A novel approach to oral iron delivery using ferrous sulphate loaded solid lipid nanoparticles

Solid lipid nanoparticles and their application in the treatment of bacterial infectious diseases

Nano pharmacology is considered an effective, safe, and applicable approach for drug delivery applications. Solid lipid nanoparticle (SLNs) colloids contain biocompatible lipids which are capable of encapsulating and maintaining hydrophilic or hydrophobic drugs in the solid matrix followed by releasing the drug in a sustained manner in the target site. SLNs have more promising potential than other drug delivery systems for various purposes. Nowadays, the SLNs are used as a carrier for antibiotics, chemotherapeutic drugs, nucleic acids, herbal compounds, etc. The SLNs have been widely applied in biomedicine because of their non-toxicity, biocompatibility, and simple production procedures. In this review, the complications related to the optimization, preparation process, routes of transplantation, uptake and delivery system, and release of the loaded drug along with the advantages of SLNs as therapeutic agents were discussed.

Recent advances in iron encapsulation and its application in food fortification

Iron (Fe) is an important element for our body since it takes part in a huge variety of metabolic processes. However, the direct incorporation of Fe into food fortification causes a number of problems along with undesirable organoleptic properties. Thus, encapsulation has been suggested to alleviate this problem. This study first sheds more light on the Fe encapsulation strategies and comprehensively explains the results of Fe encapsulation studies in the last decade. Then, the latest attempts to use Fe (in free or encapsulated forms) to fortify foods such as bakery products, dairy products, rice, lipid-containing foods, salt, fruit/vegetable-based products, and infant formula are presented. Double emulsions are highly effective at keeping their Fe content and display encapsulation efficiency (EE) > 88% although it decreases upon storage. The encapsulation by gel beads possesses several advantages including high EE, as well as reduced and great Fe release in gastric and duodenal conditions, respectively. Cereals, particularly bread and wheat, are common staple foods globally; they are very suitable for food fortification by Fe derivatives. Nevertheless, the majority of Fe in flour is available as salts of phytic acid (IP6) and phytates, reducing Fe bioavailability in the human body. The sourdough process degrades IP6 completely while Chorleywood Bread Making Process and conventional processes decrease it by 75% in comparison with whole meal flour.

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Review of the Current Research on Encapsulation and Delivery Systems for Active and Antioxidant Compounds

Various active compounds are easily damaged, so they need protection and must be easily absorbed and targeted. This problem can be overcome by encapsulating in the form of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs). Initially, SLNs were widely used to encapsulate hydrophobic (non-polar) active compounds because of their matched affinity and interactions. Currently, SLNs are being widely used for the encapsulation of hydrophilic (polar) and semipolar active compounds, but there are challenges, including increasing their entrapment efficiency. This review provides information on current research on SLNs for encapsulation and delivery systems for active and antioxidant compounds, which includes various synthesis methods and applications of SLNs in various fields of utilization. SLNs can be developed starting from the selection of solid lipid matrices, emulsifiers/surfactants, types of active compounds or antioxidants, synthesis methods, and their applications or utilization. The type of lipid used determines crystal formation, control of active compound release, and encapsulation efficiency. Various methods can be used in the SLN fabrication of active compounds and hydrophilic/hydrophobic antioxidants, which have advantages and disadvantages. Fabrication design, which includes the selection of lipid matrices, surfactants, and fabrication methods, determines the characteristics of SLNs. High-shear homogenization combined with ultrasonication is the recommended method and has been widely used because of the ease of preparation and good results. Appropriate fabrication design can produce SLNs with stable active compounds and antioxidants that become suitable encapsulation systems for various applications or uses.

Nanoparticles targeting hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells: Multimodal carriers for the treatment of hematological diseases

Modern-day hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) therapies, such as gene therapy, modify autologous HSCs prior to re-infusion into myelo-conditioned patients and hold great promise for treatment of hematological disorders. While this approach has been successful in numerous clinical trials, it relies on transplantation of ex vivo modified patient HSCs, which presents several limitations. It is a costly and time-consuming procedure, which includes only few patients so far, and ex vivo culturing negatively impacts on the viability and stem cell-properties of HSCs. If viral vectors are used, this carries the additional risk of insertional mutagenesis. A therapy delivered to HSCs in vivo, with minimal disturbance of the HSC niche, could offer great opportunities for novel treatments that aim to reverse disease symptoms for hematopoietic disorders and could bring safe, effective and affordable genetic therapies to all parts of the world. However, substantial unmet needs exist with respect to the in vivo delivery of therapeutics to HSCs. In the last decade, in particular with the development of gene editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9, nanoparticles (NPs) have become an emerging platform to facilitate the manipulation of cells and organs. By employing surface modification strategies, different types of NPs can be designed to target specific tissues and cell types in vivo. HSCs are particularly difficult to target due to the lack of unique cell surface markers that can be utilized for cell-specific delivery of therapeutics, and their shielded localization in the bone marrow (BM). Recent advances in NP technology and genetic engineering have resulted in the development of advanced nanocarriers that can deliver therapeutics and imaging agents to hematopoietic stem- and progenitor cells (HSPCs) in the BM niche. In this review we provide a comprehensive overview of NP-based approaches targeting HSPCs to control and monitor HSPC activity in vitro and in vivo, and we discuss the potential of NPs for the treatment of malignant and non-malignant hematological disorders, with a specific focus on the delivery of gene editing tools.

Geoalkalibacter halelectricus SAP-1 sp. nov. possessing extracellular electron transfer and mineral-reducing capabilities from a haloalkaline environment

The extracellular electron transfer (EET)-capable electroactive microorganisms (EAMs) play crucial roles in mineral cycling and interspecies electron transfer in different environments and are used as biocatalysts in microbial electrochemical technologies. Studying EAMs from extreme environments is desired to advance the electromicrobiology discipline, understanding their unique metabolic traits with implications to extreme microbiology, and develop specific bioelectrochemical applications. Here, we present a novel haloalkaliphilic bacterium named Geoalkalibacter halelectricus SAP-1, isolated from a microbial electroactive biofilm enriched from the haloalkaline lake sediments. It is a rod-shaped Gram-negative heterotrophic anaerobe that uses various carbon and energy sources and respires on soluble and insoluble terminal electron acceptors. Besides 16S-rRNA and whole-genome-based phylogeny, the GGDC values of 21.7 %, ANI of 78.5, and 2.77 % genomic DNA GC content difference with the closest validly named species Geoalkalibacter ferrihydriticus (DSM 17813^T ) confirmed its novelty. When grown with the solid-state electrode as the only electron acceptor, it produced 460±23 μA/cm² bioelectrocatalytic current, thereby confirming its electroactivity. Further electrochemical analysis revealed the presence of membrane redox components with high formal potentials, putatively involved in the direct mode of EET. These are distinct from EET components reported for any known electroactive microorganisms, including well-studied Geobacter spp., Shewanella spp. and Desulfuromonas acetexigens. Further the capabilities of G. halelectricus SAP-1 to respire soluble as well insoluble electron acceptors including fumarate, SO₄ ^2- , Fe³⁺ , and Mn⁴⁺ suggests its role in cycling these elements in haloalkaline environments. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Preparation of Solid Lipid Nanoparticle-Ferrous Sulfate by Double Emulsion Method Based on Fat Rich in Monolaurin and Stearic Acid

Ferrous sulfate is one type of iron that is commonly used in iron supplementation and fortification in food products, but it has low stability and an unfavorable flavor, causing its use to be limited. Encapsulation in a solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) system is one technology that offers stable active compound protection and a good delivery system; however, a solid lipid matrix should be selected which has good health effects, such as glycerol monolaurate or monolaurin. The purpose of this study was to obtain SLN-ferrous sulfate based on stearic acid and fat rich in monolaurin. SLN-Ferrous sulfate was synthesized at various concentrations of monolaurin-rich fat (20%; 30%; 40% w/w lipid) and various concentrations of ferrous sulfate (5%; 10%; 15% w/w lipid). The results showed that the use of monolaurin-rich fat 40% w/w lipid and 15% w/w ferrous sulfate produced the best characteristics with high entrapment efficiency and loading capacity of 0.06%. The Z-average value of SLN was 292.4 nm with a polydispersity index (PI) of 1.03. SLN-ferrous sulfate showed a spherical morphology, where the Fe trapped in the SLN was evenly dispersed in the lipid matrix to form a nanosphere system. Preparation of SLN-ferrous sulfate by double emulsion method based on stearic acid and fat rich in monolaurin effectively encapsulated ferrous sulfate with high entrapment efficiency and good physicochemical properties.

The effects of combination therapy by solid lipid nanoparticle and dental stem cells on different degenerative diseases

Stem cells have multiple therapeutic applications, as well as solid lipid nanoparticles. Solid lipid nanoparticle has appeared as a field of nano lipid technology with various potential applications in drug delivery, clinical medicine and research. Besides, the stem cells have a high proliferation rate and could differentiate into a variety of tissues. Stem cells derived from human dental pulp tissue differ from other sources of mesenchymal stem cells due to their embryonic neural crest source and neurotrophic potential. These consist of both dental pulp stem cells from dental pulp tissues of human permanent teeth and stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth. With the emergence of stem cell banks, stem cells are considering for tissue engineering with respect to therapies attitude and regenerative medicine. The present study aimed to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the solid lipid nanoparticle and stem cells combination therapy in different therapeutic applications. The solid lipid nanoparticles have anticancer activity against tumors, induce neural differentiation in pluripotent stem cells, and regulate the mesenchymal stem cells. They also have immunomodulatory effects on human mesenchymal stem cells, the gene transfection efficiency, osteogenic differentiation and bone regeneration. But, the crucial health hazards related to stem cell transplantation such as immune rejection reactions and the interaction with other tissues and the effect of solid lipid nanoparticles must not be neglected. Overall, more experiments need to approve the synergism and antagonism effects of the stem cells and solid lipid nanoparticle combination therapy on different degenerative diseases.

Facilitated and Controlled Strontium Ranelate Delivery Using GCS-HA Nanocarriers Embedded into PEGDA Coupled with Decortication Driven Spinal Regeneration

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Strontium ranelate (SrR) is an oral pharmaceutical agent for osteoporosis. In recent years, numerous unwanted side effects of oral SrR have been revealed. Therefore, its clinical administration and applications are limited. Hereby, this study aims to develop, formulate, and characterize an effective SrR carrier system for spinal bone regeneration.

METHODS

Herein, glycol chitosan with hyaluronic acid (HA)-based nanoformulation was used to encapsulate SrR nanoparticles (SrRNPs) through electrostatic interaction. Afterward, the poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA)-based hydrogels were used to encapsulate pre-synthesized SrRNPs (SrRNPs-H). The scanning electron microscope (SEM), TEM, rheometer, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) were used to characterize prepared formulations. The rabbit osteoblast and a rat spinal decortication models were used to evaluate and assess the developed formulation biocompatibility and therapeutic efficacy.

RESULTS

In vitro and in vivo studies for cytotoxicity and bone regeneration were conducted. The cell viability test showed that SrRNPs exerted no cytotoxic effects in osteoblast in vitro. Furthermore, in vivo analysis for new bone regeneration mechanism was carried out on rat decortication models. Radiographical and histological analysis suggested a higher level of bone regeneration in the SrRNPs-H-implanted groups than in the other experimental groups.

CONCLUSION

Local administration of the newly developed formulated SrR could be a promising alternative therapy to enhance bone regeneration in bone-defect sites in future clinical applications.

Different Microfluidic Environments for In Vitro Testing of Lipid Nanoparticles against Osteosarcoma

The use of lipid nanoparticles as biodegradable shells for controlled drug delivery shows promise as a more effective and targeted tumor treatment than traditional treatment methods. Although the combination of target therapy with nanotechnology created new hope for cancer treatment, methodological issues during in vitro validation of nanovehicles slowed their application. In the current work, the effect of methotrexate (MTX) encapsulated in different matrices was evaluated in a dynamic microfluidic platform. Effects on the viability of osteosarcoma cells in the presence of recirculation of cell media, free MTX and two types of blank and drug-containing nanoparticles were successfully assessed in different tumor-mimicking microenvironments. Encapsulated MTX was more effective than the equal dose free drug treatment, as cell death significantly increased under the recirculation of both types of drug-loaded nanoparticles in all concentrations. In fact, MTX-nanoparticles reduced cell population 50 times more than the free drug when 150-µM drug dose was recirculated. Moreover, when compared to the equivalent free drug dose recirculation, cell number was reduced 60 and 100 points more under recirculation of each nanoparticle with a 15-µM drug concentration. Thus, the results obtained with the microfluidic model present MTX-lipid nanoparticles as a promising and more effective therapy for pediatric osteosarcoma treatment than current treatment options.

Biosynthesized Iron Oxide Nanoparticles from Petroselinum crispum Leaf Extract Mitigate Lead-Acetate-Induced Anemia in Male Albino Rats: Hematological, Biochemical and Histopathological Features

This study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) prepared from leaf extract of Petroselinum crispum compared to those prepared using a chemical method in lead-acetate-induced anemic rats. Twenty rats were divided into four groups (five rats each). Throughout the experimental period (8 weeks), the rats in group 1 were not given any therapy. The rats in groups 2, 3 and 4 were given 400 ppm lead acetate orally for 2 weeks to make them anemic. Following that, these rats were either left untreated, given 27 ppm of chemical IONPs orally or given 27 ppm of natural IONPs orally for the remaining 6 weeks of the experiment. TEM analysis indicated that the chemically and naturally prepared IONPs had sizes of 6.22–9.7  and 64–68 nm, respectively. Serum ferritin and iron concentrations were reduced, whereas the total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), ALT, AST, urea and creatinine were significantly increased in the non-treated lead-acetate-induced anemic rats compared to those of the control. In addition, congestion, hemorrhage, necrosis, vacuolation and leukocytic infiltration in the kidneys, liver and spleen were observed in non-treated lead-acetate-induced anemic rats compared to the control. The effects of lead acetate were mitigated by IONPs, particularly the natural one. In conclusion, IONPs produced from Petroselinum crispum leaf extract can be used as an efficient and safe therapy in lead-acetate-induced anemic rats.

Development and Optimization of Mirabegron Solid Lipid Nanoparticles as an Oral Drug Delivery for Overactive Bladder

BACKGROUND

Mirabegron (MBN), a β-3 adrenergic agent, is used in the treatment of overactive bladder. MBN has alow water solubility, high first-pass metabolism, and low bioavailability, consequently having poor absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.

OBJECTIVE

The present study is intended to formulate Mirabegron-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (MBN-SLN) coated with PEG-400 to bypass hepatic first-pass metabolism and to improve its oral bioavailability.

METHODS

MBN-SLNs were developed using glyceryl monostearate by pre-emulsion-ultrasonication method, which was then optimized applying Box-Behnken Design. The optimized batch of MBN-SLN was selected for surface-modification with PEG-400 (MBN-PEG-SLN) and characterized by photon correlation spectroscopy, DSC, and XRD. Bioavailability studies were conducted in Wistar rats after oral administration of plain MBN dispersion, MBN-SLN, and MBN-PEG-SLN.

RESULTS

Stable MBN-SLNs and MBN-PEG-SLN of the optimized batch having a mean particle size of 162.7 nm and 149.9 nm; zeta potential of -39.1 mV and -30.9 mV; % entrapment of 89.90% and 90.12%, respectively, were developed. The results of the in vitro drug release studies demonstrated a significant slow release of MBN from MBN-SLN (69.38%) and MBN-PEG-SLN (61.33%) as compared to the dispersion of pure drug (92.10%). The relative bioavailability, as a result of the in vivo studies, of MBN from MBN-PEG-SLN increased by 2-fold, based on the Cmax values, in comparison with the plain MBN dispersion.

CONCLUSION

Thus, the study established that the oral bioavailability of MBN could be improved by the administration of MBN-PEG-SLN. The obtained results indicate SLNs as a potential drug delivery system for improving the bioavailability of poorly bioavailable drugs such as MBN by abating the first-pass metabolism.

Iron supplementation and iron-fortified foods: a review

About one-third of the world population is suffering from iron deficiency. Delivery of iron through diet is a practical, economical, and sustainable approach. Clinical studies have shown that the consumption of iron-fortified foods is one of the most effective methods for the prevention of iron deficiency. However, supplementing iron through diet can cause undesirable side-effects. Thus, it is essential to develop new iron-rich ingredients, iron-fortified products with high bioavailability, better stability, and lower cost. It is also essential to develop newer processing technologies for more effective fortification. This review compared the iron supplementation strategies used to treat the highly iron-deficient population and the general public. We also reviewed the efficacy of functional (iron-rich) ingredients that can be incorporated into food materials to produce iron-fortified foods. The most commonly available foods, such as cereals, bakery products, dairy products, beverages, and condiments are still the best vehicles for iron fortification and delivery.Scope of reviewThe manuscript aims at providing a comprehensive review of the latest publications that cover three aspects: administration routes for iron supplementation, iron-rich ingredients used for iron supplementation, and iron-fortified foods.

Enterobacter sp. Mediated Synthesis of Biocompatible Nanostructured Iron-Polysaccharide Complexes: a Nutritional Supplement for Iron-Deficiency Anemia

FDA has approved iron oxide nanoparticles (IONs) coated with organic compounds as a safe material with less toxic effects compared with the naked metal ions and nanoparticles. In this study, the biological and physicochemical characteristics of a nanostructured iron-polysaccharide complexes (Nano-IPC) biosynthesized by Enterobacter sp. were evaluated. Furthermore, the serum biochemical parameters, tissue iron level, red blood cell parameters, and organ ferritin of rats were measured for investigating the effect of the Nano-IPCs in comparison with FeSO₄ as a supplement for iron deficiency. The biosafety data demonstrated 35% increment of viability in Hep-G2 hepatocarcinoma cell lines when treated with nanoparticles (500 μg/mL) for 24 h. Besides, iron concentration in serum and tissue as well as the expression of ferritin L subunit in animals treated with the Nano-IPCs supplement were meaningfully higher than the FeSO₄-supplemented and negative control animals. Moreover, the expression level of ferritin H subunit and biochemical factors remained similar to the negative control animals in the Nano-IPC-supplemented group. These results indicated that Nano-IPCs can be considered as a nontoxic supplement for patients carrying iron-deficiency anemia (IDA).

Mucoadhesive microspheres of ferrous sulphate - A novel approach for oral iron delivery in treating anemia

Ferrous sulphate is a widely used oral iron supplement with low bioavailability and substantial side effects. In this study ferrous sulphate has been coated with highly mucoadhesive polymers such as hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HP), chitosan (CS) and carbopol (CP) by spray drying technique to produce mucoadhesive polymer coated microspheres with good yield and high encapsulation efficiency. Mucoadhesive coating may allow these microspheres to get attached to the intestine and hence better absorption of ferrous sulphate may be achieved. in vitro release studies from the microspheres show that the release follows non-Fickian zero order drug release. CP and CSHP coated microspheres showed good swelling(∼1200 to 2400 %) and mucoadhesion properties (58-95 %) indicating that they can swell and get attached to the intestine for longer time period as compared to free ferrous sulphate. All the microspheres were found to be non-cytotoxic in Caco2 cell lines and fibroblast cell lines. Cell uptake studies conducted on Caco2 cell lines showed that uptake of microspheres containing ferrous sulphate has an increased and sustained release to the cell as compared to free ferrous sulphate. Though cell uptake studies showed an increase in uptake for ferrous sulphate microspheres, comparable efficacy was observed upon administering ferrous sulphate microspheres and ferrous sulphate to phenyl hydrazine induced anemic rats.

Co-Administration of Iron and a Bioavailable Curcumin Supplement Increases Serum BDNF Levels in Healthy Adults

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is key for the maintenance of normal neuronal function and energy homeostasis and has been suggested to improve cognitive function, including learning and memory. Iron and the antioxidant curcumin have been shown to influence BDNF homeostasis. This 6-week, double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study examined the effects of oral iron supplementation at low (18 mg) and high (65 mg) ferrous (FS) iron dosages, compared to a combination of these iron doses with a bioavailable formulated form of curcumin (HydroCurc^TM; 500 mg) on BDNF levels in a healthy adult cohort of 155 male (26.42 years ± 0.55) and female (25.82 years ± 0.54) participants. Participants were randomly allocated to five different treatment groups: both iron and curcumin placebo (FS0+Plac), low dose iron and curcumin placebo (FS18+Plac), low dose iron and curcumin (FS18+Curc), high dose iron and curcumin placebo (FS65+Plac) and high dose iron and curcumin (FS65+Curc). Results showed a significant increase in BDNF over time (26%) in the FS18+Curc group (p = 0.024), and at end-point between FS18+Curc and FS18+Plac groups (35%, p = 0.042), demonstrating for the first time that the combination with curcumin, rather than iron supplementation alone, results in increased serum BDNF. The addition of curcumin to iron supplementation may therefore provide a novel approach to further enhance the benefits associated with increased BDNF levels.

Advances in Nanoliposomes Production for Ferrous Sulfate Delivery

In this study, a continuous bench scale apparatus based on microfluidic fluid dynamic principles was used in the production of ferrous sulfate-nanoliposomes for pharmaceutical/nutraceutical applications, optimizing their formulation with respect to the products already present on the market. After an evaluation of its fluid dynamic nature, the simil-microfluidic (SMF) apparatus was first used to study the effects of the adopted process parameters on vesicles dimensional features by using ultrasonic energy to enhance liposomes homogenization. Subsequently, iron-nanoliposomes were produced at different weight ratios of ferrous sulfate to the total formulation components (0.06, 0.035, 0.02, and 0.01 w/w) achieving, by using the 0.01 w/w, vesicles of about 80 nm, with an encapsulation efficiency higher than 97%, an optimal short- and long-term stability, and an excellent bioavailability in Caco-2 cell line. Moreover, a comparison realized between the SMF method and two more conventional production techniques showed that by using the SMF setup the process time was drastically reduced, and the process yield increased, achieving a massive nanoliposomes production. Finally, duty-cycle sonication was detected to be a scalable technique for vesicles homogenization.

Iron encapsulated microstructured gel beads using an emulsification-gelation technique for an alginate-caseinate matrix

Iron-deficiency anemia is an important health problem in global public issues, and development of iron fortifiers in diets is essential for the decrease of iron deficiency. However, there are problems for iron fortification in food because the common bioavailable iron compounds would contribute to iron-promoted lipid oxidation and unpleasant iron odor, presenting an adverse food quality. Ferrous fumarate loaded microstructured gel beads were prepared by an emulsification-gelation method using an alginate-caseinate matrix, and the gel network was formed by crosslinking of Ca²⁺ or Fe²⁺. Internal gelated beads showed relatively symmetrical and homogeneous spheres with no adhesion due to the simultaneous release of Fe²⁺ to initiate gelation in situ. External gelated beads displayed an irregular and adhesive structure, probably because the random contact between Na-ALG and Ca²⁺ occurred on the droplet surface, and the immediately gelated hardening layer provided a delay for further Ca²⁺ diffusion. The gel beads exhibited a lag phase in the promotion of lipid oxidation of the emulsion and restrained the iron odor release from ferrous fumarate. Ferrous ion release from microstructured gel beads in the simulated gastric juice was obviously delayed before a more progressive high release in the simulated intestinal juice, beneficial for iron absorption in the duodenum. The iron encapsulated microstructured gel beads might be developed as a promising safe iron fortifier by relieving lipid oxidation and iron odor.

Bacteria-assisted biogreen synthesis of radical scavenging exopolysaccharide-iron complexes: an oral nano-sized nutritional supplement with high in vivo compatibility

Microbial exopolysaccharides (EPSs) have recently served as an efficient substrate for the production of biocompatible metal nanoparticles (NPs) given their favorable stabilizing and reducing properties due to the presence of polyanionic functional groups in their structure. In the present work, Pantoea sp. BCCS 001 GH was used to produce EPS-stabilized biogenic Fe NPs as a complex through a novel biosynthesis reaction. Physicochemical characterization of the EPS-Fe complex was performed, indicating high thermal stability, desirable magnetic properties due to the uniform distribution of the Fe NPs with the average size of ∼10 nm and spherical shape within the EPS matrix. In addition, the in vivo toxicity of the EPS-stabilized Fe NPs was evaluated to investigate their potential for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia. Biological blood parameters and organ histology studies confirmed very high safety of the biosynthesized composite, making EPS-Fe a suitable candidate with an economical and environment friendly synthesis method for a wide spectrum of potential fields in medicine.

Nanoparticles for hematologic diseases detection and treatment

Nanotechnology, as an interdisciplinary science, combines engineering, physics, material sciences, and chemistry with the biomedicine knowhow, trying the management of a wide range of diseases. Nanoparticle-based devices holding tumor imaging, targeting and therapy capabilities are formerly under study. Since conventional hematological therapies are sometimes defined by reduced selectivity, low therapeutic efficacy and many side effects, in this review we discuss the potential advantages of the NPs' use in alternative/combined strategies. In the introduction the basic notion of nanomedicine and nanoparticles' classification are described, while in the main text nanodiagnostics, nanotherapeutics and theranostics solutions coming out from the use of a wide-ranging NPs availability are listed and discussed.

Green Nanotechnology-Driven Drug Delivery Assemblies

Green nanotechnology incorporates the principles of green chemistry and green engineering to fabricate innocuous and eco-friendly nanoassemblies to combat the problems affecting the human health or environment. Subsequently, amalgamation of green nanotechnology with drug delivery area has actually commenced a new realm of "green nanomedicine". The burgeoning demand for green nanotechnology-driven drug delivery systems has led to the development of different types of delivery devices, like inorganic (metallic) nanoparticles, quantum dots, organic polymeric nanoparticles, mesoporous silica nanoparticles, dendrimers, nanostructured lipid carriers, solid lipid nanoparticles, etc. The present article deals with a brief account of delivery devices produced from green methods and describes site-specific drug delivery systems (including their pros and cons) and their relevance in the field of green nanomedicine.

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

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

Skin permeation, biocompatibility and antitumor effect of chloroaluminum phthalocyanine associated to oleic acid in lipid nanoparticles

The objective of this study was to develop and characterize lipid nanoparticles (LNs) containing chloroaluminum phthalocyanine (ClAlPc) to reduce the aggregation of the drug and improve its skin penetration and its antitumor effect. LNs were prepared and characterized by using stearic acid (SA) as solid lipid and oleic acid (OA) as liquid lipid in different proportions. in vitro and in vivo skin penetration was evaluated using modified Franz diffusion cells and fluorescence microscopy, respectively. in vitro biocompatibility and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) were performed using L929-fibroblasts cell line and A549 cancer cell line and melanoma BF16-F10, respectively. OA promoted the increase in the encapsulation efficiency and drug loading, reaching values of 95.8% and 4%, respectively. The formulation with 40% OA (NLC 40) showed a significantly higher (p < 0.01) amount of drug retained in the skin compared to other formulations. All formulations developed were considered biocompatible. PDT evidenced the antitumor efficacy of NLC 40 with reduced cell viability for approximately 10% of cancer cells, demonstrating that the presence of OA in the NLC seems to potentialize this antitumor effect. PDT in BF16-F10 melanoma using NLC 40 resulted in a reduction in mean cell viability of approximately 99%. According to the results obtained, the systems developed may be promising for the incorporation of ClAlPc in the treatment of skin cancer by photodynamic therapy.

Hydrophobically modified chitosan nanoliposomes for intestinal drug delivery

Background

Encapsulation of hydrophilic drugs within liposomes can be challenging.

Methods

A novel chitosan derivative, O-palmitoyl chitosan (OPC) was synthesized from chitosan and palmitoyl chloride using methane-sulfonic acid as a solvent. The success of synthesis was confirmed by Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR) spectroscopy and proton NMR spectroscopy (H-NMR). Liposomes encapsulating ferrous sulphate as a model hydrophilic drug for intestinal delivery were prepared with or without OPC inclusion (Lipo-Fe and OPC-Lipo-Fe).

Results

Entrapment of iron was significantly higher in OPC containing liposomes compared to controls. Quantitative iron absorption from the OPC liposomes was significantly higher (1.5-fold P<0.05) than free ferrous sulphate controls. Qualitative uptake analysis by confocal imaging using coumarin-6 dye loaded liposomes also indicated higher cellular uptake and internalization of the OPC-containing liposomes.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that addition of OPC during liposome preparation creates robust vesicles that have improved mucoadhesive and absorption enhancing properties. The chitosan derivative OPC therefore provides a novel alternative for formulation of delivery vehicles targeting intestinal absorption.

Recent advances in oral delivery of drugs and bioactive natural products using solid lipid nanoparticles as the carriers

Chemical and enzymatic barriers in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract hamper the oral delivery of many labile drugs. The GI epithelium also contributes to poor permeability for numerous drugs. Drugs with poor aqueous solubility have difficulty dissolving in the GI tract, resulting in low bioavailability. Nanomedicine provides an opportunity to improve the delivery efficiency of orally administered drugs. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are categorized as a new generation of lipid nanoparticles consisting of a complete solid lipid matrix. SLNs used for oral administration offer several benefits over conventional formulations, including increased solubility, enhanced stability, improved epithelium permeability and bioavailability, prolonged half-life, tissue targeting, and minimal side effects. The nontoxic excipients and sophisticated material engineering of SLNs tailor the controllable physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles for GI penetration via mucosal or lymphatic transport. In this review, we highlight the recent progress in the development of SLNs for disease treatment. Recent application of oral SLNs includes therapies for cancers, central nervous system-related disorders, cardiovascular-related diseases, infection, diabetes, and osteoporosis. In addition to drugs that may be active cargos in SLNs, some natural compounds with pharmacological activity are also suitable for SLN encapsulation to enhance oral bioavailability. In this article, we systematically introduce the concepts and amelioration mechanisms of the nanomedical techniques for drug- and natural compound-loaded SLNs.

The Effects of Nanoparticles Containing Iron on Blood and Inflammatory Markers in Comparison to Ferrous Sulfate in Anemic Rats

Background:

Ferrous sulfate is the most used supplement for treating anemia, but it can result in unfavorable side effects. Nowadays, nanotechnology is used as a way to increase bioavailability and decrease the side effects of drugs and nutrients. This study investigates the effects of nanoparticles containing iron on blood and inflammatory markers in comparison to ferrous sulfate in anemic rats.

Methods:

To induce the model of hemolytic anemia, 50 mg/kg bw phenylhydrazine was injected intraperitoneally in rats on the 1^st day and 25 mg/kg bw for the four following days. Then, rats were randomly divided into five groups. No material was added to the nipple of the Group 1 (control). Group 2 received 0.4 mg/day nanoparticles of iron; Group 3 received 0.4 mg/day ferrous sulfate, and Groups 4 and 5 received double dose of iron nanoparticle and ferrous sulfate, respectively for ten days.

Results:

Hemoglobin and red blood cell (RBC) in Group 2 were significantly higher than Group 3 (P < 0.05). In addition, hemoglobin and RBC in Group 4 and 5 were significantly higher than Group 3 (P < 0.05). The average level of serum iron in Groups 2 and 4 was remarkably more than the groups received ferrous sulfate with similar doses (P < 0.05). C-reactive protein in Group 3 was more than Group 2 and in Group 5 was more compare to all other groups.

Conclusions:

Single dose of nanoparticles had more bioavailability compare to ferrous sulfate, but this did not occur for the double dose. Furthermore, both doses of nanoparticles caused lower inflammation than ferrous sulfate.

Solid lipid nanoparticles as attractive drug vehicles: Composition, properties and therapeutic strategies

This work briefly reviews up-to-date developments in solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) as effective nanocolloidal system for drug delivery. It summarizes SLNs in terms of their preparation, surface modification and properties. The application of SLNs as a carrier system enables to improve the therapeutic efficacy of drugs from various therapeutic groups. Present uses of SLNs include cancer therapy, dermatology, bacterial infections, brain targeting and eye disorders among others. The usage of SLNs provides enhanced pharmacokinetic properties and modulated release of drugs. SLN ubiquitous application results from their specific features such as possibility of surface modification, increased permeation through biological barriers, resistance to chemical degradation, possibility of co-delivery of various therapeutic agents or stimuli-responsiveness. This paper will be useful to the scientists working in the domain of SLN-based drug delivery systems.

Utility of models of the gastrointestinal tract for assessment of the digestion and absorption of engineered nanomaterials released from food matrices

Engineered metal/mineral, lipid and biochemical macromolecule nanomaterials (NMs) have potential applications in food. Methodologies for the assessment of NM digestion and bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract are nascent and require refinement. A working group was tasked by the International Life Sciences Institute NanoRelease Food Additive project to review existing models of the gastrointestinal tract in health and disease, and the utility of these models for the assessment of the uptake of NMs intended for food. Gastrointestinal digestion and absorption could be addressed in a tiered approach using in silico computational models, in vitro non-cellular fluid systems and in vitro cell culture models, after which the necessity of ex vivo organ culture and in vivo animal studies can be considered. Examples of NM quantification in gastrointestinal tract fluids and tissues are emerging; however, few standardized analytical techniques are available. Coupling of these techniques to gastrointestinal models, along with further standardization, will further strengthen methodologies for risk assessment.

Ascorbyl palmitate/DSPE-PEG nanocarriers for oral iron delivery: preparation, characterisation and in vitro evaluation

The objective of this study was to encapsulate iron in nanocarriers formulated with ascorbyl palmitate and 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine polyethylene glycol (DSPE-PEG) for oral delivery. Blank and iron (Fe) loaded nanocarriers were prepared by a modified thin film method using ascorbyl palmitate and DSPE-PEG. Surface charge of the nanocarriers was modified by the inclusion of chitosan (CHI) during the formulation process. Blank and iron loaded ascorbyl palmitate/DSPE nanocarriers were visualised by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and physiochemical characterisations of the nanocarriers carried out to determine the mean particle size and zeta potential. Inclusion of chitosan imparted a net positive charge on the nanocarrier surface and also led to an increase in mean particle size. Iron entrapment in ascorbyl palmitate-Fe and ascorbyl palmitate-CHI-Fe nanocarriers was 67% and 76% respectively, suggesting a beneficial effect of chitosan on nanocarrier Fe entrapment. Iron absorption was estimated by measuring Caco-2 cell ferritin formation using ferrous sulphate as a reference standard. Iron absorption from ascorbyl palmitate-Fe (592.17±21.12 ng/mg cell protein) and ascorbyl palmitate-CHI-Fe (800.12±47.6 ng/mg, cell protein) nanocarriers was 1.35-fold and 1.5-fold higher than that from free ferrous sulphate, respectively (505.74±23.73 ng/mg cell protein) (n=6, p<0.05). This study demonstrates for the first time preparation and characterisation of iron loaded ascorbyl palmitate/DSPE PEG nanocarriers, and that engineering of the nanocarriers with chitosan leads to a significant augmentation of iron absorption.