Nanoemulsion improves hypoglycemic efficacy of berberine by overcoming its gastrointestinal challenge

Obesity: pathophysiology and therapeutic interventions

Over the past few decades, obesity has transitioned from a localized health concern to a pressing global public health crisis affecting over 650 million adults globally, as documented by WHO epidemiological surveys. As a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by pathological adipose tissue expansion, chronic inflammation, and neuroendocrine dysregulation that disrupts systemic homeostasis and impairs physiological functions, obesity is rarely an isolated condition; rather, it is frequently complicated by severe comorbidities that collectively elevate mortality risks. Despite advances in nutritional science and public health initiatives, sustained weight management success rates and prevention in obesity remain limited, underscoring its recognition as a multifactorial disease influenced by genetic, environmental, and behavioral determinants. Notably, the escalating prevalence of obesity and its earlier onset in younger populations have intensified the urgency to develop novel therapeutic agents that simultaneously ensure efficacy and safety. This review aims to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying obesity, analyze its major complications-including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), cardiovascular diseases (CVD), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), obesity-related respiratory disorders, obesity-related nephropathy (ORN), musculoskeletal impairments, malignancies, and psychological comorbidities-and critically evaluate current anti-obesity strategies. Particular emphasis is placed on emerging pharmacological interventions, exemplified by plant-derived natural compounds such as berberine (BBR), with a focus on their molecular mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and therapeutic advantages. By integrating mechanistic insights with clinical evidence, this review seeks to provide innovative perspectives for developing safe, accessible, and effective obesity treatments.

Cellulose nanocrystals/cellulose nanofibrils-combined astaxanthin nanoemulsion for reinforcement of targeted tumor delivery of gastric cancer cells

Nanoemulsion based nanomaterial (NE) was carried out in the present study to evaluate the efficacy and its antitumor potential of the gastric cancer cells. NE was prepared with astaxanthin/alpha-tocopherol- cellulose nanocrystals/cellulose nanofibrils based nanoemulsions for gastric cancer treatment. The cytotoxic potential was tested against cancer cells and evaluated in terms of its cell proliferation, migration, and cellular uptake by the standard methods. NE was examined for its synergetic effect with photodynamic therapy (PDT) in a xenograft mouse model. The results confirmed the synergetic effect of PDT and NEs in the in vivo animal model. The regulated expression of proteins manifested the reduced toxicity and inhibition of cell proliferation and migration. The antitumor study showed that NE inhibited the growth of human colon cancer in vivo. Immunohistological analysis confirmed the regulation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. The present study demonstrates that NEs can enhance anti-cancer effect against human gastric cancer through the immunomodulatory signaling pathway.

The synergistic effect of Huangqi Gegen decoction on thrombosis relates to the astragalus polysaccharide-improved oral delivery of puerarin

ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Huangqi Gegen decoction (HGD), which comprises Astragali Radix (AR) and Puerariae Radix (PR), is widely used to treat thrombosis in China. However, the mechanism underlying its synergistic effect in thrombosis treatment remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Following PR administration, low plasma exposure was reported for its primary ingredients. In this regard, this study examined the effect of AR on PR's antithrombotic efficacy with respect to the impact of Astragalus Polysaccharide (APS) on the oral delivery of Puerarin (PUE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To evaluate the synergistic effect of HGD, a thrombus mice model was established via intraperitoneal injection of carrageenan. After treatment, histopathological observations were made, and the proportion of thrombus length in the tail, as well as the plasma APTT, PT, INR, and FIB levels, were detected. Molecular docking was employed to assess the PR ingredients that could inhibit the HMGB1/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. The Pharmacokinetics of PR ingredients in rats were also compared between the PR and HGD groups. Moreover, the effect of APS on the solubility, intestinal absorption, and pharmacokinetics of PUE was evaluated. Furthermore, the impact of APS on the antithrombotic efficacy of PUE was assessed.

RESULTS

In mice, AR enhanced the antithrombotic effect of PR. This improved PR effect was associated with isoflavones-induced downregulation of the HMGB1/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. The synergistic effect resulting from the compatibility of HGD components was primarily achieved by improving the plasma exposure of PR isoflavones. Specifically, APS enhanced PUE's water solubility through the formation of self-assembly Nanoparticles, increasing its intestinal absorption and oral bioavailability, which, in turn, suppressed the HMGB1/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway, thus improving its antithrombotic effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings revealed that APS improved PUE's plasma exposure, enhancing its inhibitory effect on the HMGB1/NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. This mechanism presents a key aspect of the synergistic effect of HGD compatibility in thrombosis treatment.

Berberine ameliorates septic cardiomyopathy through protecting mitochondria and upregulating Notch1 signaling in cardiomyocytes

Introduction

Septic cardiomyopathy (SCM) arises as a consequence of sepsis-associated cardiovascular dysfunction, for which there is currently no specific targeted therapy available. Previous studies have demonstrated the beneficial therapeutic effect of berberine (BBR) on SCM; however, the underlying mechanisms of action remain unclear. The objective of this is to elucidate how BBR alleviates SCM.

Methods

Septic cardiomyopathy rat model was established by performing cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), while a cardiomyocyte injury model was provoked in H9C2 cells using lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cardiac function was assessed through echocardiography, and myocardial histopathology was examined with hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Cardiomyocyte viability was determined through Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assay, and measurement of ATP levels was done with an ATP assay kit. Mitochondrial ultrastructure was observed using transmission electron microscopy. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting were employed to analyze the expression of Notch1 signaling pathway components and downstream molecules in myocardial tissues and cells.

Result

In vivo, BBR markedly improved symptoms and cardiac function in SCM rats, leading to enhanced ATP content, and ameliorated mitochondrial structure. Additionally, BBR increased Notch1 protein expression in myocardial tissue of the rats. In vitro, BBR elevated the survival rates of H9C2 cell, improved mitochondrial morphology, and raised ATP levels. The mRNA expression of Notch1, Hes1, and Hes2, and Notch1 protein expression was upregulated by BBR. While these effects were reversed upon inhibiting the Notch1 signaling pathway.

Conclusion

BBR improves septic cardiomyopathy by modulating Notch1 signaling to protect myocardial mitochondria.

Supramolecular approach to the design of nanocarriers for antidiabetic drugs: targeted patient-friendly therapy

Diabetes and its complications derived are among serious global health concerns that critically deteriorate the quality of life of patients and, in some cases, result in lethal outcome. Herein, general information on the pathogenesis, factors aggravating the course of the disease and drugs used for the treatment of two types of diabetes are briefly discussed. The aim of the review is to introduce supramolecular strategies that are currently being developed for the treatment of diabetes mellitus and that present a very effective alternative to chemical synthesis, allowing the fabrication of nanocontainers with switchable characteristics that meet the criteria of green chemistry. Particular attention is paid to organic (amphiphilic and polymeric) formulations, including those of natural origin, due to their biocompatibility, low toxicity, and bioavailability. The advantages and limitations of different nanosystems are discussed, with emphasis on their adaptivity to noninvasive administration routes.<br>The bibliography includes 378 references.

Research progress on pharmacological effects and bioavailability of berberine

Berberine (BBR), a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid obtained from natural medicines such as coptidis rhizoma, has a wide range of pharmacological activities such as protecting the nervous system, protecting the cardiovascular system, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, antitumor, antibacterial, and antidiarrheal. However, factors such as poor solubility, low permeability, P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux, and hepatic-intestinal metabolism result in BBR having a low bioavailability (< 1%), which restricts its application in clinical settings. Therefore, improving its bioavailability is a prerequisite for its clinical applications. This review summarizes the various pharmacological effects of BBR and analyzes the main reasons for its poor bioavailability. It introduces methods to improve the bioavailability of BBR through the use of absorption enhancers and P-gp inhibitors, structural modification of BBR, and preparation of BBR salts and cocrystals as well as the development of new formulations and focuses on the bioavailability study of the new formulations of BBR. The research of BBR was also prospected in order to provide reference for the further research of BBR.

Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Diabetic, and Pro-Osteogenic Activities of Polyphenols for the Treatment of Two Different Chronic Diseases: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Osteoporosis

Polyphenols are natural bioactives occurring in medicinal and aromatic plants and food and beverages of plant origin. Compared with conventional therapies, plant-derived phytochemicals are more affordable and accessible and have no toxic side effects. Thus, pharmaceutical research is increasingly inclined to discover and study new and innovative natural molecules for the treatment of several chronic human diseases, like type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and osteoporosis. These pathological conditions are characterized by a chronic inflammatory state and persistent oxidative stress, which are interconnected and lead to the development and worsening of these two health disorders. Oral nano delivery strategies have been used to improve the bioavailability of polyphenols and to allow these natural molecules to exert their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and pro-osteogenic biological activities in in vivo experimental models and in patients. Polyphenols are commonly used in the formulations of nutraceuticals, which can counteract the detrimental effects of T2DM and osteoporosis pathologies. This review describes the polyphenols that can exert protective effects against T2DM and osteoporosis through the modulation of specific molecular markers and pathways. These bioactives could be used as adjuvants, in combination with synthetic drugs, in the future to develop innovative therapeutic strategies for the treatment of T2DM and osteoporosis.

Therapeutic application of natural compounds for skeletal muscle-associated metabolic disorders: A review on diabetes perspective

Skeletal muscle (SM) plays a vital role in energy and glucose metabolism by regulating insulin sensitivity, glucose uptake, and blood glucose homeostasis. Impaired SM metabolism is strongly linked to several diseases, particularly type 2 diabetes (T2D). Insulin resistance in SM may result from the impaired activities of insulin receptor tyrosine kinase, insulin receptor substrate 1, phosphoinositide 3-kinase, and AKT pathways. This review briefly discusses SM myogenesis and the critical roles that SM plays in insulin resistance and T2D. The pharmacological targets of T2D which are associated with SM metabolism, such as DPP4, PTB1B, SGLT, PPARγ, and GLP-1R, and their potential modulators/inhibitors, especially natural compounds, are discussed in detail. This review highlights the significance of SM in metabolic disorders and the therapeutic potential of natural compounds in targeting SM-associated T2D targets. It may provide novel insights for the future development of anti-diabetic drug therapies. We believe that scientists working on T2D therapies will benefit from this review by enhancing their knowledge and updating their understanding of the subject.

Efficacy and safety of berberine for premature ventricular contractions: a meta-analysis and systematic review of randomized controlled trials

CONTEXT

Berberine is a potential drug that can effectively treat cardiovascular diseases, including premature ventricular contractions (PVCs).

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of berberine for PVCs.

METHODS

The literature was searched using PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), Wanfang, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from inception to October 1, 2022. The risk of bias was assessed using the Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system was adopted to assess the quality of evidence.

RESULTS

Ten RCTs with 896 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that compared to antiarrhythmic drugs (AD), berberine (BE) combined with AD had a higher effective rate (RR = 1.26; 95% CI:1.12, 1.42; p = 0.0001) with no significant incidence of adverse reactions (RR = 0.93; 95% CI:0.33, 2.57; p = 0.88), and BE alone had no significant difference in effective rate (RR = 0.91; 95% CI:0.77, 1.07; p = 0.23), and a lower incidence of adverse reactions (RR = 0.38; 95% CI:0.15, 0.97; p = 0.04) and recurrence rate (RR = 0.40; 95% CI:0.18, 0.88; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that BE is an effective and safe adjunctive method for PVCs. In addition, BE is recommended for patients with PVCs who had severe adverse reactions after administrating AD as an alternative therapy.

Natural Phytochemicals as SIRT Activators-Focus on Potential Biochemical Mechanisms

Sirtuins are a family of proteins with enzymatic activity. There are seven mammalian sirtuins (SIRT1-SIRT7) that are found in different cellular compartments. They are a part of crucial cellular pathways and are regulated by many factors, such as chemicals, environmental stress, and phytochemicals. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have presented their involvement in anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic processes. Recent findings imply that phytochemicals such as resveratrol, curcumin, quercetin, fisetin, berberine, and kaempferol may regulate the activity of sirtuins. Resveratrol mainly activates SIRT1 and indirectly activates AMPK. Curcumin influences mainly SIRT1 and SIRT3, but its activity is broad, and many pathways in different cells are affected. Quercetin mainly modulates SIRT1, which triggers antioxidant and antiapoptotic responses. Fisetin, through SIRT1 regulation, modifies lipid metabolism and anti-inflammatory processes. Berberine has a wide spectrum of effects and a significant impact on SIRT1 signaling pathways. Finally, kaempferol triggers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects through SIRT1 induction. This review aims to summarize recent findings on the properties of phytochemicals in the modulation of sirtuin activity, with a particular focus on biochemical aspects.

Recent advance in phytonanomedicine and mineral nanomedicine delivery system of the treatment for acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an invasive hematopoietic malignancy caused by excessive proliferation of myeloblasts. Classical chemotherapies and cell transplantation therapies have remarkable efficacy in AML treatment; however, 30-40% of patients relapsed or had refractory disease. The resistance of AML is closely related to its inherent cytogenetics or various gene mutations. Recently, phytonanomedicine are found to be effective against resistant AML cells and have become a research focus for nanotechnology development to improve their properties, such as increasing solubility, improving absorption, enhancing bioavailability, and maintaining sustained release and targeting. These novel phytonanomedicine and mineral nanomedicine, including nanocrystals, nanoemulsion, nanoparticles, nanoliposome, and nanomicelles, offer many advantages, such as flexible dosages or forms, multiple routes of administration, and curative effects. Therefore, we reviewed the application and progress of phytomedicine in AML treatment and discussed the limitations and future prospects. This review may provide a solid reference to guide future research on AML treatment.

Antiaging effects of dietary supplements and natural products

Aging is an inevitable process influenced by genetics, lifestyles, and environments. With the rapid social and economic development in recent decades, the proportion of the elderly has increased rapidly worldwide, and many aging-related diseases have shown an upward trend, including nervous system diseases, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic diseases, and cancer. The rising burden of aging-related diseases has become an urgent global health challenge and requires immediate attention and solutions. Natural products have been used for a long time to treat various human diseases. The primary cellular pathways that mediate the longevity-extending effects of natural products involve nutrient-sensing pathways. Among them, the sirtuin, AMP-activated protein kinase, mammalian target of rapamycin, p53, and insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling pathways are most widely studied. Several studies have reviewed the effects of individual natural compounds on aging and aging-related diseases along with the underlying mechanisms. Natural products from food sources, such as polyphenols, saponins, alkaloids, and polysaccharides, are classified as antiaging compounds that promote health and prolong life via various mechanisms. In this article, we have reviewed several recently identified natural products with potential antiaging properties and have highlighted their cellular and molecular mechanisms. The discovery and use of dietary supplements and natural products that can prevent and treat multiple aging-related diseases in humans will be beneficial. Thus, this review provides theoretical background for existing dietary supplements and natural products as potential antiaging agents.

Phytoconstituents Based Nanomedicines for the Management of Diabetes: A Review

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a life-threatening multifactorial metabolic syndrome that is still one of the most difficult unsolved health concerns. Different herbal drugs have been proposed to be useful in treating diabetes and its associated complications. Two major obstacles in plant extracts are their limited solubility and bioavailability of lipophilic bioactive components. Applying nanotechnology has opened new avenues to improve solubility, bioavailability, compliance, and efficacy by overcoming the pharmacokinetic and biopharmaceutical obstacles associated with herbal extracts and phytochemicals. Herbal nanomedicines can overcome the drawbacks of conventional therapy of DM, its complications like delayed wound healing, and also decrease the side effects of synthetic drugs. The targeted delivery of herbal nanoparticles employing nano-pumps, nanorobots, smart cells, and nanosized herbal medications is recognized today as one of the most far-reaching discoveries in the therapy of DM. This paper focuses on using nanotechnology and herbal therapies to manage diabetes effectively. The review provides a detailed and up-to-date overview of phytonanoformulations in treating diabetes and its consequences.

D-Optimal Design and Development of a Koumine-Loaded Microemulsion for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment: In vivo and in vitro Evaluation

Introduction

Koumine (KME) is the most abundant active ingredient separated from Gelsemium elegans Benth and exhibits a significant therapeutic effect on rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is a lipophilic compound with poor aqueous solubility, and there is an urgent need to develop novel dosage forms of KME and promote its clinical application for the treatment of RA. The aim of this study was to design and develop KME-loaded microemulsions (KME-MEs) for the effective management of RA.

Methods

The composition of the microemulsion was selected by carrying out a solubility study and generating pseudoternary phase diagrams, and further optimized by D-Optimal design. The optimized KME-MEs was evaluated for particle size, viscosity, drug release, storage stability, cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, Caco-2 cell transport and everted gut sac investigations. In vivo fluorescence imaging and the therapeutic effects of KME and KME-MEs on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats were also evaluated.

Results

The optimized microemulsion contained 8% oil, 32% S_mix (surfactant/cosurfactant) and 60% water and was used for in vivo and in vitro studies. The optimal KME-MEs exhibited a small globule size of 18.5 ± 0.14 nm and good stability over 3 months, and the release kinetics followed a first-order model. These KME-MEs had no toxic effect on Caco-2 cells but were efficiently internalized into the cytoplasm. Compared to KME, the KME-MEs displayed significantly increased permeability and absorption in Caco-2 cell monolayer assay and ex vivo everted gut sac experiment. As expected, the KME-MEs attenuated the progression of RA in CIA rats and were more effective than free KME with a reduced frequency of administration.

Conclusion

The KME-MEs improved the solubility and therapeutic efficacy of KME by employing formulation technology. These results provide a promising vehicle for the oral delivery of KME to treat RA and have attractive potential for clinical translation.

Approaching strategy to increase the oral bioavailability of berberine, a quaternary ammonium isoquinoline alkaloid: Part 2. Development of oral dosage formulations

INTRODUCTION

Berberine (BBR) possesses a wide variety of pharmacological activities. However, the oral bioavailability of BBR is low due to extensive intestinal first-pass metabolism by cytochrome P450s (CYPs), insufficient absorption due to low solubility and P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated efflux transport, and hepatic first-pass metabolism in rats.

AREAS COVERED

Various dosage formulations were developed to increase the oral bioavailability of BBR by overcoming the reducing factors. This article provides the developing strategy of oral dosage formulations of BBR based on the physicochemical (low solubility, formation of salts/ion-pair complex) and pharmacokinetic properties (substrate of P-gp/CYPs, extensive intestinal first-pass metabolism). Literature was searched by using PubMed.

EXPERT OPINION

Here, formulations increasing the dissolution rates/solubility; formulations containing a P-gp inhibitor; formulations containing solubilizer exhibiting P-gp and/or CYPs inhibitors; formulations containing absorption enhancers; gastro/duodenal retentive formulations; lipid-based formulations; formulations targeting lymphatic transport; and physicochemical modifications increasing lipophilicity were reviewed. Among these formulations, formulations that can reduce intestinal first-pass metabolisms such as formulations containing CYPs inhibitor(s) and formulations containing absorption enhancer(s) significantly increased the oral bioavailability of BBR. Further studies on other dosing routes that can avoid first-pass metabolism such as the rectal route would also be important to increase the bioavailability of BBR.

Biphasic dissolution combined with modified cylinder method-A new promising method for dissolution test in drug-loaded nanoemulsions

Dissolution testing is important in assessing the in vitro drug release performance for oral administration dosage forms. However, currently, a simple and efficient in vitro test to investigate critical factors that may impact the drug release and bioavailability at the development stage of a drug-loaded nanoemulsion (NE) is lacking. Thus, in this study, we developed a new combined biphasic and modified cylinder (BP + MC) method to evaluate the dissolution profile of NEs. Flubendazole (FLZ), a Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS) Class II drug, offers a new prospective for drug repositioning for treating lung cancer and cryptococcal meningitis. We compared the drug release profiles of three different FLZ formulations (micronized as a suspension, loaded in NE, and solubilized in oil) by using three different methods (dialysis bag, modified cylinder method, and a new BP + MC method). The results showed potential higher drug release of FLZ from the suspension compared to FLZ-loaded NE at pH 1.2, and higher drug release from FLZ-loaded NE compared to other forms in octanol phase. These results correlate well with the in vivo test performed in mice carried out in our previous works. Furthermore, the partition mechanism of the drug released from the NE is discussed in-depth in this article, as well as the advantage of drug-loaded NEs over other preparations in creating supersaturable conditions. Based on the results, we provide new insights into how dissolution methods for a poorly water-solubility drug can be designed. Therefore, we present this new combined BP + MC method as a potential new discriminative dissolution test for future studies when developing drug-loaded NE and comparing with other dosage forms.

The Trend of Organic Based Nanoparticles in the Treatment of Diabetes and Its Perspectives

Diabetes is an untreatable metabolic disorder characterized by alteration in blood sugar homeostasis, with submucosal insulin therapy being the primary treatment option. This route of drug administration is attributed to low patient comfort due to the risk of pain, distress, and local inflammation/infections. Nanoparticles have indeed been suggested as insulin carriers to allow the drug to be administered via less invasive routes other than injection, such as orally or nasally. The organic-based nanoparticles can be derived from various organic materials (for instance, polysaccharides, lipids, and so on) and thus are prevalently used to enhance the physical and chemical consistency of loaded bioactive compounds (drug) and thus their bioavailability. This review presents various forms of organic nanoparticles (for example, chitosan, dextron, gums, nanoemulsion, alginate, and so on) for enhanced hypoglycemic drug delivery relative to traditional therapies.

An Overview of Herbal-Based Antidiabetic Drug Delivery Systems: Focus on Lipid- and Inorganic-Based Nanoformulations

Diabetes is a metabolic pathology with chronic high blood glucose levels that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body does not properly use the insulin it produces. Diabetes management is a puzzle and focuses on a healthy lifestyle, physical exercise, and medication. Thus far, the condition remains incurable; management just helps to control it. Its medical treatment is expensive and is to be followed for the long term, which is why people, especially from low-income countries, resort to herbal medicines. However, many active compounds isolated from plants (phytocompounds) are poorly bioavailable due to their low solubility, low permeability, or rapid elimination. To overcome these impediments and to alleviate the cost burden on disadvantaged populations, plant nanomedicines are being studied. Nanoparticulate formulations containing antidiabetic plant extracts or phytocompounds have shown promising results. We herein aimed to provide an overview of the use of lipid- and inorganic-based nanoparticulate delivery systems with plant extracts or phytocompounds for the treatment of diabetes while highlighting their advantages and limitations for clinical application. The findings from the reviewed works showed that these nanoparticulate formulations resulted in high antidiabetic activity at low doses compared to the corresponding plant extracts or phytocompounds alone. Moreover, it was shown that nanoparticulate systems address the poor bioavailability of herbal medicines, but the lack of enough preclinical and clinical pharmacokinetic and/or pharmacodynamic trials still delays their use in diabetic patients.

Nanogels as Potential Delivery Vehicles in Improving the Therapeutic Efficacy of Phytopharmaceuticals

Nanogel is a promising drug delivery approach to improve the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic prospect of phytopharmaceuticals. In the present review, phytopharmaceuticals with astonishing therapeutic utilities are being explored. However, their in vivo delivery is challenging, owing to poor biopharmaceutical attributes that impact their drug release profile, skin penetration, and the reach of optimal therapeutic concentrations to the target site. Nanogel and its advanced version in the form of nanoemulgel (oil-in-water nanoemulsion integrated gel matrix) offer better therapeutic prospects than other conventional counterparts for improving the biopharmaceutical attributes and thus therapeutic efficacy of phytopharmaceuticals. Nanoemulgel-loaded phytopharmaceuticals could substantially improve permeation behavior across skin barriers, subsequently enhancing the delivery and therapeutic effectiveness of the bioactive compound. Furthermore, the thixotropic characteristics of polymeric hydrogel utilized in the fabrication of nanogel/nanoemulgel-based drug delivery systems have also imparted improvements in the biopharmaceutical attributes of loaded phytopharmaceuticals. This formulation approach is about to be rife in the coming decades. Thus, the current review throws light on the recent studies demonstrating the role of nanogels in enhancing the delivery of bioactive compounds for treating various disease conditions and the challenges faced in their clinical translation.

Progress in the Application of Food-Grade Emulsions

The detailed investigation of food-grade emulsions, which possess considerable structural and functional advantages, remains ongoing to enhance our understanding of these dispersion systems and to expand their application scope. This work reviews the applications of food-grade emulsions on the dispersed phase, interface structure, and macroscopic scales; further, it discusses the corresponding factors of influence, the selection and design of food dispersion systems, and the expansion of their application scope. Specifically, applications on the dispersed-phase scale mainly include delivery by soft matter carriers and auxiliary extraction/separation, while applications on the scale of the interface structure involve biphasic systems for enzymatic catalysis and systems that can influence substance digestion/absorption, washing, and disinfection. Future research on these scales should therefore focus on surface-active substances, real interface structure compositions, and the design of interface layers with antioxidant properties. By contrast, applications on the macroscopic scale mainly include the design of soft materials for structured food, in addition to various material applications and other emerging uses. In this case, future research should focus on the interactions between emulsion systems and food ingredients, the effects of food process engineering, safety, nutrition, and metabolism. Considering the ongoing research in this field, we believe that this review will be useful for researchers aiming to explore the applications of food-grade emulsions.

Cytokine storm-calming property of the isoquinoline alkaloids in Coptis chinensis Franch

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has spread worldwide and its effects have been more devastating than any other infectious disease. Importantly, patients with severe COVID-19 show conspicuous increases in cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-6, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-1, IL-18, and IL-17, with characteristics of the cytokine storm (CS). Although recently studied cytokine inhibitors are considered as potent and targeted approaches, once an immunological complication like CS happens, anti-viral or anti-inflammation based monotherapy alone is not enough. Interestingly, certain isoquinoline alkaloids in Coptis chinensis Franch. (CCFIAs) exerted a multitude of biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and immunomodulatory etc, revealing a great potential for calming CS. Therefore, in this timeline review, we report and compare the effects of CCFIAs to attenuate the exacerbation of inflammatory responses by modulating signaling pathways like NF-ĸB, mitogen-activated protein kinase, JAK/STAT, and NLRP3. In addition, we also discuss the role of berberine (BBR) in two different triggers of CS, namely sepsis and viral infections, as well as its clinical applications. These evidence provide a rationale for considering CCFIAs as therapeutic agents against inflammatory CS and this suggestion requires further validation with clinical studies.

Diabetes mellitus and diabetic foot ulcer: Etiology, biochemical and molecular based treatment strategies via gene and nanotherapy

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a collection of metabolic and pathophysiological disorders manifested with high glucose levels in the blood due to the inability of β-pancreatic cells to secrete an adequate amount of insulin or insensitivity of insulin towards receptor to oxidize blood glucose. Nevertheless, the preceding definition is only applicable to people who do not have inherited or metabolic disorders. Suppose a person who has been diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2DM sustains an injury and the treatment of the damage is complicated and prolonged. In that case, the injury is referred to as a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). In the presence of many proliferating macrophages in the injury site for an extended period causes the damage to worsen and become a diabetic wound. In this review, the scientific information and therapeutic management of DM/DFU with nanomedicine, and other related data were collected (Web of Science and PubMed) from January 2000 to January 2022. Most of the articles revealed that standard drugs are usually prescribed along with hypoglycaemic medications. Conversely, such drugs stabilize the glucose transporters and homeostasis for a limited period, resulting in side effects such as kidney damage/failure, absorption/gastrointestinal problems, and hypoglycemic issues. In this paper, we review the current basic and clinical evidence about the potential of medicinal plants, gene therapy, chemical/green synthesized nanoparticles to improving the metabolic profile, and facilitating the DM and DFU associated complications. Preclinical studies also reported lower plasma glucose with molecular targets in DM and DFU. Research is underway to explore chemical/green synthesized nanoparticle-based medications to avoid such side effects. Hence, the present review is intended to address the current challenges, recently recognized factors responsible for DM and DFU, their pathophysiology, insulin receptors associated with DM, medications in trend, and related complications.

Nano-traditional Chinese medicine: a promising strategy and its recent advances

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been applied to the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases and has an irreplaceable role in rehabilitation and health care. However, the application of TCMs is drastically limited by their defects, such as single administration, poor water solubility, low bioavailability, and weak targeting capability. Recently, nanoparticles have been extensively used in resolving pharmaceutical obstacles in consideration of their large specific surface area, strong targeting capability, good sustained-release effect, etc. In this review, we first describe the limitations of TCM ingredients and two significant forms of nanotechnology applied in TCM, nanometerization of TCMs and nano-drug delivery systems for TCMs. Then, we discuss the preparation methods of nanometerization: mechanical crushing, spray drying, and high-pressure homogenization, which have been utilized to conquer the various weaknesses of TCMs. Then, recent advances in nano-drug delivery systems for TCM ingredients are discussed, including lipid-based nanocarriers, polymeric nanoparticles, inorganic nanocarriers, hybrid nanoparticles, and TCM self-assembled nanoparticles. Finally, the future challenges and perspectives of TCM formula complexity and the limitations of nanocarriers are also discussed. Better understanding the function of nanotechnology in TCM will help to modernize Chinese medicine and broaden the application of nano-TCM in the clinic.

Berberine: A Review of its Pharmacokinetics Properties and Therapeutic Potentials in Diverse Vascular Diseases

Traditional Chinese medicine plays a significant role in the treatment of various diseases and has attracted increasing attention for clinical applications. Vascular diseases affecting vasculature in the heart, cerebrovascular disease, atherosclerosis, and diabetic complications have compromised quality of life for affected individuals and increase the burden on health care services. Berberine, a naturally occurring isoquinoline alkaloid form Rhizoma coptidis, is widely used in China as a folk medicine for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Promisingly, an increasing number of studies have identified several cellular and molecular targets for berberine, indicating its potential as an alternative therapeutic strategy for vascular diseases, as well as providing novel evidence that supports the therapeutic potential of berberine to combat vascular diseases. The purpose of this review is to comprehensively and systematically describe the evidence for berberine as a therapeutic agent in vascular diseases, including its pharmacological effects, molecular mechanisms, and pharmacokinetics. According to data published so far, berberine shows remarkable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and antiautophagic activity via the regulation of multiple signaling pathways, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), mitogen-activated protein kinase silent information regulator 1 (SIRT-1), hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt), janus kinase 2 (JAK-2), Ca²⁺ channels, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Moreover, we discuss the existing limitations of berberine in the treatment of vascular diseases, and give corresponding measures. In addition, we propose some research perspectives and challenges, and provide a solid evidence base from which further studies can excavate novel effective drugs from Chinese medicine monomers.

Promising Antioxidative Effect of Berberine in Cardiovascular Diseases

Berberine (BBR), an important quaternary benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, has been used in Chinese traditional medicine for over 3,000 years. BBR has been shown in both traditional and modern medicine to have a wide range of pharmacological actions, including hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anti-obesity, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. The unregulated reaction chain induced by oxidative stress as a crucial mechanism result in myocardial damage, which is involved in the pathogenesis and progression of many cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Numerous researches have established that BBR protects myocardium and may be beneficial in the treatment of CVDs. Given that the pivotal role of oxidative stress in CVDs, the pharmacological effects of BBR in the treatment and/or management of CVDs have strongly attracted the attention of scholars. Therefore, this review sums up the prevention and treatment mechanisms of BBR in CVDs from in vitro, in vivo, and finally to the clinical field trials timely. We summarized the antioxidant stress of BBR in the management of coronary atherosclerosis and myocardial ischemia/reperfusion; it also analyzes the pathogenesis of oxidative stress in arrhythmia and heart failure and the therapeutic effects of BBR. In short, BBR is a hopeful drug candidate for the treatment of CVDs, which can intervene in the process of CVDs from multiple angles and different aspects. Therefore, if we want to apply it to the clinic on a large scale, more comprehensive, intensive, and detailed researches are needed to be carried out to clarify the molecular mechanism and targets of BBR.

Complexation with aromatic dicarboxylic acids expands the solid-state landscape of berberine

Two novel salt cocrystals of berberine chloride (BCl) with 4-aminobenzoic acid (BCl-4ABA) and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (BCl-4HBA) and one new berberine salt with 2,6-dihydroxybenzoic acid (B)⁺(26DHBA)^- were prepared and characterized. The chloride anions form N-H···Cl^- hydrogen bonds in BCl-4ABA and O-H···Cl^- hydrogen bonds in BCl-4HBA. In (B)⁺(26DHBA)^-, the ionic interactions between 26DHBA^- and quaternary ammonium cation of berberine contribute to a stronger crystal lattice and a higher melting point. All three new crystal forms exhibit a lower hygroscopicity at 25 ℃ than BCl, which is the crystal form used in the commercial tablets. Compared to BCl, the dissolution rates of BCl-4ABA and BCl-4HBA in water are higher but that of (B)⁺(26DHBA)^- is lower. Among the three crystal forms, the form with a higher melting point also exhibits a lower dissolution rate, which is explained by the stronger intermolecular interactions in these crystals.

Comparative pharmacokinetics, intestinal absorption and urinary excretion of six alkaloids from herb pair Phellodendri Chinensis cortex-Atractylodis Rhizoma

Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex (PCC) and Atractylodis Rhizoma (AR) are frequently used as herb pair to treat eczema and gout owing to their synergistic effects. Alkaloids are the major ingredients from PCC and the effect of their combination on the in vivo processing of alkaloids remains unclear. In this study, a simple and reliable UPLC-MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of six alkaloids in rat plasma was developed. This method was applied to a comparative pharmacokinetic study between PCC and PCC-AR in rats. Effect of AR on absorption of alkaloids was investigated by a single-pass intestinal perfusion study. The effect of AR on urinary excretion of alkaloids was studied. Pharmacokinetic studies showed that the values of rea under the concentration-time curve of phellodendrine, magnoflorine and palmatine were greater in the PCC-AR group than in the PCC group. The intestinal absorptive parameters absorption rate constant and effective permeability of phellodendrine and jatrorrhizine in PCC-AR groups were higher than those in the PCC group. Urinary excretion studies revealed that the excreted amount of alkaloids in the PCC-AR group was lower than that in the PCC group. The results revealed that the combination of PCC and AR improves intestinal absorption of alkaloids and reduces their urinary excretion, which enhances their systemic exposure. This study may explain the synergetic effects of PCC and AR in clinical applications.

Emerging Treatment Strategies for Diabetes Mellitus and Associated Complications: An Update

The occurrence of diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasing rapidly at an accelerating rate worldwide. The status of diabetes has changed over the last three generations; whereas before it was deemed a minor disease of older people but currently it is now one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among middle-aged and young people. High blood glucose-mediated functional loss, insulin sensitivity, and insulin deficiency lead to chronic disorders such as Type 1 and Type 2 DM. Traditional treatments of DM, such as insulin sensitization and insulin secretion cause undesirable side effects, leading to patient incompliance and lack of treatment. Nanotechnology in diabetes studies has encouraged the development of new modalities for measuring glucose and supplying insulin that hold the potential to improve the quality of life of diabetics. Other therapies, such as β-cells regeneration and gene therapy, in addition to insulin and oral hypoglycemic drugs, are currently used to control diabetes. The present review highlights the nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems and emerging treatment strategies of DM.

Berberine-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers mitigate warm hepatic ischemia/reperfusion-induced lesion through modulation of HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB signaling and autophagy

OBJECTIVE

Berberine (BBR) is a known alkaloid that has verified its protective effects against ischemia/reperfusion (I/RN) lesion in multiple organs but its poor oral bioavailability limited its use. Despite the previous works, its possible impact on the warm hepatic I/RN-induced lesion is not clear. Accordingly, a nanostructured lipid carrier of BBR (NLC BBR) was developed for enhancing its efficiency and to inspect its protective mechanistic against warm hepatic I/RN.

METHODS

NLC BBR formula was evaluated pharmaceutically. Wistar rats were orally pre-treated with either BBR or NLC BBR (100 mg/kg) for 2 weeks followed by hepatic I/RN (30 min/24 h). Biochemical, ELISA, qPCR, western blot, histopathological, and immunohistochemical studies were performed.

KEY FINDINGS

Optimized NLC BBR was prepared with a particle size of 130 ± 8.3 nm. NLC BBR divulged its aptitude to safeguard the hepatic tissues partly due to anti-inflammatory capacity through downsizing the HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB trajectory with concomitant rebating of TNF-α, iNOS, COX-2, and MPO content. Furthermore, NLC BBR antiapoptotic trait was confirmed by boosting the prosurvival protein (Bcl-2) and cutting down the pro-apoptotic marker (Bax). Moreover, its antioxidant nature was confirmed by TAC uplifting besides MDA subsiding. On the other hand, NLC BBR action embroiled autophagy flux spiking merit exemplified in Beclin-1 and LC3-II enhancement. Finally, NLC BBR administration ascertained its hepatocyte guarding action by recovering the histopathological ailment and diminishing serum transaminases.

CONCLUSION

NLC BBR purveyed reasonable shielding mechanisms and subsided incidents contemporaneous to warm hepatic I/RN lesion in part, by moderating HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB inflammatory signaling, autophagy, and apoptosis.

Anti-aging properties of phytoconstituents and phyto-nanoemulsions and their application in managing aging-related diseases

Aging is spontaneous and inevitable process in all living beings. It is a complex natural phenomenon that manifests as a gradual decline of physiological functions and homeostasis. Aging inevitably leads to age-associated injuries, diseases, and eventually death. The research on aging-associated diseases aimed at delaying, preventing or even reversing the aging process are of great significance for healthy aging and also for scientific progress. Numerous plant-derived compounds have anti-aging effects, but their therapeutic potential is limited due to their short shelf-life and low bioavailability. As the novel delivery system, nanoemulsion can effectively improve this defect. Nanoemulsions enhance the delivery of drugs to the target site, maintain the plasma concentration for a longer period, and minimize adverse reaction and side effects. This review describes the importance of nanoemulsions for the delivery of phyto-derived compounds and highlights the importance of nanoemulsions in the treatment of aging-related diseases. It also covers the methods of preparation, fate and safety of nanoemulsions, which will provide valuable information for the development of new strategies in treatment of aging-related diseases.

Improving oral bioavailability of medicinal herbal compounds through lipid-based formulations - A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Although numerous medicinal herbal compounds demonstrate promising therapeutic potential, their clinical application is often limited by their poor oral bioavailability. To circumvent this barrier, various lipid-based herbal formulations have been developed and trialled with promising experimental results.

PURPOSE

This scoping review aims to describe the effect of lipid-based formulations on the oral bioavailability of herbal compounds.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted across three electronic databases (Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library) between January 2010 and January 2021 to identify relevant studies. The articles were rigorously screened for eligibility. Data from eligible studies were then extracted and collated for synthesis and descriptive analysis using Covidence.

RESULTS

A total of 109 studies were included in the present review: 105 animal studies and four clinical trials. Among the formulations investigated, 50% were emulsions, 34% lipid particulate systems, 12% vesicular systems, and 4% were other types of lipid-based formulations. Within the emulsion system classification, self-emulsifying drug delivery systems were observed to produce the best improvements in oral bioavailability, followed by mixed micellar formulations. The introduction of composite lipid-based formulations and the use of uncommon surfactants such as sodium oleate in emulsion preparation was shown to consistently enhance the bioavailability of herbal compounds with poor oral absorption. Interestingly, the lipid-based formulations of magnesium lithospermate B and Pulsatilla chinensis produced an absolute bioavailability greater than 100% indicating the possibility of prolonged systemic circulation. With respect to chemical conjugation, D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) was the most frequently used and significantly improved the bioavailability of its phytoconstituents.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that there is no distinct lipid-based formulation superior to the other. Bioavailability improvements were largely dependent on the nature of the phytoconstituents. This scoping review, however, provided a detailed summary of the most up-to-date evidence on phytoconstituents formulated into lipid preparations and their oral bioavailability. We conclude that a systematic review and meta-analysis between bioavailability improvements of individual phytoconstituents (such as kaempferol, morin and myricetin) in various lipid-based formulations will provide a more detailed association. Such a review will be highly beneficial for both researchers and herbal manufacturers.

Recent update on nano-phytopharmaceuticals in the management of diabetes

Due to changed lifestyle and other reasons, diabetes has become one of the common metabolic disorder of the globe. Numerous therapeutic options are available, which controls the plasma glucose levels. However, most of the drugs are associated with some undesired side effects. Owing to the side effects and enhanced understanding of the phytochemicals, an inclination toward herbal medicine is seen in the population. These herbal products are also associated with concerns like poor aqueous solubility, compromised permeation, and a low degree of bioavailability. So, the emergence of nanotechnology in the herbal medicine is required to nullify the associated concerns of conventional antidiabetic drugs. The present review aims to compile the literature available for the nano-interventions pertinent to herbal products for diabetes management.

Fabrication of All-Trans Retinoic Acid loaded Chitosan/Tripolyphosphate Lipid Hybrid Nanoparticles as a Novel Oral Delivery Approach for Management of Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats

The present study aims to formulate all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) loaded chitosan/tripolyphosphate lipid hybrid nanoparticles (CTLHNs) for enhancing its solubility and oral delivery. This is to improve ATRA therapeutic effect on diabetic nephropathy (DN). CTLHNs were prepared by o/w homogenization, employing stearic acid, to form lipid nanoparticles coated with chitosan that is stabilized against acidic pH via sodium tripolyphosphate crosslinking. Chitosan coated (F7) and naked lipid nanoparticles (F6) were also prepared for comparison with CTLHNs. In vitro characterization for the prepared formulations was performed comprising entrapment efficiency, particle size, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction. Stability of chitosan coat in GI fluid revealed that CTLHNs were more stable than F7. In vitro release indicated an enhanced release of ATRA from the developed formulations. In vitro mucoadhesion study proved a notable mucoadhesive property for CTLHNs. In DN rat model, serum levels of creatinine and urea were elevated, over expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) were observed. In addition, adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) and liver kinase B1 (LKB1) expressions were decreased in DN rats. Treatment with free ATRA and the selected formulations led to a significant amelioration of DN by reducing of creatinine, urea, TNF-α, ICAM-1, GM-CSF, VEGF levels as well as elevating AMPK and LKB1 levels. The order of activity was: CTLHNs > F7 > F6 > free ATRA, as proved by histopathological examination.

Novel Salt-Cocrystals of Berberine Hydrochloride with Aliphatic Dicarboxylic Acids: Odd-Even Alternation in Physicochemical Properties

In this study, various structurally similar aliphatic dicarboxylic acids, namely, succinic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid, and pimelic acid, were employed as coformers to obtain phase pure cocrystals with berberine chloride (BCl) by a slow solvent evaporation method. The structures of the four novel salt-cocrystals of BCl were determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and their solid-state properties were characterized. Compared with BCl·2H₂O, all the cocrystals showed a higher melting point, improved powder dissolution and intrinsic dissolution rate (IDR), and lower hygroscopicity. It is noteworthy that the melting points and IDRs of these cocrystals exhibit an odd-even alternation with the carbon chain length of the acids.

Micro- and Nanoencapsulated Hybrid Delivery System (MNEHDS): A Novel Approach for Colon-Targeted Oral Delivery of Berberine

Berberine (BBR) is currently explored in the oral treatment of many disorders, especially in those involving inflammatory processes. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems are emerging as an effective approach for improving the poor oral absorption/bioavailability of BBR. To optimize the BBR immunoregulatory effects on a specific part of the gastrointestinal tract, here we describe a micro- and nanoencapsulated hybrid delivery system (MNEHDS) for colon-targeted oral delivery of BBR and test its therapeutic efficacy in a murine colitis model. The MNEHDS is formed by encapsulation of BBR-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles into a pH-sensitive, BBR-pre-entrapped Eudragit FS30D matrix to form a hybrid microparticle composed of the BBR and BBR nanoparticles. Once in the colonic environment, the microencapsulated BBR is almost completely released for immediate action, while BBR nanoparticles can provide sustained release of BBR subsequent to their intestinal absorption. One dose of oral MNEHDS/BBR treatment results in significant attenuation of acute colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium. The MNEHDS/BBR also proves to be effective during chronically induced colitis with two doses given 1 week apart. The improved efficacy is accompanied by decreased production of colon inflammation. Comparatively, oral treatment with one or two 7-day courses of free BBR has less effect on ameliorating either acute or chronic colitis. Thus, MNEHDS represents a novel delivery system for BBR, and potentially other therapeutic agents, to treat inflammatory bowel disease.

Oral Nano Drug Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: An Available Administration Strategy for Antidiabetic Phytocompounds

In view of the worldwide serious health threat of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), natural sources of chemotherapies have been corroborated as the promising alternatives, with the excellent antidiabetic activities, bio-safety, and more cost-effective properties. However, their clinical application is somewhat limited, because of the poor solubility, instability in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), low bioavailability, and so on. Nowadays, to develop nanoscaled systems has become a prominent strategy to improve the drug delivery of phytochemicals. In this review, we primarily summarized the intervention mechanisms of phytocompounds against T2DM and presented the recent advances in various nanosystems of antidiabetic phytocompounds. Selected nanosystems were grouped depending on their classification and structures, including polymeric NPs, lipid-based nanosystems, vesicular systems, inorganic nanocarriers, and so on. Based on this review, the state-of-the-art nanosystems for phytocompounds in T2DM treatment have been presented, suggesting the preponderance and potential of nanotechnologies.

Therapeutic effect of berberine on metabolic diseases: Both pharmacological data and clinical evidence

The increased incidence of metabolic diseases (e.g., diabetes and obesity) has seriously affected human health and life safety worldwide. It is of great significance to find effective drugs from natural compounds to treat metabolic diseases. Berberine (BBR), an important quaternary benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, exists in many traditional medicinal plants. In recent years, BBR has received widespread attention due to its good potential in the treatment of metabolic diseases. In order to promote the basic research and clinical application of BBR, this review provides a timely and comprehensive summary of the pharmacological and clinical advances of BBR in the treatment of five metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hyperlipidemia, and gout. Both animal and clinical studies have proved that BBR has good therapeutic effects on these five metabolic diseases. The therapeutic effects of BBR are based on regulating various metabolic aspects and pathophysiological procedures. For example, it can promote insulin secretion, improve insulin resistance, inhibit lipogenesis, alleviate adipose tissue fibrosis, reduce hepatic steatosis, and improve gut microbiota disorders. Collectively, BBR may be a good and promising drug candidate for the treatment of metabolic diseases. More studies, especially clinical trials, are needed to further confirm its molecular mechanisms and targets. In addition, large-scale, long-term and multi-center clinical trials are necessary to evaluate the efficacy and safety of BBR in the treatment of these metabolic diseases.

Precise delivery of obeticholic acid via nanoapproach for triggering natural killer T cell-mediated liver cancer immunotherapy

Primary bile acids were reported to augment secretion of chemokine (C‒X‒C motif) ligand 16 (CXCL16) from liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) and trigger natural killer T (NKT) cell-based immunotherapy for liver cancer. However, abundant expression of receptors for primary bile acids across the gastrointestinal tract overwhelms the possibility of using agonists against these receptors for liver cancer control. Taking advantage of the intrinsic property of LSECs in capturing circulating nanoparticles in the circulation, we proposed a strategy using nanoemulsion-loaded obeticholic acid (OCA), a clinically approved selective farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist, for precisely manipulating LSECs for triggering NKT cell-mediated liver cancer immunotherapy. The OCA-nanoemulsion (OCA-NE) was prepared via ultrasonic emulsification method, with a diameter of 184 nm and good stability. In vivo biodistribution studies confirmed that the injected OCA-NE mainly accumulated in the liver and especially in LSECs and Kupffer cells. As a result, OCA-NE treatment significantly suppressed hepatic tumor growth in a murine orthotopic H22 tumor model, which performed much better than oral medication of free OCA. Immunologic analysis revealed that the OCA-NE resulted in augmented secretion of CXCL16 and IFN-γ, as well as increased NKT cell populations inside the tumor. Overall, our research provides a new evidence for the antitumor effect of receptors for primary bile acids, and should inspire using nanotechnology for precisely manipulating LSECs for liver cancer therapy.

Design and development of spirulina polysaccharide-loaded nanoemulsions with improved the antitumor effects of paclitaxel

Aims: In this study, we prepared spirulina polysaccharides into spirulina polysaccharide-loaded nanoemulsions (SPS-NEs), and determined the antitumor effect of SPS-NEs, when combined with paclitaxel (PTX).Methods: SPS-NEs were prepared by a phase transformation method. The Characterisation and stability of SPS-NEs was measured. The antitumor effect of SPS-NEs combined with PTX was determined by S180 cells or RAW 264.7 macrophages and S180 tumour-bearing mice.Results: SPS-NEs were spherical and stable, the particle size of SPS-NEs was 84.6 ± 3.31 nm, PDI = 0.235 ± 0.02. PTX + SPS-NEs exhibited a much greater toxicity against RAW 264.7 cells than PTX. PTX + SPS-NEs increased the release of NO, IL-6 and TNF-α, and the expression of p-p65 NF-κB, p-I-κB, TLR4. In addition, PTX + SPS-NEs significantly inhibited tumour growth by 72.82% and increased the secretion of serum IL-2, TNF-α and IFN-γ.Conclusions: SPS-NEs can regulate immunity through TLR4/NF-κB signalling pathways, which enhances the anti-tumour effect of PTX.

The Quest to Enhance the Efficacy of Berberine for Type-2 Diabetes and Associated Diseases: Physicochemical Modification Approaches

Berberine is a quaternary isoquinoline alkaloid that has been isolated from numerous plants which are still in use today as medicine and herbal supplements. The great deal of enthusiasm for intense research on berberine to date is based on its diverse pharmacological effects via action on multiple biological targets. Its poor bioavailability resulting from low intestinal absorption coupled with its efflux by the action of P-glycoprotein is, however, the major limitation. In this communication, the chemical approach of improving berberine's bioavailability and pharmacological efficacy is scrutinised with specific reference to type-2 diabetes and associated diseases such as hyperlipidaemia and obesity. The application of modern delivery systems, research from combination studies to preparation of berberine structural hybrids with known biologically active compounds (antidiabetic, antihyperlipidaemic and antioxidant), as well as synthesis approaches of berberine derivative are presented. Improvement of bioavailability and efficacy through in vitro and ex vivo transport studies, as well as animal models of bioavailability/efficacy in lipid metabolism and diabetes targets are discussed.