Objective: In this work, we look at Hansen solubility parameters (HSPs) to predict drug miscibility with polymers, in order to create a saturated amorphous drug phase. Methods: We used the Yamamoto molecular break (Y-MB) group contribution method (GCM) and solvent experiments to establish HSPs for PLA and 12 model drugs. Drug-loaded samples were made using solvent casting (SC) and vacuum compression moulding (VCM) in incremental drug concentrations until a saturated amorphous drug load was achieved. The amorphous drug phase was confirmed by X-ray diffraction after 24 h. These amorphous samples were further analysed by HPLC to confirm drug concentration. These drug concentrations were expressed as volume concentration in PLA, and they correlate with linearised HSP distance between drug and polymer. Results: This gives a statistically significant linear correlation between drug concentration and HSPs with R2 values ranging from 0.85 to 0.93 for SC and VCM methods. Conclusions: This work entails a possible concept for novel application of HSPs to predict miscible drug-polymer pairs and to estimate amorphous saturation concentration.

Ethnopharmacological studies are growing in number in Europe; however, research on medicinal plants in Lithuania focusing on dermatological and cosmetic applications is still scarce. This study aimed to evaluate ethnobotanical heritage related to the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic use in Northern Lithuania and to assess the compliance of traditional medicinal plant use indications with European Union herbal monographs. This study involved 36 participants aged 40 to 89. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews. This study documented 76 plant species belonging to 41 botanical families for the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic purposes. This knowledge was primarily transmitted through family traditions, with 59.2% of respondents reporting that they acquired this knowledge from parents or grandparents. The medicinal plants most frequently mentioned for the treatment of skin diseases and cosmetic purposes were Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. and Plantago major L. The most popular preparation method was topical application (32.4%) for treating skin diseases and decoction (38.5%) for cosmetic purposes. Plant-based raw materials were most often used to treat skin wounds (24.5%), as well as skin inflammation (16.3%) and burns (12.1%). For cosmetic purposes, the most frequently mentioned indication was dry skin (23.6% of plants). Of the 76 recorded plant species, 41 (53.9%) were not included in herbal monographs, and only 15 species (42.86%) were used in accordance with approved medical indications for skin diseases. Many plant species are used without European Medicines Agency-approved medical indications, relying solely on traditional and folk knowledge.

This review summarizes the role of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) as a common link between aging, neurodegeneration, and neuropathic pain. Aging is characterized by oxidative stress and constant inflammation, which coincides with reduced Nrf2 activity and weaker antioxidant responses, increasing vulnerability to diseases. In neurodegenerative disorders—including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis—evidence indicates that impaired Nrf2 signaling contributes to oxidative damage, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, in neuropathic pain, similar mechanisms are involved, and Nrf2 could play a role as a potential analgesic target because of its role in regulating cellular defense pathways. We also review natural Nrf2 modulators (e.g., flavonoids, other polyphenols, terpenoids, alkaloids), discussing their benefits alongside common translational limitations such as poor solubility, low oral bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and potential safety issues, including possible pro-oxidant effects and chemoresistance. We also outline future directions that should prioritize improving delivery systems, addressing NRF2/KEAP1 gene variations, evaluating combinations with standard therapies, exploring preventive applications, and defining dosing, treatment duration, and long-term safety. Overall, current evidence indicates that Nrf2 modulation is a practical, cross-cutting approach relevant to healthy aging and disease management.

Background/Objectives: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) develops through inflammation-driven preneoplastic alterations characterized by epidermal hyperplasia, dysplasia, and increased proliferative activity. C-phycocyanin (C-PC) possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; however, its topical potential to attenuate a tumour-promoting cutaneous microenvironment is limited by poor skin penetration. This study evaluated the effects of C-PC-loaded transfersomes in a 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)/12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced mouse model of skin carcinogenesis. Methods: Male BALB/c mice were assigned to six groups (n = 10 per group). Carcinogenesis was initiated with a single topical application of DMBA, followed by twice-weekly TPA application for 16 weeks. C-PC-loaded transfersomes (1 mg/mL or 10 mg/mL) were applied topically. Histopathological assessment included epidermal thickness, rete ridge depth, mitotic activity, mast cell density, and semi-quantitative scoring of hyperplasia, dysplasia, and inflammation. Ki-67 immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate basal and suprabasal proliferation. Results: Carcinogen exposure induced marked epidermal thickening, severe dysplasia, increased mitotic activity, elevated Ki-67 expression, and pronounced dermal inflammation. Treatment with C-PC-loaded transfersomes significantly reduced epidermal thickness, rete ridge depth, mast cell density, mitotic counts, and suprabasal Ki-67 index. The 1 mg/mL concentration demonstrated the most consistent attenuation of dysplasia severity and inflammatory changes. No adverse histopathological alterations were observed in internal organs. Conclusions: These findings indicate that transfersome-mediated topical delivery of C-PC attenuates early inflammation-driven epidermal remodelling and tumour-promoting alterations in experimental skin carcinogenesis, supporting its potential as a topical preventive strategy.

Background/Objectives: Natural calcium carbonate materials such as Rügen chalk have a long history of use in balneology and rehabilitation, particularly for musculoskeletal disorders, yet their application remains largely confined to traditional, labour-intensive forms such as powders, suspensions, and packs, which limit usability and broader clinical translation. This study aimed to develop an alginate-based solid foam incorporating Rügen chalk and to evaluate how key formulation components influence its structural, mechanical, and thermal properties relevant for therapeutic use. Methods: Alginate-chalk foams were prepared by mechanical mixing of a sodium alginate-Rügen chalk paste with an amino acid-based surfactant, while in situ CO2 generation from D-glucono-δ-lactone (GDL) induced calcium-mediated alginate gelation and foam stabilization. A central composite design with response surface methodology was used to assess the effects of alginate, chalk, and Perlastan®-GDL content on foam pH, overrun, firmness, springiness, pore volume, sphericity, pore density, specific internal surface area, and heat-loss time. Foam microstructure was characterized by optical microscopy and microcomputed tomography (µCT), and the thermal conductivity and cooling behaviour of the selected formulation were compared with therapeutic peat. Results: Stable, elastic solid foams with a three-dimensional porous architecture were obtained across the investigated composition range. Foam overrun (30.8-57.1%) was primarily governed by sodium alginate and Rügen chalk concentrations, while firmness (7.4-15.2 N) increased predominantly with alginate content, and springiness remained high (70-78%), indicating good elastic recovery. Response surface modelling and ANOVA confirmed sodium alginate as the dominant factor influencing both mechanical and structural properties, with statistically significant effects on overrun, firmness, springiness, heat loss, porosity, and specific internal surface. µCT analysis revealed that all foam formulations were predominantly composed of fine, closed-cell pores, with over 96% of pores having volumes below 0.5 mm3 and a consistent median pore volume of 0.02 mm3. Structural differences between formulations were governed primarily by pore number and spatial distribution rather than pore size. Strong correlations were identified between µCT-derived parameters, particularly between specific internal surface, porosity, and pore density, confirming that internal architecture is controlled by pore population rather than individual pore dimensions. Thermal analysis demonstrated that the optimized formulation exhibited thermal conductivity comparable to therapeutic peat and maintained clinically relevant temperatures (35-45 °C) for more than one hour. Based on predefined performance criteria (overrun ≥ 50%, firmness ≤ 10 N, heat loss ≥ 120 s), formulation 7 was identified as optimal, combining favourable mechanical properties, structural uniformity and thermal retention. Conclusions: Alginate-based solid foams incorporating Rügen chalk constitute a feasible and tunable platform that combines efficient mineral loading, elastic porosity, and effective heat retention, offering a practical and modern alternative to conventional mineral-based therapeutic applications in balneology and rehabilitation.

Background: Three-dimensional printing (3DP) is rapidly advancing personalised medicine, yet systematic performance comparison with conventional manufacturing remains limited, particularly for plant-based formulations. Methods: This study compared tablets containing plant-based APIs (cannabidiol, apigenin, and luteolin) produced via conventional hot moulding and semi-solid extrusion (SSE) 3DP. The formulations were evaluated for physicochemical, mechanical, rheological, structural, and drug-release properties. Results: Both manufacturing methods produced tablets with comparable dimensions and mass; however, pronounced formulation-dependent differences were observed in mechanical strength, rheology, and microstructure. The molecular modelling predictions were consistent with the experimental findings. Agar–pectin exhibited the strongest predicted polymer–polymer and polymer–API interactions, including multiple hydrogen bonds, and formed a comparatively dense and cohesive matrix associated with slower API release. In contrast, the weaker interactions predicted for gelatine–pectin were associated with a less cohesive and more porous matrix that facilitated medium penetration, API diffusion, and drug release. SSE printlets generally exhibited greater porosity and more heterogeneous internal architectures than moulded tablets, resulting in enhanced drug release of approximately 95%. Micro-CT analysis provided important structural confirmation; API incorporation increased the void volume of gelatine–pectin printlets from 1.15% to 8.77%, demonstrating that disruption of polymer interactions contributed to pore formation and enhanced molecular diffusion. The observed release behaviour correlated with predicted molecular interactions and experimentally observed microstructural features, where increased porosity and weaker polymer–API interactions facilitated enhanced drug diffusion. Conclusions: Overall, SSE-3DP outperformed conventional moulding, demonstrating superior tunability and performance. This work provides a mechanistically informed strategy for designing plant-based, personalised natural products using 3DP technologies.

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain disorder marked by widespread pain and significant impairment of daily life. Despite evolving diagnostic criteria and recognition as a primary chronic pain condition, current treatments yield limited success, and underlying mechanisms remain under investigation.This narrative review focuses on oxygen-ozone autohaemotherapy (O2-O3-AHT) as a potential intervention for FM, evaluating its biological rationale and possible mechanisms of action. The therapeutic interest in O2-O3-AHT centres on its capacity to activate the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, reduce oxidative stress, improve mitochondrial function, and address small fibre pathology. The review employed a structured narrative synthesis, adhering to SANRA guidelines to ensure methodological rigor and transparency. Comprehensive literature searches included peer-reviewed articles published in English from 2015 to 2025.Evidence suggests that O2-O3-AHT may provide multi-target benefits for FM patients by modulating redox balance, enhancing mitochondrial resilience, and potentially alleviating neuropathic components related to small fibre dysfunction. Clinical studies, though limited and often heterogeneous, report improvements in pain, sleep quality, fatigue, and overall functional status in FM patients treated with O2-O3-AHT. Biomarker analyses further support reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators post-intervention. However, the variability in treatment protocols, sample sizes, and outcome measures across studies complicates definitive conclusions about efficacy and safety.O2-O3-AHT represents a promising, mechanism-based approach to FM management, particularly for patients unresponsive to conventional therapies. Its ability to target central and peripheral biological processes aligns with the complex pathophysiology of FM. However, the current evidence base is restricted by methodological inconsistencies and a paucity of large, high-quality randomised trials. Future research should prioritise standardised protocols, robust clinical endpoints, and long-term safety assessment to validate the role of O2-O3-AHT in FM treatment. Until then, its use should be considered experimental and guided by careful patient selection and monitoring.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a recognized human carcinogen, and topical sunscreens remain the primary strategy for photoprotection. As community pharmacies represent trusted sources of skincare products, evaluating the composition of sunscreens distributed through this channel is particularly relevant. This cross-sectional market analysis investigated UV filters used in sunscreen products available in Lithuanian community pharmacies in November-December 2025. Products were identified through online pharmacy catalogs and assessed for labeled Sun Protection Factor (SPF), number and type of UV filters, and filter combinations in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. A total of 467 products from 98 brands were included, and 26 distinct UV filters were identified. Triazine derivatives predominated, particularly bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine (64.67%) and ethylhexyl triazone (58.03%). Most products (61.67%) were labeled SPF >= 50 and contained multiple UV filters (mean 4.29 +/- 1.66), with significantly more filters in SPF >= 50 formulations (p < 0.001). These results indicate that sunscreen products available in Lithuanian pharmacies are dominated by high-SPF formulations and selective multi-filter systems, providing region-specific insights relevant to regulatory oversight and consumer exposure assessment.

Background: Existing therapies for xerostomia are primarily symptomatic, providing temporary mucosal hydration without addressing underlying pathological changes in the oral cavity. In this context, medicated chewing gums containing ascorbic acid and lysozyme hydrochloride offer a promising approach, combining antimicrobial, antioxidant, and trophic effects with physiological salivary stimulation and prolonged local delivery. Methods: For the development of compressed chewing gum formulation, the physicochemical (particle size distribution, moisture absorption capacity, and microscopic characteristics) and technological (flowability, angle of repose, bulk and tapped density, Carr's index (CI), and Hausner ratio (HR)) properties of the active substances and their formulations with excipients were evaluated. Pharmacological activity was assessed in an atropine-induced xerostomia rat model. Results: The physical mixture of all components showed inferior flow properties compared with the formulation containing pre-granulated lysozyme hydrochloride, as evidenced by higher Carr's index and Hausner ratio values (CI = 17, HR = 1.20 vs. CI = 13, HR = 1.14), indicating improved processability after pre-granulation. The effect of relative humidity during formulation was also assessed, with an optimal level of 40% required to ensure process stability due to the hygroscopic nature of the components. Based on these data, technological approaches ensuring processability were established, including wet pre-granulation of lysozyme hydrochloride and premixing of ascorbic acid to reduce oxidation risk. These approaches resulted in an optimized compression mass with excellent flowability (CI = 8, HR = 1.09), suitable for the preparation of medicated chewing gum. An optimal compression force (7 kN) ensured suitable rheological and textural properties, resulting in rapid and nearly complete release of the active ingredients from the medicated chewing gum, consistent with kinetic analysis. In vivo studies using an atropine-induced xerostomia rat model demonstrated that the combination of ascorbic acid and lysozyme hydrochloride significantly increased salivary secretion (2.17-fold vs. control pathology group) and reduced salivary gland mass coefficients (by 13-18% compared with the control pathology group and groups receiving individual active ingredients), alongside improvement of oxidative stress markers, including a reduction in TBA-reactants (by 51.6%) and an increase in catalase activity (by 51.0%). Conclusions: The developed medicated chewing gum showed favorable technological properties, efficient release of active ingredients, and anti-xerostomic activity in vivo, indicating its potential for xerostomia relief and oral health support.

Idebenone (IDEB) has been proposed for treating neurodegenerative diseases, but its clinical translation remains a materials engineering challenge due to extremely low oral bioavailability (<1%). This study presents a rational materials-design strategy for developing IDEB buccal mucoadhesive films. Computer-aided screening evaluated polymer interactions with mucin-1 (MUC1). All tested polymers exhibited favorable hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions, with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) showing the highest binding affinity. Molecular dynamics confirmed HPMC–MUC1 stability complex under physiological conditions, supported by a consistent hydrogen bonding network and stable hydrophobic and polar surface profiles over 50 ns. To elucidate processing-structure-property relationships IDEB-loaded buccal films were then fabricated to compare solvent casting and semi-solid extrusion 3D printing (3DP). IDEB significantly enhanced mucoadhesion, with solvent cast films showing slightly higher adhesion (0.90N·s) than 3DP films (0.81N·s). SEM revealed that 3DP generated a macro-porous architecture enabling rapid disintegration and burst release, whereas solvent cast films showed superior mechanical strength and sustained, Fickian diffusion-controlled release. Thermal analysis and SEM analysis confirmed greater IDEB amorphization during extrusion, transitioning dense, blocky aggregates into finer, needle-like crystals, consistent with improved apparent solubility. Overall, this integrated computational and experimental approach yields viable biomaterial platforms addressing the solubility and bioavailability limitations of IDEB.

Background: Transdermal films are promising dosage forms for controlled delivery of active pharmaceutical ingredients through the skin. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based matrices are particularly attractive due to their biocompatibility, film-forming ability, and versatility. However, the development of films for volatile compounds such as menthol remains challenging due to high potential losses during processing and application. This study compares PVA-based transdermal films fabricated by 3D printing, solvent casting, and electrospinning, focusing on the effect of fabrication method on film properties, release behaviour, and skin delivery performance. Methods: A comprehensive characterization included morphology, structure, thickness, moisture content, mechanical properties, adhesion, menthol content, in vitro release, ex vivo permeation, and stability. Results: Fabrication method significantly influenced film microstructure, menthol entrapment, and stability. Menthol acted as a plasticiser, increasing thickness and moisture content while reducing mechanical strength via disruption of intermolecular interactions within the PVA matrix. The 3D-printed films exhibited the highest entrapment efficiency (14.40%, corresponding to 4.00% menthol content in the dried matrix) and superior menthol retention after 6 months (75.0%), compared to solvent-cast and electrospun films, due to their dense layered structure limiting volatile losses. All formulations showed biphasic release behaviour, strongly dependent on fabrication method. Electrospun films released menthol fastest (68.94% at 1 h), followed by solvent-cast films (63.48% at 1 h), whereas 3D-printed films exhibited a more sustained profile (46.14% at 2 h), reflecting differences in porosity and diffusion pathways. These structural differences also affected skin delivery, with 3D-printed systems demonstrating higher epidermal flux than the other formulations. Conclusions: Overall, fabrication method governed film microstructure and thereby controlled menthol entrapment, release, and transdermal performance. Extrusion-based 3D printing offers a promising strategy for designing transdermal systems for volatile compounds with improved structural control and delivery efficiency.

Background/Objectives: Posaconazole is an antifungal agent from triazoles with variable bioavailability. To avoid its irregular absorption caused by gastric conditions and ensure more repeatable pharmacokinetic enabling the maximization of its absorption regardless of food intake without the need to administer multiple doses, can be provided by the technology of enteric drug preparations. The cross-linking of polysaccharide polymers with divalent and trivalent cations enables multi-unit formulations to be obtained that prevent drug absorption in the stomach. Microcapsules, as an example of multi-unit drug dosage forms, provide more predictable gastric emptying, depending on nutritional status, and spread extensively throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Methods: Therefore, the utilization of zinc acetate for the cross-linking of the alginate and pectin mixture was evaluated. The obtained formulations were evaluated for the impact of cross-linking process and pectin’s presence on their pharmaceutical, mucoadhesive, physicochemical and antifungal properties. Results: It was shown that cross-linked microcapsules by zinc acetate provided delayed posaconazole release. Additionally, the cross-linking process with Zn2+ ions significantly enhanced antifungal activity against the analyzed Candida strains. It was observed that pectin content in the formulation enhanced the swelling ability in an intestinal condition and increased the mucoadhesive properties of drug-loaded formulations to the intestinal mucosa.

Background/Objectives: Chitosan–alginate microcapsules were produced to encapsulate bioactive compounds from Artemisia annua L. extract (apigenin, luteolin) and cannabidiol (CBD). The study aimed to optimize emulsion composition and encapsulation parameters for potential applications in food supplements and pharmaceuticals. Methods: A water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) emulsion and a modified coacervation extrusion technique were employed. The study was conducted in two phases using response surface methodology. Key metrics included encapsulation efficiency (EE), yield (EY), cumulative release in vitro, and physicochemical and morphological properties, analyzed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (HPLC-DAD), and gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID). Results: The optimal conditions were identified as 0.1% Tween 20, 3.8% Span 80, 3.8% CBD, 19.9% A. annua L. extract, 1.5% outer-phase Tween 20, 48.5% sodium alginate, 200 rpm stirring for 30 min, and a 0.05 mL/min flow rate. The EE values were 80.32 ± 4.11% for CBD, 88.13 ± 3.13% for apigenin, and 88.41 ± 4.17% for luteolin, with respective cumulative releases of 77.18 ± 4.4%, 75.12 ± 4.81%, and 75.32 ± 4.53%. Conclusions: The developed microcapsules demonstrated high encapsulation efficiency and controlled release, highlighting their potential for further development in food supplements and pharmaceuticals. Future studies should focus on refining the formulation for improved bioavailability and stability.

Background/Objectives: Rhodiola rosea L. (Crassulaceae), a perennial adaptogenic herb native to Northern Europe, Asia, and North America, is renowned for its therapeutic properties attributed to phenolic compounds including flavonoids, phenylethanoids, phenylpropanoids, and cinnamyl alcohol glycosides. The plant’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities align with its traditional use in boosting physical and cognitive performance, reducing fatigue, and improving stress resilience. However, conventional dosage forms present compliance challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations with swallowing difficulties. This study aimed to develop and optimize orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) containing standardized Rhodiola rosea root and rhizome (RR) dry extract to ensure rapid disintegration and acceptable taste, thereby improving patient compliance. Methods: Dried Rhodiola rosea root and rhizome (particle size 2–3 mm) were extracted using 70% m/m ethanol using the fractionated maceration methodology. The resulting dry RR extract was standardized to 3.0% m/m rosavin content by blending batches of the extract and analyzed using validated chromatographic methods. The standardized dry extract was formulated into ODTs via direct compression technology. Various excipients were evaluated to achieve rapid disintegration while masking the characteristic bitter taste of RR extract. Results: The optimized ODT formulation (500 mg, 11 mm ø, 20% standardized RR dry extract) disintegrated within 3 min and effectively masking the characteristic bitterness of the RR extract. The formulation maintained content uniformity and did not exhibit loss of active compounds during processing, meeting European Pharmacopoeia requirements for ODTs. Conclusions: The developed ODTs containing standardized Rhodiola rosea extract offer a patient-friendly alternative for oro-mucosal administration, supporting improved compliance in populations with swallowing difficulties while retaining the extract’s phytochemical integrity and sensory acceptability.

IntroductionThe rapid emergence of multidrug-resistant bacterial species poses a critical threat by reducing the efficacy of antibiotics and complicating infection treatment. Bacteriocins, such as klebicin KvarM, have emerged as promising alternatives to traditional antibiotics due to their targeted antimicrobial activity. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of Eudragit-coated klebicin KvarM in a mouse model of Klebsiella pneumoniae intestinal colonization, assessing both its antimicrobial effectiveness and impact on commensal gut microbiota.MethodsAntimicrobial activity of KvarM in comparison to conventional antibiotic therapy with ciprofloxacin was tested in murine models for K. pneumoniae gastrointestinal (GI) tract infection. The haemolysin gene (khe) was chosen as the qualitative marker for Klebsiella genus identification, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing of V1-V2 hypervariable region was performed for analyses of gut microbiota.ResultsOur results demonstrated that KvarM was highly effective in reducing K. pneumoniae colonization, showing the same efficacy as ciprofloxacin. Following K. pneumoniae inoculation, administration of KvarM resulted in a significant reduction in bacterial load indicating a 99% effectiveness. Furthermore, microbiome analysis of the gut microbiota revealed that KvarM therapy showed no significant changes in microbial composition compared with commensal microbiota composition, whereas administration of ciprofloxacin led to a significant decrease in microbial diversity.DiscussionThese findings demonstrate that klebicin KvarM therapy is highly effective for treating intestinal K. pneumoniae infections and it does not affect the integrity of the gut microbiota.

Pharmaceutical 3D printing, combined with nanomaterials and nanodevices, presents a transformative approach to precision medicine for treating neurological diseases. This technology enables the creation of tailored dosage forms with controlled release profiles, enhancing drug delivery across the blood−brain barrier (BBB). The integration of nanoparticles, such as poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), chitosan, and metallic nanomaterials, into 3D-printed scaffolds improves treatment efficacy by providing targeted and prolonged drug release. Recent advances have demonstrated the potential of these systems in treating conditions like Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and brain tumors. Moreover, 3D printing allows for multi-drug combinations and personalized formulations that adapt to individual patient needs. Novel drug delivery approaches, including stimuli-responsive systems, on-demand dosing, and theragnostics, provide new possibilities for the real-time monitoring and treatment of neurological disorders. Despite these innovations, challenges remain in terms of scalability, regulatory approval, and long-term safety. The future perspectives of this technology suggest its potential to revolutionize neurological treatments by offering patient-specific therapies, improved drug penetration, and enhanced treatment outcomes. This review discusses the current state, applications, and transformative potential of 3D printing and nanotechnology in neurological treatment, highlighting the need for further research to overcome the existing challenges.

Three-dimensional printing technology is transforming pharmaceutical manufacturing by shifting from conventional mass production to additive manufacturing, with a strong emphasis on personalized medicine. The integration of bioinks and AI-driven optimization is further enhancing this innovation, enabling drug production with precise dosages, tailored drug-release profiles, and unique multi-drug combinations that respond to individual patient needs. This advancement is significantly impacting healthcare by accelerating drug development, encouraging innovative pharmaceutical designs, and enhancing treatment efficacy. Traditional pharmaceutical manufacturing follows a one-size-fits-all approach, which often fails to meet the specific requirements of patients with unique medical conditions. In contrast, 3D printing, coupled with bioink formulations, allows for on-demand drug production, reducing dependency on large-scale manufacturing and storage. AI-powered design and process optimization further refine dosage forms, printability, and drug release mechanisms, ensuring precision and efficiency in drug manufacturing. These advancements have the potential to lower overall healthcare costs while improving patient adherence to medication regimens. This review explores the potential, challenges, and environmental benefits of 3D pharmaceutical printing, positioning it as a key driver of next-generation personalized medicine.

Background/Objectives: In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the stabilization of natural biologically active compounds in order to expand their application in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Such compounds, such as polyphenols, essential fatty acids, or vitamins, are extremely sensitive to environmental factors. This study aims to review the spray-drying-based microencapsulation technology and its application for stabilizing sensitive biologically active substances. Methods: This article systematically analyzes the main steps of the spray-drying microencapsulation process and discusses traditional and innovative wall materials, including natural polymers (polysaccharides and proteins), as well as new raw material sources (e.g., yeast cells, canola and pea protein isolates, and hemicelluloses). It also examines the potential of these systems for the stimulated release of active ingredients. Results: This review provides a comprehensive overview of the main stages of the spray-drying process and critically examines both conventional (e.g., maltodextrin and gum Arabic) and innovative wall materials (e.g., plant-based proteins and food industry by-products). Studies show that using different wall materials can achieve high encapsulation efficiency, improve the stability of biologically active substances, and control their release. Various compounds have been successfully microencapsulated—polyphenols, essential oils, carotenoids, fatty acids, and vitamins—protecting them from oxidation, light, and temperature. The review identifies key factors that can enhance product quality, increase encapsulation yield, and reduce processing costs and energy input—offering meaningful insights for optimizing the microencapsulation process. Conclusions: Spray-drying-based microencapsulation is an advanced technology that effectively protects sensitive active ingredients and allows for wider industrial food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications. In the future, more attention is expected to be paid to personalized formulations, stimulated release systems, and sustainable wall materials from by-products.

Background/Objectives. Chronic inflammatory skin disorders, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, require safe and effective topical treatments. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a novel anti-inflammatory emulsion enriched with menthol, capsaicin, amino acids (glycine, arginine, histidine), and boswellic acid. Methods. Three formulations were prepared: a control (E1), a partial (E2), and a comprehensive formulation (E3). Physicochemical analyses included texture profiling, rheological behavior, pH stability, moisture content, and particle size distribution. Results. E3 demonstrated superior colloidal stability, optimal pH (5.75–6.25), and homogenous droplet size (<1 µm), indicating favorable dermal delivery potential. Ex vivo permeation studies revealed effective skin penetration of menthol and amino acids, with boswellic acid remaining primarily in the epidermis, suggesting localized action. Under oxidative stress conditions, E3 significantly improved fibroblast viability, indicating synergistic cytoprotective effects of combined active ingredients. While individual compounds showed limited or dose-dependent efficacy, their combination restored cell viability to near-control levels. Conclusions. These findings support the potential of this multi-component emulsion as a promising candidate for the topical management of inflammatory skin conditions.

Polymeric films are promising formulations for oromucosal drug delivery, particularly for localized treatment of dental diseases. This study focused on developing mucoadhesive films for dental applications, incorporating clove CO2 extract and essential oils of lavender and grapefruit as active ingredients. The films were prepared using the solvent casting method, with various film-forming agents (sodium alginate, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol) used individually and in combinations, without or with plasticizers (glycerol, polyethylene glycol 400, or their mixtures). To optimize the selection of mucoadhesive polymer and plasticizer, properties such as appearance, thickness, pH, moisture content, bursting strength, tensile capacity, elasticity, dissolution, and adhesion, were evaluated. The combination of hydroxyethyl cellulose and hydroxypropyl cellulose with polyethylene glycol 400 was proved most suitable, ensuring superior organoleptic, physicochemical, and textural characteristics. The films demonstrated strong mucoadhesion (9.20 ± 0.58 N), contributing prolonged retention on the mucosa and enhanced bioavailability of the active ingredients. In vitro release studies showed sustained release profile, with approximately 90% of eugenol released during the final film dissolution phase (360-420 min), supporting prolonged therapeutic effects and enhanced local therapy efficacy. The films also exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, confirming their potential for treating infectious and inflammatory oral diseases.