Harnessing the potential of nanoengineered siRNAs carriers for target responsive glioma therapy: Recent progress and future opportunities

Past scientific testimonials in the field of glioma research, the deadliest tumor among all brain cancer types with the life span of 10-15 months after diagnosis is considered as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Even though the availability of treatment options such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, are unable to completely cure GBM due to tumor microenvironment complexity, intrinsic cellular signalling, and genetic mutations which are involved in chemoresistance. The blood-brain barrier is accountable for restricting drugs entry at the tumor location and related biological challenges like endocytic degradation, short systemic circulation, and insufficient cellular penetration lead to tumor aggression and progression. The above stated challenges can be better mitigated by small interfering RNAs (siRNA) by knockdown genes responsible for tumor progression and resistance. However, siRNA encounters with challenges like inefficient cellular transfection, short circulation time, endogenous degradation, and off-target effects. The novel functionalized nanocarrier approach in conjunction with biological and chemical modification offers an intriguing potential to address challenges associated with the naked siRNA and efficiently silence STAT3, coffilin-1, EGFR, VEGF, SMO, MGMT, HAO-1, GPX-4, TfR, LDLR and galectin-1 genes in GBM tumor. This review highlights the nanoengineered siRNA carriers, their recent advancements, future perspectives, and strategies to overcome the systemic siRNA delivery challenges for glioma treatment.

Azilsartan prevents muscle loss and fast- to slow-twitch muscle fiber shift in natural ageing sarcopenic rats

Sarcopenia is a musculoskeletal disease that reduces muscle mass and strength in older individuals. The study investigates the effects of azilsartan (AZL) on skeletal muscle loss in natural sarcopenic rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats aged 4-6 months and 18-21 months were selected as young-matched control and natural-aged (sarcopenic) rats, respectively. Rats were allocated into young and old control (YC and OC) and young and old AZL treatment (YT and OT) groups, which received vehicles and AZL (8 mg/kg, orally) for 6 weeks. Rats were then sacrificed after muscle function analysis. Serum and gastrocnemius (GN) muscles were isolated for further endpoints. AZL significantly improved muscle grip strength and antioxidant levels in sarcopenic rats. AZL also restored the levels of insulin, testosterone, and muscle biomarkers such as myostatin and creatinine kinase in sarcopenic rats. Furthermore, AZL treatment improved the cellular and ultrastructure of GN muscle and prevented the shift of type II (glycolytic) myofibers to type I (oxidative) myofibers. The results showed that AZL intervention restored protein synthesis in natural sarcopenic rats by increasing p-Akt-1 and decreasing muscle RING-finger protein-1 and tumor necrosis factor alpha immunoexpressions. In conclusion, the present findings showed that AZL could be an effective intervention in treating age-related muscle impairments.

Appraisal of folate functionalized bosutinib cubosomes against hepatic cancer cells: In-vitro, In-silico, and in-vivo pharmacokinetic study

Targeted therapies enhance the efficacy of tumour screening and management while lowering side effects. Multiple tumours, including liver cancer, exhibit elevated levels of folate receptor expression. This research attempted to develop surface-functionalised bosutinib cubosomes against hepatocellular carcinoma. The novelty of this work is the anti-hepatic action of bosutinib (BST) and folic acid-modified bosutinib cubosomes (BSTMF) established through proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase (SrC)/ focal adhesion kinase(FAK), reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and cell cytotoxicity. Later, the in-vivo pharmacokinetics of BSTMF were determined for the first time. The strong affinity of folic acid (FA) for folate receptors allows BSTMF to enter cells via FA receptor-mediated endocytosis. The particle size of the prepared BSTMF was 188.5 ± 2.25 nm, and its zeta potential was -20.19 ± 2.01 mV, an encapsulation efficiency of 90.31 ± 3.15 %, and a drug release rate of 76.70 ± 2.10 % for 48 h. The surface architecture of BSTMF was identified using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Atomic force microscopy (AFM). Cell-line studies demonstrated that BSTMF substantially lowered the viability of Hep G2 cells compared to BST and bosutinib-loaded cubosomes (BSTF). BSTMF demonstrated an elevated BST concentration in tumour tissue than in other organs and also displayed superior pharmacokinetics, implying that they hold potential against hepatic cancers. This is the first study to show that BSTMF may be effective against liver cancer by targeting folate receptors and triggering SrC/FAK-dependent apoptotic pathways. Multiple parameters demonstrated that BSTMF enhanced anticancer targeting, therapeutic efficacy, and safety in NDEA-induced hepatocellular carcinoma.

Transporter targeted-carnitine modified pectin-chitosan nanoparticles for inositol hexaphosphate delivery to the colon: An in silico and in vitro approach

Orally targeted delivery systems have attracted ample interest in colorectal cancer management. In this investigation, we developed Inositol hexaphosphate (IHP) loaded Tripolyphosphate (Tr) crosslinked Pectin (Pe) Chitosan (Ch) nanoparticles (IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs) and modified them with l-Carnitine (CE) (CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs) to improve uptake in colon cells. The formulated CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs displayed a monodisperse distribution with 219.3 ± 5.5 nm diameter and 30.17 mV surface charge. Cell-line studies revealed that CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs exhibited excellent biocompatibility in J774.2 and decreased cell viability in DLD-1, HT-29, and MCF7 cell lines. More cell internalization was seen in HT-29 and MCF7 due to overexpression of the OCTN2 and ATB0,+ transporter (CE transporters) compared to DLD-1. The cell cycle profile, reactive oxygen species, apoptosis, and mitochondrial membrane potential assays were performed to explore the chemo-preventive mechanism of CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs. Moreover, the in-silico docking studies revealed enhanced interactive behavior of CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs, thereby proving their targeting ability. All the findings suggested that CE-IHP@Tr*Pe-Ch-NPs could be a promising drug delivery approach for colon cancer targeting.

Synthesis of flaxseed gum/melanin-based scaffold: A novel approach for nano-encapsulation of doxorubicin with enhanced anticancer activity

Doxorubicin is a powerful chemotherapy medicine that is frequently used to treat cancer, but because of its extremely destructive side effects on other healthy cells, its applications have been severely constrained. With the aim of using lower therapeutic doses of doxorubicin while maintaining the same anti-cancerous activity as those of higher doses, the present study designs nano-encapsulation of doxorubicin by acrylamide grafted melanin as core and acrylic acid grafted flax seed gum as shell (DOX@AAM-g-ML/AA-g-FSG-NPs) for studies in-vivo and in-vitro anticancer activity. For biological studies, the cytotoxicity of DOX@AAM-g-ML/AA-g-FSG-NPs was examined on a cancerous human cell line (HCT-15) and it was observed that DOX@AAM-g-ML/AA-g-FSG-NPs exhibited very high toxicity towards HCT-15. In-vivo investigation in colon cancer-inflicted rat model also showed that DOX@AAM-g-ML/AA-g-FSG-NPs showed better anticancer activity against cancerous cells as compared to free doxorubicin. The drug release behavior of DOX@GML-GFS-NPs was studied at several pH and maximum drug release (95 %) was recorded at pH -7.2, and kinetic data of drug release was follows the Higuchi (R2 = 0.9706) kinetic model. Our study is focussed on reducing the side effects of doxorubicin by its nano-encapsulation in acrylamide grafted melanin as core and acrylic acid grafted flax seed gum that will also enhance its efficiency.

Azilsartan Ameliorates Skeletal Muscle Wasting in High Fat Diet (HFD)-induced Sarcopenic Obesity in Rats via Activating Akt Signalling Pathway

An association between the loss of skeletal muscle mass and obesity in the geriatric population has been identified as a disease known as sarcopenic obesity. Therefore, therapeutic/preventive interventions are needed to ameliorate sarcopenia. The present study investigates the effect of azilsartan (AZL) on skeletal muscle loss in High-Fat Diet (HFD)-induced sarcopenic obese (SO) rats. Four- and fourteen-months male Sprague Dawley rats were used and randomized in control and azilsartan treatment. 14 months animals were fed with HFD for four months and labeled as HFD-fed SO rats. Young & old rats received 0.5% carboxymethyl cellulose as a vehicle/AZL (8 mg/kg, per oral) treatment for six weeks. Grip strength and body composition analysis were performed after the last dose of AZL. Serum and gastrocnemius (GN)muscles were collected after animal sacrifice. AZL treatment significantly increased lean muscle mass, grip strength, myofibrillar protein, and antioxidant (superoxide dismutase & nitric oxide) levels in SO rats. AZL also restored the muscle biomarkers (creatine kinase, myostatin & testosterone), and insulin levels. AZL improves cellular, and ultracellular muscle structure and prevents type I to type II myofiber transitions in SO rats. Further, immunohistochemistry results showed increased expressions of pAkt and reduced expression of MuRF-1 and TNF-α exhibiting that AZL intervention could decrease protein degradation in SO rats. In conclusion, present results showed that AZL significantly increased lean mass, and restored muscle biomarkers, and muscle architecture. Taken together, the aforementioned findings suggest that azilsartan could be a possible therapeutic approach to reduce muscle wasting in sarcopenic obesity.

Crosslinked and PEGylated Pectin Chitosan Nanoparticles for Delivery of Phytic Acid to Colon

Polysaccharide-based nanoparticles (NPs) such as pectin/ chitosan (PN/CN) had always been of greatest interest because of their excellent solubility, biocompatibility, and higher suitability for oral drug delivery. This study employed blending-crosslinking of polymers (PN&CN) followed by emulsification-solvent evaporation to prepare and compare two sets of PEGylated NPs to deliver phytic acid (IP6) to colon orally as it has potential to manage colon cancer but fails to reach colon when ingested in pure form. The first set was crosslinked with Glutaraldehyde (GE) (GE*PN-CN-NPs) while the second set was crosslinked with sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) (TPP*PN-CN-NPs). IP6-loaded-GE/TPP*PN-CN-NPs were optimized using a central composite design. Developed TPP*PN-CN-NPs had a smaller size (210.6±7.93nm) than GE*PN-CN-NPs (557.2±5.027nm). Prepared NPs showed <12% IP6 release at pH 1.2 whereas >80% release was observed at pH 7.4. Further, NPs were explored for cytocompatibility in J774.2 cell lines, cytotoxicity, and cellular uptake in HT-29 and DLD-1 cell lines. While exhibiting substantial cytotoxicity and cellular uptake in HT-29 and DLD-1, the NPs were deemedsafe in J774.2. The PEGylated-TPP*PN-CN-NPs showed time-dependent uptake in J774.2 cell lines. Conclusively, the employed NP development method successfully delivered IP6 to colon and may also open avenues for the oral delivery of other drugs to colon.

Assessment of Anti-Arthritic Activity of Lipid Matrix Encased Berberine in Rheumatic Animal Model

AIM

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the drug delivery and therapeutic potential of berberine (Br) loaded nanoformulation in rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-induced animal model.

METHOD

The Br-loaded NLCs (nanostructured lipid carriers) were prepared employing melt-emulsification process, and optimized through box-behnken design. The prepared NLCs were assessed for in-vitro and in-vivo evaluations.

RESULT

The optimized NLCs exhibited a mean diameter of 180.2 ± 0.31nm with 88.32 ± 2.43% entrapment efficiency. An enhanced anti-arthritic activity with reduced arthritic scores to 0.66 ± 0.51, reduction in ankle diameter to 5.80 ± 0.27mm, decline in paw withdrawal timing, and improvements in walking behavior were observed in the Br-NLCs treated group. The radiographic images revealed a reduction in bone and cartilage deformation.

CONCLUSION

The Br-NLCs showed promising results in the management of RA disease, can be developed as an efficient delivery system at commercial levels, and may be explored for clinical application after suitable experiments in the future.

Downregulation of pro-inflammatory markers IL-6 and TNF-α in rheumatoid arthritis using nano-lipidic carriers of a quinone-based phenolic: an in vitro and in vivo study

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a joint ailment with multi-factorial immune-mediated degenerative pathogenesis, including genetic and environmental defects. Resistance to disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) happens due to excessive drug efflux over time, rendering the concentration insufficient to elicit a response. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a quinone-based phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that downregulate numerous pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, its pharmaceutical importance and therapeutic utility are underexplored due to intrinsic physicochemical characteristics such as inadequate biological stability, short half-life, low hydrophilicity, and less systemic availability. Tamanu oil-stabilised nanostructured lipid carriers (TQ-NLCs) were prepared and optimised using Box-Behnken design (BBD) with the size of 153.9 ± 0.52 nm and surface charge of -30.71 mV. The % entrapment efficiency and drug content were found to be 84.6 ± 0.50% and 14.75 ± 0.52%, respectively. Furthermore, the TQ-loaded NLCs (TQ-NLCs) assayed for skin permeation for transdermal delivery which significantly (p < 0.05) increased skin enhancement ratio 14.6 times compared to the aqueous solution of TQ. Tamanu oil displayed the synergistic anti-inflammatory potential with TQ in comparison to pure TQ, as evidenced against carrageenan (CRG)-induced paw oedema model and Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritic model. The arthritic and X-ray scores significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in TQ-NLCs and standard formulation-treated groups. Moreover, serum pro-inflammatory marker TNF-α and IL-6 levels were also significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in TQ-NLCs gel-treated group compared to the arthritic control group.

Polymeric Gel Scaffolds and Biomimetic Environments for Wound Healing

Infected wounds that do not heal are a worldwide problem that is worsening, with more people dying and more money being spent on care. For any disease to be managed effectively, its root cause must be addressed. Effective wound care becomes a bigger problem when various traditional wound healing methods and products may not only fail to promote good healing. Still, it may also hinder the healing process, causing wounds to stay open longer. Progress in tissue regeneration has led to developing three-dimensional scaffolds (3D) or constructs that can be leveraged to facilitate cell growth and regeneration while preventing infection and accelerating wound healing. Tissue regeneration uses natural and fabricated biomaterials that encourage the growth of tissues or organs. Even though the clinical need is urgent, the demand for polymer-based therapeutic techniques for skin tissue abnormalities has grown quickly. Hydrogel scaffolds have become one of the most imperative 3D cross-linked scaffolds for tissue regeneration because they can hold water perfectly and are porous, biocompatible, biodegradable, and biomimetic. For damaged organs or tissues to heal well, the porosity topography of the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) should be imitated. This review details the scaffolds that heal wounds and helps skin tissue to develop. After a brief overview of the bioactive and drug-loaded polymeric hydrogels, the discussion moves on to how the scaffolds are made and what they are made of. It highlights the present uses of in vitro and in-vivo employed biomimetic scaffolds. The prospects of how well bioactiveloaded hydrogels heal wounds and how nanotechnology assists in healing and regeneration have been discussed.

ECM Mimicking Biodegradable Nanofibrous Scaffold Enriched with Curcumin/ZnO to Accelerate Diabetic Wound Healing via Multifunctional Bioactivity

Introduction

Foot ulceration is one of the most severe and debilitating complications of diabetes, which leads to the cause of non-traumatic lower-extremity amputation in 15-24% of affected individuals. The healing of diabetic foot (DF) is a significant therapeutic problem due to complications from the multifactorial healing process. Electrospun nanofibrous scaffold loaded with various wound dressing materials has excellent wound healing properties due to its multifunctional action.

Purpose

This work aimed to develop and characterize chitosan (CS)-polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) blended electrospun multifunctional nanofiber loaded with curcumin (CUR) and zinc oxide (ZnO) to accelerate diabetic wound healing in STZ-induced diabetic rats.

Results

In-vitro characterization results revealed that nanofiber was fabricated successfully using the electrospinning technique. SEM results confirmed the smooth surface with web-like fiber nanostructure diameter ranging from 200 - 250 nm. An in-vitro release study confirmed the sustained release of CUR and ZnO for a prolonged time. In-vitro cell-line studies demonstrated significantly low cytotoxicity of nanofiber in HaCaT cells. Anti-bacterial studies demonstrated good anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities of nanofiber. In-vivo animal studies demonstrated an excellent wound-healing efficiency of the nanofibers in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Furthermore, the ELISA assay revealed that the optimized nanofiber membrane terminated the inflammatory phases successfully by downregulating the pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, MMP-2, and MMP-9) in wound healing. In-vitro and in-vivo studies conclude that the developed nanofiber loaded with bioactive material can promote diabetic wound healing efficiently via multifunction action such as the sustained release of bioactive molecules for a prolonged time of duration, proving anti-bacterial/anti-biofilm properties and acceleration of cell migration and proliferation process during the wound healing.

Discussion

CUR-ZnO electrospun nanofibers could be a promising drug delivery platform with the potential to be scaled up to treat diabetic foot ulcers effectively.

Effective uptake of folate-functionalized ethionamide-loaded hybrid system: targeting alveolar macrophages

Aim: To assess the targeting ability of hybrid nanosystems functionalized with folate. It also aimed to reduce stomach intolerance by substituting the oral route for parenteral delivery. Method: The nanosystems, prepared by nanoprecipitation technique, utilized a one-step method to prepare nanoparticles followed by surface functionalization through adsorption. The prepared nanosystems underwent physical characterization, in vitro and in vivo evaluations. Result: The nanosystems were effective in targeting the alveolar macrophages. Ethionamide was released from the formulation over 5 days. Fourier-transform infrared results proved the structural characteristics, and the positive charge further improved the targeting efficacy on the functionalized system. Conclusion: The hybrid formulation improved the release characteristics. Reduction in dosing frequency due to prolonged release improves compliance with the dosage regimen.

QbD Assisted Development of Lipidic Nanocapsules for Antiestrogenic Activity of Exemestane in Breast Cancer

Some breast cancers are caused by hormonal imbalances, such as estrogen and progesterone.These hormones play a function in directing the growth of cancer cells. The hormone receptors in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer lead breast cells to proliferate out of control. Cancer therapy such as hormonal, targeted, radiation is still unsatisfactory because of these challenges viz. MDR (Multiple drug resistance), off-targeting, severe adverse effects. A novel aromatase inhibitor exemestane (Exe) exhibits promising therapy in breast cancer. This study aims to develop and optimize Exe-loaded lipid nanocapsules (LNCs) by using DSPC, PF68 and olive oil as lipid, surfactant and oil phase, respectively and to characterize the same. The prepared nanocapsules were investigated via in-vitro cell culture and in-vivo animal models. The LNCs exhibited cytotoxicity in MCF-7 cell lines and enhanced anti-cancer activity and reduced cardiotoxicity in DMBA-induced animal model when compared to the drug. Additionally, in-vivo pharmacokinetics revealed a 4.2-fold increased oral bioavailability when compared with Exe suspension. This study demonstrated that oral administration of Exe-loaded LNCs holds promise for the antiestrogenic activity of exemestane in breast cancer.

Appraisal of anti-gout potential of colchicine-loaded chitosan nanoparticle gel in uric acid-induced gout animal model

Present study is aimed at transdermal delivery of colchicine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles. The nanoformulations were prepared utilising spontaneous emulsification method and optimised through 2³ factorial designs. The optimised formulation (CHNP-OPT) displayed an average particle size of 294 ± 3.75 nm, entrapment efficiency 92.89 ± 1.1% and drug content 83.45 ± 2.5%, respectively. In vitro release study demonstrated 89.34 ± 2.90% release over a period of 24 h. Further, CHNP-OPT incorporated into HPMC-E4M (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) to form transdermal gel. CHNP_gel displayed 74.65 ± 1.90% permeation and stability over a period of 90 days. The anti-gout potential of CHNP_gel formulation was evaluated in vivo against monosodium urate (MSU) crystal-induced gout in animal model. There was significant reduction in uric acid level, during MSU administration, when compared with the conventional gel of colchicine. The enhanced therapeutic potential was witnessed through X-ray. The study revealed that colchicine-loaded CHNP_gel proved their supremacy over plain colchicine and can be an efficient delivery system for gout treatment.

Appraisal of fluoroquinolone-loaded carubinose-linked hybrid nanoparticles for glycotargeting to alveolar macrophages

There is a curious case in Alveolar macrophages (AM), the frontline defence recruits that contain the spread of all intruding bacteria. In response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb), AM either contain the spread or are modulated by M.tb to create a region for their replication. The M.tb containing granulomas so formed are organised structures with confined boundaries. The limited availability of drugs inside AM aid drug tolerance and poor therapeutic outcomes in diseases like tuberculosis. The present work proves the glycotargeting efficiency of levofloxacin (LVF) to AM. The optimised formulation developed displayed good safety with 2% hemolysis and a viability of 61.14% on J774A.1 cells. The physicochemical characterisations such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) proved that carubinose linkage was accomplished and LVF is entrapped inside carubinose-linked hybrid formulation (CHF) and hybrid formulation (HF) in amorphous form. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed a core-shell structure of HF. The particle size of 471.5 nm estimated through dynamic light scattering (DLS) is enough to achieve active and passive targeting to AM. The nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) data revealed that the diluted samples were free from aggregates. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) data exhibited excellent uptake via CHF (15 times) and HF(3 times) with reference to plain fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC). The pharmacokinetic studies revealed that CHF and HF release the entrapped moiety LVF in a controlled manner over 72 h. The stability studies indicated that the modified formulation remains stable over 6 months at 5 ± 3℃. Hence, hybrid systems can be efficiently modified via carubinose to target AM via the parenteral route.

An assessment of in-vitro and in-vivo evaluation methods for theranostic nanomaterials

Nanoparticles (NPs) as nanocarriers have emerged as novel and promising theranostic agents. The term theranostics revealed the properties of NPs capable of diagnosing the disease at an early stage and/or treating the disease. Such NPs are usually developed employing a surface engineering approach. The theranostic agents comprise NPs loaded with a drug/diagnostic agent that delivers it precisely to the target site. Theranostics is a field with promising results in enhancing therapeutic efficacy facilitated through higher payload at the targeted tissue, reduced dose, and dose-dependent side effects. However, controversies in terms of toxicity and size-dependent properties have often surfaced for NPs. Thus, a stringent in-vitro and in-vivo evaluation is required to develop safe and non-toxic NPs as theranostic agents. The review also focuses on the various entry points of NPs in the human system and their outcomes, including toxicity. It elaborates the evaluation criteria to ensure the safe use of NPs for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Recent Findings on Thymoquinone and Its Applications as a Nanocarrier for the Treatment of Cancer and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Cancer causes a considerable amount of mortality in the world, while arthritis is an immunological dysregulation with multifactorial pathogenesis including genetic and environmental defects. Both conditions have inflammation as a part of their pathogenesis. Resistance to anticancer and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) happens frequently through the generation of energy-dependent transporters, which lead to the expulsion of cellular drug contents. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a bioactive molecule with anticancer as well as anti-inflammatory activities via the downregulation of several chemokines and cytokines. Nevertheless, the pharmacological importance and therapeutic feasibility of thymoquinone are underutilized due to intrinsic pharmacokinetics, including short half-life, inadequate biological stability, poor aqueous solubility, and low bioavailability. Owing to these pharmacokinetic limitations of TQ, nanoformulations have gained remarkable attention in recent years. Therefore, this compilation intends to critically analyze recent advancements in rheumatoid arthritis and cancer delivery of TQ. This literature search revealed that nanocarriers exhibit potential results in achieving targetability, maximizing drug internalization, as well as enhancing the anti-inflammatory and anticancer efficacy of TQ. Additionally, TQ-NPs (thymoquinone nanoparticles) as a therapeutic payload modulated autophagy as well as enhanced the potential of other drugs when given in combination. Moreover, nanoformulations improved pharmacokinetics, drug deposition, using EPR (enhanced permeability and retention) and receptor-mediated delivery, and enhanced anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. TQ's potential to reduce metal toxicity, its clinical trials and patents have also been discussed.

Synthesis of pH-sensitive crosslinked guar gum-g-poly(acrylic acid-co-acrylonitrile) for the delivery of thymoquinone against inflammation

The present work aims to synthesize the pH-sensitive crosslinked guar gum-g-poly(acrylic acid-co-acrylonitrile) [guar-g-(AA-co-ACN)] via microwave-assisted technique for the sustained release of thymoquinone. The synthesized material [guar-g-(AA-co-ACN)] was optimized by varying synthetic parameters viz. monomer concentration, reaction time, and microwave power to obtain the maximum yield of the crosslinked guar gum grafted product as well as maximum encapsulation of thymoquinone. The synthesized material [guar-g-poly(AA-co-ACN)] was characterized by FT-IR, SEM, XRD, NMR, zeta potential, and thermal techniques. This synthesized material was used to encapsulate thymoquinone (TQ) for effective nanotherapeutic delivery. In-vitro thymoquinone release behavior of guar-g-poly(AA-co-ACN) based nanoparticles (NpTGG) was investigated. The maximum thymoquinone release (78%) was achieved at pH 7.4 and time (6 h). The NpTGG also exhibited better antioxidant activity and hemocompatibility as compared to thymoquinone. Cytotoxicity of uar-g-(AA-co-ACN) and NpTGG was also evaluated against the human kidney VERO cell line and found to be nontoxic. Current research provides a cost-effective and green approach for the synthesis of guar-g-(AA-co-ACN) and NpTGG for sustained release of thymoquinone.

Appraisal of Nano-lipidic Astaxanthin cum Thermoreversible Gel and its Efficacy in Haloperidol Induced Parkinsonism

BACKGROUND

Parkinsonism has a toxic cascade of neurodegeneration, with akinesia as a major manifestation. Some antioxidants have shown promise against the disease. Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant, demonstrates free radical scavenging, and is also a potential neuroprotective agent.

OBJECTIVE

To formulate astaxanthin laden nanostructured lipid carriers based thermoreversible gel for better neuronal uptake and better neuronal efficacy.

METHODS

The method for fabricating astaxanthin-nanostructured lipid carriers (ATX-NLC) was melt-emulsification, and these were optimized using factorial design and further evaluated for diverse parameters. Neurotoxicity was induced in rats by haloperidol. The treated and non-treated rats were then witnessed for their behaviour. TBARs and GSH levels were also determined. Pharmacokinetics was studied via HPLC.

RESULTS

The average particle size (by DLS), entrapment efficiency and zeta potential of optimized ATX-NLC were 225.6 ± 3.04 nm, 65.91 ± 1.22 % and -52.64 mV respectively. Astaxanthin release (after 24 h in simulated nasal fluid) from optimized ATX-NLC was 92.5 ± 5.42 %. Its thermo-reversible nasal gel (ATX-NLC in-situ gel) was prepared using poloxamer-127. The obtained gel showed in-vivo betterment in the behaviour of animals when studied using rotarod and akinesia test. Pharmacokinetic studies showed better availability of astaxanthin in the brain on the rats treated with ATX-NLC in-situ gel as compared to those treated with ATX-in-situ gel.

CONCLUSION

Astaxanthin loaded lipidic nanoparticulate gel can be a hopeful adjuvant therapy for Parkinsonism and holds scope for future studies.

Fabrication of Imatinib Mesylate-Loaded Lactoferrin-Modified PEGylated Liquid Crystalline Nanoparticles for Mitochondrial-Dependent Apoptosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of concern as it has substantial morbidity associated with it. Previous reports have ascertained the antiproliferative activity of imatinib mesylate (IMS) against diverse types of carcinomas, but limited bioavailability has also been reported. The present study envisaged optimized IMS-loaded lactoferrin (LF)-modified PEGylated liquid crystalline nanoparticles (IMS-LF-LCNPs) for effective therapy of IMS to HCC via asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) targeting. Results displayed that IMS-LF-LCNPs presented an optimum particle size of 120.40 ± 2.75 nm, a zeta potential of +12.5 ± 0.23 mV, and 73.94 ± 2.69% release. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy were used to confirm the surface architecture of IMS-LF-LCNPs. The results of cytotoxicity and 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole revealed that IMS-LF-LCNPs had the highest growth inhibition and significant apoptotic effects. Pharmacokinetics and biodistribution studies showed that IMS-LF-LCNPs have superior pharmacokinetic performance and targeted delivery compared to IMS-LCNPs and plain IMS, which was attributed to the targeting action of LF that targets the ASGPR in hepatic cells. Next, our in vivo experiment established that the HCC environment existed due to suppression of BAX, cyt c, BAD, e-NOS, and caspase (3 and 9) genes, which thus owed upstream expression of Bcl-xl, iNOS, and Bcl-2 genes. The excellent therapeutic potential of IMS-LF-LCNPs began the significant stimulation of caspase-mediated apoptotic signals accountable for its anti-HCC prospect. ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (serum) metabolomics revealed that IMS-LF-LCNPs are capable of regulating the disturbed levels of metabolites linked to HCC triggered through N-nitrosodiethylamine. Therefore, IMS-LF-LCNPs are a potentially effective formulation against HCC.

Assessments of in vitro and in vivo antineoplastic potentials of β-sitosterol-loaded PEGylated niosomes against hepatocellular carcinoma

β-sitosterol (BS), a phytosterol, exhibits ameliorative effects on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to its antioxidant activities. However, its poor aqueous solubility and negotiated bioavailability and short elimination half-life is a huge limitation for its therapeutic applications. To overcome these two shortcomings, BS-loaded niosomes were made to via, film hydration method and process parameters were optimized using a three-factor Box-Behnken design. The optimized formulation (BSF) was further surface-modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG). The resulting niosomes (BSMF) have spherical shapes, particle sizes, 219.6 ± 1.98 nm with polydispersity index (PDI) and zeta potential of 0.078 ± 0.04 and -19.54 ± 0.19 mV, respectively. The drug loading, entrapment efficiency, and drug release at 24 h of the BSMF were found to be 16.72 ± 0.09%, 78.04 ± 0.92%, and 75.10 ± 3.06%, respectively. Moreover, BSMF showed significantly greater cytotoxic potentials on Hep G2 cells with an enhanced cellular uptake relative to pure BS and BSF. The BSMF also displayed potentially improved curative property of HCC in albino wistar rat. Thus, the BSMF could be one of the promising therapeutic modalities for HCC treatment in terms of targeting potential resulting in enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

Augmented Therapeutic Efficacy of Naringenin Through Microemulsion-Loaded Sericin Gel Against UVB-Induced Photoaging

Naringenin (NAR) is a flavonoid found in citrus fruits such as grapes and oranges. Recently, NAR has demonstrated its potential in inhibition of photoaging. The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of sericin (SR) gel loaded with NAR microemulsion (ME) to inhibit UVB-induced photoaging and prevention of epidermoid carcinoma in animal model. NAR -ME was prepared and optimized through Box-Behnken design. The optimized ME was loaded into sericin (SR) gel. The formulations were subjected to various in vitro, in vivo and cytotoxicity studies over A431 cell lines. The optimized ME revealed a globule size of 249.05 ± 3.78 nm, 6.7 ± 0.5 pH and 73.1 ± 2.11% release over a period of 24 h respectively. Cytotoxicity studies revealed a depression in IC₅₀ value in NAR -ME (65.11 ± 1.54 μg/ml) when compared with NAR (118.1 ± 2.09 μg/ml). The NAR-ME-SR gel displayed enhanced therapeutic potential when compared with plain NAR, in terms of augmented antiproliferative activity. Graphical abstract.

Biotin anchored nanostructured lipid carriers for targeted delivery of doxorubicin in management of mammary gland carcinoma through regulation of apoptotic modulator

Mammary gland tumour has the highest incidence rate and mortality in women, worldwide. The present study envisaged a molecularly targeted nanostructured lipid carrier (NLCs) for doxorubicin (Dox) delivery capable of inducing cellular apoptosis in mammary gland tumour. NLCs were prepared utilizing Perilla frutescens oil (54-69% ω3-fatty acid) as liquid lipid to enhance entrapment of Dox through molecular ion pairing. Biotin decorated NLCs (b-Dox-NLCs) were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. The b-Dox-NLCs showed particle size of 105.2 ± 3.5 nm, zeta potential -35 ± 2 mV, entrapment 99.15 ± 1.71%, drug content 19.67 ± 2.6 mg.g-1, biotin content 5.85 ± 0.64 µg.g-1 and drug release 98.67 ± 2.43% (facilitated by acidic microenvironment) respectively. MTT assay and Flow cytometric analysis revealed higher anti-proliferative capability of b-Dox-NLCs to force apoptosis in MCF-7 cell line vis-à-vis marketed Dox, evidenced by reactive oxygen species level and mitochondrial membrane potential mediated apoptosis. Enhanced antitumor targeting, therapeutic safety and efficacy was exhibited by b-Dox-NLCs, as investigated through tumour volume, animal survival, weight variation, cardiotoxicity and biodistribution studies in 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene induced mammary gland tumour. Immunoblotting assay demonstrated b-Dox-NLCs downregulated anti-apoptotic proteins, i.e. bcl-2, MMP-9 while upregulated pro-apoptotic proteins, i.e. caspase-9, p16 and BAX. The experimental results suggest that biotinylated ω3-fatty acid augmented NLCs loaded with Dox are capable of inducing programmed cell death in mammary tumour and can be utilized as safe and effective delivery system with enhanced potential for mammary gland carcinoma therapy.

Optimization of Inositol Hexaphosphate Colon Targeted Formulation for Anticarcinogenic Marker Modulation

Colorectal cancer has become the third most frequent reason of cancer death in men and women. Currently, natural compounds are being looked up to, for subversion and deterrence of cancers. Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) is one such naturally occurring phosphorylated carbohydrate present in most legumes and cereals which acts as a potential antineoplastic agent and can be used effectively to prevent and treat colon carcinomas. Despite the immense potential, due to the prevalence of high charge and ability to form salts and chelates with various divalent metals, it gets excreted out quickly from the body. On reaching the colon in its original form, it can serve as an effective anticancer agent. Therefore, a suitable dosage form that can prevent the drugs from being absorbed from the upper gastrointestinal tract is required to be prepared, to target it to the colon. Thus, microspheres of IP6 using a biodegradable polymer that degrades in the colon were attempted using the solvent evaporation method. The formulation was investigated for percentage yield, encapsulation efficiency, particle size distribution modification, and release rate. Optimized formulation showed particle size of 92 ± 0.76 μm, entrapment efficiency of 67.26% ± 0.75, percent drug loading of 15.74%, and in vitro drug release 82.36 ± 0.51. The results of the in vivo study divulged that IP6 loaded pectin microspheres showed significant positive modulation of biomarker levels and restoration of colonic architecture to almost normal as observed through histopathology and scanning electron microscopy studies in DMH-induced colon tumors in Albino Wistar rats.

In vitro and in silico molecular interaction of multiphase nanoparticles containing inositol hexaphosphate and jacalin: Therapeutic potential against colon cancer cells (HCT-15)

Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) is a natural constituent found in almost all cereals and legumes. It is known to cause numerous antiangiogenic manifestations. Notwithstanding its great potential, it is underutilized due to the chelation and rapid excretion from the body. Jacalin is another natural constituent obtained from seeds of jackfruit and can target disaccharides overexpressed in tumor cells. The current study was in-quested to develop and evaluate a surface-modified gold nanoparticulate system containing IP6 and jacalin which may maximize the apoptotic effect of IP6 against HCT-15 cell lines. IP6 loaded jacalin-pectin-gold nanoparticles (IJP-GNPs) were developed through reduction followed by incubation method. The developed formulation was tested for various in vitro and in silico studies to investigate its potential. HCT-15 cells when exposed to IJP-GNP resulted in significant apoptotic effects in dose as well as time-dependent manner, as measured using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, micronucleus, and reactive oxygen species assay. IJP-GNP displayed cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase. To further explore the mechanism of chemoprevention, in silico studies were performed. The docking results revealed that the interactive behavior of IP6, P-GNP, and jacalin could target and inhibit the tumor formation activity, supported by in vitro studies. Taken together, all the findings suggested that IP6 loaded nanoparticles may increase the hope of future drug delivery strategy for targeting colon cancer.

A facile approach for fabricating CD44-targeted delivery of hyaluronic acid-functionalized PCL nanoparticles in urethane-induced lung cancer: Bcl-2, MMP-9, caspase-9, and BAX as potential markers

Lung carcinoma ranks highest in cancer-related death (about 20% of total cancer deaths) due to poor prognosis and lack of efficient management therapy. Owing to the lack of effective therapeutic approaches, survival rate of less than 5 years persists over the years among non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Capsaicin (CAP) is well reported for its antiproliferative and antioxidant properties in various literature but lacks an appropriate delivery carrier. The present study was aimed to develop CAP-loaded hyaluronic acid (HA) nanoparticles (NPs) utilizing layer by layer technique to achieve enhanced and precise delivery as well as target specificity. The NPs were evaluated for in vitro release, particle size, zeta potential, and cytotoxicity on A549 cells. The optimized NPs exhibited a particle size of 194 ± 2.90 nm, - 27.87 ± 3.21 mV zeta potential, and 80.70 ± 4.29% release, respectively, over a period of 48 h. Flow cytometric analysis revealed superior performance of HA-PCL-CAP in terms of suppressed cell viability in A549 cell lines when compared with CAP and PCL-CAP. Further, HA-anchored NPs were evaluated in vivo for their therapeutic efficacy in urethane-induced lung carcinoma in rat model. The superlative therapeutic potential of HA-PCL-CAP was advocated from the results of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial membrane-mediated apoptosis. HA-PCL-CAP-administered groups presented greater therapeutic efficacy as revealed through reduced tumor volume and improved animal survival rate. A greater drug accumulation in tumor tissue as revealed from biodistribution studies evidences targeting potential of HA-PCL-CAP in urethane-induced lung carcinoma. Graphical abstract ᅟ.

A synergistic approach for management of lung carcinoma through folic acid functionalized co-therapy of capsaicin and gefitinib nanoparticles: Enhanced apoptosis and metalloproteinase-9 down-regulation

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is one of the most lethal cancers and lacks effective treatment strategy. Therapeutic efficacy can be improved through active targeting approach utilizing surface engineered nanoparticles (NPs) for cancer therapy.

PURPOSE

The present study envisioned development of Folic acid (FA) functionalized NPs for co-administration of gefitinib (Gnb) and capsaicin (Cap) respectively to enhance the therapeutic outcome by disabling the barriers related to tumors extracellular matrix.

RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURE

The FA conjugated Gnb/Cap polymeric (PLGA-PEG) NPs were prepared using oil in water emulsion technique and methodically developed using Quality by Design (QbD) concept employing central composite design. The developed formulations were subjected to various in vitro (A549 cell lines) and in vivo evaluations in urethane-induced lung cancer.

RESULTS

The modified NPs displayed particle sizes of 217.0 ± 3.2 nm and 213.0 ± 5.2 nm and drug release of 85.65 ± 3.21% and 81.43 ± 4.32% for Gnb and Cap respectively. Higher cellular uptake and lower cell viability in A549 cell line was displayed by functionalized NPs compared to free drug. Co administration of Gnb and Cap NPs displayed significant targeting potential, reduction in tumor volume while restoring the biochemical parameters viz., SOD, catalase, TBARS and protein carbonyl, towards normal levels when compared with toxic group. Significant down regulation was observed for anti-apoptotic proteins (MMP-9) and up regulation of pro-apoptotic proteins (caspase-3, caspase-9 and MMP-9) with co-therapy of Gnb and Cap NPs, when compared with individual therapy through Gnb/Cap.

CONCLUSION

Potentiation of the action of Gnb when co administered with Cap NPs can be a promising breakthrough for developing safe, effective and targeted delivery for lung carcinoma therapy.

ω-3 Fatty Acid Synergized Novel Nanoemulsifying System for Rosuvastatin Delivery: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation

The present study was undertaken to improve rosuvastatin (RSV) bioavailability and pharmacological response through formation of SNES using Perilla frutescens oil as lipid carrier. The composition of oil was estimated by fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis using gas chromatography. Solubility of RSV in Perilla frutescens oil and Cremophor EL was 25.0 ± 3.0 and 60.0 ± 5.0 mg/mL, respectively. Later, nanophasic maps and a central composite design were employed to determine the maximum nanoemulsion region and further optimize SNES in this study. Finally, the optimized formulation was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. FAME analysis revealed that PUFA content was 70.3% of total fatty acid. Optimized SNES formulation demonstrated particle size of 17.90 nm, dissolution 98.80%, cloud point 45°C, emulsification time 2 min, and viscosity 241.41 ± 5.52 cP. The hypolipidemic property of SNES was further explored using Triton X-100-induced hyperlipidemic rat model, and there were reductions of serum cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL and VLDL levels in the SNES-treated group as compared to the toxic control. Pharmacokinetic study of SNES revealed significantly higher C _max (60.13 ± 25.43 ng/mL) and AUC_0-∞ (6195 ± 42.38 ng h/mL) vis-à-vis marketed tablet (284.80 ± 13.44 ng/mL, 3131.72 ± 51.93 ng h/mL, respectively). RSV was successfully incorporated into ω-3 fatty acid-based SNES with improved pharmacokinetic parameters (~ 2-fold improved bioavailability) and better hypolipidemic properties, owing to the synergistic effects of hepatic lipid regulation itself. The results clearly explicated that ω-3 fatty acid-based SNES effectively enhanced bioavailability and pharmacological responses of RSV, suggesting that these formulations may be useful as alternative for hyperlipidemia treatment in future drug design perspective.

Hyaluronic Acid Decorated Naringenin Nanoparticles: Appraisal of Chemopreventive and Curative Potential for Lung Cancer

Lung carcinoma is the most common cancer in men and second in women (preceded by breast cancer) worldwide. Around 1 in 10 of all cancers diagnosed in men, lung cancer contributed to a total fraction of 20% cancer deaths. Naringenin (NAR) is well known for its chemopreventive properties since ancient times but lacks an appropriate delivery carrier. The objective of present study was to expand the functionality of naringenin loaded poly caprolactone (PCL) nanoparticles in terms of release, chemoprevention and therapeutics. Polymeric nanoparticles such as PCL lack target specificity; hence, surface modification was attempted using layer by layer technique (LBL) to achieve improved and desired delivery as well as target specificity. The designing of Hyaluronic acid (HA) decorated PCL nanoparticles were prepared by utilizing self-assembling LBL technique, where a polycationic layer of a polymer was used as a linker for modification between two polyanionic layers. Additionally, an attempt has been made to strengthen the therapeutic efficacy of PCL nanocarriers by active targeting and overcoming the extracellular matrix associated barriers of tumors using HA targeting cluster determinant 44 receptor (CD44). Cell cytotoxicity study on A549 cells and J774 macrophage cells depicted enhanced anticancer effect of NAR-HA@CH-PCL-NP with safe profile on macrophages. Uptake study on A549 cells advocated enhanced drug uptake by cancer cells. Cell cycle arrest analysis (A549 cell lines) demonstrated the superior cytotoxic effect and active targeting of NAR-HA@CH-PCL-NP. Further chemopreventive treatment with NAR-HA@CH-PCL-NP was found effective in tumor growth inhibitory effect against urethane-induced lung cancer in rat. In conclusion, developed formulation possesses a promising potential as a therapeutic and chemopreventive agent against urethane-induced lung carcinoma in albino wistar rats.

Rifaximin, a pregnane X receptor (PXR) activator regulates apoptosis in a murine model of breast cancer

The present study was proposed to investigate the effect of rifaximin (RFX) on methyl nitrosourea (MNU) induced mammary gland carcinoma in albino wistar rats.

Process optimization and photostability of silymarin nanostructured lipid carriers: effect on UV-irradiated rat skin and SK-MEL 2 cell line

The objective of the present work was to formulate a novel stable delivery system which would not only overcome the solubility issue of silymarin, but also help to increase the therapeutic value by better permeation, anticancer action and reduced toxicity. This was envisaged through the recent developments in nanotechnology, combined with the activity of the phytoconstituent silymarin. A 2(3) full factorial design based on three independent variables was used for process optimization of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC). Developed formulations were evaluated on the basis of particle size, morphology, in vitro drug release, photostability and cell line studies. Optimized silymarin-NLC was incorporated into carbopol gel and further assessed for rheological parameters. Stable behaviour in presence of light was proven by photostability testing of formulation. Permeability parameters were significantly higher in NLC as compared to marketed phytosome formulation. The NLC based gel described in this study showed faster onset, and prolonged activity up to 24 h and better action against edema as compared to marketed formulation. In case of anticancer activity of silymarin-NLC against SK-MEL 2 cell lines, silymarin-NLC proved to possess anticancer activity in a dose-dependent manner (10-80 μM) and induced apoptosis at 80 μM in SK-MEL 2 cancer cells. This work documents for the first time that silymarin can be formulated into nanostructured lipoidal carrier system for enhanced permeation, greater stability as well as anticancer activity for skin.

Oral delivery of allopurinol niosomes in treatment of gout in animal model

CONTEXT

Gout is a painful disorder which does not have an efficient delivery system for its treatment.

OBJECTIVE

Development and in vitro, in vivo evaluation of allopurinol-loaded nonionic surfactant-based niosomes was envisaged.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Niosomes were prepared with Span 20 and Tween 20 (1:1 molar ratio) using ether injection method. The formulations were screened for entrapment efficiency, particle size analysis, zeta potential, release kinetics, in vivo activity, and stability studies.

RESULT

Stable, spherical vesicles of average particle size 304 nm with zeta-potential and entrapment efficiency of 22.2 mV and 79.44 ± 0.02%, respectively, were produced. In vitro release study revealed 82.16 ± 0.04% release of allopurinol within 24 h. The niosomal formulation was further evaluated for its antigout potential in monosodium urate (MSU) crystal induced gout animal model. The formulation demonstrated significant uric acid level reduction and enhanced antigout activity when compared with the pure allopurinol.

DISCUSSION

The better antigout activity displayed by niosomal formulation could be attributed to sustained release of drug, higher drug solubility within biological fluids, better membrane interaction, smaller size, and presence of cholesterol and surfactant.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals that niosomes can be an efficient delivery system for the treatment of gout.