Characterization of cisplatin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles and rituximab-linked surfaces as target-specific injectable nano-formulations for combating cancer

The present study was carried out to develop cisplatin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CCNP) and cisplatin-loaded chitosan nanoparticle surface linked to rituximab (mAbCCNP) as targeted delivery formulations. The two formulations (CCNP and mAbCCNP) exhibited significant physicochemical properties. The zetapotential (ZP) values of CCNP and mAbCCNP were 30.50 ± 5.64 and 26.90 ± 9.09 mV, respectively; while their particle sizes were 308.10 ± 1.10 and 349.40 ± 3.20 z.d.nm, respectively. The poly dispersity index (PDI) of CCNP was 0.257 ± 0.030 (66.6% PDI), while that of mAbCCNP was 0.444 ± 0.007 (57.60% PDI). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed that CCNP had endothermic peaks at temperatures ranging from 135.50 to 157.69 °C. A sharp exothermic peak was observed at 95.79 °C, and an endothermic peak was observed at 166.60 °C. The XRD study on CCNP and mAbCCNP revealed distinct peaks at 2θ. Four peaks at 35.38°, 37.47°, 49.29°, and 59.94° corresponded to CCNP, while three distinct peaks at 36.6°, 49.12°, and 55.08° corresponded to mAbCCNP. The in vitro release of cisplatin from nanoparticles followed zero order kinetics in both CCNP and mAbCCNP. The profile for CCNP showed 43.80% release of cisplatin in 6 h (R2 = 0.9322), indicating linearity of release with minimal deviation. However, the release profile of mAbCCNP showed 22.52% release in 4 h (R2 = 0.9416), indicating linearity with sustained release. In vitro cytotoxicity studies on MCF-7 ATCC human breast cancer cell line showed that CCNP exerted good cytotoxicity, with IC50 of 4.085 ± 0.065 µg/mL. However, mAbCCNP did not elicit any cytotoxic effect. At a dose of 4.00 µg/mL cisplatin induced early apoptosis and late apoptosis, chromatin condensation, while it produced secondary necrosis at a dose of 8.00 µg/mL. Potential delivery system for cisplatin CCNP and mAbCCNP were successfully formulated. The results indicated that CCNP was a more successful formulation than mAbCCNP due to lack of specificity of rituximab against MCF-7 ATCC human breast cancer cells.

Bioactive Principles and Potentiality of Hot Methanolic Extract of the Leaves from Artemisia absinthium L "in vitro Cytotoxicity Against Human MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells, Antibacterial Study and Wound Healing Activity"

BACKGROUND

Artemisia absinthium L is an ornamental plant widespread in Saudi Arabia. Traditionally, the plant has been used in the Arabic medicine. But the scientific evidence of the bioactive compounds and their medicinal value was not yet explored widely.

OBJECTIVE

The study was designed to analyse the bioactive principles and medicinal properties of Artemisia absinthium L, a traditional herb grown in southern part of Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

The bioactive compounds present in Hot Methanolic Extract of the Leaves (HMEL) of Artemisia absinthium L. was explored by GC-MS analysis. The cytotoxicity effect of HMEL was determined against MCF-7 breast cancer cells ATCC and human colon cancer cells HCT 116 ATCC by performing MTT assay. Morphological changes of HMEL treated MCF-7 were observed under a phasecontrast microscope by staining the cells with neutral red. A Reaction Mixture (RM) of HMEL was prepared in Milli-Q water and antibacterial susceptibility was performed against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Furthermore, in vivo wound healing properties of the RM was screened in male rats and their efficacy was compared with standard povidone iodine cream. Biomarkers such as IL-1β, IL- 6, TNF- α, caspase-9 and caspase-3 levels were determined to qualify the wound healing property.

RESULTS

Epiyangambin, flavone, octadecanoic acid, 2,3-dihydroxypropyl ester, palmitic acid β - monoglyceride, á-D-mannofuranoside, camphor, and terpineol were identified as possible compounds through GC-MS analysis. The HMEL of Artemisia absinthium L was actively inhibiting the proliferation of breast cancer cells MCF-7 ATCC at the concentration of 80.96 ± 3.94 μg/ml as IC50 value but failed to inhibit the proliferation against the treated human colon cancer cells HCT 116 cells ATCC. HMEL of Artemisia absinthium L was showing a moderate spectrum of antibacterial effect against the screened bacteria. RM showed better wound healing property than standard povidone iodine cream that modulates cytokine networks and apoptosis markers levels indicated the healing of wound.

CONCLUSION

The study suggested that novel anticancer, antibacterial and immune modulatory molecules can be developed from the leaves of Artemisia absinthium L.

Zingerone Attenuates Carfilzomib-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats through Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Cytokine Network

Carfilzomib (CFZ) is an anticancer medication acting as a selective proteasome inhibitor. However, it can cause cardiovascular problems, increasing mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to investigate whether zingerone (ZRN) could help reduce carfilzomib-induced cardiotoxicity in Wistar albino rats. Rats were divided into five groups of six animals each. The first group received normal saline as a control (NC); the second group received multiple doses (six) of CFZ (4 mg/kg) intraperitoneally (IP); the third and fourth groups received zingerone (50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg oral) along with six doses of CFZ for 16 days; and the fifth group received only 100 mg/kg zingerone orally. Hematological, biochemical, oxidative stress, and histopathological studies confirmed the findings of CFZ-induced cardiotoxicity. We found that ZRN significantly attenuated the effects of CFZ on oxidative stress by enhancing the antioxidant properties of glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Additionally, ZRN reduces inflammatory cytokines and apoptotic markers, such as IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, and caspase-3. Overall, zingerone prevents carfilzomib-induced cardiotoxicity in rats, as evidenced by histopathological studies.

The Protective Effects of Sesamin against Cyclophosphamide-Induced Nephrotoxicity through Modulation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammatory-Cytokines and Apoptosis in Rats

Cyclophosphamide is an anticancer drug with a wide spectrum of clinical uses, but its typical side effects are multiple complications, including nephron toxicity. The possible molecular mechanism of the nephroprotective action of sesamin (SM) against cyclophosphamide (CP) induced renal toxicity was investigated in rats by understanding oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines. In this study, rats were arbitrarily grouped into the following four groups: a normal control group (CNT); a CP-induced toxicity group; a treatment group with two doses of sesamin SM10 and SM20; a group with sesamin (SM20) alone. A single dose of CP (150 mg/kg body, i.p.) was administered on day 4 of the experiments, while treatment with SM was given orally for seven days from day 1. The group treated with SM showed a significant protective effect against CP-induced renal damage in rats. Treatment with SM significantly increased the antioxidant enzymes (GSH, CAT, and SOD) and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Thus, SM significantly overcame the elevated kidney function markers (creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and uric acid) by attenuating oxidative stress. The SM also significantly reduced the elevated cytokines (IL-1β and TNFα) and caspase-3 in the treated group. Histopathological studies confirmed the protective effect of sesamin (SM) on CP-induced nephrotoxicity. In conclusion, the current findings support the nephroprotective effect of sesamin against CP-induced renal injury.

Spectral analysis, in vitro cytotoxicity and antibacterial studies of bioactive principles from the leaves of Conocarpus lancifolius, a common tree of Jazan, Saudi Arabia

The objective of the present study was to analyse the bioactive compounds of the leaves of Conocarpus lancifolius (C. lancifolius). The GC-MS analysis of the hot methanolic extract of the leaves (HMEL) of C. lancifolius exhibited the bioactive compounds such as 1-(3-Methoxy-2-nitrobenzyl) iso quinoline, morphin-4-ol-6,7-dione, 1-bromo-N-methyl-, phytol, hexadecanoic acid, 2,3-dihydroxypropyl ester, 2,2':4',2"-terthiophene, ethyl iso-allocholate, caryophyllene oxide, campesterol, epiglobulol, cholestan-3-ol, 2-methylene-, (3á,5à)-, dasycarpidan-1-methanol, acetate (ester) and oleic acid, eicosyl ester. The FT-IR analysis of HMEL of C. lancifolius showed a unique peak at 3184, 2413, 1657 cm-1 representing coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid and ferulic acid. The HMEL of C. lancifolius was actively inhibiting the proliferation of breast cancer cells MCF-7 ATCC at the concentration of 72.66 ± 8.21 µg/ml as IC50 value. The HMEL of C. lancifolius also revealed a good spectrum of activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial cultures screened in this work. The activity observed has shown more or less similar effects against screened bacteria. However, the magnitude of potentiality was significantly lesser compared to standard ciprofloxacin disc at p< 0.001 level (99% confidence intervals). Furthermore, the study demonstrating the bioactive compounds can be isolated from the leaves of C. lancifolius.

Design, physicochemical characterisation, and in vitro cytotoxicity of cisplatin-loaded PEGylated chitosan injectable nano / sub-micron crystals

The study aimed to develop cisplatin-loaded PEGylated chitosan nanoparticles. The optimal batch of cisplatin-loaded PEGylated chitosan nanoparticles had a + 49.9 mV zeta potential, PDI of 0.347, and % PDI of 58.9. Nanoparticle zeta size was 741.4 z. d.nm, the size in diameter was 866.7 ± 470.5 nm, and nanoparticle conductivity in colloidal solution was 0.739 mS/cm. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed that cisplatin-loaded PEGylated chitosan nanoparticles had sharp endothermic peaks at temperatures at 168.6 °C. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed the weight loss of cisplatin-loaded PEGylated chitosan nanoparticles, which was observed as 95% at 262.76 °C. XRD investigation on cisplatin-loaded PEGylated chitosan nanoparticles exhibited distinct peaks at 2θ as 9.7°, 20.4°, 22.1°, 25.3°, 36.1°, 38.1°, 39.5°, 44.3°, and 64.5°, confirming crystalline structure. The ¹H NMR analysis showed the fingerprint region of cisplatin-loaded PEGylated chitosan nanoparticles as 0.85, 1.73, and 1.00 ppm in the proton dimension and de-shielded proton peaks appeared at 3.57, 3.58, 3.58, 3.59, 3.65, 3.67, 3,67, 3,67, 3.70, 3.71, 3.77, 3.78 and 4.71 ppm. The ¹³C NMR spectrum showed specified peaks at 63.18, 69.20, and 70.77 ppm. The FT-IR spectra of cisplatin loaded PEGylated nanoparticles show the existence of many fingerprint regions at 3186.52, 2931.68, 1453.19, 1333.98, 1253.71, 1085.19, 1019.60, 969.98, 929.53, 888.80, 706.13, and 623.67 cm^-1. The drug release kinetics of cisplatin loaded PEGylated chitosan nanoparticles showed zero order kinetics with 48% of drug release linearity fashion which has R² value of 0.9778. Studies on the MCF-7 ATCC human breast cancer cell line in vitro revealed that the IC50 value 82.08 µg /mL. Injectable nanoparticles had good physicochemical and cytotoxic properties. This method is novel since the application of the PEGylation processes leads to an increased solubility of chitosan nanoparticles at near neutral pH.

Advancements in Vaccine Adjuvants: The Journey from Alum to Nano Formulations

Vaccination is a groundbreaking approach in preventing and controlling infectious diseases. However, the effectiveness of vaccines can be greatly enhanced by the inclusion of adjuvants, which are substances that potentiate and modulate the immune response. This review is based on extensive searches in reputable databases such as Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The goal of this review is to provide a thorough analysis of the advances in the field of adjuvant research, to trace the evolution, and to understand the effects of the various adjuvants. Historically, alum was the pioneer in the field of adjuvants because it was the first to be approved for use in humans. It served as the foundation for subsequent research and innovation in the field. As science progressed, research shifted to identifying and exploiting the potential of newer adjuvants. One important area of interest is nano formulations. These advanced adjuvants have special properties that can be tailored to enhance the immune response to vaccines. The transition from traditional alum-based adjuvants to nano formulations is indicative of the dynamism and potential of vaccine research. Innovations in adjuvant research, particularly the development of nano formulations, are a promising step toward improving vaccine efficacy and safety. These advances have the potential to redefine the boundaries of vaccination and potentially expand the range of diseases that can be addressed with this approach. There is an optimistic view of the future in which improved vaccine formulations will contribute significantly to improving global health outcomes.

Spectral analysis and Antibacterial activity of the bioactive principles of Sargassum tenerrimum J. Agardh collected from the Red sea, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Seaweeds are a major marine resource that can be explored to develop novel pharmaceutical molecules. The present study showed the presence of unique bioactive components in the petroleum ether extract (PEE) and methanolic extract (ME) of Sargassum tenerrimum. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis suggested that the PEE of S. tenerrimum contained antibacterial biomolecules: hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester, 17-pentatriacontene, dasycarpidan-1-methanol, and acetate (ester). However, the ME of S. tenerrimum exhibited better antibacterial effect than the PEE due to the presence of the bioactive compounds 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, diisooctyl ester, tetratetracontane, 1-docosene, 1,2-benzenediol, and benzoic acid. Thus, promising antibacterial molecules can be isolated from S. tenerrimum for better therapeutic use.

Nanoparticles for triggering and regulation of immune response of vaccines: perspective and prospective

Nanoparticles mediated vaccine delivery is an emerging technology and considered as better adjuvant for delivering vaccines when compared to conventional delivery system. The purpose of this delivery system is to provide simple stable formulation that elicits lifelong immunity preferably with single shot. In line to develop the biodegradable polymer vaccine delivery system it is necessary to understand about the nature of polymer, type of antigen to be encapsulated, broad idea about immunological sketch. In this review, we attempt to provide an overview about the nano particle vaccine delivery system and interaction between nano particle and the immune system.

Development of Formulation Methods and Physical Characterization of Injectable Sodium Selenite Nanoparticles for the Delivery of Sorafenib tosylate

Background: Sorafenib is the first oral therapeutic agent to show the activity against human hepatocellular carcinoma. Sorafenib leads to severe toxicity due to the multiple-dose regimen. Reducing the overall dose of sorafenib through injectable dosage form to release sustainably is of therapeutically more important to combat drug-induced toxicity.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to formulate and evaluate the physical parameters of sorafenib-loaded Sodium Selenite Nanoparticles (SSSNP).

Methods: Two different methods: chemical crosslinking and solvent evaporation were applied for the formulation of nanoparticles using various crosslinkers such as formaldehyde, magnesium sulfate, tripolyphosphate, dextran sulfate, and aluminum hydroxide. Physical characterization was performed with zeta potential analysis, polydispersity index, particle size and scanning electron microscopic studies for morphological analysis for all the formulated nanoparticles developed using the chemical crosslinking technique based ionic interaction.

Results: Tripolyphosphate was selected as an ideal crosslinker and used for nanoparticle formulation with the solvent evaporation technique. Based on the physical characterization, SSSNP was formulated successfully with the solvent evaporation technique using tripolyphosphate as a cross-linker. The zeta potential of SSSNP was -37.5 mV, PDI was approximately 0.3 to 0.4, and the observed size (diameter) was in the range of 208 nm to 0.2 µm. Furthermore, the particles were smooth in morphology and appeared as crystals.

Conclusion: The novel injectable sorafenib loaded sodium selenite nanoparticle dosage form will serve better than conventional oral dosage form to elicit a safe therapeutic effect.

Physical characterization and wound healing properties of Zamzam water

The objective of the study was to evaluate the quality of Zamzam water, holy water for Muslims and consumed for its medicinal value. The present study demonstrates the physicochemical characterization and wound healing property of Zamzam water. The physicochemical characterization of Zamzam water samples was analyzed for dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids, redox potential, zeta potential, polydispersity index, and zeta size. The microbial quality of Zamzam water was also assessed by exposing water samples to open air. In this work, Zamzam water was also screened for the medicinal value through wound healing properties in Wistar rats. Zamzam water exhibited a unique physicochemical characterization with high levels of dissolved oxygen, zeta potential, polydispersity index, redox potential, total dissolved solids, and conductivity before exposure to open air. After open air exposure, Zamzam water resisted the growth of bacteria. The wound healing properties of Zamzam water in vivo showed a 96% of healing effect on 12th day observation. The wound healing was achieved by modulating pro-inflammatory cytokine such as interleukin -1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor -α (TNF-α). Followed by the level of apoptosis markers caspase-9 and caspase-3 were reduced. The present study proved that Zamzam water is a good-quality water and showed excellent wound healing property. Therefore, Zamzam water can be used for pharmaceutical formulations.

Molecular targets for cystic fibrosis and therapeutic potential of monoclonal antibodies

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease that affects the exocrine glands and is caused by cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene (CFTR) mutations. Lung disease is the leading cause of morbidity in patients. Target-specific treatment of CF has been achieved using monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). The purpose of this article is to discuss the possibility of treating CF with mAbs through their significant target specificity. We searched electronic databases in Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar from 1984 to 2021. We discussed the critical role of targeted therapy in cystic fibrosis, as it will be more effective at suppressing the molecular networks. After conducting a critical review of the available literature, we concluded that it is critical to understand the fundamental molecular mechanisms underlying CF prior to incorporating biologics into the therapy regimen. Omalizumab, Mepolizumab, Benralizumab, Dupilumab and KB001-A have been successfully screened for asthma-complicated CF, and their efficacies have been well reported. Despite the availability of effective targeted biologics, treating CF has remained a difficult task, particularly when it comes to reduction of secondary inflammatory mediators. This review emphasizes the overall views on CF, the immunological mechanism of CF, and the prospective therapeutic use of mAbs as potential targeted biologics for enhancing the overall status of human health.

Wound-healing and cytokine-modulating potential of medicinal oil formulation comprising leaf extract of Murraya koenigii and olive oil

The study investigated the wound healing effect of medicinal oil (MO) formulation prepared from Murraya koenigii leaves extract (methanolic) incorporated in olive oil. The MO was visually transparent, homogenous, smooth in texture, the viscosity grade was observed as 140 cP and easily spreadable. Pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were significantly reduced to 82.3 ± 3.5, 156 ± 6.2, 137.3. ± 5.5 pg/ml, respectively after treatment with MO when compared to disease control animals that showed IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels of 170 ± 6, 265 ± 7, and 288.6 ± 11, pg/ml respectively. The level of pro-inflammatory cytokine in povidone iodine solution (PIS) group was 95.3 ± 3, 162 ± 6, 177.6 ± 8.9 pg/ml of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α respectively. Interestingly, the wound-healing efficacy of MO was found better as compared to povidone iodine treated standard group and concluded that MO has excellent wound healing effect.

Hepatoprotective potential of diosmin against hepatotoxic effect of isoniazid and rifampin in wistar rats

OBJECTIVE

The treatment of tuberculosis with isoniazid and rifampin is associated with hepatocellular damage. Therefore, the study was designed to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of diosmin against hepatotoxic effect of isoniazid and rifampin in Wistar rats.

METHODS

Hepatotoxicity was induced by administering isoniazid and rifampin (100 mg/kg), whereas diosmin was given as treatment control. Markers of liver function (ALT, AST, ALP and bilirubin), inflammatory cytokines (TNFα, IL-6 and IL-1β), apoptosis (caspase-3), oxidative stress parameters (LPO, GSH, CAT and SOD) and histological changes in liver were assessed in normal, hepatotoxic control and treatment groups.

RESULTS

The administration of isoniazid and rifampin significantly increased markers of liver dysfunction (ALT, AST, ALP and bilirubin), cytokines (TNFα, IL-6 and IL-1β) and apoptosis (caspase-3). However, daily dosing of diosmin significantly reduced these markers of liver dysfunction, inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis to near normal levels. Additionally, markers of hepatocellular oxidative stress parameters were significantly altered as evident from increased LPO level and decreased endogenous antioxidants such as GSH, SOD and CAT in isoniazid-and rifampin-treated hepatotoxic group. It was observed that diosmin treatment reduced high levels of LPO and demonstrated significant improvement in antioxidant levels. Histological studies of liver also supported our biochemical findings, which are also manifested as diosmin treatment exhibited protection against hepatocellular degeneration and inflammation.

CONCLUSION

Results of the present study demonstrate hepatoprotective potential of diosmin against isoniazid-and rifampin-treated hepatotoxicity. Thus, we conclude that diosmin may be used along with anti-tubercular drugs (isoniazid and rifampin) in tuberculosis patients to overcome their hepatotoxic adverse effect.

Nano-enhanced immunity: A bibliometric analysis of nanoparticles in vaccine adjuvant research

This study analyzed the growth, collaboration, citation trends, and emerging topics in nanoparticle-based vaccine and adjuvant research (NVAR) from 1977 to 2023, using data from the Scopus database. The field showed a steady growth rate of 7.53% per year. Leading researchers Jaafari, M.R. and Alving, C.R. contributed significantly to the field, with 24.22% of publications and 38.92% of total citations coming from the United States. International collaboration was very strong, particularly between the US, UK, Germany, China, and France. Key research topics include nanoparticles, immunotherapy, COVID-19, and vaccines with a focus on SARS-CoV-2 and malaria. Emerging topics include vaccine adjuvants, mRNA, and neutralizing antibodies. This study emphasizes the importance of ongoing collaboration and interdisciplinary efforts to advance the field of NVAR.

Computational Insights into the Binding Potential of Natural Products Against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Metallo-beta-lactamase VIM-1 to Combat Antibiotic Resistance

Metallo-beta-lactamase VIM-1 is a key factor contributing to bacterial resistance against beta-lactam antibiotics, including carbapenems, in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The infections caused by the bacterium are associated with high morbidity and mortality, especially in immunocompromised patients that involve pathological conditions leading to hospitalization. Its capability to evade a wide range of antibiotics commonly used against the bacterium has been one of the strong survival features of the bacterium. With the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance mediated by VIM-1, the urgent need for novel inhibitors to treat such infections is underlined. This work employs a computational drug discovery approach to identify inhibitors against VIM-1 from the Molport library of natural compounds. Three promising compounds, ZINC000044404209, ZINC000038140885, and ZINC000037538575, based on high docking scores, had been selected from virtual screening using the Lipinski filter. Re-docking thus further validated their interactions with the active site of VIM-1. Molecular dynamics simulations of 300 ns obtained that ZINC000044404209 and ZINC000038140885 were more structurally stable than the control, evident from the lower values of root mean square deviation and root mean square fluctuation, with stable hydrogen bonding and compact radius of gyration values. Calculations of free binding energy by using the Molecular Mechanics Generalized Born Surface Area method finally confirmed that the compound ZINC000038140885 showed the most favorable binding energy of -108.13 kcal/mol, followed by the ZINC000044404209 showing -38.02 kcal/mol binding energy. Therefore, compounds with stronger binding and stability than the control were identified and might be potent inhibitors targeting VIM-1. The current in silico study has provided valuable lead compounds that may be further experimentally validated in developing new therapeutic strategies against antibiotic-resistant P. aeruginosa.

Curcumin nanogel and its efficacy against oxidative stress and inflammation in rat models of ischemic stroke

Aim: The study was designed to develop and analyze curcumin nanoparticles. Methods: Curcumin nanoparticles were formulated and evaluated. Their efficacy in protecting against brain damage was investigated in a rat model of ischemic stroke, considering motor function, muscle strength and antioxidant enzyme activity. Results: Curcumin nanoparticles displayed a zeta potential of -55 ± 13.5 mV and an average particle size of 51.40 ± 21.70 nm. In ischemic stroke rat models, curcumin nanoparticle treatment significantly improved motor functions, and muscle strength and increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes like glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, glutathione S-transferase, superoxide dismutase and catalase, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Conclusion: Curcumin nanoparticles showed significant neuroprotective effects in ischemic stroke models.

Cetuximab-conjugated sodium selenite nanoparticles for doxorubicin targeted delivery against MCF-7 breast cancer cells

Aim: To develop and characterize doxorubicin-loaded sodium selenite nanoparticles (SSNP-DOX) and their surface attachment with cetuximab (mAb-SSNP-DOX).Methods: SSNP-DOX was formulated by gelation and then conjugated with cetuximab to form mAb-SSNP-DOX. Characterization included DLS, SEM, TEM, DSC, Raman spectroscopy and XRD. In vitro, the kinetics of doxorubicin release and cytotoxicity in MCF-7 breast cancer cells were investigated.Results: The zeta potential for SSNP-DOX and mAb-SSNP-DOX was -14.4 ± 10.1 mV and -27.5 ± 7.28 mV, with particle sizes of 181.3 nm and 227.5 nm, respectively. The formulation intensity was 89.7% for SSNP-DOX and 100% for mAb-SSNP-DOX, with PDI values of 0.419 and 0.251, respectively. SEM and TEM showed that mAb-SSNP-DOX was smooth and spherical. The DSC analysis revealed exothermic peaks at 102.44°C for SSNP-DOX and 144.21°C for mAb-SSNP-DOX, along with endothermic peaks at 269.19°C and 241.6°C, respectively. Raman spectroscopy showed a higher intensity for mAb-SSNP-DOX. The XRD study showed different peaks for each formulation. Both followed zero order kinetics for doxorubicin release. Cytotoxicity studies showed significant effects and high apoptosis in MCF-7 cells for both formulations.Conclusion: The mAb-SSNP-DOX showed promising properties, more effective doxorubicin release and higher cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells compared with SSNP-DOX.

Design and characterization of Lactotransferrin peptide-loaded dextran-docosahexaenoic acid nanoparticles: an immune modulator for hepatic damage

The primary objective of this research was to create injectable delivery formulations using Lactotransferrin (LTF) peptide-loaded dextran nanoparticles coated with docosahexaenoic acid. These nanoparticles, designated as LLDDNP, underwent a lyophilization process. The study encompassed a comprehensive investigation, including physicochemical characterization, in vivo assessment of biomarkers, and an examination of immune response through cytokine modulation. The zeta potential of LLDDNP was - 24.5 ± 12 mV, while their average particle size was 334.9 z.d.nm. The particles exhibited a conductivity of 2.10 mS/cm, while their mobility in the injectable dosage form was measured at - 3.65 µm cm/Vs. The scanning electron microscopy investigation, the lyophilization processes resulted in discrete particles forming particle aggregations. However, transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that LLDDNP is spherical and smooth. The thermogram showed that about 95% of LLDDNP's weight was lost at 270 °C, indicating that the particles are extremely thermal stable. The XRD analysis of LLDDNP exhibited clear and distinctive peaks at 2θ angles, specifically at 9.6°, 20.3°, 21.1°, 22°, 24.6°, 25.2°, 36°, and 44.08°, providing compelling evidence of the crystalline nature of the particles. According to proton NMR studies, the proton dimension fingerprint region of LLDDNP ranges from 1.00 to 1.03 ppm. The in vitro release of LTF from LLDDNP was found to follow zero-order kinetics, with a commendable R2 value of 0.942, indicating a consistent and predictable release pattern over time. The in vivo investigation revealed a significant impact of hepatotoxicity on the elevation of various cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8R, TNF-α, IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-γ. Additionally, the presence of hepatotoxicity led to an increase in apoptosis markers, namely caspase 3 and caspase 9, as well as elevated levels of liver biomarkers such as CRP, ALP, ALT, and AST. In contrast, the treatment with LLDDNP modulated the levels of all biomarkers, including cytokines level in the treatment group extremely high significant at p < 0.001.

Effect of cubebin against streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy rats via inhibition TNF-α/NF-κB/TGF-β: in vivo and in silico study

Cubebin, a dibenzyl butyrolactone lignan belonging to several distinct families, including Aristolochiaceae, Myristicaceae, Piperaceae, and Rutaceae, and possesses several pharmacological activities, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of cubebin on streptozotocin (STZ)-evoked diabetic nephropathy (DN). DN is a well-identified complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) characterized by renal hypertrophy that progressively declines kidney function. Wistar rats were randomly divided into groups- normal, STZ control (65 mg/kg/body weight), and STZ + cubebin (10 and 20 mg/kg). Biochemical parameters such as glucose levels, kidney parameters, lipid profile, oxidative stress, endogenous antioxidant markers, inflammatory cytokines and histopathology were performed. Molecular docking [(PDB ID: TNF-α (7JRA), NF-κB (1SVC), TGF-β1 (3TZM)] and dynamic simulation (MDS) were also performed with the selected target. STZ-induced DN was changes in these parameters. In contrast, DN + cubebin at 10 and 20 mg/kg doses improved the biochemical parameters and histological changes. Furthermore, molecular docking and simulation studies showed a binding affinity with negative binding energy with TNF-α (7jra, - 11.342 kcal/mol), TGF-β1 (3tzm, - 9.162 kcal/mol) and NF-κB (1svc, - 6.665 kcal/mol). The results of MDS provided insight into the mechanisms that associate proteins TNF-α, NF-κB, and TGF-β1 in conformational dynamics upon binding to cubebin. In conclusion, these findings exhibit a potential effect of cubebin in STZ-evoked DN rats.