Preparation and characterization of curcumin-piperine dual drug loaded nanoparticles

Curcumin/TGF-β1 siRNA loaded solid lipid nanoparticles alleviate cerebral injury after intracerebral hemorrhage by transnasal brain targeting

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a prevalent cerebrovascular disorder. The inflammation induced by cerebral hemorrhage plays a crucial role in the secondary injury of ICH and often accompanied by a poor prognosis, leading to disease exacerbation. However, blood-brain barrier (BBB) limiting the penetration of therapeutic drugs to the brain. In this paper, our primary objective is to develop an innovative, non-invasive, safe, and targeted formulation. This novel approach aims to synergistically harness the combined therapeutic effects of drugs to intervene in inflammation via a non-injectable route, thereby significantly mitigating the secondary damage precipitated by inflammation following ICH. Thus, a novel "anti-inflammatory" cationic solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) with targeting ability were constructed, which can enhance the stability of curcumin(CUR) and siRNA. We successfully developed SLN loaded with TGF-β1 siRNA and CUR (siRNA/CUR@SLN) that adhere to the requirements of drug delivery system by transnasal brain targeting. Through the characterization of nanoparticle properties, cytotoxicity assessment, in vitro pharmacological evaluation, and brain-targeting evaluation after nasal administration, siRNA/CUR@SLN exhibited a nearly spherical structure with a particle size of 125.0±1.93 nm, low cytotoxicity, high drug loading capacity, good sustained release function and good stability. In vitro anti-inflammatory results showcasing its remarkable anti-inflammatory activity. Moreover, in vivo pharmacological studies revealed that siRNA/CUR@SLN can be successfully delivered to brain tissue. Furthermore, it also elicited an effective anti-inflammatory response, alleviating brain inflammation. These results indicated that favorable brain-targeting ability and anti-inflammatory effects of siRNA/CUR@SLN in ICH model mice. In conclusion, our designed siRNA/CUR@SLN showed good brain targeting and anti-inflammatory effect ability after nasal administration, which lays the foundation for the treatment of inflammation caused by ICH and offers a novel approach for brain-targeted drug delivery and brings new hope.

Targeted therapies of curcumin focus on its therapeutic benefits in cancers and human health: Molecular signaling pathway-based approaches and future perspectives

The curry powder spices turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), which contains curcumin (diferuloylmethane), an orange-yellow chemical. Polyphenols are the most commonly used sources of curcumin. It combats oxidative stress and inflammation in diseases, such as hyperlipidemia, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, and depression. Most of these benefits are due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin consumption leads to decreased bioavailability, resulting in limited absorption, quick metabolism, and quick excretion, which hinders health improvement. Numerous factors can increase its bioavailability. Piperine enhances bioavailability when combined with curcumin in a complex. When combined with other enhancing agents, curcumin has a wide spectrum of health benefits. This review evaluates the therapeutic potential of curcumin with a specific emphasis on its approach based on molecular signaling pathways. This study investigated its influence on the progression of cancer, inflammation, and many health-related mechanisms, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. Curcumin has a significant potential for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. Curcumin modulates several biochemical pathways and targets involved in cancer growth. Despite its limited tissue accumulation and bioavailability when administered orally, curcumin has proven useful. This review provides an in-depth analysis of curcumin's therapeutic applications, its molecular signaling pathway-based approach, and its potential for precision medicine in cancer and human health.

Exploring Nanocarriers as Treatment Modalities for Skin Cancer

Cancer is a progressive disease of multi-factorial origin that has risen worldwide, probably due to changes in lifestyle, food intake, and environmental changes as some of the reasons. Skin cancer can be classified into melanomas from melanocytes and nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) from the epidermally-derived cell. Together it constitutes about 95% of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) are creditworthy of 99% of NMSC due to the limited accessibility of conventional formulations in skin cancer cells of having multiple obstacles in treatment reply to this therapeutic regime. Despite this, it often encounters erratic bioavailability and absorption to the target. Nanoparticles developed through nanotechnology platforms could be the better topical skin cancer therapy option. To improve the topical delivery, the nano-sized delivery system is appropriate as it fuses with the cutaneous layer and fluidized membrane; thus, the deeper penetration of therapeutics could be possible to reach the target spot. This review briefly outlooks the various nanoparticle preparations, i.e., liposomes, niosomes, ethosomes, transferosomes, transethosomes, nanoemulsions, and nanoparticles technologies tested into skin cancer and impede their progress tend to concentrate in the skin layers. Nanocarriers have proved that they can considerably boost medication bioavailability, lowering the frequency of dosage and reducing the toxicity associated with high doses of the medication.

Differential binding of piperine & curcumin with modified cellulose, alginate and pectin supports: In-vitro & in-silico studies

Use of natural polymer in the development of Drug Delivery Systems (DDS) has greatly increased in recent past because of their biocompatible, non-allergic and biodegradable nature. Natural polymers are usually hydrophilic supports, so in order to be a carrier of a hydrophobic drug their nature needs to be changed. Each developed system behaves differently towards different drugs in terms of loading and sustained release of the drug as well. In the present work we report differential binding of piperine & curcumin with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) modified cellulose, alginate and pectin. Difference in interaction between the piperine and curcumin with supports has been visualized using in-vitro as well as in-silico studies. Initial results obtained after in-silico studies have been validated via time dependent anti-trypsin, serum protein binding, anti-cathepsin, anti-oxidant, and anti-α-amylase activities. FT-IR, SEM, fluorescence and Particle size have been used to characterize the piperine loaded on CTAB-modified polymeric supports.

Piperine-loaded nanoparticles incorporated into hyaluronic acid/sodium alginate-based membranes for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases

Piperine is an alkaloid mostly found in the fruits of several species of the Piper genus, and its anti-inflammatory potential is already known. However, its therapeutic applications still need to be better explored due to the low aqueous solubility of this active. To overcome this drawback, the objective of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of the nanoencapsulation of the compound as well as its incorporation into hyaluronic acid/alginate-based biomembranes. Polymeric nanoparticles composed of Eudragit S100 and Poloxamer 188 were obtained by the nanoprecipitation technique, obtaining spherical nanosized particles with an average diameter of 122.1 ± 2.0 nm, polydispersity index of 0.266, and encapsulation efficiency of 76.2 %. Hyaluronic acid/sodium alginate membranes were then prepared and characterized. Regarding permeation, a slow passage rate was observed until the initial 14 h, when an exponential increase in the recovered drug concentration began to occur. The in vivo assay showed a reduction in inflammation up to 43.6 %, and no cytotoxicity was observed. The results suggested the potential of the system developed for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases.

Dual-Enhanced Pluronic Nanoformulated Methotrexate-Based Treatment Approach for Breast Cancer: Development and Evaluation of In Vitro and In Vivo Efficiency

Breast cancer is a prevalent tumor and causes deadly metastatic complications. Myriad cancer types, including breast cancer, are effectively treated by methotrexate (MTX). However, MTX hydrophobicity, adverse effects and the development of resistance have inspired a search for new effective strategies to overcome these challenges. These may include the addition of a bioenhancer and/or encapsulation into appropriate nano-based carriers. In the present study, the anticancer effect of MTX was fortified through dual approaches. First, the concomitant use of piperine (PIP) as a bioenhancer with MTX, which was investigated in the MCF-7 cell line. The results depicted significantly lower IC₅₀ values for the combination (PIP/MTX) than for MTX. Second, PIP and MTX were individually nanoformulated into F-127 pluronic nanomicelles (PIP-NMs) and F-127/P-105 mixed pluronic nanomicelles (MTX-MNMs), respectively, validated by several characterization techniques, and the re-investigated cytotoxicity of PIP-NMs and MTX-MNMs was fortified. Besides, the PIP-NMs/MTX-MNMs demonstrated further cytotoxicity enhancement. The PIP-NMs/MTX-MNMs combination was analyzed by flow cytometry to understand the cell death mechanism. Moreover, the in vivo assessment of PIP-NMs/MTX-MNMs was adopted through the Ehrlich ascites model, which revealed a significant reduction of the tumor weight. However, some results of the tumor markers showed that the addition of PIP-NMs to MTX-MNMs did not significantly enhance the antitumor effect.

Hydrophobically Modified Abelmoschus esculentus Polysaccharide Based Nanoparticles and Applications: A Review

Nanomaterials are indeed a nanoscale technology that deals with the creation, evaluation, fabrication, and utilization of systems at the nanometre scale by manipulating their size and shape. We consider natural polysaccharides such as promising polysaccharides, which are biodegradable, nontoxic, abundant, and inexpensive bio-polymeric precursors for preparing the materials of choice in various industries. The aim is to review different methods to produce hydrophobically modified Abelmoschus esculentus nanoparticles and study the evaluation processes of these nanoparticles as given in the literature. It proved the benefits of derivatives of gum by introducing different chemical groups. The chemical functionalization of gum mainly includes the esterification, etherification, and crosslinking reactions of the hydroxyl groups and contains a special fibre which takes sugar levels in the blood under control, providing a sugar quantity suitable for the bowels. Okra contains mucilage that helps remove poisonous chemicals and bad cholesterol, often overloads the liver. Recovering from psychological conditions, like depression, general weakness, and joint healthiness can be done with Okra. Someone additionally applied it for pulmonary inflammation, bowel irritation, and sore throat. Purgative properties okra possesses are beneficial for bowel purification. It is used to counteract the acids. Fibre okra contains a valuable nutrient for intestinal microorganisms and ensures proper intestine functionality. It also protects the mucosa of the digestive tract by covering them with an extra layer because of its alkaline nature. Nanotechnology has emerged as a critical component of pharmaceutics, with many applications in drug carriers of interest aimed at improving drug clinical outcomes such as cancer, diabetes mellitus, wound care management, atopic dermatitis, cosmeceutical, etc. Beneficial outcomes of this review are discussed briefly.

Vesicular Approach Review on Nanocarriers bearing Curcumin and Applications

Phytoconstituents have been used to treat a variety of human diseases for a long time, but their use in pharmaceuticals is limited because of their low aqueous solubility. Researchers have created vesicular systems to address many of the issues associated with the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of poorly water-soluble drugs and target the drug to the desired location in the body. Several vesicular nanocarrier systems have been developed. Review contrasts various vesicular drug delivery systems, including liposomes, sphingosomes, emulsomes, niosomes, ethosomes, virosomes, phytosomes, aquasomes, proniosomes, transfersomes, pharmacosomes. Vesicular drug delivery systems have caused a scientific revolution, which has resulted in the development of novel dosage forms. This review aims to illustrate the applications, advantages, and disadvantages of the vesicular approach as nanocarriers bearing curcumin and widely used in gene delivery, tumor-targeting to the brain, oral formulations, and resolving various problems associated with drug stability and permeability issues. Nanocarriers also has wide application as green nanocomposites and for antitubercular drugs depending on their physical properties.

Preparation and Characterization of Nanosuspensions of Triiodoaniline Derivative New Contrast Agent, and Investigation into Its Cytotoxicity and Contrast Properties

Iodine-based contrast agents have limitations such as rapid clearance, potential renal toxicity, non-specific blood pool distribution, headache, and adverse events. Nowadays, it is quite common to work with nanosized systems in order to eliminate the side effects of contrast agents. This study aims to synthesize a new iodinated contrast agent, prepare its nanosuspension by using the nanoprecipitation method, investigate its cytotoxicity, and compare its contrast properties with iohexol and iopromide through in-vitro experiments. The values of nanosuspension particle size and zeta potential have been found to be ~ 400 nm and ~ (-) 15 mV, respectively. In-vitro cellular viability findings indicated that the nanosuspension has lower cytotoxicity than the iohexol and iopromide. In the computed tomography (CT) imaging study of contrast features of nanosuspensions and two commercial agents, which involved 86 CT examinations using 31 parameters and two different devices, it was found that iodine had a stronger presence in its nanosuspension form than in iohexol and iopromide, which were the other two commercial contrast agents, when used in equal amounts. Thus in the case of nanosuspensions contrast brightness was achieved by using less iodine, while the same brightness could be obtained with higher doses of iohexol and iopromide. CT imaging therefore be done without much chemical use, which indicates that it may witness fewer side effects in the future.

Herbal nanomedicines: Recent advancements, challenges, opportunities and regulatory overview

BACKGROUND

Herbal Nano Medicines (HNMs) are nano-sized medicine containing herbal drugs as extracts, enriched fractions or biomarker constituents. HNMs have certain advantages because of their increased bioavailability and reduced toxicities. There are very few literature reports that address the common challenges of herbal nanoformulations, such as selecting the type/class of nanoformulation for an extract or a phytochemical, selection and optimisation of preparation method and physicochemical parameters. Although researchers have shown more interest in this field in the last decade, there is still an urgent need for systematic analysis of HNMs.

PURPOSE

This review aims to provide the recent advancement in various herbal nanomedicines like polymeric herbal nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, phytosomes, nano-micelles, self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system, nanofibers, liposomes, dendrimers, ethosomes, nanoemulsion, nanosuspension, and carbon nanotube; their evaluation parameters, challenges, and opportunities. Additionally, regulatory aspects and future perspectives of herbal nanomedicines are also being covered to some extent.

METHODS

The scientific data provided in this review article are retrieved by a thorough analysis of numerous research and review articles, textbooks, and patents searched using the electronic search tools like Sci-Finder, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Elsevier, Google Scholar, ACS, Medline Plus and Web of Science.

RESULTS

In this review, the authors suggested the suitability of nanoformulation for a particular type of extracts or enriched fraction of phytoconstituents based on their solubility and permeability profile (similar to the BCS class of drugs). This review focuses on different strategies for optimising preparation methods for various HNMs to ensure reproducibility in context with all the physicochemical parameters like particle size, surface area, zeta potential, polydispersity index, entrapment efficiency, drug loading, and drug release, along with the consistent therapeutic index.

CONCLUSION

A combination of herbal medicine with nanotechnology can be an essential tool for the advancement of herbal medicine research with enhanced bioavailability and fewer toxicities. Despite the challenges related to traditional medicine's safe and effective use, there is huge scope for nanotechnology-based herbal medicines. Overall, it is well stabilized that herbal nanomedicines are safer, have higher bioavailability, and have enhanced therapeutic value than conventional herbal and synthetic drugs.

Composition of Piperine with Enteric-Coated Chitosan Microspheres Enhances the Transepithelial Permeation of Curcumin in Sheep Intestinal Mucosa and Caco-2 Cells

Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of enteric-coated chitosan microspheres with herbal bioenhancer, piperine, as a suitable composition for improving the permeation of curcumin through biological membranes using suitable ex vivo models.

Material and Methods Chitosan microspheres of curcumin and piperine were prepared by an emulsion cross-linking method using glutaraldehydes the cross-linking agent and characterized for size, shape, entrapment efficiency, mucoadhesion, and in vitro release. The effect of piperine on the permeation of curcumin through excised sheep intestinal mucosa and Caco-2-cell monolayer was investigated.

Statistical Analysis The data from permeation studies were analyzed by Student's t-test using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software (SPSS, Chicago, IL, United States) with p-values <0.05 indicating statistical significance.

Results The formulations showed mucoadhesion for a period of more than 6 hours which was influenced by the chitosan content. The rate of drug release of uncoated formulation followed first-order kinetics, and the mechanism of release was non-Fickian transport. Optimized formulation was coated with a pH-sensitive polymer, Eudragit S-100, by a solvent evaporation technique in different concentrations and evaluated for ex vivo permeation through sheep intestinal mucosa and Caco-2-cell monolayer. Scanning electron microscopy images of the optimized coated formulation showed spherical particles with smooth surfaces. The calculated permeation flux and permeability coefficient of curcumin from microspheres were at least 20% greater in the presence of piperine through the intestinal mucosa and 30% through the Caco-2-cell monolayer model. The permeability coefficient of curcumin from microspheres with piperine was 1.93 × 10 to 5 cm/sec and significantly greater (p < 0.05) than that of microspheres devoid of piperine and from aqueous dispersion (p < 0.005).

Conclusion The study confirmed the contribution of piperine and mucoadhesive microspheres toward improved permeation of curcumin through biological membranes, thereby providing an approach that has the potential of increasing transport through intestinal epithelial cells and possibly enhancing the oral bioavailability of this drug.

Exploring Nanoemulsions for Prostate Cancer Therapy

Prostate carcinoma is typical cancer. It is the second most common cancer globally. The estimated new cases in 2020 was 191 930 and estimated deaths was 33 330. Age, family history, & genetic factors are major factors that drive prostate cancer. Although, for treating metastatic disease, the major therapies available are radiation,bisphosphonate, and palliative chemotherapy. But the major drawback is therapy is disease-driven and later becomes metastatic and requires treatment. The ability to revolutionize cancer treatment by major targeting vehicles via the exploration of nanoemulsion suggests a potential for cancer treatment. The unique property of a biphasic liquid dosage form called nanoemulsion to reach leaky tumor vasculature is due to its nano-meter oil-droplet size of 20-200 nm. Recent reporting on nanoemulsions disclose their embracing and lay alternative for re-purposing herbal and synthetic drugs and their combination especially for targeting prostate cancer formulating an obtainable nanomedicine. So, this article emphasizes the use of nanoemulsions incorporating therapeutic agents for successful and targeted delivery for prostate cancer.

Development and Implementation of Liposomal Encapsulated Micronutrient Fortified Body Oil Intervention for Infant Massage: An Innovative Concept to Prevent Micronutrient Deficiencies in Children

Indian communities have the ancient cultural practice of gentle oil massage for infants which has been shown to play a beneficial role in neuro-motor development. The concept of incorporating nanosized liposomes of micronutrients (i.e., iron, folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin D) in the body oil leverages this practice for transdermal supplementation of essential micro-nutrients. This paper describes the experience of developing an intervention in the form of body oil containing nanosized liposomes of iron and micro-nutrients built on the social context of infant oil massage using a theory of change approach. The process of development of the intervention has been covered into stages such as design, decide and implement. The design phase describes how the idea of nanosized liposomal encapsulated micronutrient fortified (LMF) body oil was conceptualized and how its feasibility was assessed through initial formative work in the community. The decide phase describes steps involved while scaling up technology from laboratory to community level. The implementation phase describes processes while implementing the intervention of LMF oil in a community-based randomized controlled study. Overall, the theory of change approach helps to outline the various intermediate steps and challenges while translating novel technologies for transdermal nutrient fortification to community level. In our experience, adaptation in the technology for large scale up, formative work and pilot testing of innovation at community level were important processes that helped in shaping the innovation. Meticulous mapping of these processes and experiences can be a useful guide for translating similar innovations.

Formulation of Sodium Valproate Nanospanlastics as a Promising Approach for Drug Repurposing in the Treatment of Androgenic Alopecia

Sodium valproate (SV) is an antiepileptic drug that is widely used in the treatment of different seizure disorders. The topical SV has a hair regenerative potential through activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and anagen phase induction. The aim of the current investigation was to fabricate nanospanlastics of SV for improving its dermal delivery by providing prolonged drug effect and increasing its permeability for treatment of androgenic alopecia (AGA). SV-loaded nanospanlastics were formulated according to 2³ factorial design by ethanol injection method using a non-ionic surfactant (Span 60) and edge activators (EAs), such as Tween 80 and Cremophor RH 40, to explore the influence of different independent variables on entrapment efficiency (EE%) and percentage drug released after 12 h (Q_12h) in order to choose the optimized formula using Design-Expert software. The optimized formula (F8) appeared as spherical deformable vesicles with EE% of 90.32 ± 2.18% and Q_12h of 90.27 ± 1.98%. F8 exhibited significant improvement of ex vivo permeation than free SV. The clinical study exhibited no comparable difference between F8 and marketed minoxidil lotion. However, F8 demonstrates less adverse effects than minoxidil lotion. Nanospanlastics could be a safe and effective method for improving the topical delivery of SV in the management of AGA.

An Update on the Pharmacological Usage of Curcumin: Has it Failed in the Drug Discovery Pipeline?

The pharmacological propensities of curcumin have been reported in a plethora of pre-clinical and clinical studies. However, innate attributes account for extremely low oral bioavailability which impedes its development as a therapeutic agent. Regardless, these drawbacks have not deterred researchers from optimizing its potentials. This review discussed the pharmacokinetic properties of curcumin relative to its outlook as a lead compound in drug discovery. Also, we highlighted therapeutic strategies that have expedited improvements in curcumin oral bioavailability and delivery to target sites over the years. Recent implementations of these strategies were also covered. More research efforts should be directed towards investigating the pharmacokinetic impacts of these novel curcumin formulations in human clinical studies since inter-species disparities could limit the accuracies of animal studies. We envisaged that integrative-clinical research would help determine 'actual' improvements in curcumin pharmacokinetics coupled with suitable administrative routes, optimal dosing, and drug-enzyme or drug-drug interactions. In addition, this could help determine formulations for achieving higher systemic exposure of parent curcumin thereby providing a strong impetus towards the development of curcumin as a drug candidate in disease treatment.

Interaction between Gut Microbiota and Curcumin: A New Key of Understanding for the Health Effects of Curcumin

Curcumin, a lipophilic polyphenol contained in the rhizome of Curcuma longa (turmeric), has been used for centuries in traditional Asian medicine, and nowadays it is widely used in food as dietary spice worldwide. It has received considerable attention for its pharmacological activities, which appear to act primarily through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms. For this reason, it has been proposed as a tool for the management of many diseases, among which are gastrointestinal and neurological diseases, diabetes, and several types of cancer. However, the pharmacology of curcumin remains to be elucidated; indeed, a discrepancy exists between the well-documented in vitro and in vivo activities of curcumin and its poor bioavailability and chemical instability that should limit any therapeutic effect. Recently, it has been hypothesized that curcumin could exert direct regulative effects primarily in the gastrointestinal tract, where high concentrations of this polyphenol have been detected after oral administration. Consequently, it might be hypothesized that curcumin directly exerts its regulatory effects on the gut microbiota, thus explaining the paradox between its low systemic bioavailability and its wide pharmacological activities. It is well known that the microbiota has several important roles in human physiology, and its composition can be influenced by a multitude of environmental and lifestyle factors. Accordingly, any perturbations in gut microbiome profile or dysbiosis can have a key role in human disease progression. Interestingly, curcumin and its metabolites have been shown to influence the microbiota. It is worth noting that from the interaction between curcumin and microbiota two different phenomena arise: the regulation of intestinal microflora by curcumin and the biotransformation of curcumin by gut microbiota, both of them potentially crucial for curcumin activity. This review summarizes the most recent studies on this topic, highlighting the strong connection between curcumin and gut microbiota, with the final aim of adding new insight into the potential mechanisms by which curcumin exerts its effects.

Preparation of curcumin-poly (allyl amine) hydrochloride based nanocapsules: Piperine in nanocapsules accelerates encapsulation and release of curcumin and effectiveness against colon cancer cells

Curcumin (CUR) is a natural polyphenol present in the rhizomes of Curcuma longa and possesses diverse pharmacological effects, especially anti-carcinogenic effects against several types of cancers. Unfortunately, this novel compound has poor aqueous solubility and bioavailability that limit its pharmaceutical effects. The use of polymeric nanocapsules has been applied in order to overcome such problems. Thus, our present study aimed at developing two novel polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) systems that encapsulate either curcumin alone (CURN) or with piperine (CURPN), which acts as a glucuronidation inhibitor and increases the bioavailability of CUR. The NPs were successfully designed by self-assembled nanoprecipitation method and their characteristics were identified by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), and Zeta potential analysis. The drug release profiles of NPs were monitored under different pH, and their cytotoxic effects were assessed in vitro against Caco-2 cells and in vivo against dimethylhydrazine-induced colon cancer in mice. The FTIR and XRD analyses and SEM images showed amorphous and spherical shaped CURN and CURPN of 80-100 nm sized diameter. In vitro drug release study showed that pH triggered the maximum release of CUR in basic medium compared to acidic and neutral media, and following Higuchi model. CUR nanoencapsulation enhanced its physiochemical properties and drug loading and release. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that CUR NPs exerted selective and potential cytotoxic effects against colon cancer cells. The addition of piperine facilitated the encapsulation and drug loading of CUR. Thus, CUR nanoencapsulation enhanced the solubility and bioavailability of curcumin rendering it more effective against colon cancer.

A short review on chemical properties, stability and nano-technological advances for curcumin delivery

Introduction: Curcumin is a polyphenol found in turmeric that is derived from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa. Curcumin has received a worldwide attention due to being a major constituent of the traditional Chinese and Indian holistic systems, and due to its well-documented pharmacological effects against various diseases.Areas covered: In order to provide a better understanding of curcumin's biological activities, its chemical, structural, spectral and photophysical properties should be studied. Also, it is crucial to study the aqueous, spectral, photophysical, photochemical, and thermal stability. Such studies indicated that curcumin suffers from bioavailability problems such as low serum levels, limited tissue distribution, and excessive metabolism which all limit its therapeutic efficacy. This review summarizes different properties of curcumin, its stability, bioavailability problems, and recent nanotechnological approaches with special highlight on nanocapsules for curcumin delivery.Expert opinion: Poor bioavailability of curcumin could be overcome through recently emerging and promising nanotechnological approaches.

Piperine-loaded nanoparticles with enhanced dissolution and oral bioavailability for epilepsy control

Piperine, an alkaloid from black pepper, has demonstrated beneficial effects in central nervous system, especially in epilepsy control. However, its therapeutic application remains limited due to the low aqueous solubility of piperine. Thus, the present study aimed to formulate piperine into a more solubilized form to enhance its oral bioavailability and facilitate its development as a potential anti-epileptic treatment. The nanoprecipitation method was applied to prepare piperine nanoparticles, which were then examined under transmission electron microscopy. A spherical nanosized particle was obtained with small particle size (average particle size 130.20 ± 1.57 nm), narrow size distribution (polydispersity index 0.195 ± 0.002) and efficient entrapment (entrapment efficiency 92.2 ± 2.5%). Compared with the unformulated piperine, nanosized piperine had a much faster dissolution rate with 3 times higher accumulated drug release after 24 h. After oral administration at 3.5 mg/kg in rats, the nanosized piperine formulations could improve its oral bioavailability by 2.7-fold with 16 times higher concentrations in brain at 10 h postdosing. Moreover, the piperine nanoparticles exhibited effective protection against pentylenetetrazol-induced seizures in both zebrafish and mice. In summary, the present study provided a simple formulation strategy for oral administration of piperine to overcome its limitation in water solubility. The developed formulations could effectively enhance oral bioavailability of piperine with promising anti-epileptic effect, which could be applied as a potential therapy in epilepsy control.

Effect of Piperine on Skin Permeation of Curcumin from a Bacterially Derived Cellulose-Composite Double-Layer Membrane for Transdermal Curcumin Delivery

Curcumin is a naturally occurring substance with various pharmacological activities. It has not been developed as a drug because of its low bioavailability due to its low solubility and absorption. Piperine is a natural enhancer that is popularly used to increase the absorption of curcumin in oral applications; however, it has not been applied for transdermal curcumin delivery. This study aims to develop a transdermal curcumin delivery system using piperine as a skin permeation enhancer in the form of composite double-layer membrane; the upper layer consisted of curcumin and the lower layer consisted of piperine. The amount of curcumin was fixed, but the amount of piperine varied at three levels from 1.96% to 7.41%. The composite membrane had moderate mechanical strength (15⁻22 MPa) with a good swelling degree (~435%). From an in vitro skin permeation study, piperine had the effect to increase the permeation of curcumin. The permeation rate was related to the amount of piperine. The composite membrane containing piperine at 7.41% could increase the permeation rate of curcumin by about 1.89 times compared with non-piperine contained membrane. Bacterially-derived cellulose containing curcumin and piperine may have the potential for transdermal curcumin delivery in order to improve curcumin's bioavailability.

Use of Curcumin, a Natural Polyphenol for Targeting Molecular Pathways in Treating Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases

Progressive accumulation of misfolded amyloid proteins in intracellular and extracellular spaces is one of the principal reasons for synaptic damage and impairment of neuronal communication in several neurodegenerative diseases. Effective treatments for these diseases are still lacking but remain the focus of much active investigation. Despite testing several synthesized compounds, small molecules, and drugs over the past few decades, very few of them can inhibit aggregation of amyloid proteins and lessen their neurotoxic effects. Recently, the natural polyphenol curcumin (Cur) has been shown to be a promising anti-amyloid, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective agent for several neurodegenerative diseases. Because of its pleotropic actions on the central nervous system, including preferential binding to amyloid proteins, Cur is being touted as a promising treatment for age-related brain diseases. Here, we focus on molecular targeting of Cur to reduce amyloid burden, rescue neuronal damage, and restore normal cognitive and sensory motor functions in different animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. We specifically highlight Cur as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, and prion diseases. In addition, we discuss the major issues and limitations of using Cur for treating these diseases, along with ways of circumventing those shortcomings. Finally, we provide specific recommendations for optimal dosing with Cur for treating neurological diseases.

Phytosomal curcumin: A review of pharmacokinetic, experimental and clinical studies

Curcumin, a hydrophobic polyphenol, is the principal constituent extracted from dried rhizomes of Curcuma longa L. (turmeric). Curcumin is known as a strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that has different pharmacological effects. In addition, several studies have demonstrated that curcumin is safe even at dosages as high as 8g per day; however, instability at physiological pH, low solubility in water and rapid metabolism results in a low oral bioavailability of curcumin. The phytosomal formulation of curcumin (a complex of curcumin with phosphatidylcholine) has been shown to improve curcumin bioavailability. Existence of phospholipids in phytosomes leads to specific physicochemical properties such as amphiphilic nature that allows dispersion in both hydrophilic and lipophilic media. The efficacy and safety of curcumin phytosomes have been shown against several human diseases including cancer, osteoarthritis, diabetic microangiopathy and retinopathy, and inflammatory diseases. This review focuses on the pharmacokinetics as well as pharmacological and clinical effects of phytosomal curcumin.

Development of RP-HPLC method for simultaneous determination of docetaxel and curcumin in rat plasma: Validation and stability

The purpose of the present research was to develop a suitable, simple, precise, accurate, robust, and reproducible RP-HPLC method for a reliable simultaneous quantification of docetaxel (DTX) and curcumin (CCM) in rat plasma samples using paclitaxel (PTX) as an internal standard. The samples were assayed by the Agilent 1260 Infinity HPLC instrument using a Capcell Pak C₈ column (4.6 mm × 150 mm, 5 µm) under isocratic conditions. The mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile and triple distilled water (40/60, v/v) with a flow rate of 1.0 ml/min. The eluent was monitored at 230 nm for simultaneous measurement of curcumin and docetaxel. The method was validated by determining system suitability, selectivity, sensitivity, linearity, inter-day and intra-day precision, accuracy, robustness, and stability in accordance with the guidelines of the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The developed chromatographic method proved to be simple, precise, accurate, robust and reproducible. Moreover, the samples showed stability at room temperature over a period of 48 h. Thus, this method would be employed for routine simultaneous quantification of docetaxel and curcumin in rat plasma samples.

Quantum Chemical and Docking Insights into Bioavailability Enhancement of Curcumin by Piperine in Pepper

We combine quantum chemical and molecular docking techniques to provide new insights into how piperine molecule in various forms of pepper enhances bioavailability of a number of drugs including curcumin in turmeric for which it increases its bioavailability by a 20-fold. We have carried out docking studies of quantum chemically optimized piperine structure binding to curcumin, CYP3A4 in cytochrome P450, p-Glycoprotein and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT), the enzyme responsible for glucuronosylation, which increases the solubility of curcumin. All of these studies establish that piperine binds to multiple sites on the enzymes and also intercalates with curcumin forming a hydrogen bonded complex with curcumin. The conjugated network of double bonds and the presence of multiple charge centers of piperine offer optimal binding sites for piperine to bind to enzymes such as UDP-GDH, UGT, and CYP3A4. Piperine competes for curcumin's intermolecular hydrogen bonding and its stacking propensity by hydrogen bonding with enolic proton of curcumin. This facilitates its metabolic transport, thereby increasing its bioavailability both through intercalation into curcumin layers through intermolecular hydrogen bonding, and by inhibiting enzymes that cause glucuronosylation of curcumin.

Formulation and evaluation of voriconazole ophthalmic solid lipid nanoparticles in situ gel

In the present investigation, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs)-loaded in situ gel with voriconazole drug was formulated. Further, the formulation was characterized for pH, gelling capacity, entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug release, drug content, and viscosity. Voriconazole is an antifungal drug used to treat various infections caused by yeast or other types of fungi. Film hydration technique was used to prepared SLNs from lecithin and cholesterol. Based on the entrapment efficiency 67.2-97.3% and drug release, the optimized formulation NF1 of SLNs was incorporated into in situ gels. The in situ gels were prepared using viscosity-enhancing polymers such as Carbopol and (hydroxypropyl)methyl cellulose (HPMC). Formulated SLN in situ gel formulations were characterized, which showed pH 4.9-7.1, drug content 65.69-96.3%, and viscosity (100 rpm) 120-620 cps. From the characterizations given above, F6 was optimized and evaluated for microbial assay and ocular irritation studies. Microbial assay was conducted by the cup-plate method using Candida albicans as the test organism. An ocular irritation study was conducted on albino rabbits. The results revealed that there was no ocular damage to the cornea, conjunctiva, or iris. Stability studies were carried out on the F6 formulation for 3 months, which showed that the formulation had good stability. These results indicate that the studied SLNs-loaded in situ gel is a promising vehicle for ocular delivery.

Bioavailability studies of curcumin–sophorolipid nano-conjugates in the aqueous phase: role in the synthesis of uniform gold nanoparticles

The major limiting factors for curcumin to be accepted as a modern drug, despite its widespread applications, are its low aqueous solubility, low retention time and poor bioavailability.

Effect of the moist-heat sterilization on fabricated nanoscale solid lipid particles containing rasagiline mesylate

BACKGROUND

Nanoscale solid lipid particles of rasagiline mesylate (RM) were fabricated by microemulsion technique. The nanoscale particle must be sterile for intravenous administration, and several approaches are available for sterilization. However, the selection of sterilization technique for the fabricated RM loaded nanoscale solid lipid particles mainly depends on the nature of the drug that needs to be encapsulated and release pattern of the polymer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We have preferred moist heat sterilization, as it is the most convenient and the composition of the carrier and incorporated drug should remain unchanged and the incorporated drug should not leak out of the drug carrier. The physical and chemical stability of RM loaded nanoscale solid lipid particles investigated during sterilization and to determine the average mean particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential (ZP), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), entrapment efficiency (EE), and drug content after autoclaving.

RESULT

There were no significant changes in the average mean particle size, polydispersity index, ZP, TEM, EE, and drug content of RM loaded nanoscale solid lipid particles after autoclaving (121°C for 20 min [15 lbs]).

CONCLUSION

These observations suggest that the moist heat sterilization by autoclaving is the most suitable method for nanoscale solid lipid formulations.

Effects of piperine on the intestinal permeability and pharmacokinetics of linarin in rats

Although linarin possesses diverse pharmacological activities, its poor oral bioavailability has been a concern for further development. The present study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of improving the oral absorption of linarin in rats with a bioenhancer‒piperine. First, the intestinal permeability of linarin in the presence and absence of verapamil or piperine was investigated using an in situ single-pass rat intestinal perfusion method. A significant increase in the Peff when co-perfused with verapamil or piperine indicated that piperine effectively inhibited P-glycoprotein mediated efflux of linarin. Then, the pharmacokinetic profiles of linarin in rats after oral administration of linarin (50 mg/kg) alone and in combination with piperine (20 mg/kg) were determined using a validated LC-MS/MS method. The results showed that piperine increased the plasma exposure (AUC) of linarin by 381% along with an increase in the Cmax by 346% and the Tmax from 0.05 h to 0.2 h. The present study revealed that piperine significantly enhanced the oral absorption of linarin in rats by inhibiting P-glycoprotein mediated cellular efflux during the intestinal absorption and likely simultaneously by inhibiting the metabolism of linarin.

Drug-Drug/Drug-Excipient Compatibility Studies on Curcumin using Non-Thermal Methods

PURPOSE

Curcumin is a hydrophobic polyphenol isolated from dried rhizome of turmeric. Clinical usefulness of curcumin in the treatment of cancer is limited due to poor aqueous solubility, hydrolytic degradation, metabolism, and poor oral bioavailability. To overcome these limitations, we proposed to fabricate curcumin-piperine, curcumin-quercetin and curcumin-silibinin loaded polymeric nanoformulation. However, unfavourable combinations of drug-drug and drug-excipient may result in interaction and rises the safety concern. Hence, the present study was aimed to assess the interaction of curcumin with excipients used in nanoformulations.

METHODS

Isothermal stress testing method was used to assess the compatibility of drug-drug/drug-excipient.

RESULTS

The combination of curcumin-piperine, curcumin-quercetin, curcumin-silibinin and the combination of other excipients with curcumin, piperine, quercetin and silibinin have not shown any significant physical and chemical instability.

CONCLUSION

The study concludes that the curcumin, piperine, quercetin and silibinin is compatible with each other and with other excipients.

Recent developments in delivery, bioavailability, absorption and metabolism of curcumin: the golden pigment from golden spice

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is a yellow pigment present in the spice turmeric (Curcuma longa) that has been associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, and antibacterial activities as indicated by over 6,000 citations. In addition, over one hundred clinical studies have been carried out with curcumin. One of the major problems with curcumin is perceived to be the bioavailability. How curcumin should be delivered in vivo, how bioavailable is it, how well curcumin is absorbed and how it is metabolized, is the focus of this review. Various formulations of curcumin that are currently available are also discussed.

Future directions in the prevention of prostate cancer

The high global incidence of prostate cancer has led to a focus on chemoprevention strategies to reduce the public health impact of the disease. Early studies indicating that selenium and vitamin E might protect against prostate cancer encouraged large-scale studies that produced mixed clinical results. Next-generation prostate cancer prevention trials validated the impact of 5α-reductase inhibitors in hormone-responsive prostate cancer, and these results were confirmed in follow-up studies. Other interventions on the horizon, involving both dietary and pharmacological agents, hold some promise but require further investigation to validate their efficacy. In this Review, we discuss the clinical and preclinical evidence for dietary and pharmacological prevention of prostate cancer and give an overview of future opportunities for chemoprevention.

Modifications to the conventional nanoprecipitation technique: an approach to fabricate narrow sized polymeric nanoparticles

PURPOSE

Nanoprecipitation is the convenient and commonly used method for the preparation of polymeric nanoparticles around 170 nm but yield particles with broad distribution, which require filtration step to produce particles with narrow distribution. Hence, the primary aim of the present study was to implement few modifications to the conventional nanoprecipitation method to reduce the mean particle size less than 150 nm and to produce particles with narrow distribution without filtration step.

METHODS

Eudragit E 100 nanoparticles were prepared using modified nanoprecipitation method 1 and 2. Prepared nanoparticles were characterized for the mean particle size, surface area and uniformity.

RESULTS

Eudragit E 100 nanoparticles prepared using modified nanoprecipitation method 1 has shown a mean particle size of 196 nm with surface area of 50.9 m(2)g(-1) and uniformity of 0.852 whereas, Eudragit E 100 nanoparticles prepared using modified nanoprecipitation method 2 has shown a mean particle size of 114 nm with surface area of 57.9 m(2)g(-1) and uniformity of 0.259.

CONCLUSION

Modification to the conventional nanoprecipitation method (method 2) has produced mean particle size less than 150 nm and produced nanoparticles with narrow distribution without filtration step.

Protective effects of Vernonia amygdalina against sodium arsenite-induced genotoxicity in rat

Objectives:

Contamination of the environment with arsenic (As) from both human and natural sources is known as a global problem. This study investigated the chemoprotective potential of Vernonia amygdalina leave extract against sodium arsenite-induced genotoxicity and hepatotoxicity.

Materials and Methods:

Genotoxic effects were evaluated in the rat bone marrow using micronuclei. The gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities were assayed in rat serum.

Results:

Pre-treatment with extract of V. amygdalina at doses 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg significantly decreased the frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (PCEs). The GGT and ALP activities were elevated more than fourfold, in the liver of rats treated with sodium arsenite, while it was reduced almost to half when the sodium arsenit-treated rats were fed fresh V. amgdalina leave extracts The phytochemical constituents of V. amygdalina assayed in this study may be responsible for high radical scavenging of the DPPH free radical observed.

Conclusion:

The present results indicate that V. amygdalina extract is capable of suppressing the chromosomal aberration induced by sodium arsenite in rat. Thus, V. amygdalina may be a potent chemoprotective agent against the toxicity of sodium arsenite in rats.

Quercetin along with piperine prevents cognitive dysfunction, oxidative stress and neuro-inflammation associated with mouse model of chronic unpredictable stress

Stress occurs in everyday life and persistence of it causes memory loss. Bioflavonoids like quercetin are reported to have poor bioavailability and limited therapeutic potential against stress induced neurological disorders. Therefore, the present study is an attempt to elucidate the therapeutic potency of combination of quercetin with piperine; a bioavailability enhancer against chronic unpredictable stress (CUS)-induced behavioral and biochemical alterations. Laca mice were subjected to a series of stressful events for a period of 28 days. Quercetin (20, 40 and 80 mg/kg, p.o.), piperine (20 mg/kg, p.o.) and their combinations were administered daily 30 min before CUS procedure. Piracetam (100 mg/kg, i.p.) served as a standard control. CUS caused impaired spatial navigation in Morris water maze test and poor retention in elevated plus maze task. Further, there was significant increase in brain oxidative stress markers and neuro-inflammation (TNF-α). This was coupled with marked rise in acetylcholinesterase and serum corticosterone levels. Co-administration of piperine with quercetin significantly elevated their potential to restore these behavioral, biochemical and molecular changes associated with mouse model of CUS. These results suggest that piperine enhances the neuroprotective effects of quercetin against CUS-induced oxidative stress, neuro-inflammation and memory deficits.