Wasp venom peptide improves the proapoptotic activity of alendronate sodium in A549 lung cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer in men and women is considered the leading cause for cancer-related mortality worldwide. Anti-cancer peptides represent a potential untapped reservoir of effective cancer therapy.

METHODOLOGY

Box-Behnken response surface design was applied for formulating Alendronate sodium (ALS)-mastoparan peptide (MP) nanoconjugates using Design-Expert software. The optimization process aimed at minimizing the size of the prepared ALS-MP nanoconjugates. ALS-MP nanoconjugates' particle size, encapsulation efficiency and the release profile were determined. Cytotoxicity, cell cycle, annexin V staining and caspase 3 analyses on A549 cells were carried out for the optimized formula.

RESULTS

The results revealed that the optimized formula was of 134.91±5.1 nm particle size. The novel ALS-MP demonstrated the lowest IC50 (1.3 ± 0.34 μM) in comparison to ALS-Raw (37.6 ± 1.79 μM). Thus, the results indicated that when optimized ALS-MP nanoconjugate was used, the IC50 of ALS was also reduced by half. Cell cycle analysis demonstrated a significantly higher percentage of cells in the G2-M phase following the treatment with optimized ALS-MP nanoconjugates.

CONCLUSION

The optimized ALS-MP formula had significantly improved the parameters related to the cytotoxic activity towards A549 cells, compared to control, MP and ALS-Raw.

Plant-Based Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles and Theranostic Applications: A Review

Bionanotechnology is a branch of science that has revolutionized modern science and technology. Nanomaterials, especially noble metals, have attracted researchers due to their size and application in different branches of sciences that benefit humanity. Metal nanoparticles can be synthesized using green methods, which are good for the environment, economically viable, and facilitate synthesis. Due to their size and form, gold nanoparticles have become significant. Plant materials are of particular interest in the synthesis and manufacture of theranostic gold nanoparticles (NPs), which have been generated using various materials. On the other hand, chemically produced nanoparticles have several drawbacks in terms of cost, toxicity, and effectiveness. A plant-mediated integration of metallic nanoparticles has been developed in the field of nanotechnology to overcome the drawbacks of traditional synthesis, such as physical and synthetic strategies. Nanomaterials′ tunable features make them sophisticated tools in the biomedical platform, especially for developing new diagnostics and therapeutics for malignancy, neurodegenerative, and other chronic disorders. Therefore, this review outlines the theranostic approach, the different plant materials utilized in theranostic applications, and future directions based on current breakthroughs in these fields.

Emerging Anthelmintic Resistance in Poultry: Can Ethnopharmacological Approaches Offer a Solution?

Limited pharmacological studies have been conducted on plant species used against poultry helminths. The objective of this study was to provide a basis for plant based anthelmintics as possible alternatives against poultry anthelmintic resistance. The study justified the need for alternative anthelmintics. The study places emphasis on the increasing anthelmintic resistance, mechanism of resistance, and preparational protocols for plant anthelmintics and their associated mechanism of action. Pharmaceutical studies on plants as alternative therapies for the control of helminth parasites have not been fully explored especially in several developing countries. Plants from a broad range of species produce a wide variety of compounds that are potential anthelmintics candidates. Important phenolic acids have been found in Brassica rapa L. and Terminalia avicenniodes Guill. and Perri that affect the cell signaling pathways and gene expression. Benzo (c) phenanthridine and isoquinoline alkaloids are neurotoxic to helminths. Steroidal saponins (polyphyllin D and dioscin) interact with helminthic mitochondrial activity, alter cell membrane permeability, vacuolation and membrane damage. Benzyl isothiocyanate glucosinolates interfere with DNA replication and protein expression, while isoflavones from Acacia oxyphylla cause helminth flaccid paralysis, inhibit energy generation, and affect calcium utilization. Condensed tannins have been shown to cause the death of nematodes and paralysis leading to expulsion from the gastro-intestinal tract. Flavonoids from Chenopodium album L and Mangifera indica L act through the action of phosphodiesterase and Ca2+-ATPase, and flavonoids and tannins have been shown to act synergistically and are complementary to praziquantel. Artemisinins from Artemisia cina O. Berg are known to disrupt mitochondrial ATP production. Terpenoids from Cucurbita moschata L disrupt neurotransmission leading to paralysis as well as disruption of egg hatching. Yeast particle encapsulated terpenes are effective for the control of albendazole-resistant helminths.

Development and Optimization of Hybrid Polymeric Nanoparticles of Apigenin: Physicochemical Characterization, Antioxidant Activity and Cytotoxicity Evaluation

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in females and ranked second after skin cancer. The use of natural compounds is a good alternative for the treatment of breast cancer with less toxicity than synthetic drugs. The aim of the present study is to develop and characterize hybrid Apigenin (AN) Nanoparticles (NPs) for oral delivery (AN-NPs). The hybrid AN-NPs were prepared by the self-assembly method using lecithin, chitosan and TPGS. Further, the NPs were optimized by Box-Behnken design (3-factor, 3-level). The hybrid NPs were evaluated for particle size (PS), entrapment efficiency (EE), zeta potential (ZP), and drug release. The optimized hybrid NPs (ON2), were further evaluated for solid state characterization, permeation, antioxidant, cytotoxicity and antimicrobial study. The formulation (ON2) exhibited small PS of 192.6 ± 4.2 nm, high EE 69.35 ± 1.1%, zeta potential of +36.54 mV, and sustained drug release (61.5 ± 2.5% in 24 h), as well as significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced drug permeation and antioxidant activity. The IC₅₀ of pure AN was found to be significantly (p < 0.05) lower than the formulation (ON2). It also showed significantly greater (p < 0.05) antibacterial activity than pure AN against Bacillus subtilis and Salmonella typhimurium. From these findings, it revealed that a hybrid AN polymeric nanoparticle is a good carrier for the treatment of breast cancer.

Formulation of Apigenin-Cyclodextrin-Chitosan Ternary Complex: Physicochemical Characterization, In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

The current investigation was performed with an aim to improve the aqueous solubility, dissolution rate, and thus the biological activity of apigenin (APG) using the solubilizers hydroxypropyl beta-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) and chitosan (CTSN). A binary and ternary inclusion complexes of APG with HPβCD and CTSN were prepared by physical mixing, fusion, and solvent evaporation methods. The liquid state characterization of the APG, the solubilizers, and the physical and chemical interactions between them was done through phase solubility approach. The solid-state characterization was performed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The in vitro dissolution test and antioxidant activity and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of the ternary inclusion complex in albino rats were performed to assess the performance of the APG. Phase solubility study results revealed a remarkable increase in apparent stability constant (Kc) and complexation efficiency (CE) of HPβCD in presence of CTSN in ternary complex with above 8 folds more increment in solubility of APG than its binary complex. The in vitro dissolution rate, antioxidant activity, and the anti-inflammatory effect of the APG ternary inclusion complex were found to be significantly higher than that of pure APG. Solid state characterization confirmed the formation of a ternary inclusion complex. 1H-NMR study gave more insight at molecular level into how different groups of APG were responsible for complex formation with the HPβCD and how CTSN was significantly influencing on the APG-HPβCD complex formed. Nevertheless, pharmacokinetic and histopathological studies of our APG-HPβCD-CTSN ternary complex would yield much rewarding results.

A Review on the Main Phytoconstituents, Traditional Uses, Inventions, and Patent Literature of Gum Arabic Emphasizing Acacia seyal

Acacia seyal is an important source of gum Arabic. The availability, traditional, medicinal, pharmaceutical, nutritional, and cosmetic applications of gum acacia have pronounced its high economic value and attracted global attention. In addition to summarizing the inventions/patents applications related to gum A. seyal, the present review highlights recent updates regarding its phytoconstituents. Traditional, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and medicinal uses with the possible mechanism of actions have been also reviewed. The patent search revealed the identification of 30 patents/patent applications of A. seyal. The first patent related to A. seyal was published in 1892, which was related to its use in the prophylaxis/treatment of kidney and bladder affections. The use of A. seyal to treat cancer and osteoporosis has also been patented. Some inventions provided compositions and formulations containing A. seyal or its ingredients for pharmaceutical and medical applications. The inventions related to agricultural applications, food industry, cosmetics, quality control of gum Arabic, and isolation of some chemical constituents (L-rhamnose and arabinose) from A. seyal have also been summarized. The identification of only 30 patents/patent applications from 1892 to 15 November 2021 indicates a steadily growing interest and encourages developing more inventions related to A. seyal. The authors recommend exploring these opportunities for the benefit of society.

Theranostic Interpolation of Genomic Instability in Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a diverse disease caused by mutations in multiple genes accompanying epigenetic aberrations of hazardous genes and protein pathways, which distress tumor-suppressor genes and the expression of oncogenes. Alteration in any of the several physiological mechanisms such as cell cycle checkpoints, DNA repair machinery, mitotic checkpoints, and telomere maintenance results in genomic instability. Theranostic has the potential to foretell and estimate therapy response, contributing a valuable opportunity to modify the ongoing treatments and has developed new treatment strategies in a personalized manner. “Omics” technologies play a key role while studying genomic instability in breast cancer, and broadly include various aspects of proteomics, genomics, metabolomics, and tumor grading. Certain computational techniques have been designed to facilitate the early diagnosis of cancer and predict disease-specific therapies, which can produce many effective results. Several diverse tools are used to investigate genomic instability and underlying mechanisms. The current review aimed to explore the genomic landscape, tumor heterogeneity, and possible mechanisms of genomic instability involved in initiating breast cancer. We also discuss the implications of computational biology regarding mutational and pathway analyses, identification of prognostic markers, and the development of strategies for precision medicine. We also review different technologies required for the investigation of genomic instability in breast cancer cells, including recent therapeutic and preventive advances in breast cancer.

Gelatin- and Papaya-Based Biodegradable and Edible Packaging Films to Counter Plastic Waste Generation

Most of the food packaging materials used in the market are petroleum-based plastics; such materials are neither biodegradable nor environmentally friendly and require years to decompose. To overcome these problems, biodegradable and edible materials are encouraged to be used because such materials degrade quickly due to the actions of bacteria, fungi, and other environmental effects. In this work, commonly available household materials such as gelatin, soy protein, corn starch, and papaya were used to prepare cost-effective lab-scale biodegradable and edible packaging film as an effective alternative to commercial plastics to reduce waste generation. Prepared films were characterized in terms of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), optical transparency, and tensile strength. FTIR confirmed the addition of papaya and soy protein to the gelatin backbone. WVTR of the gelatin-papaya films was recorded to be less than 50 g/m²/day. This water vapor barrier was five times better than films of pristine gelatin. The gelatin, papaya, and soy protein films exhibited transparencies of around 70% in the visible region. The tensile strength of the film was 2.44 MPa, which improved by a factor of 1.5 for the films containing papaya and soy protein. The barrier qualities of the gelatin and gelatin-papaya films maintained the properties even after going through 2000 bending cycles. From the results, it is inferred that the prepared films are ideally suitable for food encapsulation and their production on a larger scale can considerably cut down the plastic wastage.

Genes and Longevity of Lifespan

Aging is a complex process indicated by low energy levels, declined physiological activity, stress induced loss of homeostasis leading to the risk of diseases and mortality. Recent developments in medical sciences and an increased availability of nutritional requirements has significantly increased the average human lifespan worldwide. Several environmental and physiological factors contribute to the aging process. However, about 40% human life expectancy is inherited among generations, many lifespan associated genes, genetic mechanisms and pathways have been demonstrated during last decades. In the present review, we have evaluated many human genes and their non-human orthologs established for their role in the regulation of lifespan. The study has included more than fifty genes reported in the literature for their contributions to the longevity of life. Intact genomic DNA is essential for the life activities at the level of cell, tissue, and organ. Nucleic acids are vulnerable to oxidative stress, chemotherapies, and exposure to radiations. Efficient DNA repair mechanisms are essential for the maintenance of genomic integrity, damaged DNA is not replicated and transferred to next generations rather the presence of deleterious DNA initiates signaling cascades leading to the cell cycle arrest or apoptosis. DNA modifications, DNA methylation, histone methylation, histone acetylation and DNA damage can eventually lead towards apoptosis. The importance of calorie restriction therapy in the extension of lifespan has also been discussed. The role of pathways involved in the regulation of lifespan such as DAF-16/FOXO (forkhead box protein O1), TOR and JNK pathways has also been particularized. The study provides an updated account of genetic factors associated with the extended lifespan and their interactive contributory role with cellular pathways.

Discovery, Development, Inventions and Patent Review of Fexinidazole: The First All-Oral Therapy for Human African Trypanosomiasis

Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT or ‘sleeping sickness’) is a neglected tropical disease. If untreated, it is always fatal and leads to death. A few treatments are available for HAT, but most of them require a skilled professional, which increases the financial burden on the patient. Recently, fexinidazole (FEX) has been approved by the European Medicine Agency (EMA) and the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) as the first all-oral therapy for the treatment of stage-1 (hemolymphatic) as well as stage-2 (meningoencephalitic) of HAT. Before the FEX approval, there were separate treatments for stage-1 and stage-2 of HAT. This study reviews the discovery, development timeline, inventions, and patent literature of FEX. It was first approved by EMA and USFDA in 2018 and 2021, respectively. FEX was also added to the World Health Organization’s list of essential drugs in 2019. The patent literature search revealed many types of patents/patent applications (compound, salt, process, method of treatment, drug combinations, and compositions) related to FEX, which have been summarized in this article. The authors foresee a great scope to develop more inventions based on FEX (novel salts, polymorphs, drug conjugates, cyclodextrin complex, etc.) for the treatment of many protozoal diseases (Leishmaniasis and Chagas disease), inflammatory diseases, and other microbial infections. New combinations of FEX with other treatments of HAT may also provide fruitful results. This review might be useful to the scientists working on the HAT and other neglected diseases to develop novel inventions and innovations of therapeutic relevance.

Phytochemical Compound Screening to Identify Novel Small Molecules against Dengue Virus: A Docking and Dynamics Study

The spread of the Dengue virus over the world, as well as multiple outbreaks of different serotypes, has resulted in a large number of deaths and a medical emergency, as no viable medications to treat Dengue virus patients have yet been found. In this paper, we provide an in silico virtual screening and molecular dynamics-based analysis to uncover efficient Dengue infection inhibitors. Based on a Google search and literature mining, a large phytochemical library was generated and employed as ligand molecules. In this investigation, the protein target NS2B/NS3 from Dengue was employed, and around 27 compounds were evaluated in a docking study. Phellodendroside (−63 kcal/mole), quercimeritrin (−59.5 kcal/mole), and quercetin-7-O-rutinoside (−54.1 kcal/mole) were chosen based on their binding free energy in MM-GBSA. The tested compounds generated numerous interactions at Lys74, Asn152, and Gln167 residues in the active regions of NS2B/NS3, which is needed for the protein’s inhibition. As a result, the stable mode of docked complexes is defined by various descriptors from molecular dynamics simulations, such as RMSD, SASA, Rg, RMSF, and hydrogen bond. The pharmacological properties of the compounds were also investigated, and no toxicity was found in computational ADMET properties calculations. As a result, this computational analysis may aid fellow researchers in developing innovative Dengue virus inhibitors.

Formulation and Evaluation of Luteolin-Loaded Nanovesicles: In Vitro Physicochemical Characterization and Viability Assessment

Luteolin (LT) is a natural polyphenol water-insoluble compound. LT-loaded nanovesicles (NVs) were prepared by using the solvent evaporation method. LT-NVs were prepared using cholesterol, phosphatidylcholine, span 60, and labrasol in a different composition. The prepared LT-NVs were evaluated for encapsulation efficiency, in vitro drug release, and permeation study. The optimized LT-NVs were further evaluated for antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity using the lung cancer cell line. LT-NVs showed nanometric size (less than 300 nm), an optimum polydispersibility index (less than 0.5), and a negative zeta potential value. The formulations also showed significant variability in the encapsulation efficiency (69.44 ± 0.52 to 83.75 ± 0.35%) depending upon the formulation composition. The in vitro and permeation study results revealed enhanced drug release as well as permeation profile. The formulation LT-NVs (F2) showed the maximum drug release of 88.28 ± 1.13%, while pure LT showed only 20.1 ± 1.21% in 12 h. The release data revealed significant variation (p < 0.001) in the release pattern. The permeation results also depicted significant (p < 0.001) enhancement in the permeation across the membrane. The enhanced permeation from LT-NVs was achieved due to the enhanced solubility of LT in the presence of the surfactant. The antioxidant activity results proved that LT-NVs showed greater activity compared to pure LT. The cytotoxicity study showed lesser IC50 value from LT-NVs than the pure LT. Thus, it can be concluded that LT-NVs are a natural alternative to the synthetic drug in the treatment of lung cancer.

DNA Methylation: A Promising Approach in Management of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Neurodegenerative Disorders

Simple Summary

DNA methylation is an epigenetic modification of genes which affects corresponding gene expression. During the developmental stage, embryonic stem cells undergo various epigenetic modifications to produce different specialized cells. DNA methylation appears as one of the important epigenetic modifications which not only potentiate neuronal development but also have been sought in various neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. The present work focuses on the history of DNA methylation, its role in neurodevelopment functions, and how assessment of DNA hypermethylation and hypomethylation can be utilized for the prognosis of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. This review also paves the way for the development of novel treatment strategies based on targeting DNA methylation in neurodegenerative diseases.

Abstract

DNA methylation, in the mammalian genome, is an epigenetic modification that involves the transfer of a methyl group on the C5 position of cytosine to derive 5-methylcytosine. The role of DNA methylation in the development of the nervous system and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease has been an interesting research area. Furthermore, mutations altering DNA methylation affect neurodevelopmental functions and may cause the progression of several neurodegenerative diseases. Epigenetic modifications in neurodegenerative diseases are widely studied in different populations to uncover the plausible mechanisms contributing to the development and progression of the disease and detect novel biomarkers for early prognosis and future pharmacotherapeutic targets. In this manuscript, we summarize the association of DNA methylation with the pathogenesis of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, such as, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington diseases, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and discuss the potential of DNA methylation as a potential biomarker and therapeutic tool for neurogenerative diseases.

Novelkaraya gum micro-particles loaded Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide regulate sex hormones, oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine levels in cadmium induced testicular toxicity in experimental animals

Presented research aimed to develop a spray drying process without the use of organic solvents for the preparation of novel Karaya gum polymer microparticles (MPs) of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP). The prepared microparticles were characterized and evaluated. Prepared novel karaya gum micro-particles loaded Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP MPs) were observed an effect on cadmium (CAD) induced testicular toxicity. A total of 40 rats (male) was divided into 4 groups viz. 1. Control group, 2. GLP MPs (250 mg/kg, 60 days of b.w per day), 3. CAD (60 days of 30 mg/l/day), 4. GLP MPs + CAD. CAD was responsible for altering the sex hormones, oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, elevated levels of indicator of oxidative stress, malondialdehyde, and a reduced action of SOD, GSH, and CAT (antioxidant enzymes), were observed in the tissues of the testicles of CAD- treated group. Such harmful occurrences were followed by an up-regulation in proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) levels, protein expression of Nrf2, and HO-1 expression was decreased. GLP MPs pre-treatment significantly abrogated these toxic effects which were confirmed histologically. This study concluded that pre-treatment with GLP MPs exerts a protective effect against CAD-induced male reproductive testicular toxicity.

Discovery, Development, Inventions, and Patent Trends on Mobocertinib Succinate: The First-in-Class Oral Treatment for NSCLC with EGFR Exon 20 Insertions

The majority of lung cancers are non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) having a low survival rate. Recent studies have indicated the involvement of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) oncogene mutations like EGFR exon 20 insertions (EGFRex20ins) mutation among NSCLC patients. The response of patients of NSCLC with the EGFRex20ins mutation to the currently available EGFR inhibitor is negligible. Mobocertinib is the first oral treatment that has been approved by the USFDA, on 15 September 2021, to treat NSCLC with the EGFRex20ins mutation. This patent review discusses the inventions and patent literature of mobocertinib that will help the scientific community to develop additional and improved inventions related to mobocertinib. The structure of mobocertinib was first reported in 2015. Therefore, this article covered the patents/patent applications related to mobocertinib from 2015 to 25 October 2021. The patent search revealed 27 patents/patent applications related to compound, method of treatment, salt, polymorph, process, composition, and drug combinations of mobocertinib. The authors foresee an exciting prospect for developing a treatment for NSCLC with EGFRex20ins mutation, and other cancers employing a combination of mobocertinib with other approved anticancer agents. The inventions related to novel dosage forms, processes, and intermediates used in the synthesis of mobocertinib are also anticipated.

Fustin Inhibits Oxidative Free Radicals and Inflammatory Cytokines in Cerebral Cortex and Hippocampus and Protects Cognitive Impairment in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

The phytogenic flavanol component of the plant Rhus verniciflua Stokes is fustin which is implicated in various disease aliments and has promising therapeutic efficacy and a long history of its uses in the Indian medicinal system. The present study investigated the ameliorative effect of fustin in streptozotocin (STZ) induced cognitive impairments in the diabetic animal paradigm. A total of five different animal groups were used for the present study.The preclinical efficacy of fustin at 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg was studied in diabetic male rats by employing a 35-day study design. In the present investigation the Morris water maze test (MWM) and elevated plus maze (EPM) test were employed as behavioral paradigms for the assessment of memory impairments. The study design also carried out certain biochemical parameters which include glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase activity (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), relative interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-1B in samples obtained from cerebral cortex and hippocampus. The behavioral parameters with MWM and EPM were significant restored in fustin treatment groups as compared to elevated levels in the diabetic control group. Furthermore, fustin significantly improved the altered levels of several biochemical parameters for cognitive dysfunction such as GSH, SOD, CAT, MDA, NO, and relative IL-6 and IL-1B compared to a diabetic control group. The present investigation highlights certain preclinical pieces of evidence that strongly indicate that fustin might restore the normal cognitive function in the experimental animal paradigm.

Green Synthesis and Characterization of Copper Nanoparticles Using Fortunella margarita Leaves

The use of biomaterials in the synthesis of nanoparticles is one of the most up-to-date focuses in modern nanotechnologies and nanosciences. More and more research on green methods of producing metal oxide nanoparticles (NP) is taking place, with the goal to overcome the possible dangers of toxic chemicals for a safe and innocuous environment. In this study, we synthesized copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using Fortunella margarita leaves' extract, which reflects its novelty in the field of nanosciences. The visual observation of a color change from dark green to bluish green clearly shows the instant and spontaneous formation of CuNPs when the phytochemicals of F. margarita come in contact with Cu+2 ions. The synthesis of CuNPs was carried out at different conditions, including pH, temperature, concentration ratio and time, and were characterized with UV-Vis absorption spectra, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The UV-Vis analysis reveals the surface plasmon resonance property (SPR) of CuNPs, showing a characteristic absorption peak at 679 nm, while SEM reveals the spherical but agglomerated shape of CuNPs of the size within the range of 51.26-56.66 nm.

Hepatoprotective Effects of Bioflavonoid Luteolin Using Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System

Luteolin (LUT) is a natural pharmaceutical compound that is weakly water soluble and has low bioavailability when taken orally. As a result, the goal of this research was to create self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) for LUT in an attempt to improve its in vitro dissolution and hepatoprotective effects, resulting in increased oral bioavailability. Using the aqueous phase titration approach and the creation of pseudo-ternary phase diagrams with Capryol-PGMC (oil phase), Tween-80 (surfactant), and Transcutol-HP (co-emulsifier), various SNEDDS of LUT were generated. SNEDDS were assessed for droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential (ZP), refractive index (RI), and percent of transmittance (percent T) after undergoing several thermodynamic stability and self-nanoemulsification experiments. When compared to LUT suspension, the developed SNEDDS revealed considerable LUT release from all SNEDDS. Droplet size was 40 nm, PDI was <0.3, ZP was -30.58 mV, RI was 1.40, percent T was >98 percent, and drug release profile was >96 percent in optimized SNEDDS of LUT. For in vivo hepatoprotective testing in rats, optimized SNEDDS was chosen. When compared to LUT suspension, hepatoprotective tests showed that optimized LUT SNEDDS had a substantial hepatoprotective impact. The findings of this investigation suggested that SNEDDS could improve bioflavonoid LUT dissolution rate and therapeutic efficacy.

Development and evaluation of luteolin loaded pegylated bilosome: optimization, in vitro characterization, and cytotoxicity study

The present research was aimed to develop luteolin (LL) loaded pegylated bilosomes (PG-BLs) for oral delivery. The luteolin bilosomes (BLs) were prepared by the thin-film hydration method and further optimized by the Box-Behnken design (four-factors at three-levels). The prepared LL-BLs were evaluated for vesicle size (VS), PDI, zeta potential (ZP), and entrapment efficiency to select the optimized formulation. The optimized formulation was further assessed for surface morphology, drug release, gut permeation, antioxidant, and antimicrobial study. The cytotoxicity study was conducted on breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and MCF7). The optimized formulation LL-PG-BLs-opt exhibited a VS of 252.24 ± 3.54 nm, PDI of 0.24, ZP of -32 mV with an encapsulation efficiency of 75.05 ± 0.65%. TEM study revealed spherical shape vesicles without aggregation. The DSC and XRD results revealed that LL was encapsulated into a PG-BLs matrix. LL-PG-BLs-opt exhibited a biphasic release pattern as well as significantly high permeation (p<.05) was achieved vis-a-vis LL-BL-opt and LL dispersion. The antioxidant activity result revealed 70.31 ± 3.22%, 83.76 ± 2.56%, and 96.87 ± 2.11% from LL-dispersion, LL-BLs-opt, and LL-PG-BLs-opt, respectively. Furthermore, LL-PG-BLs-opt exhibited high cell viability on both cell lines than LL-BL-opt and pure LL. The IC₅₀ value was found to be 390 µM and 510 µM against MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cancer cells, respectively. The antimicrobial activity result exhibited LL-PG-BLs-opt had better antibacterial activity than pure LL against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Hence, PG-BLs might provide an efficient nano oral delivery for the management of the different diseases.

Current Overview on Therapeutic Potential of Vitamin D in Inflammatory Lung Diseases

Inflammatory lung disorders (ILDs) are one of the world’s major reasons for fatalities and sickness, impacting millions of individuals of all ages and constituting a severe and pervasive health hazard. Asthma, lung cancer, bronchiectasis, pulmonary fibrosis acute respiratory distress syndrome, and COPD all include inflammation as a significant component. Microbe invasions, as well as the damage and even death of host cells, can cause and sustain inflammation. To counteract the negative consequences of irritants, the airways are equipped with cellular and host defense immunological systems that block the cellular entrance of these irritants or eliminate them from airway regions by triggering the immune system. Failure to activate the host defense system will trigger chronic inflammatory cataracts, leading to permanent lung damage. This damage makes the lungs more susceptible to various respiratory diseases. There are certain restrictions of the available therapy for lung illnesses. Vitamins are nutritional molecules that are required for optimal health but are not produced by the human body. Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D) is classified as a vitamin, although it is a hormone. Vitamin D is thought to perform a function in bone and calcium homeostasis. Recent research has found that vitamin D can perform a variety of cellular processes, including cellular proliferation; differentiation; wound repair; healing; and regulatory systems, such as the immune response, immunological, and inflammation. The actions of vitamin D on inflammatory cells are dissected in this review, as well as their clinical significance in respiratory illnesses.

Preparation and In Vitro-In Vivo Evaluation of Luteolin Loaded Gastroretentive Microsponge for the Eradication of Helicobacter pylori Infections

The current study aimed to develop a luteolin gastric floating microsponge for targeting Helicobacter pylori. The microsponge formulations were prepared by a quasi-emulsion method, and then evaluated for various physicochemical variables. The best microsponge was further assessed for drug-polymer interactions, surface morphology, in vivo floating, and in vitro anti H. pylori activity. The formulation which exhibited comparatively good production yield (64.45% ± 0.83), high entrapment efficiency (67.33% ± 3.79), prolonged in vitro floating time (>8 h), and sustained in-vitro drug release was selected as the best microsponge. The SEM study revealed that the best microsponge was spherical in shape and has a porous surface with interconnecting channels. DSC and XRD studies demonstrated the dispersion of luteolin in the polymeric matrix of the microsponge. Ultrasonography confirmed that the best microsponge could in the rat stomach for 4 h. The in vitro MIC results indicate that the anti H. pylori activity of the best microsponge was almost doubled and more sustained compared to pure luteolin. To conclude, it can be said that the developed luteolin gastric floating microsponge could be a better option to effectively eradicate H. pylori infections and the histopathological and pharmacodynamic assessments of our best microsponge can be expected to provide a rewarding outcome.

Investigating Antiarthritic Potential of Nanostructured Clove Oil (Syzygium aromaticum) in FCA-Induced Arthritic Rats: Pharmaceutical Action and Delivery Strategies

The combined application of clove oil in a lipid nanocarrier opens a promising avenue for bone and joints therapy. In this study, we successfully developed a tunable controlled-release lipid platform for the efficient delivery of clove oil (CO) for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The ultra-small nanostructured lipid carriers co-loaded with CO (CONCs) were developed through an aqueous titration method followed by microfluidization. The CONCs appeared to be spherical (particle size of 120 nm), stable (zeta potential of −27 mV), and entrapped efficiently (84.5%). In toluene:acetone:glacial acetic acid (90:9:1 percent v/v/v) solvent systems, high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis revealed the primary components in CO as eugenol (R_F = 0.58). The CONCs greatly increased the therapeutic impact of CO in both in vitro and in vivo biological tests, which was further supported by excellent antiarthritic action. The CONC had an antiarthritic activity that was slightly higher than neat CO and slightly lower than standard, according to our data. The improved formulation inhibited serum lysosomal enzymes and proinflammatory cytokines while also improving hind leg function. This study provides a proof of concept to treat RA with a new strategy utilizing essential oils via nanodelivery.

A Greener HPTLC Approach for the Determination of β-Carotene in Traditional and Ultrasound-Based Extracts of Different Fractions of Daucus carota (L.), Ipomea batatas (L.), and Commercial Formulation

Various analytical approaches for determining β-carotene in vegetable crops and commercial dosage forms have been documented. However, neither the qualitative nor quantitative environmental safety and greener aspects of the literature analytical methodologies of β-carotene analysis have been assessed. As a result, the goal of this research is to develop and validate a reversed-phase “high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC)” approach for determining β-carotene in traditional (TE) and ultrasound-assisted (UBE) extracts of different fractions of Daucus carota (L.), Ipomea batatas (L.), and commercial formulation. The greener mobile phase for β-carotene analysis was a ternary mixture of ethanol, cyclohexane, and ammonia (95:2.5:2.5, v v v−1). The detection of β-carotene was done at a wavelength of 459 nm. In the 25–1000 ng band−1 range, the greener reversed-phase HPTLC approach was linear. Other validation factors for β-carotene analysis, including as accuracy, precision, robustness, and sensitivity, were likewise dependable. The contents of β-carotene were found to be maximum in hexane: acetone (50:50%) fractions of TE and UBE of D. carota and I. batatas compared to their acetone and hexane fractions. The amount of β-carotene in hexane: acetone (50:50%) portions of TE of D. carota, I. batatas and commercial formulation A was estimated to be 10.32, 3.73, and 6.73 percent w w−1, respectively. However, the amount of β-carotene in hexane: acetone (50:50%) portions of UBE of D. carota, I. batatas and commercial formulation A was estimated to be 11.03, 4.43, and 6.89 percent w w−1, respectively. The greenness scale for the proposed HPTLC strategy was calculated as 0.81 using the “analytical GREEnness (AGREE)” method, indicating that the proposed HPTLC methodology has good greenness. The UBE approach for extracting β-carotene outperformed the TE procedure. These results indicated that the greener reversed-phase HPTLC approach can be utilized for the determination of β-carotene in different vegetable crops, plant-based phytopharmaceuticals, and commercial products. In addition, this approach is also safe and sustainable due to the utilization of a greener mobile phase compared to the toxic mobile phases utilized in literature analytical approaches of β-carotene estimation.

Nanotechnology as a Novel Approach in Combating Microbes Providing an Alternative to Antibiotics

The emergence of infectious diseases promises to be one of the leading mortality factors in the healthcare sector. Although several drugs are available on the market, newly found microorganisms carrying multidrug resistance (MDR) against which existing drugs cannot function effectively, giving rise to escalated antibiotic dosage therapies and the need to develop novel drugs, which require time, money, and manpower. Thus, the exploitation of antimicrobials has led to the production of MDR bacteria, and their prevalence and growth are a major concern. Novel approaches to prevent antimicrobial drug resistance are in practice. Nanotechnology-based innovation provides physicians and patients the opportunity to overcome the crisis of drug resistance. Nanoparticles have promising potential in the healthcare sector. Recently, nanoparticles have been designed to address pathogenic microorganisms. A multitude of processes that can vary with various traits, including size, morphology, electrical charge, and surface coatings, allow researchers to develop novel composite antimicrobial substances for use in different applications performing antimicrobial activities. The antimicrobial activity of inorganic and carbon-based nanoparticles can be applied to various research, medical, and industrial uses in the future and offer a solution to the crisis of antimicrobial resistance to traditional approaches. Metal-based nanoparticles have also been extensively studied for many biomedical applications. In addition to reduced size and selectivity for bacteria, metal-based nanoparticles have proven effective against pathogens listed as a priority, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Moreover, antimicrobial studies of nanoparticles were carried out not only in vitro but in vivo as well in order to investigate their efficacy. In addition, nanomaterials provide numerous opportunities for infection prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and biofilm control. This study emphasizes the antimicrobial effects of nanoparticles and contrasts nanoparticles' with antibiotics' role in the fight against pathogenic microorganisms. Future prospects revolve around developing new strategies and products to prevent, control, and treat microbial infections in humans and other animals, including viral infections seen in the current pandemic scenarios.

Receptor-Mediated Targeted Delivery of Surface-ModifiedNanomedicine in Breast Cancer: Recent Update and Challenges

Breast cancer therapeutic intervention continues to be ambiguous owing to the lack of strategies for targeted transport and receptor-mediated uptake of drugs by cancer cells. In addition to this, sporadic tumor microenvironment, prominent restrictions with conventional chemotherapy, and multidrug-resistant mechanisms of breast cancer cells possess a big challenge to even otherwise optimal and efficacious breast cancer treatment strategies. Surface-modified nanomedicines can expedite the cellular uptake and delivery of drug-loaded nanoparticulate constructs through binding with specific receptors overexpressed aberrantly on the tumor cell. The present review elucidates the interesting yet challenging concept of targeted delivery approaches by exploiting different types of nanoparticulate systems with multiple targeting ligands to target overexpressed receptors of breast cancer cells. The therapeutic efficacy of these novel approaches in preclinical models is also comprehensively discussed in this review. It is concluded from critical analysis of related literature that insight into the translational gap between laboratories and clinical settings would provide the possible future directions to plug the loopholes in the process of development of these receptor-targeted nanomedicines for the treatment of breast cancer.

Novel therapeutic interventions for combating Parkinson's disease and prospects of Nose-to-Brain drug delivery

Parkinson disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder prevalent mainly in geriatric population. While, L-DOPA remains one of the major choices for the therapeutic management of PD, various motor and non-motor manifestations complicate the management of PD. In the last two decades, exhaustive research has been carried out to explore novel therapeutic approaches for mitigating motor and non-motor symptoms of PD. These approaches majorly include receptor-based, anti-inflammatory, stem-cell and nucleic acid based. The major limitations of existing therapeutic interventions (of commonly oral route) are low efficacy due to low brain bioavailability and associated side effects. Nanotechnology has been exploited and has gained wide attention in the recent years as an approach for enhancement of bioavailability of various small molecule drugs in the brain. To address the challenges associated with PD therapy, nose-to-brain delivery utilizing nanomedicine-based approaches has been found to be encouraging in published evidence. Therefore, the present work summarises the major challenges and limitations with antiparkinsonian drugs, novel therapeutic interventions, and scope of nanomedicine-based nose-to-brain delivery in addressing the current challenges of antiparkinsonian therapy. The manuscript tries to sensitize the researchers for designing brain-targeted nanomedicine loaded with natural/synthetic scaffolds, biosimilars, and nucleic acids that can bypass the first-pass effect for the effective management of PD.

Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors Improve Cardiovascular Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetic East Asians

In East Asians, the incidence of type 2 DM (T2DM) has increased as a result of major alterations in life. Cardiovascular problems are more likely in those with T2DM. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are novel insulin-independent antihyperglycemic drugs that limit renal glucose reabsorption and thereby improve glycemic control. They are used alone or in combination with insulin and other antihyperglycemic medications to treat diabetes, and they are also helpful in protecting against the progression of complications. This review has evaluated the available evidence not only on the efficacy of SGLT2 inhibitors in T2DM, but also on their favourable cardiovascular events in East Asians. DM is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. As a result, in addition to glycemic control in diabetes management, the therapeutic goal in East Asian diabetic patients should be to improve adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Besides establishing antidiabetic effects, several studies have reported cardioprotective benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors via numerous pathways. SGLT2 inhibitors show promising antidiabetic drugs with potential cardiovascular advantages, given that a high number of diabetic patients in East Asia have co-existing cardiovascular disorders. Despite significant positive results in favour of SGLT2, more research is needed to determine how SGLT2 inhibitors exert these impressive cardiovascular effects.

Formulation and evaluation of butenafine loaded PLGA-nanoparticulate laden chitosan nano gel

The present research work is designed to prepare and optimize butenafine (BT) loaded poly lactic co glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (BT-NPs). BT-NPs were prepared by emulsification probe sonication method using PLGA (A), PVA (B) as polymer and stabilizer, respectively. The optimum composition of BT-NPs was selected based on the point prediction method given by the Box Behnken design software. The optimized composition of BT-NPop showed a particle size of 267.21 ± 3.54 nm with an entrapment efficiency of 72.43 ± 3.11%. The optimum composition of BT-NPop was further converted into gel formulation using chitosan as a natural polymer. The prepared topical gel formulation (BT-NPopG) was further evaluated for gel characterization, drug release, permeation study, irritation, and antifungal studies. The prepared BT-NPopG formulation showed optimum pH, viscosity, spreadability, and drug content. The release and permeation study results revealed slow BT release (42.76 ± 2.87%) with significantly enhanced permeation across the egg membrane. The irritation study data showed negligible irritation with a cumulative score of 0.33. The antifungal study results conclude higher activity than marketed as well as pure BT. The overall conclusion of the results revealed BT-NPopG as an ideal delivery system to treat topical fungal infection.

Four-Dimensional Printing for Hydrogel: Theoretical Concept, 4D Materials, Shape-Morphing Way, and Future Perspectives

The limitations and challenges possessed in static 3D materials necessitated a new era of 4D shape-morphing constructs for wide applications in diverse fields of science. Shape-morphing behavior of 3D constructs over time is 4D design. Four-dimensional printing technology overcomes the static nature of 3D, improves substantial mechanical strength, and instills versatility and clinical and nonclinical functionality under set environmental conditions (physiological and artificial). Four-dimensional printing of hydrogel-forming materials possesses remarkable properties compared to other printing techniques and has emerged as the most established technique for drug delivery, disease diagnosis, tissue engineering, and biomedical application using shape-morphing materials (natural, synthetic, semisynthetic, and functionalized) in response to single or multiple stimuli. In this article, we addressed a fundamental concept of 4D-printing evolution, 4D printing of hydrogel, shape-morphing way, classification, and future challenges. Moreover, the study compiled a comparative analysis of 4D techniques, 4D products, and mechanical perspectives for their functionality and shape-morphing dynamics. Eventually, despite several advantages of 4D technology over 3D technique in hydrogel fabrication, there are still various challenges to address with using current advanced and sophisticated technology for rapid, safe, biocompatible, and clinical transformation from small-scale laboratory (lab-to-bed translation) to commercial scale.

Carbon Nanotubes: Current Perspectives on Diverse Applications in Targeted Drug Delivery and Therapies

Current discoveries as well as research findings on various types of carbon nanostructures have inspired research into their utilization in a number of fields. These carbon nanostructures offer uses in pharmacy, medicine and different therapies. One such unique carbon nanostructure includes carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which are one-dimensional allotropes of carbon nanostructure that can have a length-to-diameter ratio greater than 1,000,000. After their discovery, CNTs have drawn extensive research attention due to their excellent material properties. Their physical, chemical and electronic properties are excellent and their composites provide great possibilities for enormous nanometer applications. The current study provides a systematic review based on prior literature review and data gathered from various sources. The various research studies from many research labs and organizations were systematically retrieved, collected, compiled and written. The entire collection and compilation of this review concluded the use of CNT approaches and their efficacy and safety for the treatment of various diseases such as brain tumors or cancer via nanotechnology-based drug delivery, phototherapy, gene therapy, antiviral therapy, antifungal therapy, antibacterial therapy and other biomedical applications. The current review covers diverse applications of CNTs in designing a range of targeted drug delivery systems and application for various therapies. It concludes with a discussion on how CNTs based medicines can expand in the future.

Symptomatic, Genetic, and Mechanistic Overlaps between Autism and Alzheimer's Disease

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders affecting two opposite ends of life span, i.e., childhood and old age. Both disorders pose a cumulative threat to human health, with the rate of incidences increasing considerably worldwide. In the context of recent developments, we aimed to review correlated symptoms and genetics, and overlapping aspects in the mechanisms of the pathogenesis of ASD and AD. Dementia, insomnia, and weak neuromuscular interaction, as well as communicative and cognitive impairments, are shared symptoms. A number of genes and proteins linked with both disorders have been tabulated, including MECP2, ADNP, SCN2A, NLGN, SHANK, PTEN, RELN, and FMR1. Theories about the role of neuron development, processing, connectivity, and levels of neurotransmitters in both disorders have been discussed. Based on the recent literature, the roles of FMRP (Fragile X mental retardation protein), hnRNPC (heterogeneous ribonucleoprotein-C), IRP (Iron regulatory proteins), miRNAs (MicroRNAs), and α-, β0, and γ-secretases in the posttranscriptional regulation of cellular synthesis and processing of APP (amyloid-β precursor protein) have been elaborated to describe the parallel and overlapping routes and mechanisms of ASD and AD pathogenesis. However, the interactive role of genetic and environmental factors, oxidative and metal ion stress, mutations in the associated genes, and alterations in the related cellular pathways in the development of ASD and AD needs further investigation.

Recent Developments in Diagnosis of Epilepsy: Scope of MicroRNA and Technological Advancements

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders, characterized by recurrent seizures, resulting from abnormally synchronized episodic neuronal discharges. Around 70 million people worldwide are suffering from epilepsy. The available antiepileptic medications are capable of controlling seizures in around 60-70% of patients, while the rest remain refractory. Poor seizure control is often associated with neuro-psychiatric comorbidities, mainly including memory impairment, depression, psychosis, neurodegeneration, motor impairment, neuroendocrine dysfunction, etc., resulting in poor prognosis. Effective treatment relies on early and correct detection of epileptic foci. Although there are currently a few well-established diagnostic techniques for epilepsy, they lack accuracy and cannot be applied to patients who are unsupportive or harbor metallic implants. Since a single test result from one of these techniques does not provide complete information about the epileptic foci, it is necessary to develop novel diagnostic tools. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current diagnostic tools of epilepsy, including electroencephalography (EEG) as well as structural and functional neuroimaging. We further discuss recent trends and advances in the diagnosis of epilepsy that will enable more effective diagnosis and clinical management of patients.

Formulation, Optimization and Evaluation of Luteolin-Loaded Topical Nanoparticulate Delivery System for the Skin Cancer

In the present study, luteolin (LT)-loaded nanosized vesicles (LT-NVs) were prepared by a solvent evaporation-hydration method using phospholipid and edge activator. The formulation was optimized using three factors at a three-level Box-Behnken design. The formulated LT-NVs were prepared using the three independent variables phospholipid (A), edge activator (B) and sonication time (C). The effect of used variables was assessed on the vesicle size (Y1) and encapsulation efficiency (Y2). The selection of optimum composition (LT-NVopt) was based on the point prediction method of the software. The prepared LT-NVopt showed the particle size of 189.92 ± 3.25 nm with an encapsulation efficiency of 92.43 ± 4.12% with PDI and zeta potential value of 0.32 and -21 mV, respectively. The formulation LT-NVopt was further converted into Carbopol 934 gel (1% w/v) to enhance skin retention. LT-NVoptG was further characterized for viscosity, spreadability, drug content, drug release, drug permeation and antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxicity assessment. The evaluation result revealed optimum pH, viscosity, spreadability and good drug content. There was enhanced LT release (60.81 ± 2.87%), as well as LT permeation (128.21 ± 3.56 µg/cm2/h), which was found in comparison to the pure LT. The antioxidant and antimicrobial study results revealed significantly (p ˂ 0.05) better antioxidant potential and antimicrobial activity against the tested organisms. Finally, the samples were evaluated for cytotoxicity assessment using skin cancer cell line and results revealed a significant difference in the viability % at the tested concentration. LT-NVoptG showed a significantly lower IC50 value than the pure LT. From the study, it can be concluded that the prepared LT-NVoptG was found to be an alternative to the synthetic drug as well as conventional delivery systems.

Design and Evaluation of Losartan Potassium Effervescent Floating Matrix Tablets: In Vivo X-ray Imaging and Pharmacokinetic Studies in Albino Rabbits

Losartan potassium (LP) is an angiotensin receptor blocker used to treat hypertension. At higher pH, it shows poor aqueous solubility, which leads to poor bioavailability and lowers its therapeutic effectiveness. The main aim of this research was to develop a direct compressed effervescent floating matrix tablet (EFMT) of LP using hydroxyl propyl methylcellulose 90SH 15,000 (HPMC-90SH 15,000), karaya gum (KG), and an effervescent agent, such as sodium bicarbonate (SB). Therefore, an EFMT has been developed to prolong the stomach residence time (GRT) of a drug to several hours and improve its bioavailability in the stomach region. The blended powder was evaluated for pre-compression characteristics, followed by post-compression characteristics, in vitro floating, water uptake studies, and in vitro studies. The optimized formulation of EFMT was investigated for in vivo buoyancy by X-ray imaging and pharmacokinetic studies in Albino rabbits. The results revealed that the parameters of pre- and post-compression were within the USP limits. All tablets showed good floating capabilities (short floating lag time <1 min and floated for >24 h), good swelling characteristics, and controlled release for over 24 h. The Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) spectra showed drug-polymer compatibility. The optimized formulation F3 (HPMC-90SH 15,000-KG) exhibited non-Fickian diffusion and showed 100% drug release at the end of 24 h. In addition, with the optimized formulation F3, we observed that the EFMT floated continuously in the rabbit's stomach area; thus, the GRT could be extended to more than 12 h. The pharmacokinetic profiling in Albino rabbits revealed that the relative bioavailability of the optimized LP-EFMT was enhanced compared to an oral solution of LP. We conclude that this a potential method for improving the oral bioavailability of LP to treat hypertension effectively.

Pathobiological Relationship of Excessive Dietary Intake of Choline/L-Carnitine: A TMAO Precursor-Associated Aggravation in Heart Failure in Sarcopenic Patients

The microecological environment of the gastrointestinal tract is altered if there is an imbalance between the gut microbiota phylases, resulting in a variety of diseases. Moreover, progressive age not only slows down physical activity but also reduces the fat metabolism pathway, which may lead to a reduction in the variety of bacterial strains and bacteroidetes' abundance, promoting firmicutes and proteobacteria growth. As a result, dysbiosis reduces physiological adaptability, boosts inflammatory markers, generates ROS, and induces the destruction of free radical macromolecules, leading to sarcopenia in older patients. Research conducted at various levels indicates that the microbiota of the gut is involved in pathogenesis and can be considered as the causative agent of several cardiovascular diseases. Local and systematic inflammatory reactions are caused in patients with heart failure, as ischemia and edema are caused by splanchnic hypoperfusion and enable both bacterial metabolites and bacteria translocation to enter from an intestinal barrier, which is already weakened, to the blood circulation. Multiple diseases, such as HF, include healthy microbe-derived metabolites. These key findings demonstrate that the gut microbiota modulates the host's metabolism, either specifically or indirectly, by generating multiple metabolites. Currently, the real procedures that are an analogy to the symptoms in cardiac pathologies, such as cardiac mass dysfunctions and modifications, are investigated at a minimum level in older patients. Thus, the purpose of this review is to summarize the existing knowledge about a particular diet, including trimethylamine, which usually seems to be effective for the improvement of cardiac and skeletal muscle, such as choline and L-carnitine, which may aggravate the HF process in sarcopenic patients.

pH-Responsive Nanocomposite Based Hydrogels for the Controlled Delivery of Ticagrelor; In Vitro and In Vivo Approaches

Background

Ticagrelor (TG), an antiplatelet drug is employed to treat patients with acute coronary syndrome, but its inadequate oral bioavailability due to poor solubility and low permeability restricts its effectiveness.

Purpose

This contemporary work was aimed to design a novel pH-sensitive nanocomposite hydrogel (NCH) formulation incorporating thiolated chitosan (TCH) based nanoparticles (NPs) of Ticagrelor (TG), to enhance its oral bioavailability for effectively inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Methods

NCHs were prepared by free radical polymerization technique, using variable concentrations of chitosan (CH) as biodegradable polymer, acrylic acid (AA) as a monomer, N,N-methylene bisacrylamide (MBAA) as cross-linker, and potassium persulphate (KPS) as initiator.

Results

The optimum hydrogel formulation was selected for fabricating NCHs, considering porosity, sol-gel fraction, swelling studies, drug loading capacity, and TG’s in vitro release as determining factors. Outcomes of the studies have shown that the extent of hydrogel swelling and drug release was comparatively greater at higher pH (7.4). Moreover, an amplifying trend was observed for drug loading and hydrogel swelling by increasing AA content, while it declined by increasing MBAA. The NCHs were evaluated by various physicochemical techniques and the selected formulation was subjected to in vivo bioavailability studies, confirming enhancement of bioavailability as indicated by prolonged half-life and multifold increase in area under the curve (AUC) as compared to pure TG.

Conclusion

The results suggest that NCHs demonstrated a pH-responsive, controlled behavior along with enhanced bioavailability. Thus NCHs can be effectively utilized as efficient delivery systems for oral delivery of TG to reduce the risk of myocardial infarction.

Nanocubosomal based in situ gel loaded with natamycin for ocular fungal diseases: development, optimization, in-vitro, and in-vivo assessment

Natamycin (NT) is a synthetic broad-spectrum antifungal used in eye drops. However, it has low solubility and high molecular weight, limiting its permeation, and generally causes eye discomfort or irritation when administered. Therefore, the present study aimed to develop an ophthalmic in situ gel formulation with NT-loaded cubosomes to enhance ocular permeation, improve antifungal activity, and prolong the retention time within the eye. The NT-loaded cubosome (NT-Cub) formula was first optimized using an I-optimal design utilizing phytantriol, PolyMulse, and NT as the independent formulation factors and particle size, entrapment efficiency %, and inhibition zone as responses. Phytantriol was found to increase particle size and entrapment efficiency %. Higher levels of PolyMulse slightly increased the inhibition zone whereas a decrease in particle size and EE% was observed. Increasing the NT level initially increased the entrapment efficiency % and inhibition zone. The optimized NT-Cub formulation was converted into an in situ gel system using 1.5% Carbopol 934. The optimum formula showed a pH-sensitive increase in viscosity, favoring prolonged retention in the eye. The in vitro release of NT was found to be 71 ± 4% in simulated tear fluid. The optimum formulation enhanced the ex vivo permeation of NT by 3.3 times compared to a commercial formulation and 5.2 times compared to the NT suspension. The in vivo ocular irritation test proved that the optimum formulation is less irritating than a commercial formulation of NT. This further implies that the developed formulation produces less ocular irritation and can reduce the required frequency of administration.

The external jugular vein axis: a new anatomical landmark for pre-operative prediction of the location of parotid gland tumours

The relationships between parotid tumours and the facial nerve determine duration of surgical procedure and risks involved. As the division of the facial nerve is not visible using standard imaging techniques, other anatomical landmarks are used to determine the pre-operative location of tumours. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate reliability of the 'external jugular vein axis' compared with other landmarks generally used in imaging, such as the retromandibular vein, Conn's arc, the facial nerve line and the Utrecht line. Forty-eight pre-operative imaging exams of patients who underwent parotid benign tumour surgery between 2010 and 2016 were examined. We determined the location of tumour using the five markers. A pre-operative simulation was compared with the description given by the surgeon intraoperatively, in terms of sensitivity and specificity for each marker. External jugular vein axis and retromandibular vein are the most sensitive markers for locating suprafacial tumours (Se = 1). External jugular vein axis and Conn's arc are the most specific markers for locating suprafacial tumours (Spe = 0.92). External jugular vein axis is reproducible and present on all radiological sections, thereby overcoming any anatomical and nomenclature variations. This landmark appears to be the most representative marker of the dividing branches of the facial nerve.

A Sustainable Reversed-Phase HPTLC Method for the Quantitative Estimation of Hesperidin in Traditional and Ultrasound-Assisted Extracts of Different Varieties of Citrus Fruit Peels and Commercial Tablets

Hesperidin (HSP) is a bioactive flavanone glycoside, present abundantly in the variety of citrus fruits. The environmental safety and sustainability of the reported analytical assays of HSP analysis have not been considered in the literature. Hence, a sensitive and sustainable “reversed-phase high-performance thin-layer chromatography (RP-HPTLC)” method has been developed and validated for HSP analysis in traditional (TE) and ultrasound-based (UBE) extracts of four different varieties of citrus fruit peels and its commercial tablet dosage forms. The binary combination of green solvents such as ethanol-water (50:50, v v−1) was used as the mobile phase. The detection of HSP was performed at 287 nm. The sustainable RP-HPTLC method was linear in 20–2000 ng band−1 range. The studied validation parameters, including accuracy, precision, robustness, sensitivity were acceptable for HSP analysis. The content of HSP in TE of four different varieties of citrus fruits including grapefruit peels (Citrus paradisi), mosambi peels (Citrus limetta), lemon peels (Citrus lemon), and orange peels (Citrus sinensis) was detected as 8.26, 6.94, 5.90, and 6.81% w w−1, respectively. The content of HSP in TE of commercial formulations A and B was detected as 5.31 and 5.55% w w−1, respectively. However, the content of HSP in UBE of grapefruit peels, mosambi peels, lemon peels, and orange peels was detected as 11.41, 8.86, 7.98, and 8.64% w w−1, respectively. The content of HSP in UBE of commercial formulations A and B was detected as 6.72 and 6.92% w w−1, respectively. The greenness score of the sustainable RP-HPTLC method was predicted as 0.83 using analytical GREEnness (AGREE) metric approach, indicated the excellent greenness profile of the RP-HPTLC method. UBE procedure for HSP was superior over its TE procedure. These observations and results suggested that the present RP-HPTLC method can be successfully used for the quantitative estimation of HSP in the variety of citrus fruit peels and its commercial formulations. In addition, this method is simple, rapid, precise, accurate, and economical compared to the reported analytical methods of HSP analysis. It is also safe and sustainable method due to the use of ethanol-water solvents systems, as both the solvents are green solvents compared to the solvents used in reported analytical methods of HSP analysis.

Formulation, Optimization, and Evaluation of Oregano Oil Nanoemulsions for the Treatment of Infections Due to Oral Microbiota

Introduction

Natural oil-based nanoemulsions (NEs) have been widely investigated in many diseases that affect the oral cavity. NEs are delivery systems that enhance the solubility of lipid therapeutics and improve their delivery to target sites; they are known as self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDSs). The current investigation's aim was to produce an oregano essential oil-based nanoemulsion (OEO-SNEDD) that would have antibacterial and antifungal effects against oral microbiota and improve oral health.

Methods

Several OEO-SNEDDSs were developed using different percentages of OEO (10%, 14%, and 18%), percentages of a surfactant mixture Pluracare L64:Lauroglycol FCC (18%, 32%, and 36%), S_mix ratios (1:2, 1:1, and 2:1), and hydrophilic-lipophilic balances (HLBs) of the surfactant mixture (8, 10, and 12) using the Box‒Behnken design. The optimized concentration of excipients was determined using a pseudoternary phase diagram to obtain the NEs. The formulations were evaluated for their droplet size, stability index, and antibacterial and antifungal activities.

Results

The NEs had a droplet size of 150 to 500 nm and stability index of 47% to 95%, and the produced formulation reached antibacterial and antifungal inhibition zones of up to 19 and 17 mm, respectively. The Box‒Behnken design was adopted to get the optimum formulation, which was 18% OEO, 36% S_mix, 10.29 HLB of S_mix, and a 1.25:1 S_mix ratio. The optimized formulation had a lower ulcer index compared with various other formulations evaluated in rats.

Conclusion

This study illustrated that OEO-SNEDDSs can provide good protection against oral microbial infections.