Multifunctional nanoliposomes with curcumin-lipid derivative and brain targeting functionality with potential applications for Alzheimer disease

Natural Compounds for Alzheimer's Disease Therapy: A Systematic Review of Preclinical and Clinical Studies

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder related with the increase of age and it is the main cause of dementia in the world. AD affects cognitive functions, such as memory, with an intensity that leads to several functional losses. The continuous increase of AD incidence demands for an urgent development of effective therapeutic strategies. Despite the extensive research on this disease, only a few drugs able to delay the progression of the disease are currently available. In the last years, several compounds with pharmacological activities isolated from plants, animals and microorganisms, revealed to have beneficial effects for the treatment of AD, targeting different pathological mechanisms. Thus, a wide range of natural compounds may play a relevant role in the prevention of AD and have proven to be efficient in different preclinical and clinical studies. This work aims to review the natural compounds that until this date were described as having significant benefits for this neurological disease, focusing on studies that present clinical trials.

Preparation of Benzothiazolyl-Decorated Nanoliposomes

Amyloid β (Aβ) species are considered as potential targets for the development of diagnostics/therapeutics towards Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Nanoliposomes which are decorated with molecules having high affinity for Aβ species may be considered as potential carriers for AD theragnostics. Herein, benzothiazolyl (BTH) decorated nanoliposomes were prepared for the first time, after synthesis of a lipidic BTH derivative (lipid-BTH). The synthetic pathway included acylation of bis(2-aminophenyl) disulfide with palmitic acid or palmitoyl chloride and subsequent reduction of the oxidized dithiol derivative. The liberated thiols were able to cyclize to the corresponding benzothiazolyl derivatives only after acidification of the reaction mixture. Each step of the procedure was monitored by HPLC analysis in order to identify all the important parameters for the formation of the BTH-group. Finally, the optimal methodology was identified, and was applied for the synthesis of the lipid-BTH derivative. BTH-decorated nanoliposomes were then prepared and characterized for physicochemical properties (size distribution, surface charge, physical stability, and membrane integrity during incubation in presence of buffer and plasma proteins). Pegylated BTH-nanoliposomes were demonstrated to have high integrity in the presence of proteins (in comparison to non-peglated ones) justifying their further exploitation as potential theragnostic systems for AD.

Role of nanostructures in improvising oral medicine

The most preferable mode of drugs administration is via the oral route but physiological barriers such as pH, enzymatic degradation etc. limit the absolute use of this route. Herein lies the importance of nanotechnology having a wide range of applications in the field of nano-medicine, particularly in drug delivery systems. The exclusive properties particularly small size and high surface area (which can be modified as required), exhibited by these nanoparticlesrender these structures more suitable for the purpose of drug delivery. Various nanostructures, like liposomes, dendrimers, mesoporous silica nanoparticles, etc. have been designed for the said purpose. These nanostructures have several advantages over traditional administration of medicine. Apart from overcoming the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics limitations of many potential therapeutic molecules, they may also be useful for advanced drug delivery purposes like targeted drug delivery, controlled release, enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. In this review, we attempt to describe an up-to-date knowledge on various strategically devised nanostructures to overcome the problems related to oral drug administration.

Hemocompatibility of amyloid and/or brain targeted liposomes

Targeted liposomes with different combinations of five ligands (for brain/amyloid targeting) were evaluated for hemocompatibility. Results reveal that all liposomes studied, caused minimum hemolysis; targeted liposomes slightly reduced blood coagulation time, but not significantly more than control liposomes; and compliment factors SC5b9 and iC3b increased when compared with the buffer, by most targeted liposomes. However, the specific amounts of both factors were similar with those induced by control liposomes. Thus, the targeted liposomes are unanticipated to cause hypersensitivity problems. Good correlations between vesicle size and produced factor amounts were observed. In conclusion, the current targeted liposomes are not expected to cause serious blood toxicity, if used in vivo.

Nanomedicine in Alzheimer's disease: Amyloid beta targeting strategy

The treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is up to today one of the most unsuccessful examples of biomedical science. Despite the high number of literature evidences detailing the multifactorial and complex etiopathology of AD, no cure is yet present on the market and the available treatments are only symptomatic. The reasons could be ascribed on two main factors: (i) lack of ability of the majority of drugs to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), thus excluding the brain for any successful therapy; (ii) lack of selectivity and specificity of drugs, decreasing the efficacy of even potent anti-AD drugs. The exploitation of specifically engineered nanomedicines planned to cross the BBB and to target the most "hot" site of action (i.e., β-amyloid) is one of the most interesting innovations in drug delivery and could reasonably represent an promising choice for possible treatments and even early-diagnosis of AD. In this chapter, we therefore outline the most talented approaches in AD treatment with a specific focus on the main advantages/drawbacks and future possible translation to clinic application.

Review of Current Strategies for Delivering Alzheimer's Disease Drugs across the Blood-Brain Barrier

Effective therapy for Alzheimer’s disease is a major challenge in the pharmaceutical sciences. There are six FDA approved drugs (e.g., donepezil, memantine) that show some effectiveness; however, they only relieve symptoms. Two factors hamper research. First, the cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not fully understood. Second, the blood-brain barrier restricts drug efficacy. This review summarized current knowledge relevant to both of these factors. First, we reviewed the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease. Next, we reviewed the structural and biological properties of the blood-brain barrier. We then described the most promising drug delivery systems that have been developed in recent years; these include polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, metallic nanoparticles and cyclodextrins. Overall, we aim to provide ideas and clues to design effective drug delivery systems for penetrating the blood-brain barrier to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

Brain Delivery of Curcumin Using Solid Lipid Nanoparticles and Nanostructured Lipid Carriers: Preparation, Optimization, and Pharmacokinetic Evaluation

Curcumin is a multitherapeutic agent with great therapeutic potential in central nervous system (CNS) diseases. In the current study, curcumin was encapsulated in solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) for the purpose of increasing brain accumulation. The preparation processes have been optimized using experimental design and multiobjective optimization methods. Entrapment efficiency of curcumin in SLNs and NLCs was found to be 82% ± 0.49 and 94% ± 0.74, respectively. The pharmacokinetic studies showed that the amount of curcumin available in the brain was significantly higher in curcumin-loaded NLCs (AUC_0-t = 505.76 ng/g h) compared to free curcumin (AUC_0-t = 0.00 ng/g h) and curcumin-loaded SLNs (AUC_0-t = 116.31 ng/g h) ( P < 0.005), after intravenous (IV) administration of 4 mg/kg dose of curcumin in rat. The results of differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction showed that curcumin has been dispersed as amorphous in the nanocarriers. Scanning electron microscopy images confirmed the nanoscale size and spherical shape of the nanoparticles. The DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging study indicated that preparation processes do not have any significant effect on the antioxidant activity of curcumin. The results of this study are promising for the use of curcumin-loaded NLCs in more studies and using curcumin in the treatment of CNS diseases.

A dual-inhibitor system for the effective antifibrillation of Aβ40 peptides by biodegradable EGCG–Fe(iii)/PVP nanoparticles

By the synergistic effect of dual inhibition, EFPP NPs exhibited a significant effect on the inhibition of Aβ40 fibrillation and on the disaggregation of existing Aβ40 fibrils.

A systematic review on nanoencapsulation of food bioactive ingredients and nutraceuticals by various nanocarriers

Today, there is an ever-growing interest on natural food ingredients both by consumers and producers in the food industry. In fact, people are looking for those products in the market which are free from artificial and synthetic additives and can promote their health. These food bioactive ingredients should be formulated in such a way that protects them against harsh process and environmental conditions and safely could be delivered to the target organs and cells. Nanoencapsulation is a perfect strategy for this situation and there have been many studies in recent years for nanoencapsulation of food components and nutraceuticals by different technologies. In this review paper, our main goal is firstly to have an overview of nanoencapsulation techniques applicable to food ingredients in a systematic classification, i.e., lipid-based nanocarriers, nature-inspired nanocarriers, special-equipment-based nanocarriers, biopolymer nanocarriers, and other miscellaneous nanocarriers. Then, application of these cutting-edge nanocarriers for different nutraceuticals including phenolic compounds and antioxidants, natural food colorants, antimicrobial agents and essential oils, vitamins, minerals, flavors, fish oils and essential fatty acids will be discussed along with presenting some examples in each field.

Liposome delivery systems for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) will affect around 115 million people worldwide by the year 2050. It is associated with the accumulation of misfolded and aggregated proteins (β-amyloid and tau) in the senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles found in the brain. Currently available drugs for AD only temporarily alleviate symptoms and do not slow the inevitable progression of this disease. New drugs are required that act on key pathologies in order to arrest or reverse cognitive decline. However, there has been a spectacular failure rate in clinical trials of conventional small molecule drugs or biological agents. Targeted nanoliposomes represent a viable and promising drug delivery system for AD that have not yet reached clinical trials. They are biocompatible, highly flexible, and have the potential to carry many different types of therapeutic molecules across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and into brain cells. They can be tailored to extend blood circulation time and can be directed against individual or multiple pathological targets. Modifications so far have included the use of brain-penetrating peptides, together with Aβ-targeting ligands, such as phosphatidic acid, curcumin, and a retro-inverted peptide that inhibits Aβ aggregation. Combining several modifications together into multifunctional liposomes is currently a research area of great interest. This review focuses on recent liposomal approaches to AD therapy, including mechanisms involved in facilitating their passage across the BBB, and the evaluation of new therapeutic agents for blocking Aβ and/or tau aggregation.

Lamotrigine encapsulated intra-nasal nanoliposome formulation for epilepsy treatment: Formulation design, characterization and nasal toxicity study

The purpose of this study was to develop lamotrigine nanoliposomes (LTG-NLs) for the treatment in seizures. The formulation was prepared using thin film hydration and rehydration method using the phospholipon 90 G, cholesterol and tween 80 as main ingredients. The nanoliposomes were optimized by plucket burman design (PBD) and response surface methodology (RSM) optimization techniques. The optimized LTGNLopt was further characterized for surface morphology, in-vitro release, stability study, confocal laser scanning microscopic (CLSM) study and naso toxicity study. The results showed that LTGNLopt shown nano size with high entrapment and drug release. The ex-vivo permeation study and confocal laser microscopy study confirmed the enhancement in permeation across the goat nasal mucosa. From the study, it was concluded that the independent variables used to optimize the NLs shown significant effect on the dependent variables and consider effective lipid carrier system for intranasal delivery.

Strategies for brain-targeting liposomal delivery of small hydrophobic molecules in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), threaten the health of an ever-growing number of older people worldwide; so far, there are no effective cures. Significant efforts have been devoted to developing new drugs for NDs in recent years, and some small molecules have been shown to be promising in preclinical studies. However, the major challenge for brain-targeting drugs is how to efficiently deliver the drugs across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to desired targets. To address this issue, liposomal delivery systems have proved to be ideal carriers for neuroprotective small molecules. Here, we summarize recent advances in the brain-targeting liposomal delivery of small hydrophobic molecules (SHMs) and propose strategies for developing liposomal SHMs as disease-modifying neurotherapeutics for NDs.

The Delivery Challenge in Neurodegenerative Disorders: The Nanoparticles Role in Alzheimer's Disease Therapeutics and Diagnostics

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the main causes of disability and dependency among elderly people. AD is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a progressive and irreversible cognitive impairment, whose etiology is unclear because of the complex molecular mechanisms involved in its pathophysiology. A global view of the AD pathophysiology is described in order to understand the need for an effective treatment and why nanoparticles (NPs) could be an important weapon against neurodegenerative diseases by solving the general problem of poor delivery into the central nervous system (CNS) for many drugs. Drug delivery into the CNS is one of the most challenging objectives in pharmaceutical design, due to the limited access to the CNS imposed by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The purpose of this review is to present a comprehensive overview of the use of NPs as delivery systems for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes in models of AD.

Design, Synthesis, Anticancer Evaluation and Docking Studies of Novel Heterocyclic Derivatives Obtained via Reactions Involving Curcumin

Curcumin, a widely utilized flavor and coloring agent in food, has been shown to demonstrate powerful antioxidant, antitumor promoting and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in vivo. In the present work, synthesis of new heterocyclic derivatives based on Curcumin was studied. Compound 3 was synthesized via the reaction of furochromone carbaldehyde (1) with Curcumin (2) using pipredine as catalyst. Also, novel, 4,9-dimethoxy-5H-furo [3, 2-g] chromen-5-one derivatives 4a–d, 6a–d, 7, 8a–d, 9 and 10 were synthesized by the reactions of furochromone carbaldehyde (1) with different reagents (namely: appropriate amine 3a–d, appropriate hydrazine 5a–d, hydroxylamine hydrochloride, urea/thiourea, malononitrile, malononitrile with hydrazine hydrate). The structure of the synthesized products had been confirmed from their spectroscopic data (IR, ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR and mass spectra). In the present investigation, the newly synthesized products were screened using the MTT colorimetric assay for their in vitro inhibition capacity in two human cancer cell lines (hepatocellular carcinoma (HEPG2) and breast cancer (MCF-7) as well as the normal cell line (human normal melanocyte, HFB4) in comparison to the known anticancer drugs: 5-flurouracil and doxorubicin. The anticancer activity results indicated that the synthesized products 4c and 8b showed growth inhibition activity against HEPG2 cell line and synthesized products 4b and 8a showed growth inhibition activity against MCF-7, but with varying intensities in comparison to the known anticancer drugs, 5-flurouracil and doxorubicin. Cyclin dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), a major cell cycle protein, was identified as a potential molecular target of Curcumin. Furthermore, Curcumin induced G1 cell cycle arrest, which is regulated by CDK2 in cancer cells. Therefore, we used molecular modelling to study in silico the possible inhibitory effect of CDK2 by Curcumin derivatives as a possible mechanism of these compounds as anticancer agents. The molecular docking study revealed that compounds 4b, 8a and 8b were the most effective compounds in inhibiting CDk2, and, this result was in agreement with cytotoxicity assay.

Efficacy of curcumin for age-associated cognitive decline: a narrative review of preclinical and clinical studies

Processes such as aberrant redox signaling and chronic low-grade systemic inflammation have been reported to modulate age-associated pathologies such as cognitive impairment. Curcumin, the primary therapeutic component of the Indian spice, Turmeric (Curcuma longa), has long been known for its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity attributable to its unique molecular structure. Recently, an interest in this polyphenol as a cognitive therapeutic for the elderly has emerged. The purpose of this paper is to critically review preclinical and clinical studies that have evaluated the efficacy of curcumin in ameliorating and preventing age-associated cognitive decline and address the translational progress of preclinical to clinical efficacy. PubMed, semantic scholar, and Google scholar searches were used for preclinical studies; and clinicaltrials.gov , the Australian and New Zealand clinical trials registry, and PubMed search were used to select relevant completed clinical studies. Results from preclinical studies consistently demonstrate curcumin and its analogues to be efficacious for various aspects of cognitive impairment and processes that contribute to age-associated cognitive impairment. Results of published clinical studies, while mixed, continue to show promise for curcumin's use as a therapeutic for cognitive decline but overall remain inconclusive at this time. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have found that curcumin can significantly decrease oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and obstruct pathways that activate transcription factors that augment these processes. Future clinical studies would benefit from including evaluation of peripheral and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of dementia and behavioral markers of cognitive decline, as well as targeting the appropriate population.

Nanomedicine applications in women's health: state of the art

State-of-the-art applications of nanomedicine have the potential to revolutionize the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of a range of conditions and diseases affecting women’s health. In this review, we provide a synopsis of potential applications of nanomedicine in some of the most dominant fields of women’s health: mental health, sexual health, reproductive medicine, oncology, menopause-related conditions and dementia. We explore published studies arising from in vitro and in vivo experiments, and clinical trials where available, to reveal novel and highly promising therapeutic applications of nanomedicine in these fields. For the first time, we summarize the growing body of evidence relating to the use of nanomaterials as experimental tools for the detection, prevention, and treatment of significant diseases and conditions across the life course of a cisgender woman, from puberty to menopause; revealing the far-reaching and desirable theoretical impact of nanomedicine across different medical disciplines. We also present an overview of potential concerns regarding the therapeutic applications of nanomedicine and the factors currently restricting the growth of applied nanomedicine.

Use of curcumin in diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of Alzheimer's disease

This review summarizes and describes the use of curcumin in diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. For diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, amyloid-β and highly phosphorylated tau protein are the major biomarkers. Curcumin was developed as an early diagnostic probe based on its natural fluorescence and high binding affinity to amyloid-β. Because of its multi-target effects, curcumin has protective and preventive effects on many chronic diseases such as cerebrovascular disease, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. For prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease, curcumin has been shown to effectively maintain the normal structure and function of cerebral vessels, mitochondria, and synapses, reduce risk factors for a variety of chronic diseases, and decrease the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The effect of curcumin on Alzheimer's disease involves multiple signaling pathways: anti-amyloid and metal iron chelating properties, antioxidation and anti-inflammatory activities. Indeed, there is a scientific basis for the rational application of curcumin in prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Curcumin or bisdemethoxycurcumin for nose-to-brain treatment of Alzheimer disease? A bio/chemo-informatics case study

The current study introduces a new idea of utilising several bio/chemoinformatics tools in comparing two bio-similar natural molecules viz. curcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC) in order to select a potential nose-to-brain remedy for Alzheimer disease. The comparison comprised several bio/chemo informatics tools. It encompassed all levels starting from loading the drug in a certain carrier; PLGA nanoparticles, to the biopharmaceutical level investigating the interaction with mucin and inhibition of P-gp blood-brain barrier efflux pumps. Finally, the therapeutic level was investigated by studying the interaction with pharmacological targets such as amyloid peptide plaques and cyclooxygenase2 enzyme responsible for the inflammatory reactions of the studied disease. The comparison revealed the superiority of curcumin over BDMC. Five new analogues were also hypothesised where diethoxybisdemethoxycurcumin was  recommended as a superior molecule. This work introduced the virtual utilisation of bio/chemo informatics tools as a reliable and economic alternative to the exhausting and resources-consuming wet-lab experimentation.

Advances in Alzheimer's Diagnosis and Therapy: The Implications of Nanotechnology

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a type of dementia that causes major issues for patients' memory, thinking, and behavior. Despite efforts to advance AD diagnostic and therapeutic tools, AD remains incurable due to its complex and multifactorial nature and lack of effective diagnostics/therapeutics. Nanoparticles (NPs) have demonstrated the potential to overcome the challenges and limitations associated with traditional diagnostics/therapeutics. Nanotechnology is now offering new tools and insights to advance our understanding of AD and eventually may offer new hope to AD patients. Here, we review the key roles of nanotechnologies in the recent literature, in both diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of AD, and discuss how these achievements may improve patient prognosis and quality of life.

Recent advancements in liposomes targeting strategies to cross blood-brain barrier (BBB) for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

In this modern era, with the help of various advanced technologies, medical science has overcome most of the health-related issues successfully. Though, some diseases still remain unresolved due to various physiological barriers. One such condition is Alzheimer; a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive memory impairment, behavioral abnormalities, mood swing and disturbed routine activities of the person suffering from. It is well known to all that the brain is entirely covered by a protective layer commonly known as blood brain barrier (BBB) which is responsible to maintain the homeostasis of brain by restricting the entry of toxic substances, drug molecules, various proteins and peptides, small hydrophilic molecules, large lipophilic substances and so many other peripheral components to protect the brain from any harmful stimuli. This functionally essential structure creates a major hurdle for delivery of any drug into the brain. Still, there are some provisions on BBB which facilitate the entry of useful substances in the brain via specific mechanisms like passive diffusion, receptor-mediated transcytosis, carrier-mediated transcytosis etc. Another important factor for drug transport is the selection of a suitable drug delivery systems like, liposome, which is a novel drug carrier system offering a potential approach to resolving this problem. Its unique phospholipid bilayer structure (similar to physiological membrane) had made it more compatible with the lipoidal layer of BBB and helps the drug to enter the brain. The present review work focused on various surface modifications with functional ligand (like lactoferrin, transferrin etc.) and carrier molecules (such as glutathione, glucose etc.) on the liposomal structure to enhance its brain targeting ability towards the successful treatment of Alzheimer disease.

Current opinion in Alzheimer's disease therapy by nanotechnology-based approaches

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Nanotechnology typically deals with the measuring and modeling of matter at nanometer scale by incorporating the fields of engineering and technology. The most prominent feature of these engineered materials involves their manipulation/modification for imparting new functional properties. The current review covers the most recent findings of Alzheimer's disease (AD) therapeutics based on nanoscience and technology.

RECENT FINDINGS

Current studies involve the application of nanotechnology in developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools for neurological disorders. Nanotechnology-based approaches can be exploited for limiting/reversing these diseases for promoting functional regeneration of damaged neurons. These strategies offer neuroprotection by facilitating the delivery of drugs and small molecules more effectively across the blood-brain barrier.

SUMMARY

Nanotechnology based approaches show promise in improving AD therapeutics. Further replication work on synthesis and surface modification of nanoparticles, longer-term clinical trials, and attempts to increase their impact in treating AD are required.

Multifunctional LUV liposomes decorated for BBB and amyloid targeting. A. In vitro proof-of-concept

Multifunctional LUV liposomes (mf-LIPs) were developed, having a curcumin-lipid ligand (TREG) with affinity towards amyloid species, together with ligands to target the transferrin and the LDL receptors of the blood-brain-barrier (BBB), on their surface. mf-LIPs were evaluated for their brain targeting, on hCMEC/D3 monolayers, and for their ability to inhibit Aβ-peptide aggregation. The transport of mf-LIP across hCMEC/D3 monolayers was similar to that of BBB-LIPs, indicating that the presence of TREG on their surface does not reduce their brain targeting potential. Likewise, mf-LIP inhibitory effect on Aβ aggregation was similar to that of LIPs functionalized only with TREG, proving that the presence of brain targeting ligands does not reduce the functionality of the amyloid-specific ligand. Addition of the curcumin-lipid in some liposome types was found to enhance their integrity and reduce the effect of serum proteins on their interaction with brain endothelial cells. Finally, preliminary in vivo results confirm the in vitro findings. Concluding, the current results reveal the potential of the specific curcumin-lipid derivative as a component of multifunctional LIPs with efficient brain targeting capability, intended to act as a theragnostic system for AD.

Nanoencapsulation, an efficient and promising approach to maximize wound healing efficacy of curcumin: A review of new trends and state-of-the-art

Wound healing is a multifarious and vibrant process of replacing devitalized and damaged cellular structures, leading to restoration of the skin's barrier function, re-establishment of tissue integrity, and maintenance of the internal homeostasis. Curcumin (CUR) and its analogs have gained widespread recognition due to their remarkable anti-inflammatory, anti-infective, anticancer, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and wound healing activities. However, their pharmaceutical significance is limited due to inherent hydrophobic nature, poor water solubility, low bioavailability, chemical instability, rapid metabolism and short half-life. Owing to their pharmaceutical limitations, newer strategies have been attempted in recent years aiming to mitigate problems related to the effective delivery of curcumanoids and to improve their wound healing potential. These advanced strategies include nanovesicles, polymeric micelles, conventional liposomes and hyalurosomes, nanocomposite hydrogels, electrospun nanofibers, nanohybrid scaffolds, nanoconjugates, nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), nanoemulsion, nanodispersion, and polymeric nanoparticles (NPs). The superior wound healing activities achieved after nanoencapsulation of the CUR are attributed to its target-specific delivery, longer retention at the target site, avoiding premature degradation of the encapsulated cargo and the therapeutic superiority of the advanced delivery systems over the conventional delivery. We have critically reviewed the literature and summarize the convincing evidence which explore the pharmaceutical significance and therapeutic feasibility of the advanced delivery systems in improving wound healing activities of the CUR and its analogs.

Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems for Alzheimer's disease management: Technical, industrial, and clinical challenges

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease with high prevalence in the rapidly growing elderly population in the developing world. The currently FDA approved drugs for the management of symptomatology of AD are marketed mainly as conventional oral medications. Due to their gastrointestinal side effects and lack of brain targeting, these drugs and dosage regiments hinder patient compliance and lead to treatment discontinuation. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems (NTDDS) administered by different routes can be considered as promising tools to improve patient compliance and achieve better therapeutic outcomes. Despite extensive research, literature screening revealed that clinical activities involving NTDDS application in research for AD are lagging compared to NTDDS for other diseases such as cancers. The industrial perspectives, processability, and cost/benefit ratio of using NTDDS for AD treatment are usually overlooked. Moreover, active and passive immunization against AD are by far the mostly studied alternative AD therapies because conventional oral drug therapy is not yielding satisfactorily results. NTDDS of approved drugs appear promising to transform this research from 'paper to clinic' and raise hope for AD sufferers and their caretakers. This review summarizes the recent studies conducted on NTDDS for AD treatment, with a primary focus on the industrial perspectives and processability. Additionally, it highlights the ongoing clinical trials for AD management.

How do the physicochemical properties of nanoliposomes affect their interactions with the hCMEC/D3 cellular model of the BBB?

Nanosized liposomes composed of 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycerol-3-phosphatidylcholine (DSPC), cholesterol and polyethylene glycol-conjugated phospholipid (PEG), incorporating FITC-dextran (FITC) and in some cases also Rhodamine-conjugated phospholipid (RHO) (as labels) were constructed by the thin film hydration method, followed by extrusion; membranes with pore diameters from 50 to 400nm were used, while charged vesicles were produced by partially replacing DSPC with 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-(1'-rac-glycerol) (DSPG). The uptake of liposomes by hCMED/D3 cells was evaluated by measuring FITC in cells, and their permeability across cell monolayers was evaluated, by measuring the FI of liposome associated-FITC and RHO in the receiving side of a monolayer-transwell system. Results prove that liposome size has a significant effect on their uptake and permeability (for both charged and non-charged vesicles). The effect of liposome charge on cell uptake was slight (but significant), however charge (in the range from -2 to -16mV) did not significantly affect vesicle permeability; a significant decrease was only demonstrated for the liposome with the highest charge.

Nicotinate-Curcumin Impedes Foam Cell Formation from THP-1 Cells through Restoring Autophagy Flux

Our previous studies have indicated that a novel curcumin derivate nicotinate-curcumin (NC) has beneficial effects on the prevention of atherosclerosis, but the precise mechanisms are not fully understood. Given that autophagy regulates lipid metabolism, the present study was designed to investigate whether NC decreases foam cell formation through restoring autophagy flux in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-treated THP-1 cells. Our results showed that ox-LDL (100 μg/ml) was accumulated in THP-1 cells and impaired autophagy flux. Ox-LDL-induced impairment of autophagy was enhanced by treatment with the autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ) and rescued by the autophagy inducer rapamycin. The aggregation of ox-LDL was increased by CQ, but decreased by rapamycin. In addition, colocalization of lipid droplets with LC3-II was remarkably reduced in ox-LDL group. In contrast, NC (10 μM) rescued the impaired autophagy flux by significantly increasing level of LC3-II, the number of autophagolysosomes, and the degradation of p62 in ox-LDL-treated THP-1 cells. Inhibition of the PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling was required for NC-rescued autophagy flux. Notably, our results showed that NC remarkably promoted the colocalization of lipid droplets with autophagolysosomes, increased efflux of cholesterol, and reduced ox-LDL accumulation in THP-1 cells. However, treatment with 3-methyladenine (3-MA) or CQ reduced the protective effects of NC on lipid accumulation. Collectively, the findings suggest that NC decreases lipid accumulation in THP-1 cells through restoring autophagy flux, and further implicate that NC may be a potential therapeutic reagent to reverse atherosclerosis.

Exploring the use of nanocarrier systems to deliver the magical molecule; Curcumin and its derivatives

Curcumin and its derivatives; curcuminoids have been proven as potential remedies in different diseases. However, their delivery carries several challenges owing to their poor aqueous solubility, photodegradation, chemical instability, poor bioavailability and rapid metabolism. This review explores and criticizes the numerous attempts that were adopted through the years to entrap/encapsulate this valuable drug in nanocarriers aiming to reach its most appropriate and successful delivery system.

Nano-curcumin influences blue light photodynamic therapy for restraining glioblastoma stem cells growth

Nano-curcumin based blue light photodynamic therapy has therapeutic potential in the arsenal of glioblastoma cancer stem cells recurrence.

Recent trends in the development of nanophytobioactive compounds and delivery systems for their possible role in reducing oxidative stress in Parkinson's disease models

Oxidative stress plays a very critical role in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), which is the second most common neurodegenerative disease among elderly people worldwide. Increasing evidence has suggested that phytobioactive compounds show enhanced benefits in cell and animal models of PD. Curcumin, resveratrol, ginsenosides, quercetin, and catechin are phyto-derived bioactive compounds with important roles in the prevention and treatment of PD. However, in vivo studies suggest that their concentrations are very low to cross blood-brain barrier thereby it limits bioavailability, stability, and dissolution at target sites in the brain. To overcome these problems, nanophytomedicine with the controlled size of 1-100 nm is used to maximize efficiency in the treatment of PD. Nanosizing of phytobioactive compounds enhances the permeability into the brain with maximized efficiency and stability. Several nanodelivery techniques, including solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, nanoliposomes, and nanoniosomes can be used for controlled delivery of nanobioactive compounds to brain. Nanocompounds, such as ginsenosides (19.9 nm) synthesized using a nanoemulsion technique, showed enhanced bioavailability in the rat brain. Here, we discuss the most recent trends and applications in PD, including 1) the role of phytobioactive compounds in reducing oxidative stress and their bioavailability; 2) the role of nanotechnology in reducing oxidative stress during PD; 3) nanodelivery systems; and 4) various nanophytobioactive compounds and their role in PD.

Biological and therapeutic activities, and anticancer properties of curcumin

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is a polyphenol derived from the Curcuma longa plant. Curcumin has been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine, as it is nontoxic and exhibits a variety of therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic activities. Recently, certain studies have indicated that curcumin may exert anticancer effects in a variety of biological pathways involved in mutagenesis, apoptosis, tumorigenesis, cell cycle regulation and metastasis. The present study reviewed previous studies in the literature, which support the therapeutic activity of curcumin in cancer. In addition, the present study elucidated a number of the challenges concerning the use of curcumin as an adjuvant chemotherapeutic agent. All the studies reviewed herein suggest that curcumin is able to exert anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet, antioxidative, hepatoprotective and antitumor activities, particularly against cancers of the liver, skin, pancreas, prostate, ovary, lung and head neck, as well as having a positive effect in the treatment of arthritis.

Therapeutic Applications of Curcumin Nanoformulations

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is a bioactive and major phenolic component of turmeric derived from the rhizomes of curcuma longa linn. For centuries, curcumin has exhibited excellent therapeutic benefits in various diseases. Owing to its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, curcumin plays a significant beneficial and pleiotropic regulatory role in various pathological conditions including cancer, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, inflammatory disorders, neurological disorders, and so on. Despite such phenomenal advances in medicinal applications, the clinical implication of native curcumin is hindered due to low solubility, physico-chemical instability, poor bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and poor pharmacokinetics. However, these issues can be overcome by utilizing an efficient delivery system. Active scientific research was initiated in 2005 to improve curcumin's pharmacokinetics, systemic bioavailability, and biological activity by encapsulating or by loading curcumin into nanoform(s) (nanoformulations). A significant number of nanoformulations exist that can be translated toward medicinal use upon successful completion of pre-clinical and human clinical trials. Considering this perspective, current review provides an overview of an efficient curcumin nanoformulation for a targeted therapeutic option for various human diseases. In this review article, we discuss the clinical evidence, current status, and future opportunities of curcumin nanoformulation(s) in the field of medicine. In addition, this review presents a concise summary of the actions required to develop curcumin nanoformulations as pharmaceutical or nutraceutical candidates.

Recent Advances of Curcumin and its Analogues in Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment

More than 230,000 diagnosed cases of invasive breast cancer in women was estimated in 2014 and an expected 40,000 deaths attributed to the aggressive carcinoma. An effective approach to diminish the morbidity and mortality of breast cancer is the development of chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents. Nutraceuticals have demonstrated their ability to proficiently halt carcinogenesis. The administration of natural compounds able to effectively serve as chemoprevention and chemotherapeutics without causing harm or adverse effects is imperative. Curcumin derived from the rhizome of Curcuma longa L., is a common spice of India, used for centuries because of its medicinal properties. The main component of curcumin possesses a wide range of biological activities; anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, and apoptotic characteristics modulated through the inactivation of pathways such as EGK and Akt/mTOR. In addition, curcumin alters the expression of cytokines, transcription factors, and enzymes involved in cell vitality. The in vivo application of curcumin in breast cancer is hindered by its limited bioavailabiity. The synthesis of curcumin analogues and delivery via nanoparticles has demonstrated enhanced bioavailability of curcumin in the malignancy. This review focuses on recent developments in the use of curcumin, curcumin analogues, and novel delivery systems as a preventive and therapeutic method for breast cancer.

The beneficial role of curcumin on inflammation, diabetes and neurodegenerative disease: A recent update

The concept of using phytochemicals has ushered in a new revolution in pharmaceuticals. Naturally occurring polyphenols (like curcumin, morin, resveratrol, etc.) have gained importance because of their minimal side effects, low cost and abundance. Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is a component of turmeric isolated from the rhizome of Curcuma longa. Research for more than two decades has revealed the pleiotropic nature of the biological effects of this molecule. More than 7000 published articles have shed light on the various aspects of curcumin including its antioxidant, hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities. Apart from these well-known activities, this natural polyphenolic compound also exerts its beneficial effects by modulating different signalling molecules including transcription factors, chemokines, cytokines, tumour suppressor genes, adhesion molecules, microRNAs, etc. Oxidative stress and inflammation play a pivotal role in various diseases like diabetes, cancer, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular diseases. Curcumin, therefore, could be a therapeutic option for the treatment of these diseases, provided limitations in its oral bioavailability can be overcome. The current review provides an updated overview of the metabolism and mechanism of action of curcumin in various organ pathophysiologies. The review also discusses the potential for multifunctional therapeutic application of curcumin and its recent progress in clinical biology.

Nano-antioxidants: An emerging strategy for intervention against neurodegenerative conditions

Oxidative stress has for long been linked to the neuronal cell death in many neurodegenerative conditions. Conventional antioxidant therapies have been less effective in preventing neuronal damage caused by oxidative stress due to their inability to cross the blood brain barrier. Nanoparticle antioxidants constitute a new wave of antioxidant therapies for prevention and treatment of diseases involving oxidative stress. It is believed that nanoparticle antioxidants have strong and persistent interactions with biomolecules and would be more effective against free radical induced damage. Nanoantioxidants include inorganic nanoparticles possessing intrinsic antioxidant properties, nanoparticles functionalized with antioxidants or antioxidant enzymes to function as an antioxidant delivery system. Nanoparticles containing antioxidants have shown promise as high-performance therapeutic nanomedicine in attenuating oxidative stress with potential applications in treating and preventing neurodegenerative conditions. However, to realize the full potential of nanoantioxidants, negative aspects associated with the use of nanoparticles need to be overcome to validate their long term applications.

Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease is a neurological disorder that results in cognitive and behavioral impairment. Conventional treatment strategies, such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitor drugs, often fail due to their poor solubility, lower bioavailability, and ineffective ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Nanotechnological treatment methods, which involve the design, characterization, production, and application of nanoscale drug delivery systems, have been employed to optimize therapeutics. These nanotechnologies include polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, microemulsion, nanoemulsion, and liquid crystals. Each of these are promising tools for the delivery of therapeutic devices to the brain via various routes of administration, particularly the intranasal route. The objective of this study is to present a systematic review of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Micellar carriers for the delivery of multiple therapeutic agents

Multi-drug therapy is described as a simultaneous or sequential administration of two or more drugs with similar or different mechanisms of action and is recognized as a more efficient solution to combat successfully, various ailments. Polymeric micelles (PMs) are self-assemblies of block copolymers providing numerous opportunities for drug delivery. To date various micellar formulations were studied for delivery of drugs, nutraceuticals and genes; a few of them are in clinical trials. It was observed that there is an immense need for the development of PMs embedding multiple therapeutic agents to combat various ailments, including cancers, HIV/AIDS, malaria, multiple sclerosis, hypertension, infectious diseases, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, immune disorders and many psychiatric disorders. Several combinations of drug-drug, drug-nutraceutical, drug-gene and drug-siRNA explored to date are detailed in this review, with a special emphasis on their potential and future perspectives. A summary of various preparation methods, characterization techniques and applications of PMs are also provided. This review presents a holistic approach on multi-drug delivery using micellar carriers and emphasizes on the development of therapeutic hybrids embedding novel combinations for safer and effective therapy.

Nanocarriers for the delivery of active ingredients and fractions extracted from natural products used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been practiced for thousands of years with a recent increase in popularity. Despite promising biological activities of active ingredients and fractions from TCM, their poor solubility, poor stability, short biological half-life, ease of metabolism and rapid elimination hinder their clinical application. Therefore, overcoming these problems to improve the therapeutic efficacy of TCM preparations is a major focus of pharmaceutical sciences. Recently, nanocarriers have drawn increasing attention for their excellent and efficient delivery of active TCM ingredients or fractions. This review discusses problems in the delivery of active TCM ingredients or fractions; focuses on recent advances in nanocarriers that represent potential solutions to these problems, including lipid-based nanoparticles and polymeric, inorganic, and hybrid nanocarriers; and discusses unanswered questions in the field and criteria for the development of better nanocarriers for the delivery of active TCM ingredients or fractions to be focused on in future studies.

Nanomedicine for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease affects more than 35 million people worldwide and this number is presumed to double by the year 2050. Currently, there is no efficient therapy for this disorder but a promising approach is represented by nanotechnology, easily multifunctionalizable devices with size in the order of billionth of meter. This review provides a concise survey on the nano-based strategies for Alzheimer's disease treatment, aiming at carrying drugs across the blood–brain barrier, in particular to target the metabolism of β-amyloid peptide, a pivotal player in this pathology.