Bifunctional viscous nanovesicles co-loaded with resveratrol and gallic acid for skin protection against microbial and oxidative injuries

Lipid-based nanoparticles as a promising treatment for the skin cancer

The prevalence of skin disorders, especially cancer, is increasing worldwide. Several factors are involved in causing skin cancer, but ultraviolet (UV) light, including sunlight and tanning beds, are considered the leading cause. Different methods such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, cryotherapy, and photodynamic therapy are mostly used for the skin cancer treatment. However, drug resistance and toxicity against cancer cells are related to these treatments. Lipid-nanoparticles have attracted significant interest as delivery systems due to non-invasive and targeted delivery based on the type of active drug. However, the stratum corneum, the outer layer of the skin, is inherently impervious to drugs. Due to their ability to penetrate the deep layers of the skin, skin delivery systems are capable of delivering drugs to target cells in a protected manner. The aim of this review was to examine the properties and applications of nanoliposomes used in the treatment and prevention of numerous types of skin cancer.

Polyphenols and their nanoformulations as potential antibiofilm agents against multidrug-resistant pathogens

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens is a major problem in the therapeutic management of infectious diseases. Among the bacterial resistance mechanisms is the development of an enveloped protein and polysaccharide-hydrated matrix called a biofilm. Polyphenolics have demonstrated beneficial antibacterial effects. Phenolic compounds mediate their antibiofilm effects via disruption of the bacterial membrane, deprivation of substrate, protein binding, binding to adhesion complex, viral fusion blockage and interactions with eukaryotic DNA. However, these compounds have limitations of chemical instability, low bioavailability, poor water solubility and short half-lives. Nanoformulations offer a promising solution to overcome these challenges by enhancing their antibacterial potential. This review summarizes the antibiofilm role of polyphenolics, their underlying mechanisms and their potential role as resistance-modifying agents.

Span 60/Cholesterol Niosomal Formulation as a Suitable Vehicle for Gallic Acid Delivery with Potent In Vitro Antibacterial, Antimelanoma, and Anti-Tyrosinase Activity

Natural compounds such as gallic acid (GA) have attracted more attention in cosmetic and pharmaceutical skin care products. However, the low solubility and poor stability of GA have limited its application. This study aimed to synthesize and characterize the GA niosomal dispersion (GAN) and investigate the potential of an optimal formulation as a skin drug delivery system for GA. For this purpose, GAN formulations were synthesized using the thin layer evaporation method with different molar ratios of Tween 60/Span 60, along with a constant molar ratio of polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG-4000) and cholesterol in a methanol and chloroform solvent (1:4 v/v). The physicochemical properties of nanosystems in terms of size, zeta potential, drug entrapment, drug release, morphology, and system-drug interaction were characterized using different methods. In addition, in vitro cytotoxicity, anti-tyrosinase activity, and antibacterial activity were evaluated by MTT assay, the spectrophotometric method, and micro-well dilution assay. All formulations revealed a size of 80-276 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) values below 0.35, and zeta potential values below-9.7 mV. F2 was selected as the optimal formulation due to its smaller size and high stability. The optimal formulation of GAN (F2) was as follows: a 1:1 molar ratio of Span 60 to cholesterol and 1.5 mM GA. The release of the F2 drug showed a biphasic pattern, which was fast in the first 12 h until 58% was released. Our results showed the high antibacterial activity of GAN against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The MTT assay showed that GA encapsulation increased its effect on B6F10 cancer cells. The F2 formulation exhibited potent anti-tyrosinase activity and inhibited melanin synthesis. These findings suggest that it can be used in dermatological skin care products in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries due to its significant antibacterial, anti-melanoma, and anti-tyrosinase activity.

Synergistic approach for acne vulgaris treatment using glycerosomes loaded with lincomycin and lauric acid: Formulation, in silico, in vitro, LC-MS/MS skin deposition assay and in vivo evaluation

This study aims to develop a pharmaceutical formulation that combines the potent antibacterial effect of lincomycin and lauric acid against Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), a bacterium implicated in acne. The selection of lauric acid was based on an in silico study, which suggested that its interaction with specific protein targets of C. acnes may contribute to its synergistic antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. To achieve our aim, glycerosomes were fabricated with the incorporation of lauric acid as a main constituent of glycerosomes vesicular membrane along with cholesterol and phospholipon 90H, while lincomycin was entrapped within the aqueous cavities. Glycerol is expected to enhance the cutaneous absorption of the active moieties via hydrating the skin. Optimization of lincomycin-loaded glycerosomes (LM-GSs) was conducted using a mixed factorial experimental design. The optimized formulation; LM-GS4 composed of equal ratios of cholesterol:phospholipon90H:Lauric acid, demonstrated a size of 490 ± 17.5 nm, entrapment efficiency-values of 90 ± 1.4 % for lincomycin, and97 ± 0.2 % for lauric acid, and a surface charge of -30.2 ± 0.5mV. To facilitate its application on the skin, the optimized formulation was incorporated into a carbopol hydrogel. The formed hydrogel exhibited a pH value of 5.95 ± 0.03 characteristic of pH-balanced skincare and a shear-thinning non-Newtonian pseudoplastic flow. Skin deposition of lincomycin was assessed using an in-house developed and validated LC-MS/MS method employing gradient elution and electrospray ionization detection. Results revealed that LM-GS4 hydrogel exhibited a two-fold increase in skin deposition of lincomycin compared to lincomycin hydrogel, indicating improved skin penetration and sustained release. The synergistic healing effect of LM-GS4 was evidenced by a reduction in inflammation, bacterial load, and improved histopathological changes in an acne mouse model. In conclusion, the proposed formulation demonstrated promising potential as a topical treatment for acne. It effectively enhanced the cutaneous absorption of lincomycin, exhibited favorable physical properties, and synergistic antibacterial and healing effects. This study provides valuable insights for the development of an effective therapeutic approach for acne management.

Emerging Effects of Resveratrol on Wound Healing: A Comprehensive Review

Resveratrol (RSV) is a natural extract that has been extensively studied for its significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which are closely associated with a variety of injurious diseases and even cosmetic medicine. In this review, we have researched and summarized the role of resveratrol and its different forms of action in wound healing, exploring its role and mechanisms in promoting wound healing through different modes of action such as hydrogels, fibrous scaffolds and parallel ratio medical devices with their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-ageing properties and functions in various cells that may play a role in wound healing. This will provide a direction for further understanding of the mechanism of action of resveratrol in wound healing for future research.

Central Composite Optimization of Glycerosomes for the Enhanced Oral Bioavailability and Brain Delivery of Quetiapine Fumarate

This study aimed to formulate and statistically optimize glycerosomal formulations of Quetiapine fumarate (QTF) to increase its oral bioavailability and enhance its brain delivery. The study was designed using a Central composite rotatable design using Design-Expert^® software. The independent variables in the study were glycerol % w/v and cholesterol % w/v, while the dependent variables were vesicle size (VS), zeta potential (ZP), and entrapment efficiency percent (EE%). The numerical optimization process resulted in an optimum formula composed of 29.645 (w/v%) glycerol, 0.8 (w/v%) cholesterol, and 5 (w/v%) lecithin. It showed a vesicle size of 290.4 nm, zeta potential of −34.58, and entrapment efficiency of 80.85%. The optimum formula was further characterized for DSC, XRD, TEM, in-vitro release, the effect of aging, and pharmacokinetic study. DSC thermogram confirmed the compatibility of the drug with the ingredients. XRD revealed the encapsulation of the drug in the glycerosomal nanovesicles. TEM image revealed spherical vesicles with no aggregates. Additionally, it showed enhanced drug release when compared to a drug suspension and also exhibited good stability for one month. Moreover, it showed higher brain C_max, AUC_0–24, and AUC_0–∞ and plasma AUC_0–24 and AUC_0–∞ in comparison to drug suspension. It showed brain and plasma bioavailability enhancement of 153.15 and 179.85%, respectively, compared to the drug suspension. So, the optimum glycerosomal formula may be regarded as a promising carrier to enhance the oral bioavailability and brain delivery of Quetiapine fumarate.

Improved stability and skin penetration through glycethosomes loaded with glycyrrhetinic acid

OBJECTIVE

In recent years, glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) has been popularly used in cosmetics because of its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. However, due to the poor water solubility of GA and the barrier effect of human skin, the penetration of GA through the skin may be hindered. Liposomes are a common delivery system for functional compounds in cosmetics. Nonetheless, the stability and transdermal effect of traditional liposomes are limited. The aim of this work was to prepare a new liposome system that contained glycerol and ethanol to enhance the stability of the vesicles and promote the penetration of GA into the skin.

METHODS

The glycethosomes were prepared by ethanol injection and sonication method. The effects of different concentrations of glycerol and ethanol on the particle size, polydispersity (PDI), entrapment efficiency (EE), stability and rheological properties of vesicles were evaluated. Lipophilic and hydrophilic fluorescent probes were used to investigate the microviscosity of vesicles. In vitro permeation tests were performed with pig skin in Franz cells and the concentration of GA in different skin layers was determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The ability of different vesicles to induce lipid extraction and fluidization was analyzed by using attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR).

RESULTS

When glycerol was 50% and ethanol was 25%, the obtained glycethosomes had the smallest particle size and the best stability with a mean particle size of 94.5 nm, PDI 0.216 and 99.8% EE. Fluorescence probe studies indicated that the microviscosity of glycethosomes was the largest when the concentration of glycerol and ethanol was 50% and 25%, which was consistent with the storage stability of glycethosomes. It was found that the glycethosomes had the best transdermal effect and the total skin permeation percentage of GA was 20.67%, while that of ethosomes, glycerosomes, liposomes and dispersion were 10.56%, 9.38%, 7.78% and 5.02%, respectively. And glycethosomes had effectively lipid extraction and fluidization effect on the skin stratum corneum.

CONCLUSION

Compared to other traditional liposomes, glycethosomes can significantly improve the stability of vesicles and the transdermal effect of GA. Glycethosomes are promising vesicles for the delivery of GA.

Optimizing glycerosome formulations via an orthogonal experimental design to enhance transdermal triptolide delivery

Triptolide exerts strong anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects; however, its oral administration might be associated with side effects. Transdermal administration can improve the safety of triptolide. In this study, glycerosomes were prepared as the transdermal vehicle to enhance the transdermal delivery of triptolide. With entrapment efficiency and drug loading as dependent variables, the glycerosome formulation was optimized using an orthogonal experimental design. Phospholipid-to-cholesterol and phospholipid-to-triptolide mass ratios of 30:1 and 5:1, respectively and a glycerol concentration of 20 % (V/V) were used in the optimization. The glycerosomes prepared with the optimized formulation showed good stability, with an average particle size of 153.10 ± 2.69 nm, a zeta potential of -45.73 ± 0.60 mV and an entrapment greater than 75 %. Glycerosomes significantly increased the transdermal delivery of triptolide compared to conventional liposomes. As efficient carriers for the transdermal delivery of drugs, glycerosomes can potentially be used as an alternative to oral triptolide administration.

Formulation of liposomes loading lentisk oil to ameliorate topical delivery, attenuate oxidative stress damage and improve cell migration in scratch assay

Pistacia lentiscus L. is a sclerophyllous shrub capable of growing under harsh climatic conditions especially in the Mediterranean Basin. Different products can be obtained from this plant, such as essential oil, mastic gum or even fixed oil. The last is well known for its flavor which is mainly exploited in the food industry. Additionally, it has been traditionally used in the treatment of skin diseases, but, at the moment, any suitable formulation for skin delivery has been formulated and its biological effects was not deeply confirmed. Given that, in the present study, the lentisk oil has been formulated in liposomes at different concentrations (10, 20, 30 mg/ml) and their physicochemical, technological and main biological properties have been evaluated. Vesicles were prepared by using natural soy lecithin and a green and organic solvent free method, thus obtaining spherical, small (~ 118 nm), homogeneously dispersed (0.27) and highly negatively charged (~ -62 mV) vesicles. The used amount of oil loaded in liposomes (10, 20, 30 mg/ml) modulated the penetration ability of vesicles in the skin, favoring the deposition of the payload in the deeper strata. The loading in the vesicles potentiated the ability of oil to counteract the damaging effects caused by hydrogen peroxide in keratinocytes and fibroblasts and facilitate their migration in a cell monolayer lesion. Overall findings suggested that the incorporation of lentisk oil in liposomes made from soy lecithin can be an alternative and natural approach to exploit it in pharmaceutical ad cosmetical applications and manufacturing natural products suitable for the treatment of skin lesions.

Plant-derived nanotherapeutic systems to counter the overgrowing threat of resistant microbes and biofilms

Since antiquity, the survival of human civilization has always been threatened by the microbial infections. An alarming surge in the resistant microbial strains against the conventional drugs is quite evident in the preceding years. Furthermore, failure of currently available regimens of antibiotics has been highlighted by the emerging threat of biofilms in the community and hospital settings. Biofilms are complex dynamic composites rich in extracellular polysaccharides and DNA, supporting plethora of symbiotic microbial life forms, that can grow on both living and non-living surfaces. These enforced structures are impervious to the drugs and lead to spread of recurrent and non-treatable infections. There is a strong realization among the scientists and healthcare providers to work out alternative strategies to combat the issue of drug resistance and biofilms. Plants are a traditional but rich source of effective antimicrobials with wider spectrum due to presence of multiple constituents in perfect synergy. Other than the biocompatibility and the safety profile, these phytochemicals have been repeatedly proven to overcome the non-responsiveness of resistant microbes and films via multiple pathways such as blocking the efflux pumps, better penetration across the cell membranes or biofilms, and anti-adhesive properties. However, the unfavorable physicochemical attributes and stability issues of these phytochemicals have hampered their commercialization. These issues of the phytochemicals can be solved by designing suitably constructed nanoscaled structures. Nanosized systems can not only improve the physicochemical features of the encapsulated payloads but can also enhance their pharmacokinetic and therapeutic profile. This review encompasses why and how various types of phytochemicals and their nanosized preparations counter the microbial resistance and the biofouling. We believe that phytochemical in tandem with nanotechnological innovations can be employed to defeat the microbial resistance and biofilms. This review will help in better understanding of the challenges associated with developing such platforms and their future prospects.

Design of a Nasal Spray Based on Cardiospermum halicacabum Extract Loaded in Phospholipid Vesicles Enriched with Gelatin or Chondroitin Sulfate

The extract of Cardiospermum halicacabum L. (C. halicacabum) obtained from flower, leaf and vine was loaded into modified phospholipid vesicles aiming at obtaining sprayable, biocompatible and effective nasal spray formulations for the treatment of nasopharyngeal diseases. Penetration enhancer-containing vesicles (PEVs) and hyalurosomes were formulated, and stabilized by adding a commercial gelatin from fish (20 mg/mL) or chondroitin sulfate from catshark cartilages (Scyliorhinus canicula, 20 mg/mL). Cryo-TEM images confirmed the formation of spherical vesicles, while photon correlation spectroscopy analysis disclosed the formation of small and negatively-charged vesicles. PEVs were the smaller vesicles (~100 nm) along with gelatin-hyalurosomes (~120 nm), while chondroitin-PEVs and chondroitin-hyalurosomes were larger (~160 nm). Dispersions prepared with chondroitin sulfate were more homogeneous, as the polydispersity index was ~0.15. The in vitro analysis of the droplet size distribution, average velocity module and spray cone angle suggested a good spray-ability and deposition of formulations in the nasal cavity, as the mean diameter of the droplets was in the range recommended by the Food and Drug Administration for nasal targets. The spray plume analysis confirmed the ability of PEVs, gelatin-PEVs, hyalurosomes and gelatin-hyalurosomes to be atomized in fine droplets homogenously distributed in a full cone plume, with an angle ranging from 25 to 30°. Moreover, vesicles were highly biocompatible and capable of protecting the epithelial cells against oxidative damage, thus preventing the inflammatory state.

Advances and challenges in nintedanib drug delivery

INTRODUCTION

Nintedanib (N.T.B) is an orally administered tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has been approved recently by U.S.F.D.A for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (I.P.F) and systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (S.Sc-I.L.D). N.T.B is also prescribed in COVID-19 patients associated with I.P.F. However, it has an extremely low bioavailability of around 4.7%, and hence, researchers are attempting to address this drawback by different approaches.

AREAS COVERED

This review article focuses on enlisting all the formulation attempts explored by researchers to increase the bioavailability of N.T.B while also providing meaningful insight into the unexplored areas in formulation development, such as targeting of the lymphatic system and transdermal delivery. All the patents on the formulation development of N.T.B have also been summarized.

EXPERT OPINION

N.T.B has the potential to act on multiple diseases that are still being discovered, but its extremely low bioavailability is a challenge that is to be dealt with for obtaining the full benefit. Few studies have been performed aiming at improving the bioavailability, but there are unexplored areas that can be used, a few of which are explained in this article. However, the ability to reproduce laboratory results when scaling up to the industry level is the only factor to be taken into consideration.

3D printed ocusert laden with ultra-fluidic glycerosomes of ganciclovir for the management of ocular cytomegalovirus retinitis

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitisis a vision-threatening disease that principally afflicts immunosuppressed patients. For the management of the disease, Ganciclovir (GCV) is usually administered systemically, where patients may suffer severe untoward effects. The ocularly-applied alternatives are either the intravitreal injections, which are frequently administered due to GCV short half-life, or the sustained-release implants, which require surgical removal upon drug depletion. Both therapies are invasive and should be completed by a medical expert. The objective of this research was to formulate a non-invasive alternative represented in GCV loaded ultra-fluidic glycerosomes (UFGs), which are glycerosomes containing sodium taurocholate as an edge activator (EA), then incorporating the optimal UFGs in polylactic acid (PLA)-based 3D printed ocusert to prolong the release of GCV. The experimental design, the statistical analysis, and the optimization were performed via Design-Expert® software. The optimal formulation (UFGs 6; composed of 600 mg Phosphatidylcholine (PC), 20 mg cholesterol, 0.1:1 weight molar ratio of EA: PC and 1 gm glycerol) possessed nanovesicles (441.70 ± 1.13 nm) that entrapped 69.33 ± 0.28 % of GCV, with zeta potential value of -37.00 ± 0.42 mV and deformability index value of 74.68 ± 0.71. The confocal microscopy results showed the supreme penetration power of UFGs through the rabbit's cornea, compared to edge-activated vesicles and conventional glycerosomes from the laden ocusert. Moreover, the topical application of the ocusert laden with the optimal GCV loaded UFGs to the rabbits' eyes evidenced their safety as per the histopathological findings. Furthermore, a pharmacokinetic study in the rabbit's aqueous humor demonstrated the sustained release of GCV from the ocusert laden with the optimal GCV loaded UFGs over 5 days. Inclusively, the ocusert laden with UFGs could be considered as a non-invasive sustaining drug delivery system of GCV for the management of CMV retinitis.

Nanoparticles as a Tool for Broadening Antifungal Activities

Fungal infections are diseases that are considered neglected although their infection rates have increased worldwide in the last decades. Thus, since the antifungal arsenal is restricted and many strains have shown resistance, new therapeutic alternatives are necessary. Nanoparticles are considered important alternatives to promote drug delivery. In this sense, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the contributions of newly developed nanoparticles to the treatment of fungal infections. Studies have shown that nanoparticles generally improve the biopharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic characteristics of antifungals, which is reflected in a greater pharmacodynamic potential and lower toxicity, as well as the possibility of prolonged action. It also offers the proposition of new routes of administration. Nanotechnology is known to contribute to a new drug delivery system, not only for the control of infectious diseases but for various other diseases as well. In recent years, several studies have emphasized its application in infectious diseases, presenting better alternatives for the treatment of fungal infections.

Nanotechnology for Natural Medicine: Formulation of Neem Oil Loaded Phospholipid Vesicles Modified with Argan Oil as a Strategy to Protect the Skin from Oxidative Stress and Promote Wound Healing

Neem oil, a plant-derived product rich in bioactives, has been incorporated in liposomes and hyalurosomes modified by adding argan oil and so called argan-liposomes and argan-hyalurosomes. Argan oil has also been added to the vesicles because of its regenerative and protective effects on skin. In the light of this, vesicles were specifically tailored to protect the skin from oxidative stress and treat lesions. Argan-liposomes were the smallest vesicles (~113 nm); the addition of sodium hyaluronate led to an increase in vesicle size (~143 nm) but it significantly improved vesicle stability during storage. In vitro studies confirmed the free radical scavenging activity of formulations, irrespective of their composition. Moreover, rheological investigation confirmed the higher viscosity of argan-hyalurosomes, which avoid formulation leakage after application. In vitro studies performed by using the most representative cells of the skin (i.e., keratinocytes and fibroblasts) underlined the ability of vesicles, especially argan-liposomes and argan-hyalurosomes, to counteract oxidative stress induced in these cells by using hydrogen peroxide and to improve the proliferation and migration of cells ensuring the more rapid and even complete closure of the wound (scratch assay).

The Use of Micro- and Nanocarriers for Resveratrol Delivery into and across the Skin in Different Skin Diseases-A Literature Review

In recent years, polyphenols have been extensively studied due to their antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown that anthocyanins, flavonols, and flavan-3-ols play an important role in the prevention of bacterial infections, as well as vascular or skin diseases. Particularly, resveratrol, as a multi-potent agent, may prevent or mitigate the effects of oxidative stress. As the largest organ of the human body, skin is an extremely desirable target for the possible delivery of active substances. The transdermal route of administration of active compounds shows many advantages, including avoidance of gastrointestinal irritation and the first-pass effect. Moreover, it is non-invasive and can be self-administered. However, this delivery is limited, mainly due to the need to overpassing the stratum corneum, the possible decomposition of the substances in contact with the skin surface or in the deeper layers thereof. In addition, using resveratrol for topical and transdermal delivery faces the problems of its low solubility and poor stability. To overcome this, novel systems of delivery are being developed for the effective transport of resveratrol across the skin. Carriers in the micro and nano size were demonstrated to be more efficient for safe and faster topical and transdermal delivery of active substances. The present review aimed to discuss the role of resveratrol in the treatment of skin abnormalities with a special emphasis on technologies enhancing transdermal delivery of resveratrol.

Vitamin D3 Loaded Niosomes and Transfersomes Produced by Ethanol Injection Method: Identification of the Critical Preparation Step for Size Control

Vesicular nanocarriers have an important role in drug delivery and dietary supplements. Size control and optimization of encapsulation efficiency (EE) should be optimized for those applications. In this work, we report on the identification of the crucial step (injection, evaporation, or sonication) innanovesicles (transfersomes and niosomes) preparation by theethanol injection method (EI). The identification of each production step on the final vesicle size was analyzed in order to optimize further scale-up process. Results indicated that the final size of transfersomeswas clearly influenced by the sonication step while the final size of niosomes was mainly governed by the injection step. Measurements of final surface tension of the different vesicular systems prepared indicate a linear positive tendency with the vesicle size formed. This relation could help to better understand the process and design a vesicular size prediction model for EI. Vitamin D3 (VitD3) was encapsulated in the systems formulated with encapsulation efficiencies larger than 90%. Interaction between the encapsulated compound and the membrane layer components is crucial for vesicle stability. This work has an impact on the scaling-up production of vesicles for further food science applications.

Stilbenoids: A Natural Arsenal against Bacterial Pathogens

The escalating emergence of resistant bacterial strains is one of the most important threats to human health. With the increasing incidence of multi-drugs infections, there is an urgent need to restock our antibiotic arsenal. Natural products are an invaluable source of inspiration in drug design and development. One of the most widely distributed groups of natural products in the plant kingdom is represented by stilbenoids. Stilbenoids are synthesised by plants as means of protection against pathogens, whereby the potential antimicrobial activity of this class of natural compounds has attracted great interest in the last years. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of recent achievements in the study of stilbenoids as antimicrobial agents, with particular emphasis on the sources, chemical structures, and the mechanism of action of the most promising natural compounds. Attention has been paid to the main structure modifications on the stilbenoid core that have expanded the antimicrobial activity with respect to the parent natural compounds, opening the possibility of their further development. The collected results highlight the therapeutic versatility of natural and synthetic resveratrol derivatives and provide a prospective insight into their potential development as antimicrobial agents.

Role of Resveratrol in Regulating Cutaneous Functions

Protective role of the skin is against external insults and maintenance of electrolyte homeostasis of the body. Cutaneous dysfunction can account for the development of both cutaneous and systemic disorders. Thus, improvements in cutaneous functions can benefit a number of extracutaneous and cutaneous functions. Resveratrol, a natural ingredient, displays multiple benefits for various systems/organs, including the skin. The benefits of resveratrol for cutaneous functions include stimulation of keratinocyte differentiation and antimicrobial peptide expression, inhibition of keratinocyte proliferation and cutaneous inflammation, UV protection, anticancer, antiaging, and inhibition of melanogenesis. The mechanisms of action of resveratrol include activation of sirtuin 1 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, and inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling. Evidence suggests that topical resveratrol could be a valuable alternative not only for daily skin care, but also for the prevention and treatment of various cutaneous disorders. This review summarizes the benefits of resveratrol for cutaneous functions.

DoE directed optimization, development and evaluation of resveratrol loaded ultradeformable vesicular cream for topical antioxidant benefits

Objective: Aim of the present work was to optimize and formulate resveratrol loaded vesicular cream intended for dermal delivery of resveratrol with high skin deposition potential.Methods: Formulation was developed and optimized using Central Composite Design. Amount of phospholipid and sodium cholate were selected as critical material attributes and vesicle size and entrapment efficiency of resveratrol were taken as critical quality attributes. To increase the skin applicability and patient compliance, vesicles were further developed as vesicular cream which was then thoroughly characterized for physicochemical parameters, ex vivo skin permeation/deposition profile and antioxidant potential.Results: Vesicle size and entrapment efficiency of the optimized batch were found to be 178.9 ± 12.87 nm with 72.32 ± 3.45% respectively. Physicochemical properties and viscosity of cream formulation were also found to be favorable for skin applicability. Permeation flux at the end of 24 h was found to be 2.70 ± 0.73, 4.45 ± 0.56 and 4.95 ± 0.69 µg cm^-2 h^-1 for conventional cream, vesicular dispersion, and vesicular cream formulation respectively. Higher drug deposition in the skin via vesicular cream formulation was observed i.e. 335.2 ± 4.12 µg cm^-2 (70.16 ± 0.87%) as compared to conventional cream i.e. 67.12 ± 19.63 µg cm^-2 (14.05 ± 4.11%). Resveratrol encapsulated in vesicular cream has retained its inherent antioxidant activity suggesting the stability of resveratrol in vesicular cream.Conclusion: Thus, it can be concluded that deformable vesicular cream is capable of delivering encapsulated bioactive in deeper layers of skin, where it can be retained for achieving higher dermatological benefits.

New Perspectives on the Efficacy of Gallic Acid in Cosmetics & Nanocosmeceuticals

BACKGROUND

Gallic acid (GA-3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid), a phenolic phytochemical, is a ubiquitous secondary metabolite found in most plants, with appreciable concentrations in grapes seed, rose flowers, sumac, oak and witch hazel. GA often results from the hydrolysis of terpenes and the polyphenol tannic acid.

APPLICATIONS

It exhibits powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer activities. Most intriguing benefit has been reported to be on the skin. Due to these beneficial properties, GA and its derivatives (e.g. lipid-soluble phenols such as synthetic gallic esters aka gallates) have been extensively used as an adjuvant in a number of therapeutic formulations, as a substitute of hydrocortisone in children with atopic dermatitis (AD) and other skin conditions (hyperpigmentation, wound healing), and as a cosmetic ingredient. GA has a USFDA GRAS status (generally recognized as safe), exhibiting fairly low systemic toxicity and associated mortality at acute doses in many experimental models. Despite anti-skin aging benefits obtained with relatively safe GA formulations, few cases of gallate-induced skin allergic have been reported in humans. Therefore, approaches to improve the bioavailability and biodegradability of this poor-water soluble and non-biodegradable phenolic compound are warranted.

PURPOSE

This review has focused on the recently reported biological activities pertaining to the skin as well as the pharmacological properties of GA and its derivatives with special emphasis on its use in (nano-) cosmetic formulations. Since this is an evolving area of research, an adequate emphasis has been placed upon advantages and disadvantages of various nanoformulations.

Utilizing Liposomal Quercetin and Gallic Acid in Localized Treatment of Vaginal Candida Infections

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a widely spread fungal infection that causes itching, pain and inflammation at the vaginal site. Although common, currently available treatment suffers from limited efficacy and high recurrence. In addition, the growing problem of resistance to azole drugs used in current treatments emphasizes the need for superior treatment options. Antimicrobial polyphenols are an attractive approach offering multitargeting therapy. We aimed to develop novel liposomes for simultaneous delivery of two polyphenols (quercetin, Q, and gallic acid, GA) that, when released within the vaginal cavity, act in synergy to eradicate infection while alleviating the symptoms of VVC. Q was selected for its anti-itching and anti-inflammatory properties, while GA for its reported activity against Candida. Novel liposomes containing only Q (LP-Q), only GA (LP-GA) or both polyphenols (LP-Q+GA) were in the size range around 200 nm. Q was efficiently entrapped in both LP-Q and in LP-Q+GA (85%) while the entrapment of GA was higher in LP-Q+GA (30%) than in LP-GA (25%). Liposomes, especially LP-Q+GA, promoted sustained release of both polyphenols. Q and GA acted in synergy, increasing the antioxidant activities of a single polyphenol. Polyphenol-liposomes were not cytotoxic and displayed stronger anti-inflammatory effects than free polyphenols. Finally, LP-GA and LP-Q+GA considerably reduced C. albicans growth.

Effect of drug molecular weight on niosomes size and encapsulation efficiency

Encapsulation into nanocarriers, such as niosomes, is a promising way to protect them from degradation, and allow controll and target delivery of bioactive compounds. For biotechnological applications, a tight control of particle size with acceptable encapsulation efficiencies (EE) is a technological challenge, especially for hydrophilic compounds due to its capability to diffuse across biological barriers. Niosomes formulated with mixture of surfactants represent promising nanocarriers due to the advantages of non-ionic surfactants, such as low cost, versatility and enhanced physico-chemical properties. In this work, the effect of both, composition of the hydrating solution and molecular weight of the loaded compound, on the particle size and EE of niosomes prepared by using the thin film hydration method was studied. Particularly, mili-Q water, glycerol solution and PEG-400 solution were tested for niosomes formulated with Span®80-Tween®80 with/without dodecanol as membrane stabilizer. It was found that particle size highly depends on hydration media composition and an interaction with compound MW could exist. Larger vesicles results in an increase in EE, which could be purely related with physical aspects such as vesicle loading volume capacity. The effect of hydration solution composition could be related with their ability to change the bilayer packing and physical properties, as observed by differential scanning calorimetry. Finally, it was possible to compare the suitability of dialysis and gel filtration as purification methods, demonstrating that gel filtration is not an adequate purification method when viscous solutions are used, since they could affect the particle vesicles retention and hence EE measurements would be misrepresentative.

Polygonum cuspidatum extract attenuates fructose-induced liver lipid accumulation through inhibiting Keap1 and activating Nrf2 antioxidant pathway

BACKGROUND

Polygonum cuspidatum has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat liver disorders associated with oxidative stress, inflammation and lipid accumulation for centuries in patients.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to examine whether P. cuspidatum extract (PCE) prevented against fructose-induced liver lipid accumulation via regulating Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway.

METHOD

PCE was administered orally to male Sprague-Dawley rats given 10% fructose drinking water for 6 weeks at 80 and 160 mg/kg once daily for 11 weeks.

RESULTS

PCE significantly alleviated liver lipid accumulation in fructose-fed rats with metabolic syndrome. It also inhibited Keap1, activated Nrf2 antioxidant pathway, resulting in the suppression of oxidative stress, evidenced by reducing hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydroxy radical (OH^•) levels, and increasing glutathione (GSH)/oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratio as well as superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity in the liver of fructose-fed rats. Additionally, PCE up-regulated peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-α (PPAR-α), and down-regulated sterol regulatory element binging protein 1 (SREBP-1), fatty acid synthetase (FAS) and stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD-1) in this animal model, being consistent with its reduction of triglyceride (TG) levels.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that PCE reduces oxidative stress, and prevent lipid accumulation in the liver of fructose-fed rats possibly by targeting the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway. PCE may be a promising therapeutic strategy for fructose-associated liver lipid accumulation.

Eco-scalable baicalin loaded vesicles developed by combining phospholipid with ethanol, glycerol, and propylene glycol to enhance skin permeation and protection

A new class of biocompatible and scalable phospholipid vesicles was developed, aiming at improving the efficacy of baicalin on the skin. Phosphatidylcholine and baicalin (a natural polyphenol) were hydrated in two steps with a mixture of ethanol, glycerol, and propylene glycol at different ratios, and a low amount of water (4%). Hence, water was almost completely replaced by the co-solvents, which were never used before as predominant dispersing medium of phospholipid vesicles. The vesicles appeared three-dimensionally structured, forming a network that conferred a high viscosity to the dispersions. The vesicles were unilamellar, small in size (∼100 nm), and stable during 12 months of storage. They disclosed optimal performances in the transdermal delivery of baicalin, and high biocompatibility with skin cells (i.e., keratinocytes and fibroblasts). Furthermore, the vesicles promoted the efficacy of baicalin in protecting skin cells against oxidative stress in vitro and injured skin in vivo.

Quality by design driven development of resveratrol loaded ethosomal hydrogel for improved dermatological benefits via enhanced skin permeation and retention

Resveratrol is a potent anti-oxidant agent and can be used for the effective management of different skin conditions like extrinsic skin ageing, psoriasis, etc. The objective of this research was to develop a dermal delivery system of resveratrol for its improved dermatological benefits for achieving its enhanced skin deposition profile with limited systemic exposure. Resveratrol loaded ethosomal hydrogel was developed and optimized using systematic Quality by Design approach. Firstly, the quality target product profile (QTPP) of ethosomal formulation was defined and critical quality attributes (CQAs) and critical material attributes (CMAs) were screened through risk assessment studies based on fish bone diagram. 3² full factorial design using Design Expert software was employed to optimize the selected CMAs. Concentration of phospholipid (X1) and concentration of ethanol (X2) were selected as independent CMAs. Vesicle size (Y1), entrapment efficiency (Y2), permeation flux (Y3) and drug deposition in dermal layer (Y4) were evaluated as dependant CQAs. Optimized formulation was then evaluated for physicochemical and skin permeation properties. Ethosomal hydrogel was able to significantly enhance the skin permeation parameters and skin deposition of resveratrol in comparison to the conventional cream. The results were highly ratified by CLSM studies in which ethosomal hydrogel was found to be vastly scattered in the deeper skin layers. Thus, there is evidence that systemically developed ethosomal gel can deliver enhanced amounts of bioactives into the skin and it is expected that a number of products for dermal/transdermal applications will be developed in the future based on it.

Optimization of Innovative Three-Dimensionally-Structured Hybrid Vesicles to Improve the Cutaneous Delivery of Clotrimazole for the Treatment of Topical Candidiasis

New three-dimensionally-structured hybrid phospholipid vesicles, able to load clotrimazole in a high amount (10 mg/mL), were obtained for the first time in this work by significantly reducing the amount of water (≤10%), which was replaced with a mixture of glycerol and ethanol (≈90%). A pre-formulation study was carried out to evaluate the effect of both the composition of the hydrating medium and the concentration of the phospholipid on the physico-chemical properties of hybrid vesicles. Four different three-dimensionally-structured hybrid vesicles were selected as ideal systems for the topical application of clotrimazole. An extensive physico-chemical characterization performed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM), ³¹P-NMR, and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) displayed the formation of small, multi-, and unilamellar vesicles very close to each other, and was capable of forming a three-dimensional network, which stabilized the dispersion. Additionally, the dilution of the dispersion with water reduced the interactions between vesicles, leading to the formation of single unilamellar vesicles. The evaluation of the in vitro percutaneous delivery of clotrimazole showed an improved drug deposition in the skin strata provided by the three-dimensionally-structured vesicles with respect to the commercial cream (Canesten^®) used as a reference. Hybrid vesicles were highly biocompatible and showed a significant antifungal activity in vitro, greater than the commercial cream Canesten^®. The antimycotic efficacy of formulations was confirmed by the reduced proliferation of the yeast cells at the site of infection in vivo. In light of these results, clotrimazole-loaded, three-dimensionally-structured hybrid vesicles appear to be one of the most innovative and promising formulations for the treatment of candidiasis infections.

Implications of grape extract and its nanoformulated bioactive agent resveratrol against skin disorders

The grape seed extract (GSE) and its main active polyphenol, resveratrol (RES), have shown considerable antioxidant activities, besides possessed protective and therapeutic effects against various skin complications. This paper discusses the favorable effects of RES, GSE and their nanoformulations for dermatological approaches, with specific emphasis on clinical interventions. In this manner, electronic databases including PubMed, Science Direct and Google Scholar were searched. Data were collected from 1980 up to February 2019. The search terms included "Vitis vinifera", "grape", "resveratrol", "skin", "dermatology", and "nanoformulation". To increase the skin permeability of GSE and RES, several innovative nanoformulation such as liposomes, niosomes, solid-lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, and lipid-core nanocapsule has been evaluated. According to our extensive searches, both RES and GSE have beneficial impacts on skin disorders such as chloasma, acne vulgaris, skin aging, as well as wound and facial redness. More clinical studies with nanoformulation approaches are recommended to achieve conclusive outcomes regarding the efficacy of RES and GSE in the management of skin diseases.

Citrus limon Extract Loaded in Vesicular Systems for the Protection of Oral Cavity

Background: The nanoincorporation of the extract of Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck var. pompia into liposomes was aimed at improving its antioxidant and antibacterial effects. Methods: The extract of the rind of Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck var. pompia was obtained by maceration in ethanol, evaporation, and freeze-drying. The extract phytochemical fingerprint was obtained by HPLC and mass spectrometry, and it was determined that gallic acid, neohesperidin, eriocitrin, and neoeriocitrin were the most abundant components. The freeze-dried extract was loaded in liposomes, glycerosomes, and penetration-enhancer-containing vesicles prepared with propylene glycol (PG-PEVs). Results: Capability of the vesicles of improving efficacy of the extract in counteracting oxidative stress was studied in vitro in keratinocytes, along with antimicrobial activity against planktonic cultures of Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Streptococcus sanguinis. Conclusion: Results showed that the vesicles, especially glycerosomes and PG-PEVs, prevented oxidative damage and cell death, and inhibited bacterial proliferation.

Tocopherol-loaded transfersomes: In vitro antioxidant activity and efficacy in skin regeneration

Transfersomes were prepared by using different polysorbates (i.e., Tween 20, 40, 60 and 80) and loaded with tocopherol acetate, a naturally-occurring phenolic compound with antioxidant activity. The vesicles showed unilamellar morphology, small size (∼85 nm), low polydispersity index (≤0.27), and high entrapment efficiency, which increased as a function of the length of the Tween fatty acid chain (from 72% to 90%). The long-term stability of the formulations was evaluated by means of the Turbiscan™ technology, which indicated their good stability, irrespective of the Tween used. The vesicles efficiently delivered tocopherol to the skin, and showed biocompatibility in vitro in keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Regardless of the Tween used, the transfersomes were able to protect skin cells from the oxidative damage induced by hydrogen peroxide. Additionally, transfersomes promoted cell proliferation and migration, which resulted in an acceleration of skin wound closure. These results demonstrated that tocopherol-loaded transfersomes bear potential as topical delivery system with antioxidant activity and wound healing properties.

Antimalarial Activity of Orally Administered Curcumin Incorporated in Eudragit®-Containing Liposomes

Curcumin is an antimalarial compound easy to obtain and inexpensive, having shown little toxicity across a diverse population. However, the clinical use of this interesting polyphenol has been hampered by its poor oral absorption, extremely low aqueous solubility and rapid metabolism. In this study, we have used the anionic copolymer Eudragit® S100 to assemble liposomes incorporating curcumin and containing either hyaluronan (Eudragit-hyaluronan liposomes) or the water-soluble dextrin Nutriose® FM06 (Eudragit-nutriosomes). Upon oral administration of the rehydrated freeze-dried nanosystems administered at 25/75 mg curcumin·kg−1·day−1, only Eudragit-nutriosomes improved the in vivo antimalarial activity of curcumin in a dose-dependent manner, by enhancing the survival of all Plasmodium yoelii-infected mice up to 11/11 days, as compared to 6/7 days upon administration of an equal dose of the free compound. On the other hand, animals treated with curcumin incorporated in Eudragit-hyaluronan liposomes did not live longer than the controls, a result consistent with the lower stability of this formulation after reconstitution. Polymer-lipid nanovesicles hold promise for their development into systems for the oral delivery of curcumin-based antimalarial therapies.

Skin Protective Nutraceuticals: The Current Evidence in Brief

Nutraceuticals are important for healthy skin maintenance. Probiotics, phenolics, and vitamins are just a few of the nutraceuticals meant to potentially prevent and assist medical management of dermatologic conditions. Among these, probiotics, vitamin E, and green tea catechins may offer the broadest array of skin protective mechanisms with probiotics having the greatest clinical range. Probiotics’ amelioration of atopic dermatitis and opportunistic infections of skin burns has been targeted in recent research efforts. This includes the improvement of Scoring Atopic Dermatitis index scores, p = 0.02, with intact Lactobacillus rhamnosus Goldin and Gorbach (LGG) in comparison to heat inactivated LGG or placebo. Lactobacillus reuteri used prior to or concurrently with Staphylococcus aureus infection can increase epidermal keratinocyte survival, p < 0.01. Phenolics may not have been extensively studied for atopic dermatitis or skin burns. However, phenolics do have a role in photoprotection. The phenolic rutin increases ultraviolet B radiation filter reactive oxygen species scavenging at 75%, p < 0.002, and peak wavelength absorption, p < 0.001. While oral and topical probiotics have untapped potential for atopic dermatitis amelioration and skin infection prevention, phenolics will be increasingly used for photoprotection. With optimized bioavailability, dosage, and formulation, nutraceuticals will become crucial for healthy skin maintenance.

New Force Field Model for Propylene Glycol: Insight to Local Structure and Dynamics

In this work we developed a new force field model (FFM) for propylene glycol (PG) based on the OPLS all-atom potential. The OPLS potential was refined using quantum chemical calculations, taking into account the densities and self-diffusion coefficients. The validation of this new FFM was carried out based on a wide range of physicochemical properties, such as density, enthalpy of vaporization, self-diffusion coefficients, isothermal compressibility, surface tension, and shear viscosity. The molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed over a large range of temperatures (293.15-373.15 K). The comparison with other force field models, such as OPLS, CHARMM27, and GAFF, revealed a large improvement of the results, allowing a better agreement with experimental data. Specific structural properties (radial distribution functions, hydrogen bonding and spatial distribution functions) were then analyzed in order to support the adequacy of the proposed FFM. Pure propylene glycol forms a continuous phase, displaying no microstructures. It is shown that the developed FFM gives rise to suitable results not only for pure propylene glycol but also for mixtures by testing its behavior for a 50 mol % aqueous propylene glycol solution. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the addition of water to the PG phase produces a homogeneous solution and that the hydration interactions prevail over the propylene glycol self-association interactions.

A novel ultradeformable liposomes of Naringin for anti-inflammatory therapy

Ultradeformable liposomes were formulated using naringin (NA), a flavanone glycoside, at different concentrations (3, 6 and 9mg/mL). Nanovesicles were small size (∼100nm), regardless of the NA concentration used, and monodisperse (PI<0.30). All formulations showed a high entrapment efficiency (∼88%) and a highly negative zeta potential (around -30mV). The selected formulations were highly biocompatible as confirmed by in vitro studies using 3T3 fibroblasts. In vitro assay showed that the amounts (%) of NA accumulated in the epidermis (∼10%) could explain the anti-inflammatory properties of ultradeformable liposomes. In vivo studies confirmed the higher effectiveness of ultradeformable liposomes respect to betamethasone cream and NA dispersion in reducing skin inflammation in mice. Overall, it can conclude that NA ultradeformable liposomes can be considered as a promising formulation for the treatment of skin inflammatory diseases.