Self-reporter shikonin-Act-loaded solid lipid nanoparticle: Formulation, physicochemical characterization and geno/cytotoxicity evaluation

Codelivery of metformin and methotrexate with optimized chitosan nanoparticles for synergistic triple-negative breast cancer therapy in vivo

The development of effective therapeutic strategies for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), an aggressive subtype with limited treatment options, remains a critical challenge. This study aimed to design and evaluate a combination therapy using chitosan nanoparticles (Cs NPs) loaded with metformin (Met) and methotrexate (MTX) as a promising approach for TNBC management. The Cs NPs exhibited an average size of 78.8 ± 25.84 nm for blank Cs NPs, 84.50 ± 22.54 nm for Met-Cs NPs, and 86.70 ± 30.90 nm for MTX-Cs NPs, with positive surface charges of 26.40 ± 1.40 mV, 28.20 ± 1.60 mV, and 14.30 ± 2.40 mV, respectively. The drug encapsulation efficiency was 88.56 ± 2.26 % for Met-Cs NPs and 97.03 ± 0.52 % for MTX-Cs NPs. The cellular uptake studies demonstrated a time-dependent increase in the accumulation of Shikonin-labeled Cs NPs in 4T1 cells. The cytotoxicity assays revealed that Met-Cs NPs and MTX-Cs NPs exhibited significantly lower IC50 values (19.85 μg/mL and 103.2 ng/mL, respectively) compared to the plain drugs at 48 h. The combination of Met-/MTX-Cs NPs showed a synergistic cytotoxic effect, inducing 50 % cell death at 15.233 μg/mL of Met and 0.166 μg/mL of MTX. In vivo studies using a 4T1 xenograft mouse model demonstrated that the combination of Met-/MTX-Cs NPs resulted in a 100 % reduction in initial tumor volume, compared to a 40 % decrease with the free drug combination. The tumor growth inhibition was 70.45 % for the Met-/MTX-Cs NPs group, significantly higher than the 33.86 % observed in the free drug combination group. The findings of this study highlight the potential of the Met-/MTX-Cs NPs combination as a novel and effective therapeutic approach for TNBC management. The enhanced therapeutic efficacy, improved safety profile, and the ability to modulate key signaling pathways make this nanoparticle-based combination therapy a promising candidate for further clinical investigation.

Metformin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles augment silver nanoparticle-induced radiosensitization in breast cancer cells during radiation therapy

Recent research has focused on enhancing tumor response to radiation therapy using radiosensitizers to increase radiation absorption by cancerous tissues. This study utilized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as radiation sensitizers and chitosan as a nanocarrier to deliver metformin to breast cancer cells. Metformin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (Met NPs) and AgNPs were synthesized and characterized. MCF-7 breast cancer cells were pretreated with Met NPs, followed by treatment with AgNPs and irradiation with X-rays at 2, 4, and 8 Gy doses. Cellular cytotoxicity, apoptosis, DNA damage, and 3D spheroid formation were evaluated. The synthesized Met NPs and AgNPs had average diameters of 51.5 ± 9.4 nm and 3.02 ± 0.03 nm, respectively. Cellular cytotoxicity assessment revealed the highest cytotoxicity in MCF-7 cells pretreated with Met NPs, treated with AgNPs, and irradiated with 8 Gy. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated a 67.58 % apoptosis rate in cells pretreated with Met NPs, compared to 30.42 % in cells pretreated with plain metformin. DAPI staining revealed a 1.8-fold increase in DNA damage in cells pretreated with Met NPs and Ag NPs upon exposure to radiation. The 3D spheroid culture model confirmed a 60 % enhancement in the radiosensitivity of breast cancer cells in the presence of Met NPs and Ag NPs. The combination of Met NPs and Ag NPs represents a promising strategy to improve the therapeutic efficacy of radiation therapy for breast cancer treatment. The delivery of metformin can potentiate the radiosensitizing effects of Ag NPs, offering a novel approach to enhance cancer cells' response to radiation.

Polyphyllin D-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Breast Cancer: Synthesis, Characterization, In Vitro, and in Vivo Studies

Polyphyllin D (PD), a steroidal saponin in Paris polyphylla, induces apoptosis via the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in different cancer types. However, emerging evidence has shown that the primary issue with PD is its structure's hemolysis and cytotoxicity. This study aimed to develop and optimize PD-loaded SLN formulation and evaluate its efficacy in breast cancer cell lines. Apoptosis, as the mechanism of cell death, was confirmed by flow cytometry following Annexin V/propidium iodide staining and western blot analysis. In in vivo studies, tumor inhibitory efficacy was compared with different doses of PD-loaded SLN on 4T1-implanted BALB/c mice. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of PD- loaded SLN was calculated to be 33.25 and 35.74 μg/mL for MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, respectively. Flow cytometry analysis further confirmed a significant increase in apoptosis after treatment with PD- loaded SLN. When both cell lines were treated with PD-loaded SLN, Bcl2 and HSP70 proteins were down regulated, while Bax, Bad, P53, Apaf-1, p-p53 and Noxa proteins were upregulated. This effect was also confirmed by test performed on BALB/c mice in vivo. Based on results, PD-loaded SLN may be a promising breast cancer treatment, without recognizable side effects.

Protective effect of l-carnitine-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles against H2O2-induced genotoxicity and apoptosis

L-carnitine (LC) is a highly water-soluble compound involved in the β-oxidation of lipids and transportation of long-chain fatty acids across the membrane of mitochondria. However, the higher hydrophilicity of LC limits its free diffusion across the bilayer lipid membrane of intestinal epithelium in oral administration, decreasing oral bioavailability. Drug delivery with nanoparticles enhances cargo bioavailability and cellular uptake and improves therapeutic outcomes while decreasing unwanted side effects. Here, we proposed solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) as a hydrophobic carrier for LC delivery, aiming at increasing LC bioavailability and its protective role against intracellular oxidative stress damages. The LC-SLNs were prepared using the hot homogenization technique, and different physicochemical properties were investigated. The inhibition of H₂O₂-induced ROS generation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with plain LC and LC-SLNs was investigated. Moreover, various in vitro experiments were performed to assess whether LC-SLNs can protect HUVECs from H₂O₂-induced genotoxicity and apoptosis. The monodispersed and spherical blank SLNs and LC-SLNs were 104 ± 1.8 and 128 ± 1.5 nm, respectively with a drug loading (DL) of 11.49 ± 0.78 mg/mL and acceptable encapsulation efficiency (EE%) (69.09 ± 1.12) of LC-SLNs. The formulation process did not affect the antioxidant properties of LC. MTT assay and comet assay demonstrated that the LC-SLNs decreased cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of H₂O₂, respectively on HUVECs. Besides, LC-SLNs more inhibited ROS generation, along with apoptotic events in H₂O₂-treated HUVECs compared to the plain LC. Altogether, our findings affirmed the protective effects of LC-SLNs against H₂O₂-induced genotoxicity and apoptosis in HUVECs. In conclusion, LC-SLN formulation is a promising drug delivery system to overcome the bioavailability issue of hydrophilic LC, enhancing the antioxidant and biological properties of the plain LC.

Formulation Strategies and Therapeutic Applications of Shikonin and Related Derivatives

Shikonin and its derivatives are excellent representatives of biologically active naphthoquinones. A wide range of investigations carried out in the last few decades validated their pharmacological efficacy. Besides having magnificent therapeutic potential, shikonin and its derivatives suffer from various pharmacokinetic, toxicity, and stability issues like poor bioavailability, nephrotoxicity, photodegradation, etc. Recently, various research groups have developed an extensive range of formulations to tackle these issues to ease their path to clinical practice. The latest formulation approaches have been focused on exploiting the unique features of novel functional excipients, which in turn escalate the therapeutic effect of shikonin. Moreover, the codelivery approach in various drug delivery systems has been taken into consideration in a recent while to reduce toxicity associated with shikonin and its derivatives. This review sheds light on the essential reports and patents published related to the array of formulations containing shikonin and its derivatives.

Shikonin, a naphthalene ingredient: Therapeutic actions, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, clinical trials and pharmaceutical researches

BACKGROUND

Shikonin is one of the major phytochemical components of Lithospermum erythrorhizon (Purple Cromwell), which is a type of medicinal herb broadly utilized in traditional Chinese medicine. It is well established that shikonin possesses remarkable therapeutic actions on various diseases, with the underlying mechanisms, pharmacokinetics and toxicological effects elusive. Also, the clinical trial and pharmaceutical study of shikonin remain to be comprehensively delineated.

PURPOSE

The present review aimed to systematically summarize the updated knowledge regarding the therapeutic actions, pharmacokinetics, toxicological effects, clinical trial and pharmaceutical study of shikonin.

METHODS

The information contained in this review article were retrieved from some authoritative databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Google scholar, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database and so on, till August 2021.

RESULTS

Shikonin exerts multiple therapeutic efficacies, such as anti-inflammation, anti-cancer, cardiovascular protection, anti-microbiomes, analgesia, anti-obesity, brain protection, and so on, mainly by regulating the NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/MAPKs, Akt/mTOR, TGF-β, GSK3β, TLR4/Akt signaling pathways, NLRP3 inflammasome, reactive oxygen stress, Bax/Bcl-2, etc. In terms of pharmacokinetics, shikonin has an unfavorable oral bioavailability, 64.6% of the binding rate of plasma protein, and enhances some metabolic enzymes, particularly including cytochrome P450. In regard to the toxicological effects, shikonin may potentially cause nephrotoxicity and skin allergy. The above pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of shikonin have been validated by few clinical trials. In addition, pharmaceutical innovation of shikonin with novel drug delivery system such as nanoparticles, liposomes, microemulsions, nanogel, cyclodextrin complexes, micelles and polymers are beneficial to the development of shikonin-based drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

Shikonin is a promising phytochemical for drug candidates. Extensive and intensive explorations on shikonin are warranted to expedite the utilization of shikonin-based drugs in the clinical setting.

Acriflavine-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles: preparation, physicochemical characterization, and anti-proliferative properties

Acriflavine (ACF) is an antiseptic compound with the potential antitumor activity which is used for the fluorescent staining of RNA due to its dominant fluorescent emission at ∼515 nm. Here, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) containing ACF (ACF-SLNs) were prepared and their physicochemical properties, potential geno/cytotoxicity, as well as the fluorescent properties were investigated. FITC-annexin V/PI staining and cell cycle assays were carried out to find the type of cellular death caused. Particle size analysis and SEM images revealed that spherical ACF-SLNs had a homogeneous dispersion with a mean diameter of 106 ± 5.7 nm. Drug loading (DL) of 31.25 ± 4.21 mg/mL and high encapsulation efficiency (EE%) (89.75 ± 5.44) were found. ACF-SLNs physically were relatively stable in terms of dispersion, size, and EE. The uptake study demonstrated the potential use of fluorescent ACF-SLNs in bio-distribution studies. MTT assay showed that plain ACF could induce growth inhibition of A549 cells with IC50 of 8.5, 6, and 4.5 μMol after 24, 48, and 72 hours, respectively, while ACF-SLNs had stable cytotoxic effects after 48 hours. ACF-SLNs induced remarkable apoptosis and even necrosis after 48 h. Conclusively, ACF-SLNs with acceptable physicochemical features showed increased bioimpacts after 48 h compared to plain ACF.

Preparation, physicochemical characterization, and anti-proliferative properties of Lawsone-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles

Lawsone (LWS) is a naphthoquinone-type dye with potential antitumor activity. LWS is used in cosmetics for coloring hair, skin, and nails. In this study, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) containing LWS were prepared using a hot homogenization technique. Physicochemical properties of LWS-SLNs including encapsulation efficiency (EE), drug loading (DL), size, zeta potential, homogeneity, in vitro release, and kinetics of release were determined. The potential cytotoxic properties of LWS-SLNs were investigated. Comet assay was done to assess the genotoxicity of LWS-SLNs. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed that LWS-SLNs were spherical and homogeneously dispersed. The average diameter of free SLNs and LWS-SLNs were 97 ± 1.4 and 127 ± 3.1 nm, respectively with high EE% (95.88 ± 3.29) and a DL of 22.72 ± 1.39 mg/mL of LWS-SLNs. The plain LWS could induce growth inhibition of A549 cells with IC₅₀ of 17.99 ± 1.11, 13.37 ± 1.22, and 9.21 ± 1.15 μg/mL after 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively, while LWS-SLNs had more cytotoxic effects after 48 h (9.81 ± 1.3 μg/mL). Comet assay represented clear fragmentation in the chromatin of the treated cells. Besides, LWS-SLNs (13.37 ± 1.22 μg/mL) induced ∼52 % apoptosis and even necrosis after 48 h. The qPCR results showed an enhanced downregulation of Bcl-2 and upregulation of Casp 9 due to the treatment of A549 cells with LSW-SLNs. In conclusion, a stable formulation of LWS-SLN was prepared with good physicochemical features and long-term biological effects that candidate it for in vivo trials.

Lipid Nanoparticles as Carriers for Bioactive Delivery

Nanotechnology has made a great impact on the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, food, and cosmetics industries. More than 40% of the approved drugs are lipophilic and have poor solubility. This is the major rate-limiting step that influences the release profile and bioavailability of drugs. Several approaches have been reported to administer lipophilic drugs with improved solubility and bioavailability. Nanotechnology plays a crucial role in the targeted delivery of poorly soluble drugs. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems can be classified as solid lipid nanoparticulate drug delivery systems, emulsion-based nanodrug delivery systems, vesicular drug delivery systems, etc. Nanotechnology presents a new frontier in research and development to conquer the limitations coupled with the conventional drug delivery systems through the formation of specific functionalized particles. This review presents a bird's eye view on various aspects of lipid nanoparticles as carriers of bioactive molecules that is, synthesis, characterization, advantage, disadvantage, toxicity, and application in the medical field. Update on recent development in terms of patents and clinical trials of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructure lipid carriers (NLCs) have also been discussed in this article.

Development of an albumin decorated lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticle for simultaneous delivery of methotrexate and conferone to cancer cells

Aiming to simultaneous target of methotrexate (MTX), as folate antagonist, and conferone (CON) in various cancer cells, the newly lipid/polymer hybrid nanoparticle containing an albumin targeted succinylchitosan shell and lipoid bilayer core composed of hydrogenated soy phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol was synthesized. The covalently conjugating albumin to the external surface of chitosan was accomplished using N-(3-Dimethylaminopropyl)-N-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride and N- hydroxyl succinimide as an activating carboxylic group, and nanoliposomes were fabricated via thin film hydration-sonication method. The molecular structure of MTX@CON-targeted lipid/polymer hybrid nanoparticle (MTX@CON-TLPN) were characterized using FTIR spectroscopy, ¹H NMR, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The newly nanoparticle with high encapsulation efficiency (85.12%, and 78.4%), acceptable loading capacity (9.8% and 4.6% for MTX and CON) and the stimuli responsiveness drug release behavior in simulated physiologic tumor tissue condition (pH 5.4, 40 °C) was successfully synthetized in the spherical shape with mean average size of approximately 290 nm and ζ-potential of +21 mv. The enhanced efficiency of the targeted nanoparticle was further confirmed using MTT endpoints, cell cycle modulation, apoptosis assessment, and cellular internalization assessments. Collectively, these findings establish the utility of our newly prepared nanoparticle for simultaneous delivery of multiple anti-cancer drugs.

Pharmacology, toxicity and pharmacokinetics of acetylshikonin: a review

CONTEXT

Acetylshikonin, a naphthoquinone derivative, is mainly extracted from some species of the family Boraginaceae, such as Lithospermum erythrorhizon Sieb. et Zucc., Arnebia euchroma (Royle) Johnst., and Arnebia guttata Bunge. As a bioactive compound, acetylshikonin has attracted much attention because of its broad pharmacological properties.

OBJECTIVE

This review provides a comprehensive summary of the pharmacology, toxicity, and pharmacokinetics of acetylshikonin focussing on its mechanisms on the basis of currently available literature.

METHODS

The information of acetylshikonin from 1977 to 2020 was collected using major databases including Elsevier, Scholar, PubMed, Springer, Web of Science, and CNKI. Acetylshikonin, pharmacology, toxicity, pharmacokinetics, and naphthoquinone derivative were used as key words.

RESULTS

According to emerging evidence, acetylshikonin exerts a wide spectrum of pharmacological effects such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, lipid-regulatory, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidative, neuroprotective, and antiviral properties. However, only a few studies have reported the adverse effects of acetylshikonin, with respect to reproductive toxicity and genotoxicity. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrate that acetylshikonin is associated with a wide distribution and poor absorption.

CONCLUSIONS

Although experimental data supports the beneficial effects of this compound, acetylshikonin cannot be considered as a therapy drug without further investigations, especially, on the toxicity and pharmacokinetics.

Lipid Drug Carriers for Cancer Therapeutics: An Insight into Lymphatic Targeting, P-gp, CYP3A4 Modulation and Bioavailability Enhancement

In the treatment of cancer, chemotherapy plays an important role though the efficacy of anti-cancer drug administered orally is limited, due to their poor solubility in physiological medium, inability to cross biological membrane, high Para-glycoprotein (P-gp) mediated drug efflux, and pre-systemic metabolism. These all factors cumulatively reduce drug exposure at the target site leading to multidrug resistance (MDR). Lipid based carriers systems has been explored to overcome solubility and permeability related issues of anti-cancer drugs. The lipid based formulations have also been reported to circumvent the effect of P-gp and CYP3A4. Further long chain triglycerides (LCT) has shown their ability to access Lymphatic route over Medium Chain Triglycerides, as the former has been extensively used for targeting anti-cancer drugs at proliferating cells through lymphatic route. Therefore this review tries to reflect the usefulness of lipid based drug carriers systems (viz. liposome, solid lipid nanoparticle, nano-lipid carriers, self-emulsifying, lipidic pro-drugs) in targeting lymphatic system and overcoming issues related to solubility and permeability of anti-cancer drugs. Moreover, we have also tried to reflect how critically lipid based carriers are important in maximizing therapeutic safety and efficacy of anti-cancer drugs.

Hyaluronic acid derivative-modified nano-structured lipid carrier for cancer targeting and therapy

To reduce the problems of poor solubility, high in vivo dosage requirement, and weak targeting ability of paclitaxel (PTX), a hyaluronic acid-octadecylamine (HA-ODA)-modified nano-structured lipid carrier (HA-NLC) was constructed. HA-ODA conjugates were synthesized by an amide reaction between HA and ODA. The hydrophobic chain of HA-ODA can be embedded in the lipid core of the NLC to obtain HA-NLC. The HA-NLC displayed strong internalization in cluster determinant 44 (CD44) highly expressed MCF-7 cells, and endocytosis mediated by the CD44 receptor was involved. The HA-NLC had an encapsulation efficiency of PTX of 72.0%. The cytotoxicity of the PTX-loaded nanoparticle HA-NLC/PTX in MCF-7 cells was much stronger than that of the commercial preparation Taxol®. In vivo, the HA-NLC exhibited strong tumor targeting ability. The distribution of the NLCs to the liver and spleen was reduced after HA modification, while more nanoparticles were aggregated to the tumor site. Our results suggest that HA-NLC has excellent properties as a nano drug carrier and potential for in vivo targeting.

Integrated Quality by Design Approach for Developing Nanolipidic Drug Delivery Systems of Olmesartan Medoxomil with Enhanced Antihypertensive Action

Purpose: The present work endeavors to report a systematic approach of developing the lipidic self-nanoemulsifying formulation of olmesartan medoxomil (OMT) on the principles of Quality by Design (QbD).

Methods: For preparing the self-nanoemulsifying formulation, a mixture of oil, surfactant and cosurfactant were used as vehicles. The excipients were selected after screening by solubility as well as pseudoternary phase titration studies. Mixture design was adopted for systematic optimization of the composition of nanolipidic formulations, which were evaluated for smaller globule size, stable zeta potential and lower values of polydispersity index. The optimized liquid self-nanoemulsifying formulation was identified using numerical and graphical optimization techniques, followed by validation of the experimental model. Solidification of self-nanoemulsifying formulation was carried out using porous carriers, and then optimized on the basis of oil adsorption potential, powder flow property and drug release performance. Pharmacokinetic study was performed in male Wistar rats for evaluating the drug absorption parameters. All the experimental data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using oneway ANOVA followed by post hoc analysis using Student’s t test.

Results: The optimized liquid self-nanoemulsifying formulation showed globule size <100 nm, emulsification efficiency <5 minutes andin vitro drug release >85% within in 30 minutes. Further, the solid SNEDDS formulation was effectively formulated using Neusilin US2 with maximum oil adsorption capacity and good micromeritic properties. Pharmacokinetic evaluation indicated 4 to 5-folds increase (P <0.05) in the values of C_max, AUC, and reduction in T_max from the nanoformulations vis-à-vis the marketed formulation.

Conclusion: Overall, the developed nanolipidic formulation of olmesartan indicated superior efficacy in augmenting the drug dissolution and absorption performance.

Toxicological profile of lipid-based nanostructures: are they considered as completely safe nanocarriers?

Nanoparticles are ubiquitous in the environment and are widely used in medical science (e.g. bioimaging, diagnosis, and drug therapy delivery). Due to unique physicochemical properties, they are able to cross many barriers, which is not possible for traditional drugs. Nevertheless, exposure to NPs and their following interactions with organelles and macromolecules can result in negative effects on cells, especially, they can induce cytotoxicity, epigenicity, genotoxicity, and cell death. Lipid-based nanomaterials (LNPs) are one of the most important achievements in drug delivery mainly due to their superior physicochemical and biological characteristics, particularly its safety. Although they are considered as the completely safe nanocarriers in biomedicine, the lipid composition, the surfactant, emulsifier, and stabilizer used in the LNP preparation, and surface electrical charge are important factors that might influence the toxicity of LNPs. According to the author's opinion, their toxicity profile should be evaluated case-by-case regarding the intended applications. Since there is a lack of all-inclusive review on the various aspects of LNPs with an emphasis on toxicological profiles including cyto-genotoxiciy, this comprehensive and critical review is outlined.

Natural polypeptides-based electrically conductive biomaterials for tissue engineering

Fabrication of an appropriate scaffold is the key fundamental step required for a successful tissue engineering (TE). The artificial scaffold as extracellular matrix in TE has noticeable role in the fate of cells in terms of their attachment, proliferation, differentiation, orientation and movement. In addition, chemical and electrical stimulations affect various behaviors of cells such as polarity and functionality. Therefore, the fabrication approach and materials used for the preparation of scaffold should be more considered. Various synthetic and natural polymers have been used extensively for the preparation of scaffolds. The electrically conductive polymers (ECPs), moreover, have been used in combination with other polymers to apply electric fields (EF) during TE. In this context, composites of natural polypeptides and ECPs can be taken into account as context for the preparation of suitable scaffolds with superior biological and physicochemical features. In this review, we overviewed the simultaneous usage of natural polypeptides and ECPs for the fabrication of scaffolds in TE.

Antisense LNA-loaded nanoparticles of star-shaped glucose-core PCL-PEG copolymer for enhanced inhibition of oncomiR-214 and nucleolin-mediated therapy of cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cells

We aimed to inhibit overexpressed oncomiR-214 in cisplatin (CIS)-resistant ovarian cancer (OC) and perform targeted therapy of sensitized cells using a novel polymeric drug delivery system (DDS). A system of nanoparticles (NPs) of star-shaped glucose-core polycaprolactone-polyethylene glycol (Glu-PCL-PEG) block copolymer containing cisplatin (CIS-PCL NPs) and locked nucleic acid (LNA) anti-miR-214 (LNA-PCL NPs) were prepared and anti-nucleolin aptamer was conjugated to the surface of prepared NPs to prepare Ap-CIS-PCL NPs and Ap-LNA-PCL NPs, respectively. The cancer-targeting ability of the NPs was confirmed and the CIS-resistant A2780 (A2780 R) cells were transfected with Ap-LNA-PCL NPs to inhibit oncomiR-214 and sensitize the cells to CIS. Next, the miR-214-inhibited cells were exposed to the Ap-CIS-NPs and the deracination efficiency of targeted DDS was evaluated. The oncomiR-214 in A2780 R cells were harnessed by Ap-LNA-PCL NPs, and nucleolin-mediated endocytosis of targeted polymeric DDSs containing CIS into miR-214-inhibited A2780 R cells caused enhanced apoptosis, which was further confirmed by apoptosis detection and evaluation of downstream genes expression. Targeted inhibition of miR-214 using the developed NPs containing LNA can decrease drug-resistant properties of cancer cells and may enhance the efficiency of targeted DDSs.

Nanoemulsions of Green Tea Catechins and Other Natural Compounds for the Treatment of Urinary Tract Infection: Antibacterial Analysis

Purpose: Nanoemulsions (NEs) of polyphenon 60 (P60) and cranberry (NE I) and P60 and curcumin (NE II) were prepared with the aim to enhance anti-bacterial potential and to understand the mechanism of anti-bacterial action of the encapsulated compounds. Methods: To evaluate the antibacterial potential of the developed NE, microtiter biofilm formation assay was performed. The cytotoxicity analysis was done to assess the toxicity profile of the NEs. Further antibacterial analysis against uropathogenic strains was performed to check the developed NEs were effective against these strains. Results: In microtiter dish biofilm formation assay, both NE formulations inhibited the growth more effectively (Av. % inhibition ~84%) as compared to corresponding aqueous solution (Av. % inhibition ~64%) and placebo (Av. % inhibition ~59%) at their respective minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values. Cytotoxicity analysis using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)- 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT assay) showed that the formulations were nontoxic to Vero cells. The antibacterial studies against uropathogenic resistant strains also showed that NEs effectively inhibited the growth of bacterial strains. Conclusion: From different studies it was concluded that both the NE's were able to inhibit bacterial strains and could be further used for the treatment of urinary tract infection (UTI). The antibacterial activity of developed NEs showed that these could be used as alternative therapies for the treatment of UTI.

Shikonin derivatives for cancer prevention and therapy

Phytochemicals gained considerable interest during the past years as source to develop new treatment options for chemoprevention and cancer therapy. Motivated by the fact that a majority of established anticancer drugs are derived in one way or another from natural resources, we focused on shikonin, a naphthoquinone with high potentials to be further developed as preventive or therapeutic drug to fight cancer. Shikonin is the major chemical component of Lithospermum erythrorhizon (Purple Cromwell) roots. Traditionally, the root extract has been applied to cure dermatitis, burns, and wounds. Over the past three decades, the anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects of root extracts, isolated shikonin as well as semi-synthetic and synthetic derivatives and nanoformulations have been described. In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to understand the effect of shikonin at cellular and molecular levels. Preliminary clinical trials indicate the potential of shikonin for translation into clinical oncology. Shikonin exerts additive and synergistic interactions in combination with established chemotherapeutics, immunotherapeutic approaches, radiotherapy and other treatment modalities, which further underscores the potential of this phytochemical to be integrated into standard treatment regimens.

AS1411 aptamer-decorated cisplatin-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles for targeted therapy of miR-21-inhibited ovarian cancer cells

AIM

The overexpression of miRNA-21 correlates with the cisplatin (CIS) resistance in the ovarian cancers.

METHODS

AS1411 antinucleolin aptamer-decorated PEGylated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles containing CIS (Ap-CIS-NPs) and anti-miR-21 (Ap-anti-miR-21-NPs) were prepared, physicochemically investigated and their cancer-targeting ability was confirmed. CIS-resistant A2780 cells (A2780 R) were infected with anti-miR-21 using Ap-anti-miR-21-NPs to decrease the drug resistance and sensitize the cells to CIS. Afterward, miR-21-inhibited cells were exposed to the Ap-CIS-NPs.

RESULTS

Ap-anti-miR-21-NPs could infect the A2780 R cells mainly through nucleolin-mediated endocytosis and inhibit the endogenous miR-21. Targeted delivery of CIS using Ap-CIS-NPs into the miR-21-inhibited cells caused an enhanced mortality.

CONCLUSION

The targeted delivery of chemotherapeutics to the oncomiR-inhibited cells may find a robust application in cancer chemo/gene therapy.

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Emerging Colloidal Nano Drug Delivery Systems

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are nanocarriers developed as substitute colloidal drug delivery systems parallel to liposomes, lipid emulsions, polymeric nanoparticles, and so forth. Owing to their unique size dependent properties and ability to incorporate drugs, SLNs present an opportunity to build up new therapeutic prototypes for drug delivery and targeting. SLNs hold great potential for attaining the goal of targeted and controlled drug delivery, which currently draws the interest of researchers worldwide. The present review sheds light on different aspects of SLNs including fabrication and characterization techniques, formulation variables, routes of administration, surface modifications, toxicity, and biomedical applications.

Bispecific therapeutic aptamers for targeted therapy of cancer: a review on cellular perspective

Aptamers (Aps), as short single-strand nucleic acids, can bind to their corresponding molecular targets with the high affinity and specificity. In comparison with the monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and peptides, unique physicochemical and biological characteristics of Aps make them excellent targeting agents for different types of cancer molecular markers (CMMs). Much attention has been paid to the Ap-based multifunctional chimeric and therapeutic systems, which provide promising outcomes in the targeted therapy of various formidable diseases, including malignancies. In the Ap-based chimeric systems, a targeting Ap is conjugated to another therapeutic molecule (e.g., siRNA/miRNA, Ap, toxins, chemotherapeutic agents, DNAzyme/ribozymes) with a capability of binding to a specific cell surface receptor at the desired target site. Having been engineered as multifunctional nanosystems (NSs), Ap-based hybrid scaffolds can be used to concurrently target multiple markers/pathways in cancerous cells, causing drastic inhibitory effects on the growth and the progression of tumor cells. Multi/bispecific Aps composed of two/more Aps provide a versatile tool for the optimal and active targeting of cell surface receptor(s) with markedly high affinity and avidity. Targeting the optimum activity of key receptors and dominant signaling pathways in the activation of immunity, the multi/bispecific Ap-based therapeutics can also be used to enhance the antitumor activity of the immune system. Further, the bispecific systems can be designed to induce cytotoxicity in a heterogeneous population of cancer cells with different CMMs. In this review, we provide some important insights into the construction and applications of the Ap-based chimeric NSs and discuss the multifunctional Ap chimera and their effects on the signaling pathways in cancer.

Recent advances in aptamer-armed multimodal theranostic nanosystems for imaging and targeted therapy of cancer

The side effects of chemotherapeutics during the course of cancer treatment limit their clinical outcomes. The most important mission of the modern cancer therapy modalities is the delivery of anticancer drugs specifically to the target cells/tissue in order to avoid/reduce any inadvertent non-specific impacts on the healthy normal cells. Nanocarriers decorated with a designated targeting ligand such as aptamers (Aps) and antibodies (Abs) are able to deliver cargo molecules to the target cells/tissue without affecting other neighboring cells, resulting in an improved treatment of cancer. For targeted therapy of cancer, different ligands (e.g., protein, peptide, Abs, Aps and small molecules) have widely been used in the development of different targeting drug delivery systems (DDSs). Of these homing agents, nucleic acid Aps show unique targeting potential with high binding affinity to a variety of biological targets (e.g., genes, peptides, proteins, and even cells and organs). Aps have widely been used as the targeting agent, in large part due to their unique 3D structure, simplicity in synthesis and functionalization, high chemical flexibility, low immunogenicity and toxicity, and cell/tissue penetration capability in some cases. Here, in this review, we provide important insights on Ap-decorated multimodal nanosystems (NSs) and discuss their applications in targeted therapy and imaging of cancer.

Combating atherosclerosis with targeted nanomedicines: recent advances and future prospective

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is recognized as the leading cause of mortality worldwide. The increasing prevalence of such disease demands novel therapeutic and diagnostic approaches to overcome associated clinical/social issues. Recent advances in nanotechnology and biological sciences have provided intriguing insights to employ targeted Nanomachines to the desired location as imaging, diagnosis, and therapeutic modalities. Nanomedicines as novel tools for enhanced drug delivery, imaging, and diagnosis strategies have shown great promise to combat cardiovascular diseases.

Methods: In the current study, we intend to review the most recent studies on the nano-based strategies for improved management of CVDs.

Results: A cascade of events results in the formation of atheromatous plaque and arterial stenosis. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that nanomedicines have displayed unique functionalities and provided de novo applications in the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis.

Conclusion: Despite some limitations, nanomedicines hold considerable potential in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various ailments including atherosclerosis. Fewer side effects, amenable physicochemical properties and multi-potential application of such nano-systems are recognized through various investigations. Therefore, it is strongly believed that with targeted drug delivery to atherosclerotic lesions and plaque, management of onset and progression of disease would be more efficient than classical treatment modalities.

Marrubiin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles' impact on TNF-α treated umbilical vein endothelial cells: A study for cardioprotective effect

Oxidative stress possesses a key role in the onset and development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), thus it can be an efficient target to tackle such ailment. Marrubiin, a bioactive diterpene, is a potent antioxidant against oxidative stress. Herein, we aimed to formulate marrubiin loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) to improve its pharmacokinetics and bioavailability and also to investigate free drug and formulation's protective impact against intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in HUVECs. Marrubiin-SLNs were formulated using hot homogenization/solidification method and then were subjected to physicochemical characterizations, i.e. size, zeta potential, morphology, polydispersity index (PDI), encapsulation efficiency (% EE), drug loading/content and physical stability assessments. MTT assay was performed to study the cytotoxicity of the intact and SLN incorporated marrubiin on HUVECs. Further, the antioxidant property of marrubiin and formulations was evaluated using DPPH radical scavenging assay and their protective effect against TNF-α induced oxidative stress was assessed by the means of intracellular ROS assessment, and also apoptosis/necrosis, cell cycle, and DNA fragmentation assays. Electron microscopy analysis showed spherical monodispersed SLNs with the size less than 100 nm, particle/zeta size analyses also approved the size of particles with a zeta potential of -1.28 ± 0.17 mV. Results also showed high EE (98%), drug loading (31.74 mg/g) with 3.15% drug content. In vitro release studies revealed about 90% of marrubiin cumulative release during 24 h. The stability of marrubiin-SLNs in terms of size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, EE and drug leakage was approved. Marrubiin antioxidant stability after formulation was approved by DPPH analysis. MTT cell survival assay showed no significant cytotoxicity after 24 h and 48 h. Intracellular ROS detection assay revealed that marrubiin and marrubiin-SLNs, play protective effect against TNF-α induced oxidative stress in HUVECs which was further approved by apoptosis assessment. Conclusively, based on our findings, marrubiin nanoparticles are proposed as a preventive/therapeutic remedy against disorders elicited by increased levels of intracellular ROS in CVDs.

Improved anticancer effects of epigallocatechin gallate using RGD-containing nanostructured lipid carriers

The global burden of cancer have encouraged oncologists to develop novel strategies for treatment. Present study was proposed to develop Arginyl-glycyl-aspartic acid (RGD)-containing nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) as a delivery system for improving the anticancer capability of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on breast cancer cell line by attaching to integrin superfamily on cancer cells. For this purpose, RGD-containing EGCG-loaded NLC were prepared by hot homogenization technique and characterized by different techniques. Then, cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of prepared nanoparticles and their uptake into cells was evaluated. As results, the nanoparticles with particle size of 85 nm, zeta potential of -21 mV, encapsulation of 83% were prepared. Cytotoxicity and apoptosis experiments demonstrated that EGCG-loaded NLC-RGD possessed greatest apoptotic activity. Furthermore, it has been shown that, EGCG-loaded NLC-RGD causes cell cycle arresting more effective than EGCG. Therefore, loading EGCG into NLC-RGD make it more effective in both targeting and accumulation into tumour cells, which results from specialized uptake mechanism by adhesion to αvβ3 integrin. The results strengthen our hope that loading EGCG into RGD-containing NLC could possibly overcome the therapeutic limitations of EGCG and make it more effective in cancer therapy.

Doxorubicin-conjugated D-glucosamine- and folate- bi-functionalised InP/ZnS quantum dots for cancer cells imaging and therapy

Nanoscaled quantum dots (QDs), with unique optical properties have been used for the development of theranostics. Here, InP/ZnS QDs were synthesised and functionalised with folate (QD-FA), D-glucosamine (QD-GA) or both (QD-FA-GA). The bi-functionalised QDs were further conjugated with doxorubicin (QD-FA-GA-DOX). Optimum Indium to fatty acid (In:MA) ratio was 1:3.5. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) micrographs revealed spherical morphology for the QDs (11 nm). Energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) spectrum confirmed the chemical composition of the QDs. MTT analysis in the OVCAR-3 cells treated with bare QDs, QD-FA, QD-GA, QD-FA-GA and QD-FA-GA-DOX (0.2 mg/mL of QDs) after 24 h indicated low toxicity for the bare QDs and functionalised QDs (about 80-90% cell viability). QD-FA-GA-DOX nanoparticles elicited toxicity in the cells. Cellular uptake of the engineered QDs were investigated in both folate receptor (FR)-positive OVCAR-3 cells and FR-negative A549 cells using fluorescence microscopy and FACS flow cytometry. The FA-functionalised QDs showed significantly higher uptake in the FR-positive OVCAR-3 cells, nonetheless the GA-functionalised QDs resulted in an indiscriminate uptake in both cell lines. In conclusion, our findings indicated that DOX-conjugated FA-armed QDs can be used as theranostics for simultaneous imaging and therapy of cancer.

Preparation and optimization of rivastigmine-loaded tocopherol succinate-based solid lipid nanoparticles

Rivastigmine hydrogen tartrate (RHT) is a pseudo-irreversible inhibitor of cholinesterase and is used for the treatment of Alzheimer's. However, RHT delivery to the brain is limited by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The purpose of this study was to improve the brain-targeting delivery of RHT by producing and optimizing rivastigmine hydrogen tartrate-loaded tocopherol succinate-based solid lipid nanoparticles (RHT-SLNs). RHT-SLNs were prepared using the microemulsion technique. The impact of significant variables, such as surfactant concentration and drug/lipid ratio, on the size of RHT-SLNs and their drug loading and encapsulation efficiency was analysed using a five-level central composite design (CCD). The minimum size of particles and the maximum efficiency of loading and encapsulation were defined according to models derived from a statistical analysis performed under optimal predicted conditions. The experimental results of optimized RHT-SLNs showed an appropriate particle size of 15.6 nm, 72.4% drug encapsulation efficiency and 6.8% loading efficiency, which revealed a good correlation between the experimental and predicted values. Furthermore, in vitro release studies showed a sustained release of RHT from RHT-SLNs.

Preclinical safety of solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers: Current evidence from in vitro and in vivo evaluation

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) were designed as exceptionally safe colloidal carriers for the delivery of poorly soluble drugs. SLN/NLC have the particularity of being composed of excipientsalready approved for use in medicines for human use, which offers a great advantage over any other nanoparticulate system developed from novel materials. Despite this fact, any use of excipients in new route of administration or in new dosage form requires evidence of safety. After 25 years of research on SLN and NLC, enough evidence on their preclinical safety has been published. In the present work, published data on in vitro and in vivo compatibility of SLN/NLC have been surveyed, in order to provide evidence of high biocompatibility distinguished by intended administration route. We also identified critical factors and possible weak points in SLN/NLC formulations, such as the effect of surfactants on the cell viability in vitro, which should be considered for further development.

Formulation and Physicochemical Characterization of Lycopene-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles

PURPOSE

Lycopene belongs to the carotenoids that shows good pharmacological properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer. However, as a result of very low aqueous solubility, it has a limited systemic absorption, following oral administration.

METHODS

Here, we prepared a stable lycopene-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles using Precirol® ATO5, Compritol 888 ATO and myristic acid by hot homogenization method with some modification. The size and morphological characteristics of nanoparticles were evaluated using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Moreover, zeta potential and dispersity index (DI) were measured using zeta sizer. In addition, encapsulation efficiency (EE%), drug loading (DL) and cumulative drug release were quantified.

RESULTS

The results showed that the size and DI of particles was generally smaller in the case of SLNs prepared with precirol when compared to SLNs prepared with compritol. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and particle size analyses showed spherical SLNs (125 ± 3.89 nm), monodispersed distribution, and zeta potential of -10.06 ± 0.08 mV. High EE (98.4 ± 0.5 %) and DL (44.8 ± 0.46 mg/g) were achieved in the case of nanoparticles prepared by precirol. The stability study of the lycopene-SLNs in aqueous medium (4 °C) was showed that after 2 months there is no significant differences seen in size and DI compared with the fresh formulation.

CONCLUSION

Conclusively, in this investigation we prepared a stable lycopene-SLNs with good physicochemical characteristic which candidate it for the future in vivo trials in nutraceutical industries.

Formulation, characterization, and geno/cytotoxicity studies of galbanic acid-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles

CONTEXT

Galbanic acid (GBA) is a sesquiterpene coumarin with different medicinal properties and anticancer effects.

OBJECTIVE

To improve the anticancer activities of GBA, in the current study, we aimed to fabricate GBA-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (GBA-SLNs) and study their biological activities in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hot homogenization was used for preparation of GBA-SLNs. The encapsulation efficiency (EE) and drug loading (DL) and in vitro release were determined. MTT, DAPI, DNA fragmentation, comet, and Anexin V apoptosis assays were used to compare the anti-cell proliferation and genotoxicity properties of GBA and GBA-SLNs against A549 cells and HUVEC to detect apoptosis and DNA damage in the final concentration of 100 µM after 48 h treatment.

RESULTS

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and particle size analysis showed spherical SLNs (92 nm), monodispersed distribution, and zeta potential of -23.39 mV. High EE (>98%) and long-term in vitro release were achieved. The stability of GBA-SLNs in aqueous medium was approved after 3 months in terms of size and polydispersity index. GBA was able to inhibit A549 growth with an IC50 value of 62 µM at 48 h. Although GBA-SLNs could also inhibit the growth rate of A549 cells, the effect is perceived after 48 h, as approved by the quantitative expression of Bcl-xL and Casp 9 genes, and also genotoxicity assays.

CONCLUSION

Long-term apoptotic effect of GBA-SLNs compared with GBA may be due to the accumulation of GBA-SLNs in the tumor site because of deviant tumor pathology. Our data confirmed that SLNs could be exploited for sustained lipophilic GBA delivery.

Abietane diterpenoid of Salvia sahendica Boiss and Buhse potently inhibits MCF-7 breast carcinoma cells by suppression of the PI3K/AKT pathway

Ketoethiopinone and ortho-diacetate aethiopinone were identified from the roots of S. sahendica and evaluated for their anti-cancer activity in MCF-7 breast cell lines. The type of cell death and the mechanism by which MCF-7 proliferation was limited were investigated.

Geno/cytotoxicty and Apoptotic Properties of Phenolic Compounds from the Seeds of Dorema Glabrum Fisch. C.A

Introduction: Dorema glabrum (Apiaceae) is a rare and monocarpic species distributed in Transcaucasia and North West of Iran. We aimed to explore anti-cancer potency of bioactive compounds from the seeds of Dorma glabrum.

Methods: Methanol extract was subjected to phytochemical investigation using normal phase Sep-pak and reversed-phase HPLC, and cytotoxic effect of isolated compounds on CAOV-4 cell line was evaluated. Furthermore, Annexin V/PI staining and comet assay were used to study genotoxicity of compounds.

Results: Diglucosyl caffeoyl ester (1), Glucopyranosylcaffeic acid (2) and skimmin (3), were identified. MTT cytotoxicity assay showed growth inhibition of CAOV-4 cells due to treatment with compunds (1), (2) and (3) with an IC₅₀ of 99.7, 87.3 and 70.03 μg/ml at 48 h, respectively. Annexin V-FITC/PI staining showed occurrence of early/late apoptosis in the (1)-treated cells, while (2)-and (3)-treated cells necrosis/late apoptosis was dominant event. Single/double strands DNA breakages were observed by comet assay in all treatments.

Conclusion: This work provides sufficient information about anti-cancer properties of the diglucosyl caffeoyl ester from the seeds of D. glabrum.

An in vitro and in vivo comparison of solid and liquid-oil cores in transdermal aconitine nanocarriers

This study compared transdermal aconitine delivery using solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and microemulsion (ME) vehicles. Aconitine-loaded SLN and ME were formulated with the same surfactant, cosurfactant, and water content, with an equal amount of oil matrix (ATO 888 for SLN and ethyl oleate for ME). These nanosized formulations (70-90 nm) showed suitable pH values and satisfactory skin tissue biocompatibility. SLN contained a higher concentration of smaller nanoparticles, compared with that in ME. Neither of the nanocarriers penetrated across excised skin in their intact form. In vitro transdermal delivery studies found that transdermal aconitine flux was lower from SLN than from ME (p < 0.05), but skin aconitine deposition was higher using SLN (p < 0.05). Fluorescence-activated cell sorting indicated that in vitro uptake of fluorescently labeled SLN by human immortalized keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells was greater than that of ME, indicating that a transcellular pathway may contribute to cutaneous drug absorption more effectively from SLN. In vivo studies found that these formulations could loosen stratum corneum layers and increase skin surface crannies, which may also enhance transdermal aconitine delivery. SLN produced a more sustained aconitine release, indicating that compared with ME, this transdermal delivery vehicle may reduce the toxicity of this drug.