Design and ocular tolerance of flurbiprofen loaded ultrasound-engineered NLC

Co-encapsulation of imiquimod and copaiba oil in novel nanostructured systems: promising formulations against skin carcinoma

In this study, two types of cutaneous-directed nanoparticles are proposed for the co-encapsulation of imiquimod (a drug approved for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma) and copaiba oil (oil that exhibits anti-proliferative properties). Nanostructured copaiba capsules (NCCImq) were prepared using the interfacial deposition method, and nanostructured Brazilian lipids (NBLImq) were prepared by high-pressure homogenization. The formulations exhibited average diameter, zeta potential, pH and drug content of approximately 200nm, -12mV, 6 and 1mgmL(-1), respectively. In addition, the formulations exhibited homogeneity regarding particle size, high encapsulation efficiency and stability. Both nanocarriers controlled imiquimod release, and NBLImq exhibited slower drug release (p < 0.05), likely due to increased interaction of the drug with the solid lipid (cupuaçu seed butter). The in vitro evaluation of the imiquimod-loaded nanocarriers was performed using healthy skin cells (keratinocytes, HaCaT); no alteration was observed, suggesting the biocompatibility of the nanocarriers. In addition, in vitro skin permeation/penetration using pig skin was performed, and NCCImq led to increased drug retention in the skin layers and reduced amounts of drug found in the receiver solution. Thus, NCCImq is considered the most promising nanoformulation for the treatment of skin carcinoma.

Nanoemulsion-templated polylelectrolyte multifunctional nanocapsules for DNA entrapment and bioimaging

The emerging field of bionanotechnology aims at advancing colloidal and biomedical research via introduction of multifunctional nanoparticle-based containers intended for both gene therapy and bioimaging. In the present contribution we entrapped the model genetic material (herring testes DNA) in the newly-designed non-viral vectors, i.e., multifunctional nanocapsules obtained by layer-by-layer (LbL) adsorption of DNA and oppositely charged polysaccharide-based chitosan (CHIT) on the nanoemulsion core, loaded by IR-780 indocyanine (used as the fluorescent marker) and stabilized by gemini-type ammonium salts: N,N,N',N'-tetramethyl-N,N'-di(dodecyl)-ethylenediammonium bromide, d(DDA)PBr and N,N,N',N'-tetramethyl-N,N'-di(dodecyl)-butylenediammonium d(DDA)BBr. Ternary phase diagrams of the surfactant-oil-water systems were determined by titration method. Then, the stability of the nanoemulsions obtained with IR-780 solubilized in the oleic acid (OA) or isopropyl myristate (IPM) phase was evaluated by backscattering (BS) profiles and ζ-potential measurements. In the next step, CHIT and DNA layers were subsequently deposited on the kinetically stable nanoemulsion cores. The IR-780-loaded nanocarriers covered by (DNA/CHIT)4 bilayers shown the high ζ-potential value (about +43mV provided by Doppler electrophoresis), the size <120nm and the spherical shape as analyzed by dynamic light scattering (DLS), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Finally, the long-lasting nanosystems were subjected to in vitro biological studies on human cancer cell lines - doxorubicin-sensitive breast (MCF-7/WT), epithelial lung adenocarcinoma (A549) and skin melanoma (MEWO). Biological response of the cell culture was expressed as cytotoxic activity evaluated by MTT-based proliferation assay as well as bioimaging of intracellular localization of IR-780 molecules loaded in the multilayer DNA-deposited nanocontainers - provided by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRFM). Our results demonstrate that the fabricated oil-core CHIT-coated nanocapsules stabilized by both d(DDA)PBr and d(DDA)BBr surfactants are promising as multifunctional nanocarriers for DNA delivery and cancer diagnostics.

Mucoadhesive nano-sized supramolecular assemblies for improved pre-corneal drug residence time

CONTEXT

Mucoadhesive nanoparticles were compared with non-aggregated constituent polymers for effect on pre-corneal residence of dexamethasone phosphate (DP) or met-enkephalin (ME), administered by eye-drops to rabbits.

OBJECTIVE

Deepening the knowledge of ophthalmic nanoparticulate systems in terms of ability to prolong pre-corneal residence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Medicated nanoparticles resulted from gelation of quaternary ammonium-chitosan conjugate or its thiolated derivative with hyaluronan in the presence of drug. Particles were analyzed by light scattering. Dialysis removed non-encapsulated drug, dynamic dialysis measured drug-polymer interactions, and lyophilization-stabilized product. Dispersions were regenerated from lyophilized products. Also solutions of non-thiolated or thiolated chitosan derivative were administered. Mean drug residence time (MRT) in tears was determined by collecting samples from lower marginal tear strip of albino rabbits using capillaries.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Nanoparticle size of regenerated dispersions was 400-430 nm (DP-systems), 360-370 nm (ME-systems); the drug content was 2.5 mg/mL (DP) or 0.3 mg/mL (ME). The MRT for DP nanoparticles from non-thiolated derivative was higher than that for non-aggregated polymer, due to stronger concurrent interactions of positively charged nanoparticles with ocular surface and drug. Thiolated polymer nanoparticles and non-aggregated parent polymer, both interacting weakly with DP, showed similar MRT values. The MRT of ME could only be enhanced by protecting drug from enzymatic hydrolysis. This was done by nanoparticle systems, whereas non-aggregated polymers were ineffective.

CONCLUSION

Developing a nanoparticle system rather than a solution of mucoadhesive polymer, for prolonging pre-corneal residence, is convenient, provided nanoparticles interact strongly with both ocular surface and drug, or protect drug from metabolic degradation.

New diamidequat-type surfactants in fabrication of long-sustained theranostic nanocapsules: Colloidal stability, drug delivery and bioimaging

We report a new theranostic nanoformulation to transport both chemotherapeutic and imaging agents for successfully exterminating cancer cells. This strategy is based on encapsulation of colchicine (cytostatic drug) and coumarin-6 (fluorescent biomarker) in oil-core nanocarriers stabilized by diamidequat-type surfactants - N,N-dimethyl-N,N-bis[2-(N-alkylcarbamoyl) ethyl]ammonium methylsulfates (2xCnA-MS, n=8,10,12), and fabricated by the nanoprecipitation technique. The surfactants were synthesized using a technologically viable methodology and characterized. The potential of the encapsulated theranostic cargoes was evaluated in cytotoxicity studies as well as in imaging of intracellular localization, accumulation and distribution of cargoes delivered to well characterized human cancer cell lines - doxorubicin-sensitive breast (MCF-7/WT), alveolar basal epithelial (A549) and skin melanoma (MEWO) - performed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Backscattered profiles obtained by the turbidimetric technique were applied to evaluate physical stability of the obtained nanosystems. DLS measurements confirmed the particle diameter to be below 200nm, while AFM - its morphology and shape. Doppler electrophoresis provided a highly positive ζ-potential. UV-vis was applied to determine the encapsulation efficiencies (ca. 90%), and release profiles. The study demonstrates that the soft cationic diamidequat-type surfactants are suitable for the stabilization of theranostic nanodispersions, and they can constitute a new functional class of stabilizers of nanoparticles and have a progressive impact onto development of formulations. Furthermore, our results demonstrate excellent biocompatibility of the studied long-sustained monodisperse oil-core nanocapsules, stabilized by 2xCnA-MS, which makes them promising for cell imaging.

Nanoemulsions for dermal controlled release of oleanolic and ursolic acids: In vitro, ex vivo and in vivo characterization

The aim of the present study was to design and optimize a nanoemulsion for dermal administration of mixtures of natural or synthetic pentacyclic triterpenes with recognized anti-inflammatory activity. The composition of the developed nanoemulsions was obtained from pseudo-ternary phase diagrams, composed of castor oil as the oil phase, labrasol as the surfactant, transcutol-P as co-surfactant and propylene glycol as the aqueous phase. Different ratios of surfactant/co-surfactant mixture (Smix) (4:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2 and 1:4) were produced, and Smix 4:1 was chosen based on the greater area of optimal nanoemulsion conditions. Two different nanoemulsions of mean droplet size below 600 nm were produced, loading mixtures of natural or synthetic pentacyclic triterpenes, respectively. The viscosity of nanoemulsion containing natural pentacyclic triterpenes was 51.97±4.57 mPas and that loaded with synthetic mixtures was 55.33±0.28 mPas. The studies of release and skin permeation were performed using Franz diffusion cells, adjusting the release kinetics of both formulations to Korsmeyer-Peppas model. No significant differences in permeation parameters between the two nanoemulsions were observed. The amount of drug retained in the skin was higher than the amount of drug that has permeated, favoring a local action. The results of the in vivo tests demonstrated that the developed formulations were not toxic and not irritant to the skin. The formulation loading a mixture of natural triterpenes showed greater ability to inhibit inflammation than that loading the synthetic mixture. The findings clearly corroborate the added value of o/w nanoemulsions for dermal delivery of pentacyclic triterpenes.

Current nanotechnology approaches for the treatment and management of diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a consequence of diabetes mellitus at the ocular level, leading to vision loss, and contributing to the decrease of patient's life quality. The biochemical and anatomic abnormalities that occur in DR are discussed in this review to better understand and manage the development of new therapeutic strategies. The use of new drug delivery systems based on nanoparticles (e.g. liposomes, dendrimers, cationic nanoemulsions, lipid and polymeric nanoparticles) is discussed along with the current traditional treatments, pointing out the advantages of the proposed nanomedicines to target this ocular disease. Despite the multifactorial nature of DR, which is not entirely understood, some strategies based on nanoparticles are being exploited for a more efficient drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye. On the other hand, the use of some nanoparticles also seems to contribute to the development of DR symptoms (e.g. retinal neovascularization), which are also discussed in light of an efficient management of this ocular chronic disease.

Follicular delivery of spironolactone via nanostructured lipid carriers for management of alopecia

Spironolactone (SL) is a US Food and Drug Administration-approved drug for the treatment of hypertension and various edematous conditions. SL has gained a lot of attention for treating androgenic alopecia due to its potent antiandrogenic properties. Recently, there has been growing interest for follicular targeting of drug molecules for treatment of hair and scalp disorders using nanocolloidal lipid-based delivery systems to minimize unnecessary systemic side effects associated with oral drug administration. Accordingly, the objective of this study is to improve SL efficiency and safety in treating alopecia through the preparation of colloidal nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) for follicular drug delivery. SL-loaded NLCs were prepared by an emulsion solvent diffusion and evaporation method using 23 full factorial design. All of the prepared formulations were spherical in shape with nanometric size range (215.6–834.3 nm) and entrapment efficiency >74%. Differential scanning calorimetry thermograms and X-ray diffractograms revealed that SL exists in amorphous form within the NLC matrices. The drug release behavior from the NLCs displayed an initial burst release phase followed by sustained release of SL. Confocal laser scanning microscopy confirmed the potential of delivering the fluorolabeled NLCs within the follicles, suggesting the possibility of using SL-loaded NLCs for localized delivery of SL into the scalp hair follicles.

Cationic solid lipid nanoparticles enhance ocular hypotensive effect of melatonin in rabbit

The study was aimed at evaluating whether the ocular hypotensive effect of melatonin (MEL) was enhanced by its encapsulation in cationic solid lipid nanoparticles (cSLN), as well as at determining the tolerability of these formulations on the ocular surface. MEL was loaded in cSLN that had already been shown to be suitable for ophthalmic use. The formulations were prepared using Softisan(®) 100 as the main lipid matrix, with the presence of either stearic (SA) or palmitic acid (PA) as lipid modifiers. A fixed positive charge was provided by the addition of a cationic lipid (didecyldimethylammonium bromide). The ocular hypotensive effect was evaluated by measuring the intraocular pressure (IOP) during 24h in albino rabbits. MEL elicited a significant (p<0.01) IOP reduction in rabbit eye. All the formulations tested in vivo demonstrated a good tolerability. The nanocarrier containing SA was the most effective in terms of IOP reduction (maximum IOP reduction: -7 mmHg), and its effect lasted approximately 24h. The experimental data indicate that the new formulations based on cSLN loaded with MEL represent a potent anti-glaucoma treatment with a safe profile, warranting further clinical evaluation of the proposed nanotechnological strategy.

Nanoemulsions (NEs), liposomes (LPs) and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) for retinyl palmitate: effect on skin permeation

The aim of this study was to develop biocompatible lipid-based nanocarriers for retinyl palmitate (RP) to improve its skin delivery, photostability and biocompatibility, and to avoid undesirable topical side effects. RP loaded nanoemulsions (NEs), liposomes (LPs) and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were characterized in terms of size, surface electrical charge, pH, drug encapsulation efficiency and morphology. Spherical-shaped nanocarriers with a negatively charged surface (>|40|mV) and mean size lower than 275 nm were produced with adequate skin compatibility. The rheological properties showed that aqueous dispersions of SLNs followed a non-Newtonian behavior, pseudoplastic fluid adjusted to Herschel-Bulkley equation, whereas LPs and NEs exhibited a Newtonian behavior. SLNs offered significantly better photoprotection than LPs and NEs for RP. The cumulative amount of drug permeated through human skin at the end of 38 h was 6.67 ± 1.58 μg, 4.36 ± 0.21 μg and 3.64 ± 0.28 μg for NEs, LPs and SLNs, respectively. NEs flux was significantly higher than SLNs and LPs: NEs (0.37 ± 0.12 μg/h) > LPs (0.15 ± 0.09 μg/h) > SLNs (0.10 ± 0.05 μg/h). LPs offered significant higher skin retention than NEs and SLNs. Finally, even though all developed nanocarriers were found to be biocompatible, according to histological studies, NE was the system that most disrupted the skin. These encouraging findings can guide in proper selection of topical carriers among the diversity of available lipid-based nanocarriers, especially when a dermatologic or cosmetic purpose is desired.

Design, characterization, and in vitro cellular inhibition and uptake of optimized genistein-loaded NLC for the prevention of posterior capsular opacification using response surface methodology

This study was to design an innovative nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) for drug delivery of genistein applied after cataract surgery for the prevention of posterior capsular opacification. NLC loaded with genistein (GEN-NLC) was produced with Compritol 888 ATO, Gelucire 44/14 and Miglyol 812N, stabilized by Solutol(®) HS15 by melt emulsification method. A 2(4) central composite design of 4 independent variables was performed for optimization. Effects of drug concentration, Gelucire 44/14 concentration in total solid lipid, liquid lipid concentration, and surfactant concentration on the mean particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential and encapsulation efficiency were investigated. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) statistical test was used to assess the optimization. The optimized GEN-NLC showed a homogeneous particle size of 90.16 nm (with PI=0.33) of negatively charged surface (-25.08 mv) and high encapsulation efficiency (91.14%). Particle morphology assessed by TEM revealed a spherical shape. DSC analyses confirmed that GEN was mostly entrapped in amorphous state. In vitro release experiments indicated a prolonged and controlled genistein release for 72 h. In vitro growth inhibition assay showed an effective growth inhibition of GEN-NLCs on human lens epithelial cells (HLECs). Preliminary cellular uptake test proved a enhanced penetration of genistein into HLECs when delivered in NLC.

Fabrication and statistical optimization of surface engineered PLGA nanoparticles for naso-brain delivery of ropinirole hydrochloride: in-vitro-ex-vivo studies

Ropinirole hydrochloride (RPN), a nonergot dopamine D2-agonist used in the management of Parkinson's disease, has poor oral bioavailability (52%) due to extensive hepatic metabolism. The intent of present research work was aimed at design and statistical optimization of RPN-loaded poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based biodegradable nanoparticles (NPs) surface modified using natural emulsifier, vitamin E (d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate [TPGS]) for direct nose-to-brain delivery in order to avoid hepatic first-pass metabolism, and improve therapeutic efficacy with sustained drug release. RPN-NPs were prepared by modified nanoprecipitation technique and optimized using 2(3) factorial design of experiment. The effect of polymer and emulsifier concentration was evaluated on particle size and entrapment efficiency (EE%). Formulation PL6 was considered as desirable with highest EE% (72.3 ± 6.1%), PS (279.4 ± 1.8 nm), zeta potential (-29.4 ± 2.6 mV), and cumulative drug diffusion of 96.43 ± 3.1% in 24 h. The ANOVA results for the dependent variables demonstrated that the model was significant (p value < 0.05) for response variables. Histopathological study of optimized batch (PL6) demonstrated good retention of NPs with no severe signs of damage on the integrity of nasal mucosa. Differential scanning calorimetry revealed the absence of any chemical interaction between RPN, PLGA, and TPGS while SEM study confirmed spherical shape of optimized NPs. Accelerated stability studies of freeze-dried optimized batch demonstrated negligible change in the average PS and EE% after storage at 25 ± 2 °C/60 ± 5% (relative humidity (RH) for the period of three months. The promising results of optimized batch suggested practicability of investigated system for enhancement of bioavailability and brain targeting of CNS acting drugs like RPN.

Nanostructured lipid carriers system: recent advances in drug delivery

Nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) is second generation smarter drug carrier system having solid matrix at room temperature. This carrier system is made up of physiological, biodegradable and biocompatible lipid materials and surfactants and is accepted by regulatory authorities for application in different drug delivery systems. The availability of many products in the market in short span of time reveals the success story of this delivery system. Since the introduction of the first product, around 30 NLC preparations are commercially available. NLC exhibit superior advantages over other colloidal carriers viz., nanoemulsions, polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, SLN etc. and thus, have been explored to more extent in pharmaceutical technology. The whole set of unique advantages such as enhanced drug loading capacity, prevention of drug expulsion, leads to more flexibility for modulation of drug release and makes NLC versatile delivery system for various routes of administration. The present review gives insights on the definitions and characterization of NLC as colloidal carriers including the production techniques and suitable formulations. This review paper also highlights the importance of NLC in pharmaceutical applications for the various routes of drug delivery viz., topical, oral, pulmonary, ocular and parenteral administration and its future perspective as a pharmaceutical carrier.

Formulation, characterization, and evaluation of in vitro skin permeation and in vivo pharmacodynamics of surface-charged tripterine-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers

Background

Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are attractive materials for topical drug delivery, and in a previous study, we demonstrated that NLCs loaded with tripterine enhance its deposition. However, the surface charge of nanoparticles influences percutaneous drug penetration. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the influence of the surface charge of NLCs on in vitro skin permeation and in vivo pharmacodynamics of tripterine and optimize tripterine- loaded NLCs for the treatment of skin diseases.

Methods

Different solid and liquid matrices were selected to prepare cationic, anionic, and neutral NLCs by the solvent evaporation method. The in vitro studies were evaluated by using Franz diffusion cells. The effect of surface-charged NLCs on cellular uptake was appraised across HaCaT and B16BL6 cells. The in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity of surface-charged NLCs was evaluated in B16BL6 cells and melanoma-bearing mice, respectively.

Results

The average particle sizes of the cationic, anionic, and neutral NLCs were 90.2 ± 9.7, 87.8 ± 7.4, and 84.5 ± 10.2 nm, respectively; their encapsulation efficiencies were 64.3% ± 5.1%, 67.8% ± 4.4%, and 72.5% ± 4.9%, respectively. In vitro studies showed delayed tripterine release, and the order of skin permeation was cationic NLCs > anionic NLCs > neutral NLCs. Further, in vitro cytotoxicity studies showed that the cationic NLCs had the highest (P < 0.05) inhibition ratio in B16BL6 (melanoma) cells. Moreover, in vivo pharmacodynamic experiments in melanoma-bearing mice indicated that the cationic NLCs had significantly higher (P < 0.05) antimelanoma efficacy than the anionic and neutral NLCs.

Conclusion

The surface charge of NLCs has a great influence on the skin permeation and pharmacodynamics of tripterine. Cationic tripterine-loaded NLCs could enhance the percutaneous penetration and antimelanoma efficacy of tripterine and offer several advantages over tripterine alone. Therefore, they are promising carriers of tripterine for topical antimelanoma therapy.

Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLC)-Based Gel for the Topical Delivery of Aceclofenac: Preparation, Characterization, and In Vivo Evaluation

The aim of this study was to prepare nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC)-based topical gel of aceclofenac for the treatment of inflammation and allied conditions. Stearic acid as the solid lipid, oleic acid as the liquid lipid, pluronic F68 as the surfactant, and phospholipon 90G as the co-surfactant were used. NLCs were prepared by melt-emulsification, low-temperature solidification, and high-speed homogenization methods. Characterization of the NLC dispersion was carried out through particle size analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and an in vitro release study. The anti-inflammatory effect of the NLC gel was assessed by the rat paw edema technique and compared to marketed aceclofenac gel. The NLC dispersions exhibited d_90% between 233 nm and 286 nm. All of the NLC showed high entrapment efficiency ranging from 67% to 82%. The particle size of NLC was further confirmed by the SEM study. The result of DSC showed that aceclofenac was dispersed in NLC in an amorphous state. Both the entrapment and release rate were affected by the percentage of oleic acid, but the method of preparation affected only the entrapment efficiency. The nanoparticulate dispersion was suitably gelled and assessed for in vitro permeation. Finally, NLC-based gels were found to possess superior (almost double) the anti-inflammatory activity compared to the marketed product. The anti-inflammatory activity of NLC gel showed a rapid onset of action, as well as a prolonged duration of action as compared with the marketed gel.

In vivo imaging and biodistribution of multimodal polymeric nanoparticles delivered to the optic nerve

The use of nanoparticles for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to sites of injury or disease in the central nervous system (CNS) holds great promise. However, the biodistribution of nanoparticles following in vivo administration is often unknown, and concerns have been raised regarding potential toxicity. Using poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) nanoparticles coated with polyethylenimine (PEI) and containing superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent and rhodamine B as a fluorophore, whole animal MRI and fluorescence analyses are used to demonstrate that these nanoparticles (NP) remain close to the site of injection into a partial injury of the optic nerve, a CNS white matter tract. In addition, some of these NP enter axons and are transported to parent neuronal somata. NP also remain in the eye following intravitreal injection, a non-injury model. Considerable infiltration of activated microglia/macrophages occurs in both models. Using magnetic concentration and fluorescence visualization of tissue homogenates, no dissemination of the NP into peripheral tissues is observed. Histopathological analysis reveals no toxicity in organs other than at the injection sites. Multifunctional nanoparticles may be a useful mechanism to deliver therapeutic agents to the injury site and somata of injured CNS neurons and thus may be of therapeutic value following brain or spinal cord trauma.

Design of cationic nanostructured heterolipid matrices for ocular delivery of methazolamide

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) formulated from one type of lipid (homolipid) suffer from low drug encapsulation and drug bursting due to crystallization of the lipid into the more ordered β modification, which leads to decreased drug entrapment and faster drug release. This study assessed the feasibility of using nanostructured lipid matrices (NLMs) for ocular delivery of methazolamide-(MZA) adopting heterolipids composed of novel mixtures of Compritol (®) and cetostearyl alcohol (CSA), and stabilized by Tween 80(®). The systems were prepared using the modified high shear homogenization followed by ultrasonication method, which avoids the use of organic solvents. A 3(2) full factorial design was constructed to study the influence of two independent variables, namely the ratio of CSA:Compritol and the concentration of Tween 80, each in three levels. The dependent variables were the entrapment efficiency percentages (EE%), mean particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential (ZP). In vivo intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering activity for the selected formulae was compared to that of MZA solution. The results showed that increasing the ratio of CSA to Compritol increased the EE% and PS, while increasing the concentration of Tween 80, decreased PS with no significant effect on EE%. The ZP values of all formulae were positive, and greater than 30 mV. The best formula, composed of 4% CSA, 2% Compritol, 0.15% stearylamine, and 2% Tween 80, with EE% of 25.62%, PS of 207.1 nm, PDI of 0.243, and ZP of 41.50 mV, showed in vitro sustained release properties for 8 hours and lowered the intraocular pressure by 8.3 mmHg within 3 hours, with this drop in pressure lasting for 12 hours.

Preparation, characterization, pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of solid lipid nanoparticles loaded with tetrandrine

Tetrandrine (TET) is a poorly water-soluble bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid. In this study, TET solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were prepared by a melt-emulsification and ultrasonication technique. Precirol(®) ATO 5, glyceryl monostearate, and stearic acid were used as the lipid matrix for the SLNs, while Lipoid E80, Pluronic F68, and sodium deoxycholate were used as emulsifying and stabilizing agents. The physicochemical characteristics of the TET-SLNs were investigated when it was found that the mean particle size and zeta potential of the TET-SLNs were 134 ± 1.3 nm and -53.8 ± 1.7 mV, respectively, and the entrapment efficiency (EE) was 89.57% ± 0.39%. Differential scanning calorimetry indicated that TET was in an amorphous state in SLNs. TET-SLNs exhibited a higher release rate at a lower pH and a lower release rate at a higher pH. The release pattern of the TET-SLNs followed the Weibull model. The pharmacokinetics of TET-SLNs after intravenous administration to male rats was studied. TET-SLN resulted in a higher plasma concentration and lower clearance. The biodistribution study indicated that TET-SLN showed a high uptake in reticuloendothelial system organs. In conclusion, TET-SLNs with a small particle size, and high EE, can be produced by the method described in this study. The SLN system is a promising approach for the intravenous delivery of tetrandrine.

Optimizing flurbiprofen-loaded NLC by central composite factorial design for ocular delivery

The purpose of this study was to design and optimize a new topical delivery system for ocular administration of flurbiprofen (FB), based on lipid nanoparticles. These particles, called nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), were composed of a fatty acid (stearic acid (SA)) as the solid lipid and a mixture of Miglyol(®) 812 and castor oil (CO) as the liquid lipids, prepared by the hot high pressure homogenization method. After selecting the critical variables influencing the physicochemical characteristics of the NLC (the liquid lipid (i.e. oil) concentration with respect to the total lipid (cOil/L (wt%)), the surfactant and the flurbiprofen concentration, on particle size, polydispersity index and encapsulation efficiency), a three-factor five-level central rotatable composite design was employed to plan and perform the experiments. Morphological examination, crystallinity and stability studies were also performed to accomplish the optimization study. The results showed that increasing cOil/L (wt%) was followed by an enhanced tendency to produce smaller particles, but the liquid to solid lipid proportion should not exceed 30 wt% due to destabilization problems. Therefore, a 70:30 ratio of SA to oil (miglyol + CO) was selected to develop an optimal NLC formulation. The smaller particles obtained when increasing surfactant concentration led to the selection of 3.2 wt% of Tween(®) 80 (non-ionic surfactant). The positive effect of the increase in FB concentration on the encapsulation efficiency (EE) and its total solubilization in the lipid matrix led to the selection of 0.25 wt% of FB in the formulation. The optimal NLC showed an appropriate average size for ophthalmic administration (228.3 nm) with a narrow size distribution (0.156), negatively charged surface (-33.3 mV) and high EE (∼90%). The in vitro experiments proved that sustained release FB was achieved using NLC as drug carriers. Optimal NLC formulation did not show toxicity on ocular tissues.