INTRODUCTION:Aluminum toxicity is a severe public health problem that affects the environment worldwide and causes nephrotoxicity via oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic pathways. Frankincense extract (FE) has well-established bioactivity but a poor pharmacokinetic profile, limiting its therapeutic potential. Herein, the present work was designed to synthesize and characterize Frankincense-coated selenium nanoparticles (FE-SeNPs) as a better delivery vehicle and to investigate their protective effects against aluminum chloride (AlCl₃)-induced renal toxicity. METHODS:This study extracted the Frankincense resin with water, and its total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride colorimetric assays, respectively. Preparation of FE-SeNPs was carried out by reacting the extract with sodium selenite under optimized conditions (60°C, pH 7.0). The synthesized particles were characterized by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Zeta potential, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR). Acute oral toxicity was determined in accordance with OECD Guideline 423. In vivo efficacy was investigated in mice, and six groups were formed: Control, FE-SeNPs alone, AlCl₃ alone, AlCl₃ + FE, and two dosages of AlCl₃ + FE-SeNPs (53.9 and 134.75 mg/kg), all administered orally for 28 days. Biochemical observations included renal function (creatinine, urea) and lipid profile. This study analyzed parameters related to oxidative stress (MDA, SOD, GR, GSH), inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and NF-κB), and apoptotic gene expression (COX-2 and caspase-9). Histological examination of renal tissue confirmed the diagnosis. RESULTS:Phytochemical screening indicated that the frankincense extract contained 21.42mg GAE/g of phenolics and 4.87mg QE /g of flavonoids. The FE-SeNPs were spherical (18-29nm), monodisperse with PDI < 0.3, and stable (zeta potential -25.6 mV). Spectroscopic studies also evidenced the production of selenium-element-capped plant phytochemicals. The LD₅₀ is 1500mg/kg. In the AlCl₃-induced renal mice, high dose of FE-SeNPs resulted in a significant improvement in kidney functions (decreased creatinine by 43%, urea by 52%), correction of dyslipidemia level, restoration of antioxidant defense system (increased SOD to 188.5%, GSH to 148.7%), abrogation of inflammation (reduced expression levels of IL-1β and NF-κB by 52.4% and 66.9% respectively) and also reduced expression levels of pro-apoptotic genes COX2 and caspase-9). The effects of FE-SeNPs were more pronounced than those of the crude extract, and the nanoparticles maintained normal renal architecture. DISCUSSION:Evidence that increased selenium levels in FE-SeNPs enhanced their protective effects suggests a complementary interaction between elemental selenium and the bioactive components of frankincense. As a couple, they act against oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Moreover, the FE-NP formulation improved the poor in vivo bioavailability of the crude extract, thereby encouraging its use. CONCLUSION:FE-SeNPs represent a safe and effective plant-derived nanotherapeutic approach for combating aluminum-induced nephrotoxicity. Future research will focus on efficacy assessment in chronic kidney disease models, aiming to provide a standardized natural product-based intervention for environmental heavy metal toxicity.
Pharmacotherapy has shifted significantly from traditional drug delivery systems to precision nanomedicine. Polymeric nanocarriers, including nanospheres, nanocapsules, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, polymersomes, and nanogels, have now become multipurpose carriers to address key limitations: low solubility, early systemic clearance, and nonselective toxicity. This review is a critical and detailed study of the most recent developments in polymeric nanocarrier systems, focusing on their structural differentiation, physicochemical properties, and biological activity. Natural and synthetic polymers are both tested for biodegradability, biocompatibility, and functionality adaptation. Modern methods of fabrication, including solvent-based nanoprecipitation and controlled synthesis of dendrimers, are scrutinized critically in relation to the scaling up and translation issues to industry. The systematically analyzed aspects of drug delivery include the passive delivery using the Enhanced Permeability and Retention (EPR) effect, active delivery using the ligand-mediated method, and stimuli-responsive release. Moreover, this review highlights other emerging trends, including multifunctional hybrid nanostructures, green synthesis, nanotoxicological and regulatory considerations, and clinical translocation. Clinical advancements and approved formulations by the FDA have also been provided in recent times. Lastly, future directions are also provided in the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the formulation design and the shift to personalized nanomedicine. In general, this review gives the future outlook of polymeric nanocarriers as the nextgeneration drug delivery systems.
Cancer remains one of the most challenging diseases to treat effectively, primarily due to the complex and adaptive nature of the tumour microenvironment. Traditional therapies often fail to target the TME adequately, leading to resistance and relapse. Recent advancements in nanotechnology have opened new avenues for targeted cancer therapy, offering innovative solutions to overcome these challenges. This review provides a comprehensive overview of nano-therapeutics designed to target the TME, highlighting their mechanisms, current progress, and prospects. By emphasizing the relationship between nanotherapeutics and different TME constituents, such as immune cells, stromal cells, and extracellular matrix, we want to clarify how these innovative techniques might improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce side effects. The potential of combining nano-therapeutics with conventional treatments is also explored, emphasizing a multi-faceted strategy in the fight against cancer.
Diabetes, old age, infections, and malnutrition are some of the causes of chronic wounds, which are a major global health problem. These wounds affect millions of people and put an elevated demand on the health systems worldwide. Traditional wound dressings are often incapable of counteracting the main pathological features of chronic wounds, which include continuous biofilm formation, prolonged inflammation, and deficient tissue regeneration. The primary aim of this review is to outline the growing pharmaceutical potential of nanomaterials in the management of advanced and chronic wounds. Specifically, this work evaluates how nanotechnology improves healing through advanced drug delivery systems and antibacterial agents, and it proposes new hybrid solutions such as combining nanomaterials with bioactive scaffolds and 3D bioprinted dressings to shift wound care toward precise, responsive treatments for hard-to-heal injuries. This includes examining how the structural dimensionality of these nanomaterials, categorized into zero-dimensional nanoparticles, one-dimensional electrospun nanofibers, and two-dimensional graphene oxide-based composites, enhances their therapeutic efficacy. These nanomaterials provide benefits such as a large surface area, high biocompatibility, the ability to regulate drug release, and the capability to perform multiple functions. Thus, they make it possible to treat different pathological conditions of wounds by means of antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and pro-regenerative activities. There is an increasing focus on plant-derived nanomaterials for their antioxidant capabilities as well as for their potential for largescale, environmentally friendly manufacturing. The results from animal studies and small clinical trials indicate that nanomaterial-based dressings can, in some cases, speed up wound healing compared to traditional methods, although the efficacy differs among wound types and experimental models. Moving forward, the principal focus in this area of wound nanomedicine is on personalization, where microbiome analysis, inflammatory biomarker tracking, and wound sensor devices will help to continuously adapt the therapeutic materials. New techniques for production, such as microfluidic nanoparticle creation and AI-aided toxicology testing, combined with flexible clinical trial protocols, are expected to overcome the issues of safety testing, production at scale, and clinical application.
BACKGROUND:Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic and progressive neurodegenerative condition characterized by cognitive decline, oxidative stress, and amyloid plaque accumulation. Current therapies, including cholinesterase inhibitors, mainly provide symptomatic relief and are limited by suboptimal brain delivery, necessitating multifunctional nanocarrier-based strategies. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a Taxifolin-decorated Rivastigmine liposomal nanocarrier (Tax-Riva-Lipo) to achieve synergistic neuroprotection through combined cholinesterase inhibition, antioxidant defense, and anti-amyloid activity. METHODS:Taxifolin was covalently conjugated to DSPE-PEG using EDC/NHS chemistry and incorporated into Rivastigmine-loaded liposomes prepared by thin-film hydration. The optimized formulation was characterized by DLS, TEM, FTIR, and DSC. In vitro evaluations included release kinetics, cholinesterase inhibition, antioxidant assays, and neuroprotection studies, followed by in vivo assessment in an ICV-STZ-induced AD rat model. RESULTS:Tax-Riva-Lipo formed uniform nanosized vesicles (~145 nm) with high encapsulation efficiency (≈85%) and sustained drug release up to 48 h. The formulation showed enhanced AChE and BuChE inhibition (IC₅₀: 0.08 μM and 0.52 μM), strong free radical scavenging activity, and significant protection of SH-SY5Y cells (92% viability). In vivo studies demonstrated improved cognitive performance, restoration of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH), suppression of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6), and preservation of hippocampal architecture without detectable toxicity. DISCUSSION:These findings indicate that Taxifolin functionalization enables complementary multitarget actions, integrating antioxidant and anti-amyloid effects with sustained cholinesterase inhibition. CONCLUSION:Tax-Riva-Lipo represents a promising synergistic nanotherapeutic platform for improved management of Alzheimer's disease.
In the article, titled "A Comprehensive Review of Nanomaterials as Potential Weapons against Multidrug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus," published in Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology [1], the citation for Figure 4 was inadvertently omitted in the original version of the manuscript. This omission has now been corrected. The details of the correction are as follows: Original: Nanomaterial-based approaches show promise for efficient, economical point-of-care diagnostics due to their inherent antimicrobial activity and ability to bind pathogens, facilitating improved detection methods. Nanoparticles offer intrinsic benefits such as size, high surface area, morphology, simplicity of surface modification, and unique optical, electromagnetic, mechanical, and chemical capabilities. Aside from improved antimicrobial action, the features of metal-based NPs allow them to be used as diagnostics agents for microbial infections [29, 156]. Fig. (5) depicts several ways for bioimaging S. aureus using colorimetric, fluorescent, magnetic NPs, and surface-enhanced Raman scattering approaches. Corrected: Nanomaterial-based approaches show promise for efficient, economical point-of-care diagnostics due to their inherent antimicrobial activity and ability to bind pathogens, facilitating improved detection methods. Nanoparticles offer intrinsic benefits such as size, high surface area, morphology, simplicity of surface modification, and unique optical, electromagnetic, mechanical, and chemical capabilities. Aside from improved antimicrobial action, the features of metal-based NPs allow them to be used as diagnostics agents for microbial infections [29, 156]. Fig. (4 and 5) depicts several ways for bioimaging S. aureus using colorimetric, fluorescent, magnetic NPs, and surface-enhanced Raman scattering approaches. We regret the error and apologize to the readers. The original article can be found online at: https://www.eurekaselect.com/article/141225.
INTRODUCTION:The present study is directed towards determining and describing the development of the potential clinical application of liposomal nano-encapsulated Rosa damascena callus extract, specifically as a means to convey its properties for wound healing into the cosmetic field. METHODS:Using established methods, the synthesis process of the nanoparticles yielded an average diameter below 100 nm. This technology was selected because it can maintain the biological activity of the extract, optimise drug delivery using a controlled release technique, and enhance the antioxidant capacity of the encapsulated product. In vivo studies on two animal models were performed to evaluate the potential and safety of the nano-structured extract. RESULTS:The results showed significant improvement in wound healing compared to the marketed extract. Moreover, there were no cases of skin toxicity, irritation, or sensitivity in the treated material, reflecting the suitability of the formulation for topical administration. DISCUSSION:The in vitro results of this work support that these nano-formulations based on Rosa damascena callus extracts are potential new effective agents for tissue repair, particularly regarding their properties useful for wound healing. CONCLUSION:This study provides an overview of the potential of lipid-based nano-encapsulation systems for plant extracts in the cosmetic field. The findings indicate that this technique can enhance the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of natural compounds. Future clinical applications in skin care and cosmetic products can now be envisaged.
PEGylation, the process of attaching polyethylene glycol (PEG) to therapeutic molecules, has transformed drug delivery by improving stability, solubility, and circulation time. This review explores the evolution, applications, and future directions of PEGylated drug delivery systems. We examined literature on PEG's chemical properties, synthesis methods, therapeutic applications, and FDA-approved PEGylated products. PEGylation enhances pharmacokinetics and enables both passive and active tumor targeting. PEG's unique chemical properties, including hydrophilicity, flexibility, and non-immunogenicity, make it an ideal candidate for conjugation with proteins, peptides, and small-molecule drugs. Various PEGylation strategies, including linear, branched, and sitespecific conjugation, have been developed to optimize therapeutic performance and reduce offtarget effects. The molecular weight and architecture of PEG can be precisely tuned to control drug release profiles and biodistribution. Additionally, PEG is widely used in nanoparticle surface modification, hydrogel formation, and liposomal formulations, demonstrating its adaptability across diverse drug delivery platforms. PEG prolongs drug half-life by reducing renal clearance and proteolytic degradation and facilitates passive tumor targeting through the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Active targeting has also been achieved through PEGylated carriers functionalized with ligands for specific cell-surface receptors. Over 30 PEGylated drugs have been approved to date. PEG remains a cornerstone in nanomedicine, although new challenges highlight the need for innovative alternatives and conjugation techniques. The future of PEGylated drug delivery lies in smart, stimuli-responsive systems, integration with novel therapeutics, and the exploration of PEG alternatives that retain favorable properties while minimizing adverse immune responses.
INTRODUCTION:Gnetum gnemon L. (melinjo) contains resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound that activates Sirtuin-1, a key regulator of cellular aging. The plant's hard shell, often discarded as waste, contains resveratrol that is inefficiently utilized. However, its therapeutic potential is limited by poor solubility and low bioavailability. METHODS:The hard shell was processed using ball-milling nanotechnology to obtain a nanoextract. Human fibroblast CRL2522 cells were exposed to hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress and treated with either the nanoextract or a conventional dry extract. SIRTUIN-1 expression was analyzed as an anti-aging marker. Pharmacokinetic studies were performed in male Wistar rats administered 144 mg/kg orally, with plasma resveratrol quantified using validated HPLC. RESULTS:Both extracts significantly increased SIRTUIN-1 expression compared with controls (p < 0.05). The nanoextract exhibited a higher peak plasma concentration (Cmax = 0.064 ± 0.025 ppm) and prolonged Tmax (240 min), indicating enhanced solubility and extended bioavailability. DISCUSSION:The improvement in pharmacokinetic parameters and SIRTUIN-1 expression suggests that nanonization effectively enhances cellular uptake and stability of resveratrol. The smaller particle size increases surface area and dissolution rate, allowing greater intestinal absorption and sustained plasma levels. These findings align with previous reports that nanoparticle formulations can improve polyphenol bioefficacy through enhanced permeability and metabolic resistance. Importantly, this approach valorizes melinjo by-products into high-value bioactive materials, offering both scientific and economic benefits. Nonetheless, further studies on long-term safety, biodistribution, and molecular targets are necessary to confirm therapeutic relevance. CONCLUSION:Ball-milling nanotechnology improved the solubility, bioavailability, and biological activity of G. gnemon hard shell, supporting its potential as a natural anti-aging agent.
Wounds associated with diabetes mellitus are among the most serious complications, with the potential to progress to cell necrosis and, in severe cases, necessitate amputation. Current statistics indicate that diabetic wounds affect approximately 15% of patients with diabetes, and 20% of these cases lead to limb amputation. Conventional therapies often prove ineffective due to molecular and structural alterations in the injured tissue, highlighting the need for innovative delivery methods to enhance treatment efficacy. Recent research has focused on developing advanced materials for wound management, particularly through phyto-nanotechnology. Topical applications of nanoscaffolds and nanofibers have shown promising outcomes in promoting wound healing. Nano-sized particles facilitate smooth progression through the healing phases by enhancing cellular and molecular interactions. Among these, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have attracted attention for diabetic wound treatment due to their potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. AgNPs also stimulate cellular mechanisms that support the repair of chronic wounds; however, potential toxicities remain a concern. This review examines the role and mechanisms of biogenic AgNPs in diabetic wound management, with a focus on their efficacy in wound dressings. Additionally, it examines marketed AgNP formulations for wound care, highlights reported toxicity issues, and discusses clinical trials and future prospects for their application in wound healing.
Nanotechnology has significantly advanced the field of drug delivery by enabling the development of systems that offer precise, controlled, and site-specific transport of therapeutic agents. Among the various nanocarriers, polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) have gained substantial attention due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and the ability to overcome key physiological barriers that limit the effectiveness of conventional drug delivery methods. PNPs can encapsulate a wide variety of therapeutic agents-including small molecules, proteins, and nucleic acids-and facilitate their controlled and sustained release, thereby improving therapeutic outcomes while minimizing systemic toxicity and adverse effects. The unique physicochemical properties of polymeric nanoparticles, such as nanosize, surface charge, morphology, and surface functionalization, allow for enhanced bioavailability, cellular uptake, and targeted delivery to specific tissues or cells. These characteristics make PNPs especially suitable for treating complex diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and infections, where targeted and efficient drug delivery is essential. This review comprehensively explores the synthesis techniques of PNPs, including solvent evaporation, nanoprecipitation, emulsification, and polymerization methods, and discusses key parameters affecting nanoparticle formulation. It also highlights advanced characterization tools used to determine particle size, surface charge, morphology, stability, and drug loading efficiency. Moreover, the paper delves into the biomedical applications of polymeric nanoparticles, with particular emphasis on brain targeting, cancer therapeutics, and regenerative medicine. Strategies such as surface modification, ligand functionalization, and stimuli-responsive systems are discussed for enhancing targeted delivery and therapeutic efficacy. Despite promising advancements, challenges related to large-scale production, regulatory compliance, long-term safety, and clinical translation remain. The review concludes by presenting future prospects and innovations in polymeric nanocarrier systems, emphasizing their potential to transform modern medicine by enabling personalized, efficient, and safer therapeutic interventions.
Plant-derived constituents (phytoconstituents) exhibit diverse pharmacological activities and have significant therapeutic potential for various diseases. However, their clinical application is often hindered by their poor solubility, instability, and low bioavailability (<10% in many cases). Nanotechnology-driven drug delivery systems provide innovative solutions to overcome these limitations and enhance the therapeutic efficacy of herbal compounds. However, major challenges remain, including concerns about long-term safety, potential toxicity, regulatory approval pathways, and reproducibility. Bridging the gap between preclinical promise and clinical translation remains a significant hurdle. A comprehensive review of studies (2019-2024) indexed in PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect was conducted using keywords: "Phytoconstituents", "Bioavailability Enhancement", "Herbal Nanoformulations", "Nanocarriers", and "Herbal Medicine". Nanoformulations, such as solid lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, nanosuspensions, and phytosomes, have achieved significant improvements in pharmacokinetic profiles-for instance, a 9.17-fold increase in the oral bioavailability of curcumin, a 7-fold increase for naringenin, and a ~4.5-fold increase for piperine. These systems enhance solubility, stability, and targeted delivery, resulting in better therapeutic efficacy in preclinical studies. The findings highlight the potential of nanocarriers to transform the delivery of herbal actives by addressing traditional limitations. The observed multiple-fold enhancements in bioavailability affirm the promise of herbal nanoformulations. While nanotechnology significantly enhances the bioavailability and pharmacological potential of phytoconstituents, challenges persist, including clinical translation barriers, a lack of standardization due to herbal variability, scalability issues, and regulatory approval hurdles. Future research should focus on developing smart, stimuli-responsive nanocarriers, employing eco-friendly green synthesis methods, and establishing robust standardization protocols to achieve reproducible, safe, and effective herbal nanoformulations for clinical use. Future efforts must systematically address toxicity, regulatory clarity, and the standardization of large-scale manufacture to realize clinical potential.
The potential of micro- and nanorobots in biomedical applications has drawn significant interest. These devices are modeled after natural organisms such as bacteria and sperm cells. By utilizing the propulsion mechanisms of motile sperm and other microorganisms, these biohybrid systems offer innovative approaches for drug delivery, assisted reproduction, and disease therapy in fluidic environments. Despite advancements, replicating the intricate architecture and functions of natural sperm cells at the nanoscale remains challenging, particularly regarding size homogeneity, flexibility, and propulsion efficiency. Recent efforts have focused on developing artificial sperm-like nanorobots with enhanced motility using techniques such as electrospinning, 3D printing, and magnetic assembly. These spermbots demonstrate the ability to transport targeted payloads, navigate through biofluids, and potentially address male infertility. Furthermore, integrating external control systems- such as magnetic fields and chemical stimuli-enables precise regulation of spermbot movement and function. Although clinical translation is still in its early stages, preclinical studies have highlighted the promise of spermbots in targeted drug delivery, tumor therapy, and reproductive medicine. However, challenges related to biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ethical considerations- particularly regarding their application in human reproduction-must be addressed before these systems can be widely adopted in therapeutic settings.
INTRODUCTION:Carbon-based nanomaterials, specifically carbon dots (CDs), are increasingly being explored for applications in the health sector. The goal of synthesizing CDs is to enhance the therapeutic effectiveness and reduce the toxicity of raw materials. Kepok banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) peel contains higher levels of flavonoids and phenols compared to other types of bananas. Flavonoids play a key role in inhibiting the formation of proinflammatory cytokines, making them effective as anti-inflammatory agents. This study aimed to explore the biomedical applications of banana peel-derived CDs as anti-inflammatory agents. METHODS:This research study utilized both pyrolysis (P-CDs) and hydrothermal (H-CDs) techniques to convert banana peels into CDs. The resulting CDs were tested for anti-inflammatory effectiveness using the carrageenan-induced inflammation model in Wistar rats, with doses of 25 mg/kg body weight (BW), 50 mg/kg BW, and 100 mg/kg BW, and compared to the standard drug, ibuprofen, at a dose of 36 mg/kg BW. RESULTS:Banana peel-derived CDs effectively exhibited anti-inflammatory activity in both preventive and curative modes, as measured by the volume of edema formed and the percentage of inhibition of inflammation in the paws of the rats. This activity was further supported by a decrease in IL- 6 and TNF-α levels in rat serum. DISCUSSION:P-CDs (25 mg/kg BW) showed enhanced preventive anti-inflammatory effects versus H-CDs and ibuprofen, attributed to their optimized surface chemistry and nanoscale properties. Future studies should implement chromatographic purification to address residual precursors detected by FTIR, ensuring clinical-grade reproducibility. CONCLUSION:Banana peel-derived CDs have the potential to serve as an active ingredient for antiinflammatory therapy; however, further studies on their pharmacokinetics are needed in relation to their safety and effectiveness as medicinal materials.
OBJECTIVE:Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic viral infection with high morbidity and mortality rates. Iraq experienced a severe CCHF epidemic outbreak in 2021- 2022. Accurate diagnosis requires precise timing for the CCHF polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and the CCHF immunoglobulin M (IgM) serological test. METHODS:This was a descriptive study of a large case series. Over two years, 380 cases were managed in infectious disease hospitals. Specific investigational data were analysed for CCHF cases positive by anti-CCHF PCR and/or IgM. These data were collected from the Central Public Health Laboratory (CPHL) in Baghdad, the only laboratory accredited for CCHF testing in Iraq. The study was conducted from March 1, 2021, to December 31, 2022. Blood samples were collected and transported according to safety protocols by a private vehicle with accredited personnel to the CPHL. RESULTS:All CCHF cases were diagnosed by PCR or serum CCHF IgM antibodies from all Iraqi governorates. A total of 380 cases of different ages and genders were identified. Diagnosis using PCR was possible from day 1 to day 15 of illness, whereas positive CCHF IgM antibodies indicated diagnosis from day 5 of illness onwards. DISCUSSION:The study explains the optimal timing for CCHF PCR and CCHF IgM testing, showing that early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes and prognosis. CONCLUSION:The gold standard for CCHF diagnosis is PCR testing within the first 15 days of illness, while anti-CCHF IgM testing becomes useful from day 5 onwards.
Background: Human exposure to aluminium, due to its high availability, can lead to nephrotoxicity. This exposure generates reactive oxygen species and triggers apoptosis, contributing to mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative damage. Moringa peregrina, a plant valued for its traditional, nutritional, industrial, and medicinal properties, has been studied for its pharmacological benefits. Selenium nanoparticles synthesized using plant extracts have garnered attention for their potential medicinal importance. Objective: This study aims to investigate the nephroprotective effects of Moringa peregrinaselenium nanoparticles (MPE-SeNPs) on aluminium-induced renal injury. Methods: Dried powdered seeds of M. peregrina (100 g) were extracted in distilled water to evaluate total phenolics and flavonoids and prepare the targeted MPE-SeNPs. These nanoparticles were characterized using TEM, UV-Vis, and FTIR. The LD50 of MPE-SeNPs was estimated to prepare 1/50 and 1/20 LD50 doses for evaluating renal protective activity against renal fibrosis in rats. Results and Discussion: The phenolic and flavonoid content of Moringa peregrina was approximately 76.42 mg of GAE/g DE and 15.55 mg of QE/g DE, respectively. TEM analysis showed that the nanoparticles had a size of around 64.5 ± 5.5 nm with a zeta potential value of 28.57 mV. The UV-Vis profile of the nanoparticles showed two specific peaks at 268 and 277 nm. At the same time, FTIR spectral data revealed the presence of OH, CH-arom., CH-aliph., and C=O groups, characterizing phenolics and flavonoids. The LD50 of the nanoparticles was 773 mg/kg b.w. Oral administration of M. peregrina extract (150 mg) and MPE-SeNPs (15.46 and 38.65 mg/kg b.w.) daily for 7 days significantly improved blood selenium levels as well as plasma levels of urea, creatinine, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), and phospholipids, as well as renal malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), interleukin-2 (IL-2), interleukin-4 (IL-4), and interleukin-10 (IL-10) in aluminiumintoxicated rats. Furthermore, M. peregrina and its selenium nanoparticles downregulated renal transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) gene expression in aluminium-exposed rats. The antioxidant and antiinflammatory activity in rats treated with MPE-SeNPs was more pronounced than in those treated with M. peregrina extract alone. Histopathological results indicated that MPE-SeNPs improved renal tissue by enhancing antioxidant enzymes and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4 and IL-10), suppressing pro-inflammatory IL-2, and scavenging free radicals. Conclusion: The seeds of M. peregrina are rich in phenolic compounds, including flavonoids, glucosides, and glucosinolates. MPE-SeNPs show promise as a protective agent against aluminiuminduced renal injury, with their ability to mitigate oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis underscoring their potential therapeutic value.
INTRODUCTION:Intracellular calcium in pancreatic beta cells plays a crucial role in insulin synthesis and secretion. Diabetes impairs this calcium-mediated action, necessitating an effective delivery system such as liposomes to facilitate calcium uptake. METHODS:Calcium lactate nanoliposomes (6.25 mg/mL) were prepared via the thin-film hydration method using lecithin and cholesterol as bilayer lipids. Their glucose-lowering efficacy was tested in hyperglycemic mice induced by oral glucose (1 g/kg) and intraperitoneal streptozotocin (45 mg/kg). Pancreatic calcium levels were measured using X-ray fluorescence to verify calcium delivery to beta cells. RESULTS:The nanoliposomes exhibited a diameter of 172.1 nm, zeta potential of -53.45 mV, polydispersity index of 0.203, and pH 7.2. Entrapment efficiency was 93.42%, with stable pH and particle size over six cycles. Treatment with calcium nanoliposomes significantly reduced blood glucose levels in both diabetic and glucose-loaded mice. Pancreatic calcium concentrations were higher in animals receiving calcium nanoliposomes compared to controls. DISCUSSION:Calcium nanoliposomes induced a significant glucose reduction relative to controls (empty liposomes, distilled water, and calcium in distilled water). Encapsulation within liposomal vesicles enhanced calcium delivery to pancreatic beta cells, increasing intracellular calcium and stimulating insulin production and release. This was corroborated by elevated pancreatic calcium levels observed via X-ray fluorescence in treated animals. CONCLUSION:Calcium nanoliposomes effectively improve glycemic control in diabetic and glucosechallenged animal models by enhancing calcium delivery to pancreatic beta cells.
BACKGROUND:Itraconazole (ICZ) has been approved by the FDA to treat many fungal infections including, blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, and aspergillosis. ICZ can be also used as prophylaxis in the population who are at high risk for developing systemic fungal infections, such as HIV patients, and chemotherapy patients. AIM:However, since ICZ is a BCS Class II drug that has low solubility and high permeability, leads to low oral bioavailability. In addition, the absorption of ICZ from commercial oral dosage forms is highly affected by food intake and pH. OBJECTIVES:The current study aimed to develop, optimize, and characterize ICZ-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (ICZ-SLNs) using a Central Composite Design for improved solubility and extendedrelease profile. METHODS:ICZ-SLNs were optimized based on physicochemical characteristics. ICZ-SLNs were also evaluated for differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), in-vitro release, lyophilization, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and physicochemical stability at refrigerated and room temperatures for three months. RESULTS:The optimized ICZ-SLNs formulation showed particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, drug content, and entrapment efficiency of 335.6±8.0 nm, 0.25±0.02, -23.8±0.5 mV, 98.3±2.5%, and 99.5±1.5%, respectively. ICZ-SLN dispersions showed extended-release profiles for ICZ compared to the control solution over 24 h. The absence of the endothermic melting drug peak of the lyophilized formulation indicated that the drug was converted to its amorphous form inside the solid matrix. In addition, TEM studies showed spherical shape nanoparticles. Moreover, the optimized ICZ-SLN formulation was stable at both tested storage conditions. CONCLUSION:The current ICZ formulation could exhibit improved oral bioavailability with better therapeutic outcomes during the treatment of systemic fungal infections.
The review aims to assess the potential of niosomes-nonionic surfactant-based vesicular systems-as carriers for topical and transdermal drug delivery. Niosomes enable targeted and controlled drug release while minimizing systemic toxicity. The investigation centers on their structure, stability, and capacity to entrap both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs, as well as their use in managing various dermatological and systemic disorders. Recent studies have examined the formulation of niosomes, particularly highlighting the roles of nonionic surfactants and cholesterol in enhancing the stability and entrapment efficiency of these vesicles. Research on permeability enhancers has been reviewed for their ability to work together to improve drug transport and bioavailability. It also provides a detailed discussion on the use of niosomes in treating various dermatological conditions, as well as their applications in systemic diseases, with a particular focus on co-delivery systems in cancer therapies. Niosomes exhibit efficacy in drug delivery by providing an increase in penetration through the stratum corneum, targeting hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs for dermatological and systemic applications. The Development of niosomal therapy has expanded into immunization, antiinflammatory treatments, and the control of pigmentation. Permeability enhancers further increase their efficacy, bioavailability, and tissue localization. Anticancer treatment using niosomes for codelivery of agents demonstrates synergistic effects with reduced side effects. Niosomes have tremendous potential in advancing topical and transdermal drug delivery, offering controlled, targeted release and improved patient outcomes. With optimized fabrication and comprehensive toxicity evaluation, niosomes can potentially revolutionize topical therapies, making them safer, more effective, and patient-friendly for a range of next-generation treatment options across dermatology and beyond.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and eventual joint damage. This condition occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes surrounding the joints. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and preventing joint damage through a combination of medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Recently, biological therapies have been introduced, including Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF) blockers (such as etanercept, infliximab, and adalimumab), IL-6 inhibitors (tocilizumab), and interleukin- 1 inhibitors (anakinra). These treatments can lead to various side effects. The use of herbalbased treatments, such as secondary metabolites, has gained popularity due to their better tolerability, safety, and effectiveness compared to conventional therapies. However, there are also some limitations, like poor bioavailability and permeability and lower stability; to overcome these issues, Novel Drug Delivery Systems (NDDS) have been introduced as better treatment options in recent years. Polymer science advancements and nanotechnology applications have opened new avenues for RA treatment, emphasizing the development of smart drug delivery systems. These systems aim to improve therapeutic outcomes while minimizing adverse effects. Additionally, newly synthesized biocompatible drug delivery systems, combined with anti-inflammatory drugs composed of secondary metabolites, offer potential solutions for RA.
