of nitazoxanide-loaded transethosomal gel in cutaneous leishmaniasis

Topical delivery is preferable over systemic delivery for cutaneous leishmaniasis, because of its easy administration, reduced systemic adverse effects and low cost. Nitazoxanide (NTZ) has broad-spectrum activity against various parasites and has the potential to avoid drug resistance developed by enzymatic mutations. NTZ oral formulation is associated with severe dyspepsia and stomach pain. Herein, NTZ-transethosomes (NTZ-TES) were prepared and loaded into chitosan gel (NTZ-TEG) for topical delivery. NTZ-TES were prepared by the thin-film hydration method and optimized statistically via the Box-Behnken method. The optimized formulation indicated excellent particle size (176 nm), polydispersity index (0.093), zeta potential (-26.4 mV) and entrapment efficiency (86%). The transmission electron microscopy analysis showed spherical-sized particles and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis indicated no interaction among the excipients. Similarly, NTZ-TEG showed optimal pH, desirable viscosity and good spreadability. NTZ-TES and NTZ-TEG showed prolonged release behaviour and higher skin penetration and deposition in the epidermal/dermal layer of skin in comparison with the NTZ-dispersion. Moreover, NTZ-TES showed higher percentage inhibition, lower half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) against promastigotes and higher macrophage uptake. Additionally, skin irritation and histopathology studies indicated the safe and non-irritant behaviour of the NTZ-TEG. The obtained findings suggested the enhanced skin permeation and improved anti-leishmanial effect of NTZ when administered as NTZ-TEG.

Macrophage targeting of nitazoxanide-loaded transethosomal gel in cutaneous leishmaniasis

Topical delivery is preferable over systemic delivery for cutaneous leishmaniasis, because of its easy administration, reduced systemic adverse effects and low cost. Nitazoxanide (NTZ) has broad-spectrum activity against various parasites and has the potential to avoid drug resistance developed by enzymatic mutations. NTZ oral formulation is associated with severe dyspepsia and stomach pain. Herein, NTZ-transethosomes (NTZ-TES) were prepared and loaded into chitosan gel (NTZ-TEG) for topical delivery. NTZ-TES were prepared by the thin-film hydration method and optimized statistically via the Box-Behnken method. The optimized formulation indicated excellent particle size (176 nm), polydispersity index (0.093), zeta potential (-26.4 mV) and entrapment efficiency (86%). The transmission electron microscopy analysis showed spherical-sized particles and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis indicated no interaction among the excipients. Similarly, NTZ-TEG showed optimal pH, desirable viscosity and good spreadability. NTZ-TES and NTZ-TEG showed prolonged release behaviour and higher skin penetration and deposition in the epidermal/dermal layer of skin in comparison with the NTZ-dispersion. Moreover, NTZ-TES showed higher percentage inhibition, lower half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) against promastigotes and higher macrophage uptake. Additionally, skin irritation and histopathology studies indicated the safe and non-irritant behaviour of the NTZ-TEG. The obtained findings suggested the enhanced skin permeation and improved anti-leishmanial effect of NTZ when administered as NTZ-TEG.

Macrophage targeting of nitazoxanide-loaded transethosomal gel in cutaneous leishmaniasis

Topical delivery is preferable over systemic delivery for cutaneous leishmaniasis, because of its easy administration, reduced systemic adverse effects and low cost. Nitazoxanide (NTZ) has broad-spectrum activity against various parasites and has the potential to avoid drug resistance developed by enzymatic mutations. NTZ oral formulation is associated with severe dyspepsia and stomach pain. Herein, NTZ-transethosomes (NTZ-TES) were prepared and loaded into chitosan gel (NTZ-TEG) for topical delivery. NTZ-TES were prepared by the thin-film hydration method and optimized statistically via the Box-Behnken method. The optimized formulation indicated excellent particle size (176 nm), polydispersity index (0.093), zeta potential (-26.4 mV) and entrapment efficiency (86%). The transmission electron microscopy analysis showed spherical-sized particles and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis indicated no interaction among the excipients. Similarly, NTZ-TEG showed optimal pH, desirable viscosity and good spreadability. NTZ-TES and NTZ-TEG showed prolonged release behaviour and higher skin penetration and deposition in the epidermal/dermal layer of skin in comparison with the NTZ-dispersion. Moreover, NTZ-TES showed higher percentage inhibition, lower half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) against promastigotes and higher macrophage uptake. Additionally, skin irritation and histopathology studies indicated the safe and non-irritant behaviour of the NTZ-TEG. The obtained findings suggested the enhanced skin permeation and improved anti-leishmanial effect of NTZ when administered as NTZ-TEG.

A cutback in Imiquimod cutaneous toxicity; comparative cutaneous toxicity analysis of Imiquimod nanotransethosomal gel with 5% marketed cream on the BALB/c mice

Herein, Imiquimod (IMQ) was incorporated in nanotransethosomes (nTES) to develop the IMQ-nTES nano-drug delivery system. IMQ-nTES was optimized using 23 factorial design. The optimized formulation was expressed with a particle size of 192.4 ± 1.60 nm, Poly-dispersibility of 0.115 ± 0.008, and IMQ percent entrapment efficiency of 91.05 ± 3.22%. Smooth and round morphology of IMQ-nTES vesicles was confirmed by TEM micrographs. Moreover, FTIR results have shown drug-excipient compatibility. The IMQ-nTES was laden inside the low molecular weight chitosan gel, which exhibited easy application, spreadability and no irritation to the applied skin. The release pattern has clearly exhibited improved dissolution properties of IMQ with the provision of the sustain release pattern. Higher IMQ content was deposited in deeper epidermis and dermis with IMQ-nTES gel, in contrast to ALDARA. In vivo, comparative toxicity study on BALB/c mice has shown significantly reduced (p < 0.001) psoriatic area severity index (PASI) score and less increment in ear thickness. Epidermal hyperplasia was an obvious finding with ALDARA which was, providentially, minimal in IMQ-nTES gel-treated skin. FTIR analysis of skin tissue has shown an enhancement of lipid and protein content in the ALDARA group, however, in the IMQ-nTES group no such change was observed. With ALDARA application, CD4+ T-cells and constitutive NF-κβ expression were significantly elevated, in comparison to the IMQ-nTES gel treated group. Moreover, the adequate expression of IFN-γ and cytotoxic CD8+ T-cells were suggesting the preserved IMQ efficacy with IMQ-nTES gel. Quantification of cutaneous as well as systemic inflammatory markers has also suggested the reduced psoriatic potential of IMQ-nTES gel. In essence, IMQ-nTES gel can be a suitable alternative to ALDARA owing to its better safety profile.

Topotecan-loaded thermosensitive nanocargo for tumor therapy: In vitro and in vivo analyses

This study demonstrates the development of topotecan (TCN) loaded thermosensitive nanocargos (TCN-TS-NC) for intramuscular (IM) administration with enhanced antitumor activity. In this regards, TCN loaded temperature dependent solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were prepared with micro-emulsion method, which were then incorporated into temperature sensitive poloxamer solution to develop TCN-TS-NC. The particle size, entrapment efficiency (%EE), zeta potential and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis of the TCN-TS-NC were performed. Moreover, the inject-ability, release pattern, apoptosis, cellular uptake, pharmacokinetics and antitumor studies of the TCN-TS-NC were attained and compared with TCN solution and TCN-Emulgel (poloxamer solution containing TCN). At room temperature, the TCN loaded SLNs were solid and poloxamer solution remains liquid, however, TCN loaded SLNs melted to liquid and Emulgel converted into gel from, at body temperature, resulting controlled release of the incorporated drug. The TCN-TS-NC showed enhanced cellular uptake and better apoptosis. Similarly, it reduces C_max and sustained its level for a significantly longer time in rats, as compared to the TCN-Emulgel and TCN solution. Moreover, a significantly improved antitumor activity was observed in TCN-TS-NC treated tumor bearing athymic nude mice when compared with the control, TCN solution and TCN-Emulgel applied mice. Thus, the TCN-TS-NC system showed control release of the drug with no initial fast effect. Furthermore, it enhanced the antitumor activity of TCN with comparatively no toxicity. It is therefore concluded that TCN-TS-NC could be a potentially more suitable drug delivery system for the delivery of TCN.

Development, Characterization, and Evaluation of SLN-Loaded Thermoresponsive Hydrogel System of Topotecan as Biological Macromolecule for Colorectal Delivery

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapeutic drugs cause severe toxicities if administered unprotected, without proper targeting, and controlled release. In this study, we developed topotecan- (TPT-) loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) for their chemotherapeutic effect against colorectal cancer. The TPT-SLNs were further incorporated into a thermoresponsive hydrogel system (TRHS) (TPT-SLNs-TRHS) to ensure control release and reduce toxicity of the drug. Microemulsion technique and cold method were, respectively, used to develop TPT-SLNs and TPT-SLNs-TRHS. Particle size, polydispersive index (PDI), and incorporation efficiency (IE) of the TPT-SLNs were determined. Similarly, gelation time, gel strength, and bioadhesive force studies of the TPT-SLNs-TRHS were performed. Additionally, in vitro release and pharmacokinetic and antitumour evaluations of the formulation were done.

RESULTS

TPT-SLNs have uniformly distributed particles with mean size in nanorange (174 nm) and IE of ~90%. TPT-SLNs-TRHS demonstrated suitable gelation properties upon administration into the rat's rectum. Moreover, drug release was exhibited in a control manner over an extended period of time for the incorporated TPT. Pharmacokinetic studies showed enhanced bioavailability of the TPT with improved plasma concentration and AUC. Further, it showed significantly enhanced antitumour effect in tumour-bearing mice as compared to the test formulations.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that SLNs incorporated in TRHS could be a potential source of the antitumour drug delivery with better control of the drug release and no toxicity.

Nanotechnology based solutions for anti-leishmanial impediments: a detailed insight

As a neglected tropical disease, Leishmaniasis is significantly instigating morbidity and mortality across the globe. Its clinical spectrum varies from ulcerative cutaneous lesions to systemic immersion causing hyperthermic hepato-splenomegaly. Curbing leishmanial parasite is toughly attributable to the myriad obstacles in existing chemotherapy and immunization. Since the 1990s, extensive research has been conducted for ameliorating disease prognosis, by resolving certain obstacles of conventional therapeutics viz. poor efficacy, systemic toxicity, inadequate drug accumulation inside the macrophage, scarce antigenic presentation to body's immune cells, protracted length and cost of the treatment. Mentioned hurdles can be restricted by designing nano-drug delivery system (nano-DDS) of extant anti-leishmanials, phyto-nano-DDS, surface modified-mannosylated and thiolated nano-DDS. Likewise, antigen delivery with co-transportation of suitable adjuvants would be achievable through nano-vaccines. In the past decade, researchers have engineered nano-DDS to improve the safety profile of existing drugs by restricting their release parameters. Polymerically-derived nano-DDS were found as a suitable option for oral delivery as well as SLNs due to pharmacokinetic re-modeling of drugs. Mannosylated nano-DDS have upgraded macrophage internalizing of nanosystem and the entrapped drug, provided with minimal toxicity. Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) was tackling by the utilization of nano-DDS designed for topical delivery including niosomes, liposomes, and transfersomes. Transfersomes, however, appears to be superior for this purpose. The nanotechnology-based solution to prevent parasitic resistance is the use of Thiolated drug-loaded and multiple drugs loaded nano-DDS. These surfaces amended nano-DDS possess augmented IC50 values in comparison to conventional drugs and un-modified nano-DDS. Phyto-nano-DDS, another obscure horizon, have also been evaluated for their anti-leishmanial response, however, more intense assessment is a prerequisite. Impoverished Cytotoxic T-cells response followed by Leishmanial antigen proteins delivery have also been vanquished using nano-adjuvants. The eminence of nano-DDS for curtailment of anti-leishmanial chemotherapy and immunization associated challenges are extensively summed up in this review. This expedited approach is ameliorating the Leishmaniasis management successfully. Alongside, total to partial eradication of this disease can be sought along with associated co-morbidities.

Preparation, Pharmacokinetics, and Antitumor Potential of Miltefosine-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to investigate the suitability of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) loaded with miltefosine (HePC) as an anticancer drug for the treatment of breast cancer.

METHODS

HePC-NLCs were prepared using a microemulsion technique and then evaluated for particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), incorporation efficiency, in vitro release of entrapped drug, and hemolytic potential. Furthermore, pharmacokinetic, biodistribution, and liver toxicity analyses were performed in Sprague-Dawley rats, and antitumor efficacy was evaluated in Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) and squamous cell carcinoma-7 (SCC-7) cells in vitro and in tumour-bearing BALB/c mice in vivo. Advanced analyses including survival rate, immunohistopathology, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) assays were performed to evaluate apoptosis in vivo.

RESULTS

The average particle size of the HePC-NLCs was 143 ± 16 nm, with a narrow PDI (0.104 ± 0.002), and the incorporation efficiency was found to be 91 ± 7%. The NLCs released HePC in a sustained manner, and this release was significantly lower than that of free drug. The in vitro hemolytic assay demonstrated a significantly reduced hemolytic potential (~9%) of the NLCs compared to that of the test formulations. The HePC-NLCs demonstrated enhanced pharmacokinetic behaviour over free drug, including extended blood circulation and an abridged clearance rate in rats. Furthermore, the HePC-NLCs exhibited higher cytotoxicity than the free drug in MCF-7 and SCC-7 cells. Moreover, the HePC-NLCs showed significantly enhanced (P < 0.005) antitumor activity compared to that of the control and free drug-treated mouse groups. Tumour cell apoptosis was also confirmed, indicating the antitumor potential of the HePC-NLCs.

CONCLUSION

These findings demonstrate the ability of NLCs as a drug delivery system for enhanced pharmacokinetic, antitumor, and apoptotic effects, most importantly when loaded with HePC.