Raloxifene encapsulated spanlastic nanogel for the prevention of bone fracture risk via transdermal administration: Pharmacokinetic and efficacy study in animal model

This research work is to evaluate spanlastic-loaded raloxifene (RLX) nanogel administration via the transdermal route to avoid its hepatic metabolism and to enhance the bioavailability for better management of osteoporosis. RLX-loaded spanlastic nanogel was prepared and characterized for its viscosity, pH, spreadability, and texture profile. The formulation was applied on the skin surface of the animal for pharmacokinetic evaluation, and later, the efficacy of the formulation was assessed in ovariectomized female Wistar rats. The nanogel was obtained with a viscosity (2552.66 ± 30.61 cP), pH (7.1 ± 0.1), and spreadability (7.1 ± 0.2 cm). The texture properties, cohesiveness, and adhesiveness of the nanogel showed its suitability for transdermal application. Nanogel showed no sign of edema and erythema in the skin irritation test which revealed its safety for transdermal application. The t1/2 obtained for RLX-spanlastic nanogel (37.02 ± 0.59 h) was much higher than that obtained for RLX-oral suspension (14.43 h). The relative bioavailability was found to be 215.96% for RLX-spanlastic nanogel, and the drug and formulation did not show any toxicity in any of the vital organs, as well as no hematological changes occurring in blood samples. In microarchitectural measurement, RLX-spanlastic nanogel exhibited no unambiguous deviations along with improved bone mineral density compared to the RLX suspension treated group. Transdermal administration of RLX-spanlastic nanogel showed significant improvement of drug bioavailability (approx. twice to oral administration) without any toxic effect in the treated rats. Hence, spanlastic nanogel could be a better approach to deliver RLX via transdermal route for the management of osteoporosis.

Synergistically engineered nanotransethosomes for co-delivery of methotrexate and baicalin for enhanced transdermal delivery against rheumatoid arthritis: Formulation, characterization, and invivo pharmacodynamic evaluation

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease that significantly impacts the quality of life of those affected. Owing to the complex pathophysiology of RA, it is not possible for any singular treatment to entirely impede the progression of the disease. Hence, the current study aimed to adopt a holistic and synergistic approach towards the management of RA by means of a co-delivery strategy involving methotrexate (MTH), a conventional slow-acting anti-rheumatic drug, and baicalin (BCN), a bioactive phytochemical using a transethosomal (TRS) gel formulation. The present study aims to evaluate the potential benefits of administering MTH and BCN in nanoparticulate form, which may lead to improved stability and solubility, as well as enhanced penetration into the arthritic tissues of interest. The MTH-BCN-TRS that were synthesised exhibited small particle size of 151.3 nm and polydispersity index of 0.125, as well as a favourable zeta potential of -32.22 mV. Additional assessments were conducted, including a pharmacokinetic analysis, TEM, skin permeation analysis, and confocal microscopy. According to the Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) study, the formulated MTH-BCN-TRS gel exhibited superior MTH and BCN permeation through the skin layers when compared to the MTH-BCN suspension gel. The MTT experiment on Raw 264.7 and SW982 cell lines revealed a considerable reduction (P < 0.05) in the IC50 value of the MTH-BCN-TRS formulation (9.2 mM and 43.2 mM, respectively) in comparison to the drug suspension. According to the findings of the in vivo study, it was found that the MTH-BCN-TRS gel exhibits significantly promising anti-arthritic properties when compared to the conventional diclofenac gel. This was demonstrated through histopathological studies and radiographic analysis. Furthermore, skin irritation investigation on Wistar albino rats confirmed that the formulated MTH-BCN-TRS is a safe option for topical treatment on the skin. The present study has confirmed that the formulated TRS vesicles are a valuable carrier for the transdermal delivery of MTH and BCN, which may be used for the management of rheumatoid arthritis.

Nose to brain delivery of naringin loaded transniosomes for epilepsy: formulation, characterisation, blood-brain distribution and invivo pharmacodynamic evaluation

The current work limns the preparation of naringin-loaded transnioosomes (NRN-TN) to enhance NRN solubility, permeation and bioavailability via nasal mucosa for intranasal delivery. NRN-TN was created by the thin-film hydration technique, and with the BBD (Box-Behnken design), optimisation was carried out. NRN-TNopt was characterised for the vesicle size, PDI (Polydispersity index), zeta potential, entrapment efficiency (EE) and in vitro NRN release. For further assessment, nasal permeation study, study of Blood-brain distribution, TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy), and CLSM (Confocal Scanning Laser Microscopy) were conducted withal. The NRN-TNopt exhibited spherical as well as sealed vesicles with a considerable small size of 151.3 nm, an EE of 75.23 percent, a PDI of 0.1257, and an in vitro release of 83.32 percent. CLSM investigation revealed that the new formulation allows for higher NRN permeation across nasal mucosa than the NRN solution. The blood-brain distribution investigation revealed that intranasally administered NRN-TN had a greater Cmax and AUC0-24 h than orally administered NRN-TN. Seizure activity and neuromuscular coordination as measured by the rotarod test, biochemical estimate of oxidative stress indicators, and histological investigations demonstrated that the NRN-TN has superior anti-epileptic potential in comparison to the standard diazepam. In addition, nasal toxicity studies demonstrate that the NRN-TN formulation is safer for intranasal administration. This study confirmed that the created TN vesicle formulation is a valuable carrier for the intranasal administration of NRN for the treatment of epilepsy.

Nanotransethosomes for enhanced transdermal delivery of mangiferin against rheumatoid arthritis: formulation, characterization, invivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic evaluation

The present research study limns the preparation of MNF loaded transethosomes (MNF-TE) to improve MNF solubility, bioavailability and permeation through skin layers for transdermal delivery. MNF-TE was formulated using thin-film hydration method and optimization was done using Box-Behnken design (BBD). MNF-TEopt was characterized for Polydispersity index (PDI), vesicle size, entrapment efficiency, zeta potential and in vitro MNF release. For further evaluation, Pharmacokinetic study, Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Skin permeation study and Confocal scanning laser microscopy (CLSM) were performed withal. The MNF-TEopt presented spherical and sealed shape vesicles with small vesicle size of 148.6 nm, entrapment efficiency of 74.23%, PDI of 0.1139 and in vitro release of 65.32%. The CLSM study unveiled that the developed formulation has greater permeation of MNF across the skin layers in comparison with the MNF suspension gel. The pharmacokinetic study demonstrated C_max and AUC_0-24 h of 6.94 ± 0.51 μg/ml and 43.92 ± 7.90 μg.h/ml via transdermal route in comparison to C_max and AUC_0-24 h of 3.74 ± 1.91 μg/ml and 22.96 ± 9.76 μg.h/ml presented by MNF-TE oral administration. The in vivo study revealed that the MNF-TE gel has good anti-arthritic potential in comparison with the standard diclofenac gel which was evinced by radiographic analysis and histopathological studies. Further, skin irritation study on Wistar albino rats confirm that the developed MNF-TE formulation is safer for skin application. The current investigation corroborated that the prepared TE vesicle formulation is a treasured carrier for the MNF transdermal delivery for the management of rheumatoid arthritis.

Lipid-based nanoparticle-mediated combination therapy for breast cancer management: a comprehensive review

Breast cancer due to the unpredictable and complex etiopathology combined with the non-availability of any effective drug treatment has become the major root of concern for oncologists globally. The number of women affected by the said disease state is increasing at an alarming rate attributed to environmental and lifestyle changes indicating at the exploration of a novel treatment strategy that can eradicate this aggressive disease. So far, it is treated by promising nanomedicine monotherapy; however, according to the numerous studies conducted, the inadequacy of these nano monotherapies in terms of elevated toxicity and resistance has been reported. This review, therefore, puts forth a new multimodal strategic approach to lipid-based nanoparticle-mediated combination drug delivery in breast cancer, emphasizing the recent advancements. A basic overview about the combination therapy and its index is firstly given. Then, the various nano-based combinations of chemotherapeutics involving the combination delivery of synthetic and herbal agents are discussed along with their examples. Further, the recent exploration of chemotherapeutics co-delivery with small interfering RNA (siRNA) agents has also been explained herein. Finally, a section providing a brief description of the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents with monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) has been presented. From this review, we aim to provide the researchers with deep insight into the novel and much more effective combinational lipid-based nanoparticle-mediated nanomedicines tailored specifically for breast cancer treatment resulting in synergism, enhanced antitumor efficacy, and low toxic effects, subsequently overcoming the hurdles associated with conventional chemotherapy.

Development of Bedaquiline-Loaded SNEDDS Using Quality by Design (QbD) Approach to Improve Biopharmaceutical Attributes for the Management of Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB)

Background: The ever-growing emergence of antibiotic resistance associated with tuberculosis (TB) has become a global challenge. In 2012, the USFDA gave expedited approval to bedaquiline (BDQ) as a new treatment for drug-resistant TB in adults when no other viable options are available. BDQ is a diarylquinoline derivative and exhibits targeted action on mycobacterium tuberculosis, but due to poor solubility, the desired therapeutic action is not achieved. Objective: To develop a QbD-based self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system of bedaquiline using various oils, surfactants, and co-surfactants. Methods: The quality target product profile (QTPP) and critical quality attributes (CQAs) were identified with a patient-centric approach, which facilitated the selection of critical material attributes (CMAs) during pre-formulation studies and initial risk assessment. Caprylic acid as a lipid, propylene glycol as a surfactant, and Transcutol-P as a co-surfactant were selected as CMAs for the formulation of bedaquiline fumarate SNEDDS. Pseudo-ternary phase diagrams were constructed to determine the optimal ratio of oil and Smix. To optimize the formulation, a Box-Benkhen design (BBD) was used. The optimized formulation (BDQ-F-SNEDSS) was further evaluated for parameters such as droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI), percentage transmittance, dilution studies, stability studies, and cell toxicity through the A549 cell. Results: Optimized BDQ-F-SNEDDS showed well-formed droplets of 98.88 ± 2.1 nm with a zeta potential of 21.16 mV. In vitro studies showed enhanced drug release with a high degree of stability at 25 ± 2 °C, 60 ± 5% and 40 ± 2 °C, 75 ± 5%. Furthermore, BDQ-F-SNEDDS showed promising cell viability in A549 cells, indicating BDQ-F-SNEDDS as a safer formulation for oral delivery. Conclusion: Finally, it was concluded that the utilization of a QbD approach in the development of BDQ-F-loaded SNEDDS offers a promising strategy to improve the biopharmaceutical properties of the drug, resulting in potential cost and time savings.

Dissolving microneedle transdermal patch loaded with Risedronate sodium and Ursolic acid bipartite nanotransfersomes to combat osteoporosis: Optimization, characterization, in vitro and ex vivo assessment

Osteoporosis is a fatal bone-wearing malady and a substantial reason behind the impermanence of human life and economic burden. Risedronate Sodium along with Ursolic acid has been studied to ameliorate osteoporosis. To bypass problems associated with bioavailability, we have developed a microneedle transdermal patch loaded with optimized formulation nanotransfersomes. It was optimized using three factor, three-level Central composite design with independent variables namely, the concentration of phospholipid, surfactant, and sonication time on dependent variables (vesicle size, entrapment efficiency and Polydispersity index). Vesicles of size 271.9 ± 8.45 nm with PDI 0.184 ± 0.01, having entrapment efficiency of 86.12 ± 5.20% and 85.65 ± 4.88% for RIS and UA respectively were observed. In vitro release study showed the sustained release pattern with 78.16 ± 1.12% and 75.72 ± 1.01% release of RIS and UA respectively. Dissolving MN patch prepared from gelatin was found to have good strength and folding endurance with uniform drug content (98.68 ± 0.004%). Ex vivo permeation study revealed that up to 80% of the drug can be permeated within 24 h. CLSM analysis was also performed to show penetration of RU-NTRs. From the results obtained, we can conclude that dissolving MN patch loaded with RU-NTRs has great potential than its conventional counterpart.

Omega-3 fatty acid-based self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) of pioglitazone: Optimization, in vitro and in vivo studies

Pioglitazone (PGL) is an effective insulin sensitizer, however, side effects such as accumulation of subcutaneous fat, edema, and weight gain as well as poor oral bioavailability limit its therapeutic potential for oral delivery. Recent studies have shown that combination of both, PGL and fish oil significantly reduce fasting plasma glucose, improve insulin resistance, and mitigate pioglitazone-induced subcutaneous fat accumulation and weight gain. Nevertheless, developing an effective oral drug delivery system for administration of both medications have not been explored yet. Thus, this study aimed to develop a self-micro emulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) for the simultaneous oral administration of PGL and fish oil. SMEDDS was developed using concentrated fish oil,Tween® 80, and Transcutol HP and optimized by central composite design (CCD). The reconstituted, optimized PGL-SMEDDS exhibited a globule size of 142 nm, a PDI of 0.232, and a zeta potential of -20.9 mV. The in-vitro drug release study of the PGL-SMEDDS showed a first-order model kinetic release and demonstrated remarkable 15-fold enhancement compared to PGL suspension. Additionally, following oral administration in fasting albino Wistar rats, PGL-SMEDDS exhibited 3.4-fold and 1.4-fold enhancements in the AUC0-24h compared to PGL suspension and PGL marketed product. The accelerated stability testing showed that the optimized SMEDDS formulation was stable over a three-month storage period. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the developed fish oil-based SMEDDS for PGL could serve as effective nanoplatforms for the oral delivery of PGL, warranting future studies to explore its synergistic therapeutic potential in rats.

Linalool-Incorporated Synergistically Engineered Modified Liposomal Nanocarriers for Enhanced Transungual Delivery of Terbinafine against Onychomycosis

This work investigates the synthesis of linalool-containing invasomes for terbinafine (TBF-IN) in order to increase the solubility, bioavailability, and nail permeability of terbinafine (TBF) for transungual administration. TBF-IN was created utilising the thin-film hydration technique, and with the Box-Behnken design (BBD), optimisation was carried out. TBF-INopt were investigated for vesicle size, zeta potential, PDI (Polydispersity index), entrapment efficiency (EE) and in vitro TBF release. In addition, nail permeation analysis, TEM (transmission electron microscopy), and CLSM (confocal scanning laser microscopy) were performed for further evaluation. The TBF-INopt exhibited spherical as well as sealed vesicles with a considerably small size of 146.3 nm, an EE of 74.23 per cent, a PDI of 0.1612, and an in vitro release of 85.32 per cent. The CLSM investigation revealed that the new formulation had better TBF nail penetration than the TBF suspension gel. The antifungal investigation demonstrated that the TBF-IN gel has superior antifungal activity against Trichophyton rubrum and Candida albicans compared to the commercially available terbinafine gel. In addition, an investigation of skin irritation using Wistar albino rats indicates that the TBF-IN formulation is safe for topical treatment. This study confirmed that the invasomal vesicle formulation is an effective vehicle for the transungual delivery of TBF for the treatment of onychomycosis.

Insights into Pharmacological Potential of Apigenin through various Pathways on a Nanoplatform in Multitude of Diseases

Apigenin is a natural polyphenolic compound widely distributed as a glycoside in fruits and vegetables. Apigenin belongs to BCS class II with low solubility, which leads to poor absorption and bioavailability. It is mostly absorbed from the small intestine and extensively metabolized through glucuronidation and sulfation processes. Apigenin is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used as a chemopreventive drug in the management of various cancers. Pharmacological effects of apigenin have a wide range, from neuroprotective to treating renal disorders. Apigenin is non-toxic in nature and acts through various pathways (JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt, and NF-κB) to exert its therapeutic efficacy. Numerous formulations have been researched to enhance the bioavailability and pharmacological effects of apigenin. Combinatorial therapies are also researched to minimize the side-effects of chemotherapeutic drugs. The review presents pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic aspects of apigenin. Apigenin is safe for the treatment and management of numerous diseases. It can be easily incorporated into nanoformulation alone or in combination with other active ingredients to widen the therapeutic window. This review intends to help in drug optimization and therapeutic efficacy maximization for future studies.

Application of QbD based approach in development and validation of RP-HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of Methotrexate and Mangiferin in Dual-Drug Loaded Liposomes

The present study delineates the development of a novel rugged and sensitive stability indicating risk-based HPLC method for the concurrent estimation of methotrexate (MTX) and mangiferin (MNF) in dual drug-loaded-nanopharmaceuticals based on an analytical QbD approach. Preliminary screening trials along with systemic risk analysis were performed, endeavouring to explicate the critical method attributes namely pH, % orthophosphoric acid content and % methanol content that influences critical quality attributes. Box-Behnken design (BBD) was utilized for the optimization of the tailing factor as response for methotrexate and mangiferin in short run time. The chromatographic conditions were optimized by performing 17 experimental runs acquired from design expert software. The chromatographic conditions after the analysis of optimized zone within the confines of design space, were chosen as mobile phase water: methanol adjusted to pH 3.0 with 0.05% orthophosphoric acid (65:35, %v/v), flow rate 1.0 ml/min using an analytical column C₁₈ at an isobestic wavelength of 265 nm. Furthermore, the validation of the optimized method was done in accordance with ICH guidelines and were reckoned to be in the prescribed limits. The developed RP-HPLC method has high degree of practical utility for synchronous detection of methotrexate and mangiferin in pharmaceutical nano-dosage forms such as protein-based-nanoparticles, nanocrystals, polymeric-nanoparticles, metallic-nanoparticles, etc. in in vivo and invitro studies.

Exploring new frontiers in drug delivery with minimally invasive microneedles: fabrication techniques, biomedical applications and regulatory aspects

INTRODUCTION

Transdermal drug delivery is limited by the stratum corneum, inhibiting the therapeutic potential of the permeants. Microneedles (MN) have opened new frontiers in transdermal drug delivery systems. These micro-sized needles offer painless and accentuated delivery of drugs even with high molecular weights.

AREAS COVERED

The review embodies drug delivery strategies with microneedles with a description of MN types and fabrication techniques using various materials. The application of MN is not limited to drug delivery, but it also encompasses in vaccine delivery, diagnosis, phlebotomy and even in the cosmetic industry. The review also tabulates microneedle-based marketed formulations. In a nutshell, we aim to present a panoramic view of microneedles including the design, applications, and regulatory aspects of MN.

EXPERT OPINION

With the availability of numerous materials at the disposal of pharmaceutical scientists; the microneedle-based drug delivery technology has offered significant interventions towards the management of chronic maladies including cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, asthma, mental depression, etc. As happens with any new technology there are concerns with MN also such as biocompatibility issues with the material used for the fabrication. Nevertheless, the pharmaceutical industry must strive for preparing harmless, efficient, and cost-effective MN based delivery systems for wider acceptance and patient compliance.

Application of QbD based approach in development and validation of RP-HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of methotrexate and baicalin in dual-drug-loaded liposomes

The present study delineates the development of a novel, rugged and sensitive stability-indicating risk-based HPLC method for the concurrent estimation of methotrexate (MTX) and baicalin (BCL) in dual-drug-loaded-nanopharmaceuticals based on an analytical quality-by-design approach. Preliminary screening trials along with systemic risk analysis were performed, endeavouring to explicate the critical method attributes, namely pH, percentage of orthophosphoric acid and percentage of acetonitrile, that influence the critical quality attributes. Box-Behnken design was utilized for the optimization of the tailing factor as the response for MTX and BCL in a short run time. The chromatographic conditions were optimized by performing 17 experimental runs using design expert software. The chromatographic conditions were selected after the analysis of the optimized zone within the confines of the design space: water:acetonitrile adjusted to a pH of 3.0 with 0.05% orthophosphoric acid (60:40, %v/v) was the mobile phase, the flow rate was 1.0 ml/min and an analytical C₁₈ column was used at an isobestic wavelength of 282 nm. Furthermore, the optimized method was validated in accordance with the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use guidelines and was found to be within the prescribed limits. Therefore, the developed reversed-phase-high-performance liquid chromatography method has a high degree of practical utility for synchronous detection of MTX and BCL in pharmaceutical nano-dosage forms such as protein-based nanoparticles, nanocrystals, polymeric nanoparticles and metallic nanoparticles in in vivo and in vitro studies.

Application of QbD based approach in development and validation of RP-HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of Pregabalin and Naringin in Dual-Drug Loaded Liposomes

The current work delineates the development of a novel rugged & sensitive stability indicating risk-based HPLC method based on an analytical Quality-by-Design (QbD) approach for the concurrent estimation of Naringin (NRN) and Pregabalin (PRG) in dual-drug loaded nanopharmaceuticals. Preliminary screening trials were conducted, along with systemic risk analysis, in order to identify the critical method attributes, namely injection volume, pH, and acetonitrile content, that influence critical quality attributes. The Box-Behnken design (BBD) was used to optimise the tailing factor as a response to pregabalin and naringin in a short run time. The chromatographic conditions were improved by running 17 experimental runs generated by design expert software. After analysing the optimised zone within the confines of the design space, the following chromatographic conditions were chosen: mobile phase water: acetonitrile adjusted to pH 6.9 with phosphate buffer (80:20, %v/v), at flow rate of 1.0 ml/min using an analytical column C18 at an isobestic wavelength of 212 nm. Furthermore, the optimised method was validated in accordance with ICH guidelines and was found to be within the prescribed limits. The developed RP-HPLC method has a high degree of practical utility in invivo and invitro studies for synchronous detection of Pregabalin and Naringin in pharmaceutical nano-dosage forms such as protein-based nanoparticles, nanocrystals, polymeric nanoparticles, metallic nanoparticles, etc.

Precision engineering designed phospholipid-tagged pamidronate complex functionalized SNEDDS for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis

Disodium pamidronate, a second-generation bisphosphonate is a potent drug for the treatment of osteoporosis, which has been very well established by previous literature. It has very low oral permeability, leading to its low oral bioavailability, which restrict this drug to being administered orally. Therefore, the present research work includes the development of an orally effective nanoformulation of pamidronate. In this work, disodium pamidronate was complexed with phospholipon 90G for the enhancement of permeability and to investigate the phospholipon 90G-tagged pamidronate complex-loaded SNEDDS for oral delivery with promises of enhanced bioavailability and anti-osteoporotic activity. The rational design and optimization was employed using Central Composite Design (Design Expert^® 12, software) to optimize nanoformulation parameters. In this work, a commercially potential self nano-emulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) has been developed and evaluated for improved oral bioavailability and better clinical acceptance. The hot micro-emulsification and ultracentrifugation method with vortex mixing was utilized for effective tagging of phospholipon 90G with pamidronate and then loading into the SNEDDS nanocarrier. The optimized Pam-PLc SNEDDS formulation was characterized for particle size, PDI, and zeta potential and found to be 56.38 ± 1.37 nm, 0.218 ± 0.113, and 22.41 ± 1.14 respectively. Also, a 37.9% improved bioavailability of pamidronate compared to marketed tablet was observed. Similarly, in vivo pharmacokinetic studies suggest a 31.77% increased bone density and significant enhanced bone biomarkers compared to marketed tablets. The developed formulation is safe and effectively overcomes anti-osteoporosis promises with improved therapeutic potential. This work provides very significant achievements in postmenopausal osteoporosis treatment and may lead to possible use of nanotherapeutic-driven emerging biodegradable carriers-based drug delivery.

In Vitro and In Vivo Investigation of a Dual-Targeted Nanoemulsion Gel for the Amelioration of Psoriasis

Psoriasis, due to its unique pathological manifestations and the limited success of existing therapeutic modalities, demands dedicated domain research. Our group has developed nanotherapeutics consisting of bioactives such as Thymoquinone (TQ) and Fulvic acid (FA), which have been successfully incorporated into a Nanoemulsion gel (NEG), taking kalonji oil as oil phase. The composition is aimed at ameliorating psoriasis with better therapeutic outcomes. TQ is a natural bio-active that has been linked to anti-psoriatic actions. FA has anti-inflammatory actions due to its free radical and oxidant-scavenging activity. Our previous publication reports the formulation development of the NEG, where we overcame the pharmaco-technical limitations of combining the above two natural bioactives. In vitro evaluation of the optimized NEG was carried out, which showed an enhanced dissolution rate and skin permeation of TQ. This work furthers the pharmaceutical progression of dual-targeted synergistic NEG to treat psoriasis. A suitable animal model, BALB/c mice, has been used to conduct the in vivo studies, which revealed the effective anti-psoriatic action of TQ. Molecular docking studies corroborated the results and revealed a good binding affinity for both the targets of TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor) and IL-6 (Interlukin-6). Tissue uptake by Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), a skin interaction study of the gel formulation, and an antioxidant free radical scavenging assay (1-1 Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl DPPH) were also carried out. It was concluded that the NEG may be effective in treating psoriasis with minimal side effects.

Exploration of a W/O Nanoemulsion for Antibiofilm Activity against Cariogenic Enterococcus faecalis

A ciprofloxacin-loaded water-in-oil nanoemulsion (CPX-NE) was prepared and evaluated for the antimicrobial effect against oral biofilms produced by Enterococcus faecalis. CPX-NE was prepared by ultrasonication using functional excipients oleic acid (oil phase), Span 80 (surfactant), and Transcutol P (cosurfactant). Rheological parameters (viscosity = 20 ± 1.24 cp) confirmed optimum values for CPX-NE, a pH of 6.5 ± 0.23 suggested the simulation of CPX-NE with the pH of the mouth cavity, refractive index (1.46 ± 0.22), and % transmittance (92.34 ± 0.02) indicated the isotropic nature of the NE. The droplet size (72.19 ± 1.68 nm), polydispersity index (0.142 ± 0.02), and ζ potential (-28 mV) demonstrated a narrow size distribution and electrostatically stabilized NE. The morphology of the optimized formulation showed uniform spherical nanodroplets, as seen in fluorescence microscopy. In vitro drug release showed an initial burst effect followed by sustained release for 48 h, following Fick's diffusion. The minimum biofilm inhibitory and eradication concentration (MBIC/MBEC) was determined to compare CPX-NE with ciprofloxacin plain drug solution (CPX-PS) for their efficacy. CPX-NE demonstrated a significant inhibitory and eradication effect compared to CPX-PS. It was concluded that the developed CPX-NE has effective antibiofilm activity against E. faecalis and may be useful in the prevention and treatment of dental caries.

Quality by design-based development and validation of an HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of pregabalin and piperine in dual drug-loaded liposomes

The current research work describes the development of a rapid HPLC method for the concurrent detection of pregabalin and piperine in dual drug-loaded nanoformulations. The primary goal was to recognize the chromatographic conditions wherein propitious segregation of the integrants with quality peaks can be attained. An attempt to expound the target analytical profile was made to accomplish this goal, and critical method attributes (CMAs), viz. percentage acetonitrile content, injection volume and pH, which affect critical quality attributes (CQAs), were identified using systemic risk analysis. Box-Behnken design was employed to develop a relationship between CMAs and CQAs, which engenders an analytical design space. Efficient chromatographic separation for pregabalin and piperine was attained using an analytical C₁₈ column and mobile phase comprising acetonitrile-water (pH 6.9; 70:30%, v/v) in an isocratic elution mode with a 1 ml/min flow rate. The elution was descried at an isosbestic wavelength of 221 nm using a photodiode array detector. The International Conference on Harmonization guidelines were adopted for the developed HPLC method. The validated HPLC method can be further utilized for the simultaneous quantification and detection of pregabalin and piperine in other lipid-based nanopharmaceuticals such as polymeric nanoparticles, nanocrystals, solid-lipid nanoparticles, metallic nanoparticles, etc., in in vitro and in vivo studies.

Review on 3D printing in dentistry: conventional to personalized dental care

The CAD (Computer-aided design) and CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) have most applications in the manufacturing of fully automated, personalized dental devices and tailor-made treatment plans. 3D printing is one of the most rapidly expanding and new methods of manufacturing different things because of its on-demand and high productivity within the cost-effective manner which have a variety of applications in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, orthopaedics, engineered tissue models, medical devices, defence industries, automotive and aerospace sectors. Due to its emerging applications in the various sectors, the healthcare, Industries, and academic sectors are attracted towards the 3D printed materials. This review talks about the dental implants, polymers that are employed in concocting dental implants, critical parameters, and challenges which are to be considered while preparing these implants, advantages of 3D printing in the field of dentistry and the current trends. it discusses the variety of applications of 3D printed materials in the field of dentistry. Along with their method of fabrication, their critical process parameters (CPPs) are also discussed.

A Pharmaco-Technical Investigation of Thymoquinone and Peat-Sourced Fulvic Acid Nanoemulgel: A Combination Therapy

Thymoquinone has a multitude of pharmacological effects and has been researched for a wide variety of indications, but with limited clinical success. It is associated with pharmaco-technical caveats such as hydrophobicity, high degradation, and a low oral bioavailability. A prudent approach warrants its usage through an alternative dermal route in combination with functional excipients to harness its potential for treating dermal afflictions, such as psoriasis. Henceforth, the present study explores a nanoformulation approach for designing a fulvic acid (peat-sourced)-based thymoquinone nanoemulsion gel (FTQ-NEG) for an enhanced solubility and improved absorption. The excipients, surfactant/co-surfactant, and oil selected for the o/w nanoemulsion (FTQ-NE) are Tween 80/Transcutol-P and kalonji oil. The formulation methodology includes high-energy ultrasonication complemented with a three-dimensional/factorial Box-Behnken design for guided optimization. The surface morphology assessment through scanning/transmission electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy revealed a 100 nm spherical, globule-like structure of the prepared nanoemulsion. Furthermore, the optimized FTQ-NE had a zeta potential of -2.83 ± 0.14 Mv, refractive index of 1.415 ± 0.036, viscosity of 138.5 ± 3.08 mp, and pH of 5.8 ± 0.16, respectively. The optimized FTQ-NE was then formulated as a gel using Carbopol 971^® (1%). The in vitro release analysis of the optimized FTQ-NEG showed a diffusion-dominant drug release (Higuchi model) for 48 h. The drug permeation flux observed for FTQ-NEG (3.64 μg/cm²/h) was much higher compared to that of the pure drug (1.77 mg/cm²/h). The results were further confirmed by confocal microscopy studies, which proved the improved penetration of thymoquinone through mice skin. Long-term stability studies of the purported formulation were also conducted and yielded satisfactory results.

Investigation on utility of some novel terpenes on transungual delivery of terbinafine for the management of onychomycosis

Introduction: Onychomycosis is a fungal disorder of the nail which afflicts 5% of the population worldwide. The disease is strenuous to cure as it is chronic, hard to eliminate and tends to recur. Topical therapy is at the forefront for the treatment of many disorders of nail. However, the success rate of topical therapy has been halted owing to the poor permeation of topical therapeutics across densely keratinized nail barrier. Therefore, ungual drug permeation must be improved for an effective topical therapy. An approach to achieve this goal would be the use of terpenes from natural sources as potential penetration enhancers. This study is aimed to explore the effectiveness of some novel terpenes as potential penetration enhancers on transungual delivery of terbinafine. Methods: Ex-vivo permeation studies were performed by sopping the nail clippings of healthy human volunteers in control and working solutions containing terbinafine (5mg/ml) per se and terbinafine (5mg/ml) with 6% of each terpenes including lavandulol, safranal, rose oxide, limonene, 3-methyl-2-butene-1-ol, and linalool respectively for 48 hours. The terbinafine concentration in nail samples was determined using a HPLC method. Results: Statistical analysis showed that studied terpenes increase transungual penetration of terbinafine in the following order: linalool > rose oxide > 3-methyl-2-butene-1-ol > safranal> limonene>lavandulol acetate. Accordingly, linalool was found to be the most effective penetration enhancer for the transungual delivery of terbinafine. Conclusion: It is concluded that linalool can be used as safe and potential penetration enhancer for enhancing the transungual delivery of terbinafine for onychomycosis.

Impact of the residential green space environment on the prevalence and mortality of Type 2 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

The residential green space environment plays a significant role in the progression of social, neuropsychological, behavioral, and public health. Green spaces are considered one of the most important components of healthy life events. This study investigated the impact of the green space environment on the prevalence and mortality of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, 110 research articles were initially identified through search engines (Web of Science, Pub-Med, Medline, EMBASE, Scopus) using the keywords "green space, environment, prevalence, mortality, diabetes mellitus." Finally, out of 110, 16 (14.54%) original research publications were included in the analysis, and the remaining 94 (85.45%) articles were excluded. The sample size of these 16 studies was 4,615,359. These studies originated from China (4), Canada (3), the United States of America (2), Australia (2), and one study each from the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Korea, Belgium, and Bangladesh. The data on prevalence and diabetes mellitus were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

Worldwide total of 16 studies met the selection criteria. The results showed that a high green space environment was significantly associated with a decreased prevalence of diabetes mellitus (13 studies; OR=0.875, 95% CI=0.859-0.891; p<0.001; I2=61.0%) and mortality (3 studies; HR=0.917, 95% CI=0.904-0.930; p<0.001; I2=75.4%). The findings support the hypothesis that a green space environment significantly reduces the prevalence and mortality of diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSIONS

The residential green space environment significantly decreases the prevalence and mortality of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is suggested to establish strategies to keep residential areas and living environment green and clean to minimize air pollution and fight diabetes mellitus.

Spanlastics a Novel Nanovesicular Carrier: Its Potential Application and Emerging Trends in Therapeutic Delivery

Nanotechnology-based drug delivery system has played a very crucial role in overpowering the tasks allied with the conventional dosage form. Spanlastics, an elastic nanovesicle with an ability to carry wide range of drug molecules, make it a potential drug delivery carrier. Spanlastics have extended rising curiosity for diverse sort of route of administration. They can squeeze themselves through the skin pore due to elastic and deformable nature which makes them favorable for transdermal delivery. Spanlastics consist of non-ionic surfactant or blend of surfactants. Many researchers proved that spanlastics have been significantly augment therapeutic efficacy, enhanced drug bioavailability, and reduced drug toxicity. This review summarizes various vesicular systems, composition and structure of spanlastics, advantages of spanlastics over other drug delivery systems, and mechanism of drug penetration through skin. It also gives a brief on different types of drug encapsulated in spanlastics vesicles for the treatment of various diseases.

Investigation on utility of some novel terpenes on transungual delivery of fluconazole for the management of onychomycosis

BACKGROUND

Onychomycosis, the most prevailing affliction of the nail, accounts for approximately 90% of the toenail infection worldwide. Owing to this infection, the affected patients experience reduced quality of their life as its awful appearance undermines their daily activities and social interactions. Onychomycosis is notoriously strenuous to cure. Systemic therapy, though effective, possess severe complication of toxicities, contra-indication, and drug-drug interaction. Albeit topical therapy is favorable to its localized effect, its potency relates to the effective concentration of the antifungal drugs achieved at the infection site. An approach to accomplish this goal would be acquiring benefits from the terpenes as penetration enhancers from natural sources. This investigation aimed to study the effectiveness of six terpenes, namely safranal, lavandulol, rose oxide, 3-methyl-2-butene-1-ol, linalool, and limonene, as potential penetration enhancers for improved nail permeation of fluconazole through the human nail.

METHODS

Ex vivo permeation experiments were carried out by soaking the nail clippings of human volunteers in control and working solutions containing fluconazole (5 mg/ml) per se and fluconazole (5 mg/ml) with 6% of each terpene, including safranal, lavandulol, rose oxide, 3-methyl-2-butene-1-ol, linalool, and limonene, respectively, for 48 hours. The amount of fluconazole in nail clippings was quantified using an HPLC method.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis showed that fluconazole transungual permeation was influenced by the studied terpenes in the following order: safranal > lavandulol acetate > limonene > rose oxide (P-value > 0.05) while the other terpenes showed no significant difference with the control group and safranal represents as the most effective permeation enhancer for the transungual delivery of fluconazole.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that the safranal can be successfully used as a safe and potential permeation enhancer to enhance the transungual delivery of fluconazole for the treatment of onychomycosis.

Ameliorative effect of rubiadin-loaded nanocarriers in STZ-NA-induced diabetic nephropathy in rats: formulation optimization, molecular docking, and in vivo biological evaluation

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a significant source of end-stage renal illness all over the world in both developed and developing countries. The aim of the study was to optimize rubiadin-loaded niosomes (RLN) using Box-Behnken design for the management of streptozotocin-nicotinamide (STZ-NA)-induced DN in Wistar rats. The RLN were formulated by a "thin-layer hydration technique." The optimization of RLN was done by Box-Behnken design; the independent variables were cholesterol (CHOL), Span 80, and methanol, while the dependent factors were the vesicle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency. The optimized formulation was characterized for various biochemical parameters including anti-diabetic activity in Wistar rats. The optimized RLN presented vesicle size of 238 nm, zeta potential -68 mV, and entrapment efficiency 85%. A noteworthy decreased in blood glucose level was detected in STZ-NA-induced DN rats when orally treated with RLN (100 mg/kg/week and 200 mg/kg/week). Oral administration of RLN formulation considerably decreased the levels of urea, uric acid, and creatinine in DN rats. In addition, treatment of DN rats with RLN formulation considerably improves the level of TBARS, GSH, SOD, and CAT. The lipid profile of DN rats was also improved on treatment with RLN formulation. This study revealed that the prepared RLN formulation was successfully optimized by Box-Behnken design and found to be useful for the management of STZ-NA-induced DN in Wistar rats.

Phytochemical-Based Nano-Pharmacotherapeutics for Management of Burn Wound Healing

Medicinal plants have been used since ancient times for their various therapeutic activities and are safer compared to modern medicines, especially when properly identifying and preparing them and choosing an adequate dose administration. The phytochemical compounds present in plants are progressively yielding evidence in modern drug delivery systems by treating various diseases like cancers, coronary heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammation, microbial, viral and parasitic infections, psychotic diseases, spasmodic conditions, ulcers, etc. The phytochemical requires a rational approach to deliver the compounds to enhance the efficacy and to improve patients’ compatibility. Nanotechnology is emerging as one of the most promising strategies in disease control. Nano-formulations could target certain parts of the body and control drug release. Different studies report that phytochemical-loaded nano-formulations have been tested successfully both in vitro and in vivo for healing of skin wounds. The use of nano systems as drug carriers may reduce the toxicity and enhance the bioavailability of the incorporated drug. In this review, we focus on various nano-phytomedicines that have been used in treating skin burn wounds, and how both nanotechnology and phytochemicals are effective for treating skin burns.

Repurposing pentosan polysulfate sodium as hyaluronic acid linked polyion complex nanoparticles for the management of osteoarthritis: A potential approach

Osteoarthritis is still a disease burden for pharmaceutical scientists and strategy makers. It is associated with the chronic inflammation of joints especially weight-bearing joints like knee, hip, backbone, and phalanges. NSAIDs that are used for the management of inflammation associated with osteoarthritis have high side effects related to gastric upset, gastric ulcer, and long term treatment associated with liver and kidney damage. Nanotechnology has gained a huge scope for the management of arthritis as it can reach out to the deep inside the cell and alter cellular physiology as desired. The present study hypothesizes the use of polyion complex nanoparticles of hyaluronic acid linked Pentosan polysulfate sodium, a disease-modifying agent for the treatment of osteoarthritis administered through transdermal route. The hypothesis involves the use of drug repurposing as the drug was initially approved for interstitial cystitis, a condition of the urinary bladder associated with pain and swelling. Being very low oral bioavailability and gastric irritation profile, the transdermal route would be beneficial. To overcome the problem associated with the oral route, there is a need for the targeted approach that will particularly reach at inflammatory sites. Thereby transdermal delivery of hyaluronic acid linked Pentosan polysulfate sodium through polyion complex nanoparticle therapy will be a novel therapeutic approach to combat osteoarthritis.

Chitosan coated nanoparticles for efficient delivery of bevacizumab in the posterior ocular tissues via subconjunctival administration

In several ocular diseases, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level has been found to be unregulated. Bevacizumab, an anti-VEGF drug, is the most commonly used off level drug for diabetic retinopathy (DR). The present study was to evaluate the chitosan-coated poly (lactide-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (CS-PLGA NPs) for sustained and effective delivery of bevacizumab to posterior ocular tissues. The penetration of NP through sclera was studied by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). For pharmacokinetic study, bevacizumab loaded NPs were administered into the rat eye through subconjunctival injection (SCJ) and pharmacokinetic parameters were compared to drug solution. CLSM and pharmacokinetic study showed better penetration of formulation and higher concentration of bevacizumab in posterior ocular tissues. In retinopathy model, CS-PLGA NPs by SCJ route showed more reduction of VEGF level in retina than the topical and intravitreal administration of formulation. Thus, CS-coated PLGA NPs can be potentially useful as carriers to target retina.

Lipid engineered nanoparticle therapy for burn wound treatment

INTRODUCTION

Skin is the largest organ of the human body protecting the underlying organs and tissues from any foreign attack. Any damage caused in the skin may sometimes result in serious consequences within the internal body tissues. Burn is one such issue that damage the layers of skin and thereby makingthe skin vulnerableand pronefor any foreign matter to enter and cause serious diseases.

METHODS

An online literature assessment was steered for the lipid nanoparticles, burn wound treatments, and different types of nanoformulation. Appropriate information was taken from different electronic scientific databases such as Web of Science, Elsevier, Science Direct, Springer, PubMed, Google Scholar etc.,Additional data was summarized from textbooks, local prints and scripts.

RESULTS

Recent innovations and developments in nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems has shown promising results in minimizing the drawbacks associated with conventional therapies. Lipid based nanoparticles possess capabilities to deliver active agents to their target site without the possibility of degradation. Conventional therapy of burn wound is costly and the treatment is long lasting, making the patient uncomfortable. Moreover, italso doesn't yield satisfactory results or narrow effects.Encapsulation of bioactives inside the lipid core protects the active entity from pH and enzymatic degradations.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights the drawbacks associated with the conventional dosage forms. A lot of consideration is focused on the advancement of nanomaterials using innovative methods in wound care for treating burn wounds with the faster healing effect.This review article highlights recent developments in lipid based nanoformulations for treatment of burn wound injury.

A Validated, Rapid and Cost-Efficient HPTLC Method for Quantification of Gamma-Linolenic Acid in Borage Oil and Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity

Borage oil that is extracted from (Borago officinalis Linn.) is a well-known medicinal plant having various medicinal benefits. In this work, an affordable, simple, reliable, rapid and easily accessible high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method was developed for the estimation of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in borage oil. HPTLC method employs thin-layer chromatography (TLC) aluminum plates precoated with silica gel (G60F254) as the stationary phase, and the mixture of hexane:toulene:glacial acetic acid (3:7:1, v/v/v) was used as the mobile phase. Densitometric analysis of the TLC plates was carried out at 200 nm. The developed method showed well-resolved spots with retention factor (Rf) value of 0.53 ± 0.04 for GLA. Various experimental conditions like saturation time for chamber, solvent phase migration and width of the band were studied intensely for selecting the optimum conditions. The method validation was performed for parameters like linearity, accuracy, specificity and precision. The values of limit of detection and limit of quantification for GLA were found to be 0.221 and 0.737 μg/band, respectively. In nutshell, the developed HPTLC method was found to be highly sensitive for the estimation of GLA in the herbal oil samples and formulations.

GC-MS analysis of the methanolic extracts of Smilax china and Salix alba and their antioxidant activity

Smilax china L. (family Smilacaceae) and Salix alba L. (family Salicaceae) are plants that have been traditionally used to treat various ailments in Indian and Chinese medicine. A quantitative estimation of the methanolic extracts of these plants was performed by GC-MS analysis to obtain insight into its phytoconstituents responsible for therapeutic action. The antioxidant potential of the methanol extracts of Smilax china (MESC) and Salix alba (MESA) were assessed with DPPH by using a UV spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 517 nm. The prevailing compounds found in MESC were lactam sugars including 2,5-dimethyl-2,4-dihydroxy-3(2H)-furanon (1.40%), 1,5-anhydro-6-deoxyhexo-2,3-diulose (4.33%), and alpha-methyl-1-sorboside (1.80%); the two alkaloids found were 1,4-methane-4,4a,5,6,7,8,9,9a-octahydro-10,10-dimethyl cyclohepta[d] pyridazine (0.87%) and 1,3,7-trimethyl-2,6-dioxopurine(0.54%); terpenes included deltacadinene (0.39%), terpineol, (+)-cedrol (22.13%), 3-thujanol (0.77%), and 9,10-dehydro-cycloisolongifolene (0.34%); fatty acids included cis-vaccenic acid (4.98%) and telfairic acid (1.10%); esters included 1,2,3-propanetriol diacetate (7.56%), 7-hexadecenoic acid, methyl ester (1.77%), eicosanoic acid, and methyl ester (0.95%); and glycerol included 1,2,3-propanetriol (28.75%). The interesting compounds found in MESA were reducing sugars like D-allose (4.40%) and pyrogallol (10.48%), alkaloids like caffeine (63.49%), and esters like methyl octadecanoate (0.53%). Both fractions revealed considerable antioxidant activity. The reported existing phenolic compounds and terpenes are responsible for the antioxidant activity of the plant extracts.

Exploration of Nanoethosomal Transgel of Naproxen Sodium for the Treatment of Arthritis

BACKGROUND

The present work aimed to develop an ethosomal gel of naproxen sodium for the amelioration of rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE

In the present work, we have explored the potential of ethosomes to deliver naproxen into deeper skin strata. Further, the anti-inflammatory efficacy of naproxen ethosomal formulation was assessed using the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model.

METHODS

Naproxen sodium nanoethosomes were prepared using different proportions of lipoid S100 (50mg-200mg), ethanol (20-50%) and water, and were further characterized on the basis of vesicle morphology, entrapment efficiency, zeta potential, in-vitro drug release and ex-vivo permeation studies.

RESULTS

The optimized ethosomal formulation was found to have 129 ± 0.01 nm particle size, 0.295 Polydispersity Index (PDI), -3.29 mV zeta potential, 88% entrapment efficiency and 96.573% drug release in 24 hours. TEM and SEM analysis of the optimized formulation showed slightly smooth spherical structures. The Confocal laser scanning microscopy showed that ethosomes could easily infiltrate into deeper dermal layers (upto 104.9μm) whereas the hydroalcoholic solution of the drug could penetrate up to 74.9μm. Further, the optimized ethosomal formulation was incorporated into 1% carbopol 934 gel base and optimized wherein the transdermal flux was found to be approximately 10 times more than the hydroethanolic solution. Also, the in-vivo pharmacodynamic study of the optimized ethosomal gel exhibited a higher percentage inhibition of swelling paw edema than marketed diclofenac gel.

CONCLUSION

The ethosomal gel was successfully developed and has shown the potential to be a good option for the replacement of conventional therapies of rheumatoid arthritis.

Date seed extract-loaded oil-in-water nanoemulsion: Development, characterization, and antioxidant activity as a delivery model for rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disorder, affecting around 1% of the world population. Antioxidant activity plays important role to overcome the inflammation associated with arthritis. Phoenix dactylifera (date) seeds, generally considered as a waste product or utilized as food for domestic farm animals, have been used as a source of antioxidants at different disease conditions. The aim of the present study was to enhance the release of date seed extract in order to achieve high antioxidant activity. Nanoemulsion of methanolic extract of date seed was prepared by aqueous titration method. The selected formulations were exposed to thermodynamic stability and dispersibility tests. The optimized nanoemulsions were evaluated on the basis of droplet size (23.14 ± 0.055nm), polydispersity index (0.166 ± 0.124), percent transmittance (99.12 ± 0.0163), refractive index (1.36 ± 0.046), viscosity (cP) (12.30 ± 0.75), conductivity (µS/cm) (347.46 ± 1.10), and drug content (%) (99.67 ± 0.11). The in vitro release studies revealed that final optimized formulation has cumulative release of drug (57.51% ± 2.65%), which was more significantly greater as compared to drug suspension (26.44% ± 1.15%). Further in vitro antioxidant activity studies revealed that the developed methanolic extract of date seed-loaded nanoemulsion has more antioxidant potential when compared with methanolic extract.

Extraction of 11-Keto-β -Boswellic Acid from Indian Olibanum by Contemporary Extraction Modes: Optimization and Validation of HPTLC

BACKGROUND

Boswellic acids are the main constituents of Boswellia serrata gum. These comprises of four pentacyclic triterpenes, 11-keto-β-boswellic acid (KBA) being one of them.

OBJECTIVES

Comparing the extraction efficiency of KBA through microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and ultrasoundassisted extraction (UAE) followed by optimizing the extraction process using response surface methodology (RSM) and validation of HPTLC.

METHODS

UAE and MAE of KBA were carried out employing methanol as extracting solvent. Working out the better mode of extraction, single factorial experiments were conducted for further optimization. Design expert software was used for optimization purpose where solvent to drug ratio, extraction temperature and extraction time were taken as input variables. Quantification of KBA in each extract was done through High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) and the method was validated as per International Council for Harmonization (ICH) guidelines.

RESULTS

UAE stood out to be better mode of extraction for KBA. Solvent to drug ratio of 21.54 mL/gram, extraction temperature of 45.12°C and extraction time of 10.02 minutes were established as optimum conditions which yielded 8.59%w/w of KBA. Regarding HPTLC, the Rf value of KBA was measured and correlation coefficient was calculated from standard curve. Accuracy, precision and recovery were found within limits.

CONCLUSION

From this study, it was concluded that a non-thermal method is better choice of extraction for KBA. All the input variables significantly affected KBA content which was confirmed by model fitting. Moreover, HPTLC method was developed for quantification of KBA which was found to be accurate, reliable and highly sensitive.

Grafting of Biodegradable Polyesters on Cellulose for Biocomposites: Characterization and Biodegradation

Sustainable, biodegradable and thermoplastic processable aliphatic polyesters (polybutylene succinate (PBS) and polyethylene succinate (PES)) were prepared and characterized; then, they were grafted onto cellulose micro-fibers using a simple click reaction. This modification was conducted under simple experimental conditions. The characterization (NMR and FTIR analysis), thermal properties, solubility, morphology and biodegradation process of the all products prepared were established and studied. The results show that the solubility of the prepared derivatives is improved in comparison with cellulose, while their thermal stability showed a slight decrease compared to the starting materials. The composites derived from the modified cellulose show a slight decrease in their biodegradability in comparison with that of unmodified cellulose due to several parameters.

Analytical Quality by Design (AQbD) Approach Based HPTLC Method for Quantification of Fisetin with Superior Recovery in Formulations

Background:

A stability indicating high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) method was developed for the evaluation of fisetin (FIS) in active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and marketed capsule formulation in accordance with the ICH guidelines.

Methods:

The mobile phase combination toluene: ethyl acetate: formic acid: methanol (3: 5.5: 1: 0.5 v/v/v/v) was optimized with the aid of AQbD approach. The absorbance mode at 254 nm was chosen for densitometric analysis as it gives a compact spot of FIS at Rf value of 0.74.

Results:

The R2 value obtained from the linear regression equation of calibration plots made by taking the spot in the concentration range of 100-1400 ng/spot was found to be 0.9993. The observed LOD and LOQ value was found to be 29.8 ng/spot and 98.5 ng/spot, respectively. The exposure of FIS to various stress conditions revealed the fact that the drug is stable in photochemical and dry heat stress conditions without any degradation. The drug-exposed to acidic, alkaline and oxidative stress was found to be degraded into different degradation products with the highest degradation was found in alkaline stress. All degradation products were observed to be fairly separated from well-resolved parent peak of FIS.

Conclusion:

The developed HPTLC method have shown well-resolved peaks and also shown good recovery in the compound FIS as well as FIS formulation.

Preparation and optimization of fisetin loaded glycerol based soft nanovesicles by Box-Behnken design

The present study focused on the development and optimization of glycerosomes for dermal delivery of fisetin. The fisetin loaded glycerosomes formulation was optimized by Box-Behnken design. The independent variables were the lipoid S 100, glycerol, and sonication time, whereas the dependent variables were the vesicles size, entrapment efficiency, and flux. The mechanism of skin penetration of fisetin loaded glycerosomes formulation was determined by the DSC and FTIR studies. Confocal scanning microscopy was used to detect the penetration ability of glycerosomes. The optimized fisetin loaded glycerosomes formulation was converted into a Carbopol® gel matrix, and the latter was analyzed for various parameters. The optimized formulation of glycerosomes presented vesicles size, entrapment efficiency and flux of 138.8 ± 4.09 nm, 86.41 ± 2.95% and 5.04 ± 0.17 µg/cm²/h, respectively. The transmission electron microscopy of optimized fisetin loaded formulation revealed the spherical and sealed structure of glycerosomes vesicles. The confocal study confirmed that the Rhodamine B incorporated glycerosomes penetrated up to deeper layers of skin. The DSC and FTIR studies revealed that the hydration of skin layers and skin lipid fluidization could be the penetration mechanism of fisetin glycerosomes formulation. The optimized fisetin loaded glycerosomes gel formulation presented a flux of 4.24 ± 0.14 μg/cm²/h, and exhibited zero-order release kinetics. The texture analysis of fisetin glycerosomes gel displayed a sufficient hardness, consistency, cohesiveness, and index of viscosity. It was concluded that the prepared fisetin loaded glycerosomes gel was suitable for the dermal application.

Formulation and Evaluation of Neuroactive Drug Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticle for Nose to Brain Delivery: In-vitro Characterization and In-vivo Behavior Study

BACKGROUND

The present work was designed to explore the efficacy of neuroactive drug (risperidone) loaded chitosan lipid nanoparticle (RIS-CH-LNPs) to enhance the bioactivity in schizophrenia via the nasal route.

METHODS

The three-factor and three-level formulation by design approach was used for optimization and their effects were observed on (Y1) size in nm, (Y2) % drug loading, and (Y3) % drug release. The optimized formulation RIS-CH-LNPopt was further evaluated for its surface morphology, ex-vivo permeation study, in-vivo behavior study, and stability study. The developed RIS-CH-LNPs showed nanometric size range with high drug loading and prolonged drug release.

RESULTS

The optimized formulation (RIS-CH-LNPopt) has shown the particle size (132.7 nm), drug loading (7.6 %), drug release (80.7 %) and further ex-vivo permeation study showed 2.32 fold enhancement over RIS-SUS(suspension). In-vivo behavior studies showed that RIS-CH-LNPopt is able to show significant greater bioefficacy as compared to RIS-SUS [intranasal (i.n), intravenous (i.v)]. The pharmacokinetic and brain/plasma ratio of developed chitosan nanoparticle was higher at all time-points as compared to RIS-SUS either given by intranasal or intravenous route that proves the direct nose to brain transport pathway of the drug via nasal administration. The developed chitosan nanoparticle increases nose to brain drug delivery as compared to the dispersion of equivalent dose.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study substantiate the existence of a direct nose-to-brain delivery route for RIS-CH-LNPs.