Cisplatin and oleanolic acid Co-loaded pH-sensitive CaCO3 nanoparticles for synergistic chemotherapy

Monotherapy or Combination Therapy of Oleanolic Acid? From Therapeutic Significance and Drug Delivery to Clinical Studies: A Comprehensive Review

Oleanolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid molecule widely distributed throughout medicinal plants. This naturally occurring oleanolic acid has attracted considerable interest due to its wide range of pharmacological characteristics, notably its cytotoxic effects on various human cancer cell lines, making it a potential candidate for extensive therapeutic uses. In vivo studies have shown that oleanolic acid possesses hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. The inherent obstacles of oleanolic acid, such as low permeability, limited bioavailability, and poor water solubility, have restricted its therapeutic applicability. However, recent developments in drug delivery techniques have given oleanolic acid an additional advantage by overcoming issues with its solubility, stability, and bioavailability. This review briefly summarises the signalling pathways involved in the pharmacological activities of oleanolic acid as a monotherapy and in combination with other drugs. The review devotes a substantial portion to explaining the formulation developments, emphasising nanotechnology as a key factor in the improvement of the therapeutic potential of oleanolic acid. Several investigated novel formulations have been discussed, including liposomes, nanoemulsions, phospholipids, and polymeric nanoparticles, emerging synergistically as an efficient delivery of oleanolic acid and several other drugs. Based on our literature evaluation, it can be inferred that combination therapy had a more favourable outcome than using oleanolic acid alone in in vivo trials, primarily due to its synergistic effects. However, it is essential to note that this finding was inconsistent across all investigations. The combination of oleanolic acid with other drugs has not yet been considered for clinical trials. However, it is interesting that neither therapy has obtained approval from the U. S. Food and Drug Administration.

Application of nanomaterials in precision treatment of lung cancer

Lung cancer remains one of the most prevalent and lethal malignancies worldwide, characterized by high mortality rates due to its aggressive nature, metastatic potential, and drug resistance. Despite advancements in conventional therapies, their efficacy is often limited by systemic toxicity, poor tumor specificity, and the emergence of resistance mechanisms. Nanomedicine has emerged as a promising approach to address these challenges, leveraging the unique physicochemical properties of nanomaterials to enhance drug delivery, reduce off-target effects, and enable combination therapies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the applications of nanomaterials in lung cancer treatment, focusing on advancements in chemotherapy, phototherapy, and immunotherapy. Key strategies include the development of stimuli-responsive nanoparticles, active targeting mechanisms, and multifunctional platforms for co-delivery of therapeutic agents. Notable successes, such as liposomal formulations and polymeric nanoparticles, highlight the potential to overcome biological barriers and improve therapeutic outcomes. However, significant challenges remain, including limited tumor penetration, immunogenicity, scalability in manufacturing, and regulatory complexities. Addressing these limitations through innovative design, advanced manufacturing technologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration will be critical to translating nanomedicine from bench to bedside. Overall, nanomedicine represents a transformative frontier in lung cancer therapy, offering the potential to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Thermoresponsive biomaterial system of irinotecan and curcumin for the treatment of colorectal cancer: in-vitro and in-vivo investigations

This study aims to develop a thermoresponsive biomaterial system of irinotecan (IRT) and curcumin (CUR) nano-transferosomal gel (IRT-CUR-NTG) for targeting colorectal cancer (CRC). The IRT-CUR-NTs were statistically optimized and loaded into poloxamer-based thermosensitive gel. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) of the IRT-CUR-NTs were performed, whereas pH, gelation time, gelation temperature, gel and mucoadhesive strength of the IRT-CUR-NTG were investigated. In-vitro release and anticancer analyses were explored using HT29 cells. Additionally, in-vivo pharmacokinetics study was investigated followed by histopathological examination and in-vivo anticancer analysis. The PS, PDI, ZP, %EE of IRT and %EE of CUR were found to be 136.15 nm, 0.143, -15.5 mV, 95.05% and 85.12%, respectively. IRT-CUR-NTs exhibited spherical shape with no chemical interactions among the constituents. Similarly, IRT-CUR-NTG was homogenous gel suitable for rectal administration. IRT-CUR-NTG manifested prolonged release profiles of IRT and CUR. Moreover, a significantly enhanced (4-fold) bioavailability and no toxicity of IRT-CUR-NTG was observed when compared with conventional gel. IRT-CUR-NTs were found to be more effective against HT29 cell lines. In-vivo antitumor analysis demonstrated significantly reduced tumor volume and tumor mass after treatment with IRT-CUT-NTG, indicating improved antitumor effect. It can be concluded that IRT-CUR-NTG is suitable biomaterial system for colorectal cancer.

Advances in nanotherapeutics for tumor treatment by targeting calcium overload

Traditional antitumor strategies are facing challenges such as low therapeutic efficacy and high side effects, highlighting the significance of developing non-toxic or low-toxic alternative therapies. As a second messenger, calcium ion (Ca2+) plays an important role in cellular metabolism and communication. However, persistent Ca2+ overload leads to mitochondrial structural and functional dysfunction and ultimately induced apoptosis. Therefore, an antitumor strategy based on calcium overload is a promising alternative. Here, we first reviewed the classification of calcium-based nanoparticles (NPs) for exogenous Ca2+ overload, including calcium carbonate (CaCO3), calcium phosphate (CaP), calcium peroxide (CaO2), and hydroxyapatite (HA), calcium hydroxide, etc. Next, the current endogenous Ca2+ overload strategies were summarized, including regulation of Ca2+ channels, destruction of membrane integrity, induction of abnormal intracellular acidity and oxidative stress. Due to the specificity of the tumor microenvironment, it is difficult to completely suppress tumor development with monotherapy. Therefore, we reviewed the progress based on mitochondrial Ca2+ overload, which improved the treatment efficiency by combining photothermal therapy (PTT), photodynamic therapy (PDT), chemodynamic therapy (CDT), sonodynamic therapy (SDT), immunogenic cell death (ICD) and gas therapy. We further explored in detail the advantages and promising new targets of this combination antitumor strategies to better address future opportunities and challenges.

Layer-by-Layer Nanoparticles for Calcium Overload in situ Enhanced Reactive Oxygen Oncotherapy

Background

Challenges such as poor drug selectivity, non-target reactivity, and the development of drug resistance continue to pose significant obstacles in the clinical application of cancer therapeutic drugs. To overcome the limitations of drug resistance in chemotherapy, a viable treatment strategy involves designing multifunctional nano-platforms that exploit the unique physicochemical properties of tumor microenvironment (TME).

Methods

Herein, layer-by-layer nanoparticles with polyporous CuS as delivery vehicles, loaded with a sonosensitizer (tetra-(4-aminophenyl) porphyrin, TAPP) and sequentially functionalized with pH-responsive CaCO3, targeting group hyaluronic acid (HA) were designed and synthesized for synergistic treatment involving chemodynamic therapy (CDT), sonodynamic therapy (SDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), and calcium overload. Upon cleavage in an acidic environment, CaCO3 nanoparticles released TAPP and Ca2+, with TAPP generating 1O2 under ultrasound trigger. Exposed CuS produced highly cytotoxic ·OH in response to H2O2 and also exhibited a strong PTT effect.

Results

CuS@TAPP-CaCO3/HA (CTCH) delivered an enhanced ability to release more Ca2+ under acidic conditions with a pH value of 6.5, which in situ causes damage to HeLa mitochondria. In vitro and in vivo experiments both demonstrated that mitochondrial dysfunction greatly amplified the damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) to tumor, which strongly confirms the synergistic effect between calcium overload and reactive oxygen therapy.

Conclusion

Collectively, the development of CTCH presents a novel therapeutic strategy for tumor treatment by effectively responding to the acidic TME, thus holding significant clinical implications.

Nanodrugs based on co-delivery strategies to combat cisplatin resistance

Cisplatin (CDDP), as a broad-spectrum anticancer drug, is able to bind to DNA and inhibit cell division. Despite the widespread use of cisplatin since its discovery, cisplatin resistance developed during prolonged chemotherapy, similar to other small molecule chemotherapeutic agents, severely limits its clinical application. Cisplatin resistance in cancer cells is mainly caused by three reasons: DNA repair, decreased cisplatin uptake/increased efflux, and cisplatin inactivation. In earlier combination therapies, the emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR) in cancer cells prevented the achievement of the desired therapeutic effect even with the accurate combination of two chemotherapeutic drugs. Therefore, combination therapy using nanocarriers for co-delivery of drugs is considered to be ideal for alleviating cisplatin resistance and reducing cisplatin-related toxicity in cancer cells. This article provides an overview of the design of cisplatin nano-drugs used to combat cancer cell resistance, elucidates the mechanisms of action of cisplatin and the pathways through which cancer cells develop resistance, and finally discusses the design of drugs and related carriers that can synergistically reduce cancer resistance when combined with cisplatin.

Unlocking the Potential of Oleanolic Acid: Integrating Pharmacological Insights and Advancements in Delivery Systems

The growing interest in oleanolic acid (OA) as a triterpenoid with remarkable health benefits prompts an emphasis on its efficient use in pharmaceutical research. OA exhibits a range of pharmacological effects, including antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, immune-enhancing, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, antitumor, and antiviral properties. While OA demonstrates diverse pharmacological effects, optimizing its therapeutic potential requires overcoming significant challenges. In the field of pharmaceutical research, the exploration of efficient drug delivery systems is essential to maximizing the therapeutic potential of bioactive compounds. Efficiently delivering OA faces challenges, such as poor aqueous solubility and restricted bioavailability, and to unlock its full therapeutic efficacy, novel formulation strategies are imperative. This discussion thoroughly investigates different approaches and advancements in OA drug delivery systems with the aim of enhancing the biopharmaceutical features and overall efficacy in diverse therapeutic contexts.

Co-delivery of paclitaxel and curcumin loaded solid lipid nanoparticles for improved targeting of lung cancer: In vitro and in vivo investigation

The objective of this study was to develop nanotechnology-mediated paclitaxel (PAC) and curcumin (CUR) co-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (PAC-CUR-SLNs) for the treatment of lung cancer, which is a leading cause of death worldwide. Around 85 % cases of lungs cancer constitute non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). PAC-CUR-SLNs were prepared via high pressure homogenization. The in vitro drug release of PAC-CUR-SLNs was checked followed by their in vitro cytotoxic investigation using adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial cells (A549) cell lines. Anticancer effects along with side effects of the synergistic delivery of PAC-CUR-SLNs were studied in vivo, using BALB/c mice. PAC-CUR-SLNs were nano sized (190 nm), homogeneously disseminated particles with %IE of both PAC and CUR above 94 %. PAC-CUR-SLNs released PAC and CUR in a controlled fashion when compared with free drug suspensions. The cytotoxicity of PAC-CUR-SLNs was higher than individual drug-loaded SLNs and pure drugs. Moreover, the co-delivery displayed synergistic effect, indicating potential of PAC-CUR-SLNs in lung cancer treatment. In vivo tumor investigation of PAC-CUR-SLNs exhibited 12-fold reduced tumor volume and almost no change in body weight of BALB/c mice, when compared with the experimental groups including control group. The inhibition of tumor rate on day 28 was 82.7 % in the PAC-CUR-SLNs group, which was significantly higher than the pure drugs and monotherapies. It can be concluded that, encapsulating the co-loaded antitumor drugs like PAC-CUR in SLNs may help in improved targeting of the tumor with enhanced anticancer effect.

CaCO3 nanoplatform for cancer treatment: drug delivery and combination therapy

The use of nanocarriers for drug delivery has opened up exciting new possibilities in cancer treatment. Among them, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) nanocarriers have emerged as a promising platform due to their exceptional biocompatibility, biosafety, cost-effectiveness, wide availability, and pH-responsiveness. These nanocarriers can efficiently encapsulate a variety of small-molecule drugs, proteins, and nucleic acids, as well as co-encapsulate multiple drugs, providing targeted and sustained drug release with minimal side effects. However, the effectiveness of single-drug therapy using CaCO3 nanocarriers is limited by factors such as multidrug resistance, tumor metastasis, and recurrence. Combination therapy, which integrates multiple treatment modalities, offers a promising approach for tackling these challenges by enhancing efficacy, leveraging synergistic effects, optimizing therapy utilization, tailoring treatment approaches, reducing drug resistance, and minimizing side effects. CaCO3 nanocarriers can be employed for combination therapy by integrating drug therapy with photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, sonodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, radiofrequency ablation therapy, and imaging. This review provides an overview of recent advancements in CaCO3 nanocarriers for drug delivery and combination therapy in cancer treatment over the past five years. Furthermore, insightful perspectives on future research directions and development of CaCO3 nanoparticles as nanocarriers in cancer treatment are discussed.

Calcium Carbonate-Based Nanoplatforms for Cancer Therapeutics: Current State of Art and Future Breakthroughs

With the rapid development of nanotechnology, nanomaterials have shown immense potential for antitumor applications. Nanosized calcium carbonate (CaCO3) materials exhibit excellent biocompatibility and degradability, and have been utilized to develop platform technologies for cancer therapy. These materials can be engineered to carry anticancer drugs and functional groups that specifically target cancer cells and tissues, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, their physicochemical properties can be tailored to enable stimuli-responsive therapy and precision drug delivery. This Review consolidates recent literatures focusing on the synthesis, physicochemical properties, and multimodal antitumor therapies of CaCO3-based nanoplatforms (CBN). We also explore the current challenges and potential breakthroughs in the development of CBN for antitumor applications, providing a valuable reference for researchers in the field.

Application of temperature-sensitive liquid embolic agent loaded with oxaliplatin in the TACE procedure for rabbit VX2 gastric cancer

As a promising drug delivery system, the temperature-sensitive liquid embolic agent (TempSLE) has yet to be reported in animal experiments in treating gastric cancer. We observed and compared computed tomography (CT) imaging changes, tumor volume, HE staining, and immunohistochemistry after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) treatment in rabbit VX2 gastric cancer models to clarify the effectiveness of TempSLE loaded with oxaliplatin (TempSLE/Oxa) in treating gastric cancer. One milliliter TempSLE can be loaded with 20 mg oxaliplatin. The accumulative drug release rate at 30 min was 38.76%, and after 24 h, it reached more than 90%. CT examination 1 week after TACE revealed that the TempSLE/Oxa group presents unenhanced hypodense necrotic foci, the iodinated oil loaded with oxaliplatin (Ioil/Oxa) group presents shrinking tumors but still visible speckled foci of enhancement, and the normal saline (NS) group presents heterogeneous enhancement with larger tumors than before. In the postoperative autopsy of TACE, the tumor volumes of TempSLE/Oxa, Ioil/Oxa, and NS groups were 0.15 ± 0.06 cm3, 0.37 ± 0.11 cm3, and 1.19 ± 0.16 cm3, respectively, all of which were statistically different. The positive vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression percentages in the TempSLE/Oxa, Ioil/Oxa, and NS groups were statistically different and lowest in the TempSLE/Oxa group. In conclusion, the TempSLE can load a high dose of oxaliplatin to meet the demand of clinical applications. TempSLE/Oxa could effectively inhibit tumor cell proliferation and angiogenesis. This study provides experimental evidence for the further clinical application of the TempSLE/Oxa.

Recent Developments in CaCO3 Nano-Drug Delivery Systems: Advancing Biomedicine in Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3), a natural common inorganic material with good biocompatibility, low toxicity, pH sensitivity, and low cost, has a widespread use in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. In recent years, an increasing number of CaCO3-based nano-drug delivery systems have been developed. CaCO3 as a drug carrier and the utilization of CaCO3 as an efficient Ca2+ and CO2 donor have played a critical role in tumor diagnosis and treatment and have been explored in increasing depth and breadth. Starting from the CaCO3-based nano-drug delivery system, this paper systematically reviews the preparation of CaCO3 nanoparticles and the mechanisms of CaCO3-based therapeutic effects in the internal and external tumor environments and summarizes the latest advances in the application of CaCO3-based nano-drug delivery systems in tumor therapy. In view of the good biocompatibility and in vivo therapeutic mechanisms, they are expected to become an advancing biomedicine in the field of tumor diagnosis and treatment.

Sodium alginate-based smart gastro-retentive drug delivery system of revaprazan loaded SLNs; Formulation and characterization

Revaprazan (REV), a novel reversible Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) used to treat peptic ulcers, faces challenges in therapeutic efficacy due to its poor dissolution properties and a short half-life. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have emerged as a drug delivery system capable of enhancing dissolution and bioavailability of lipid soluble drugs. Here, we report on the development and optimization of a smart gastro-retentive raft system of REV-loaded SLNs (GRS/REV-SLNs) to enhance drug bioavailability and gastric retention. The optimized REV-SLNs had a particle size of 120 nm, a Polydispersity Index (PDI) of 0.313, a zeta potential of -20.7 mV, and efficient drug incorporation of 88 %. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) affirmed the spherical morphology of these REV-SLNs, while Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed no chemical interactions among components. In-vitro assessment of the final GRS/REV-SLNs demonstrated sustained gelation and buoyancy for over 12 h, which would significantly enhance REV retention and its release within the stomach. Further assessments in rats confirmed successful gel transformation within the stomach, resulting in the improved bioavailability of REV. Thus, the development of GRS/REV-SLNs significantly improved the delivery and bioavailability of REV within the stomach, and offers a potentially improved method of treating peptic ulcers.

Research Progress on the Synergistic Anti-Tumor Effect of Natural Anti-Tumor Components of Chinese Herbal Medicine Combined with Chemotherapy Drugs

The application of chemotherapy drugs in tumor treatment has a long history, but the lack of selectivity of drugs often leads to serious side effects during chemotherapy. The natural anti-tumor ingredients derived from Chinese herbal medicine are attracting increased attention due to their diverse anti-tumor effects, abundant resources, and minimal side effects. An effective anti-tumor strategy may lie in the combination of these naturally derived anti-tumor ingredients with conventional chemotherapy drugs. This approach could potentially inhibit tumor growth and the development of drug resistance in tumor cells while reducing the adverse effects of chemotherapy drugs. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the combined therapy strategies integrating natural anti-tumor components from Chinese herbal medicine with chemotherapy drugs in current research. We primarily summarize various compounds in Chinese herbal medicine exhibiting natural anti-tumor activities and the relevant mechanisms in synergistic anti-tumor combination therapy. The focus of this paper is on underlining that this integrative approach, combining natural anti-tumor components of Chinese herbal medicine with chemotherapy drugs, presents a novel cancer treatment methodology, thereby providing new insights for future oncological research.

A detailed insight of the tumor targeting using nanocarrier drug delivery system

Human struggle against the deadly disease conditions is continued since ages. The contribution of science and technology in fighting against these diseases cannot be ignored exclusively due to the invention of novel procedure and products, extending their size ranges from micro to nano. Recently nanotechnology has been gaining more consideration for its ability to diagnose and treat different cancers. Different nanoparticles have been used to evade the issues related with conservative anticancer delivery systems, including their nonspecificity, adverse effects and burst release. These nanocarriers including, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), liposomes, nano lipid carriers (NLCs), nano micelles, nanocomposites, polymeric and magnetic nanocarriers, have brought revolutions in antitumor drug delivery. Nanocarriers improved the therapeutic efficacy of anticancer drugs with better accumulation at the specific site with sustained release, improved bioavailability and apoptosis of the cancer cells while bypassing the normal cells. In this review, the cancer targeting techniques and surface modification on nanoparticles are discussed briefly with possible challenges and opportunities. It can be concluded that understanding the role of nanomedicine in tumor treatment is significant, and therefore, the modern progressions in this arena is essential to be considered for a prosperous today and an affluent future of tumor patients.

Quality by design for sumatriptan loaded nano-ethosomal mucoadhesive gel for the therapeutic management of nitroglycerin induced migraine

Migraine is a progressive neurological condition often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Various drugs have recently been used in the treatment of migraine, including sumatriptan (SUT). However, SUT has poor pharmacological effects mainly due to its reduced permeability, blood brain barrier (BBB) effect, half-life and bioavailability. Herein, we developed SUT loaded nano-ethosomes (SUT-NEs) for intranasal (IN) delivery, after their incorporation into chitosan based mucoadhesive gel (SUT-NEsG). The observed mean particle size of SUT-NEs was 109.45 ± 4.03 nm with spherical morphology, mono dispersion (0.191 ± 0.001), negatively charged (-20.90 ± 1.98 mV) and with excellent entrapment efficiency (96.90 ± 1.85 %). Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra have depicted the compatibility of the components. Moreover, SUT-NEsG was homogeneous having suitable viscosity and mucoadhesive strength. In vitro release and ex vivo permeation analysis showed sustained release and improved permeation of the SUT-NEsG, respectively. Additionally, histopathological studies of nasal membrane affirmed the safety of SUT-NEsG after IN application. In vivo pharmacokinetic study demonstrated improved brain bioavailability of SUT-NEsG as compared to orally administered sumatriptan solution (SUT-SL). Furthermore, significantly enhanced pharmacological effect of SUT-NEsG was observed in behavioral and biochemical analysis, immunohistochemistry for NF-κB, and enzyme linked immuno assay (ELISA) for IL-1β and TNF-α in Nitroglycerin (NTG) induced migraine model. It can be concluded that migraine may be successfully managed through IN application of SUT-NEsG owing to the direct targeted delivery to the brain.

Research progress of calcium carbonate nanomaterials in cancer therapy: challenge and opportunity

Cancer has keeping the main threat to the health of human being. Its overall survival rate has shown rare substantial progress in spite of the improving diagnostic and treatment techniques for cancer in recent years. Indeed, such classic strategies for malignant tumor as surgery, radiation and chemotherapy have been developed and bring more hope to the patients, but still been accompanied by certain limitations, which include the challenge of managing large wound sizes, systemic toxic side effects, and harmful to the healthy tissues caused by imprecise alignment with tumors in radiotherapy. Furthermore, immunotherapy exhibits a limited therapeutic effect in advanced tumors which is reported only up to 25%-30%. The combination of nanomaterials and cancer treatment offers new hope for cancer patients, demonstrating strong potential in the field of medical research. Among the extensively utilized nanomaterials, calcium carbonate nanomaterials (CCNM) exhibit a broad spectrum of biomedical applications due to their abundant availability, cost-effectiveness, and exceptional safety profile. CCNM have the potential to elevate intracellular Ca2+ levels in tumor cells, trigger the mitochondrial damage and ultimately lead to tumor cell death. Moreover, compared with other types of nanomaterials, CCNM exhibit remarkable advantages as delivery systems owing to their high loading capacity, biocompatibility and biodegradability. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of CCNM synthesis, focusing on summarizing its diverse roles in cancer treatment and the benefits and challenges associated with CCNM in cancer therapy. Hoping to present the significance of CCNM as for the clinical application, and summarize information for the design of CCNM and other types of nanomaterials in the future.

Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of new arjunolic acid derivatives as anticancer agents

Arjunolic acid (AA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid with promising anticancer properties. A series of novel AA derivatives containing a pentameric A-ring with an enal moiety, combined with additional modifications at C-28, were designed and prepared. The biological activity on the viability of human cancer and non-tumor cell lines was evaluated in order to identify the most promising derivatives. Additionally, a preliminary study of the structure-activity relationship was carried out. The most active derivative, derivative 26, also showed the best selectivity between malignant cells and non-malignant fibroblasts. For compound 26, the anticancer molecular mechanism of action in PANC-1 cells was further studied and the results showed that this derivative induced a cell-cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase and significantly inhibited the wound closure rate of PANC-1 cancer cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Additionally, compound 26 synergistically increased the cytotoxicity of Gemcitabine, especially at a concentration of 0.24 μM. Moreover, a preliminary pharmacological study indicated that at lower doses this compound did not demonstrate toxicity in vivo. Taken together, these findings suggest that compound 26 may be a valuable compound for the development of new pancreatic anticancer treatment, and further studies are needed to explore its full potential.

Mannosylated imiquimod-terbinafine co-loaded transethosomes for cutaneous leishmaniasis; assessment of its anti-leishmanial potential, in vivo safety and immune response modulation

Current treatment options for cutaneous leishmaniasis are associated with myriad limiting factors including low penetration, poor efficacy, and drug toxicities. Herein, we reported imiquimod and terbinafine co-loaded mannosylated transethosomes (IMQ-TER-MTES) with enhanced cutaneous retention, macrophage targeting, anti-leishmanial potential, and dermal immunomodulation. IMQ-TER-MTES were optimized using Design Expert® followed by their loading into chitosan gel. Moreover, the antileishmanial response against amastigotes-infected macrophages and Leishmania-infected BALB/c mice was evaluated. Finally, the safety and immunomodulation activity of IMQ-TER-MTES gel was performed using BALB/c mice. Optimized IMQ-TER-MTES showed nano-sized particles with low poly-dispersibility index (PDI) and high drug entrapment. Mannosylation has augmented macrophage targeting and the internalization capability of TES. IMQ-TER-MTES showed significantly reduced IC₅₀ value (19.56 ± 3.62 μg/ml), higher selectivity index (29.24), and synergism against Leishmania major (L. major) amastigotes. In L. major infected BALB/c mice, the cutaneous lesion healing potential of IMQ-TER-MTES was also elevated with reduced lesion size (1.52 ± 0.43 mm). Superior safety of IMQ-TER-MTES was observed in BALB/c mice along with adequate stimulation of dermal immune cells, in contrast to the ALDARA®. Moreover, incremented Nuclear factor Kappa-β (NF-κβ) and nitric oxide (NO) biosynthesis were observed with IMQ-TER-MTES.

Novel Tumor-Targeted Self-Nanostructured and Compartmentalized Water-in-Oil-in-Water Polyurethane-Polyurea Nanocapsules for Cancer Theragnosis

Encapsulation of water-soluble bioactive compounds for enabling specific accumulation in tumor locations, while avoiding premature clearance and/or degradation in the bloodstream, is one of the main hallmarks in nanomedicine, especially that of NIR fluorescent probes for cancer theragnosis. The herein reported technology furnishes water-dispersible double-walled polyurethane-polyurea hybrid nanocapsules (NCs) loaded with indocyanine green (ICG-NCs), using a versatile and highly efficient one-pot and industrially scalable synthetic process based on the use of two different prepolymers to set up the NCs walls. Flow cytometry and confocal microscopy confirmed that both ICG-loaded NCs internalized in monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDCs). The in vivo analysis of xenograft A375 mouse melanoma model revealed that amphoteric functionalization of NCs' surface promotes the selective accumulation of ICG-NCs in tumor tissues, making them promising agents for a less-invasive theragnosis of cancer.

Development of nanocubosomes co-loaded with dual anticancer agents curcumin and temozolomide for effective Colon cancer therapy

Current research aimed to develop nanocubosomes co-loaded with dual anticancer drugs curcumin and temozolomide for effective colon cancer therapy. Drugs co-loaded nanocubosomal dispersion was prepared by modified emulsification method using glyceryl monooleate (GMO), pluronic F127 and bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a lipid phase, surfactant, and stabilizer, respectively. The resulting nanocubosomes were characterized by measuring hydrodynamic particle size, particle size distribution (PSD), drug loading capacity (DL), encapsulation efficiency (EE), colloidal stability and drug release profile. We also physiochemically characterized the nanocubosomes by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and x-rays diffraction (XRD) for their morphology, polymer drug interaction and its nature, respectively. Further, the in-vitro cell-uptake, mechanism of cell-uptake, in-vitro anti-tumor efficacy and apoptosis level were evaluated using HCT-116 colon cancer cells. The prepared nanocubosomes exhibited a small hydrodynamic particle size (PS of 150 ± 10 nm in diameter) with nearly cubic shape and appropriate polydispersity index (PDI), enhanced drug loading capacity (LC of 6.82 ± 2.03% (Cur) and 9.65 ± 1.53% (TMZ), high entrapment efficiency (EE of 67.43 ± 2.16% (Cur) and 75.55 ± 3.25% (TMZ), pH-triggered drug release profile and higher colloidal stability in various physiological medium. Moreover, the nanocubosomes showed higher cellular uptake, in-vitro cytotoxicity and apoptosis compared to free drugs, curcumin and temozolomide, most likely because its small particle size. In addition, BSA-stabilized nanocubosomes were actively taken by aggressive colon cancer cells that over-expressed the albumin receptors and utilized BSA as nutrient source for their growth. In short, this study provides a new and simple strategy to improve the efficacy and simultaneously overawed the adaptive treatment tolerance in colon cancer.

Ameliorative impacts of polymeric and metallic nanoparticles on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity: a 2011-2022 review

Cisplatin (CDDP) is a well-known platinum-based drug used in the treatment of various malignancies. However, the widespread side effects that this drug leaves on normal tissues make its use limited. Since cisplatin is mainly eliminated from the kidneys, CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity is the most significant dose-limiting complication attributed to cisplatin, which often leads to dose withdrawal. Considering the high efficiency of cisplatin in chemotherapy, finding renoprotective drug delivery systems for this drug is a necessity. In this regard, we can take advantages of different nanoparticle-based approaches to deliver cisplatin into tumors either using passive targeting or using specific receptors. In an effort to find more effective cisplatin-based nano-drugs with less nephrotoxic effect, the current 2011-2022 review study was conducted to investigate some of the nanotechnology-based methods that have successfully been able to mitigate CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity. Accordingly, although cisplatin can cause renal failures through inducing mitochondria dysfunction, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and endoplasmic reticulum stress, some CDDP-based nano-carriers have been able to reverse a wide range of these advert effects. Based on the obtained results, it was found that the use of different metallic and polymeric nanoparticles can help renal cells to strengthen their antioxidant systems and stay alive through reducing CDDP-induced ROS generation, inhibiting apoptosis-related pathways and maintaining the integrity of the mitochondrial membrane. For example, nanocurcumin could inhibit oxidative stress and acting as a ROS scavenger. CONPs could reduce lipid peroxidation and pro-inflammatory cytokines. CDDP-loaded silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) could inhibit mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. In addition, tea polyphenol-functionalized SeNPs (Se@TE) NPs could mitigate the increased level of dephosphorylated AKT, phosphorylated p38 MAPK and phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) induced by cisplatin. Moreover, exosomes mitigated cisplatin-induced renal damage through inhibiting Bcl2 and increasing Bim, Bid, Bax, cleaved caspase-9, and cleaved caspase-3. Hence, nanoparticle-based techniques are promising drug delivery systems for cisplatin so that some of them, such as lipoplatins and nanocurcumins, have even reached phases 1-3 trials.

Transdermal delivery of allopurinol-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier in the treatment of gout

BACKGROUND

Allopurinol (ALP), a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, is a first line drug for the treatment of gout and hyperuricemia. Being the member of BCS class II drugs, ALP has solubility problem, which affects its bioavailability. Also, ALP has shorter half-life and showed GI related problems. In present study, ALP was encapsulated in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) to ensure enhanced bioavailability, improved efficacy and safety in vivo.

METHODOLOGY

ALP-loaded NLCs were fabricated by micro-emulsion technique. The prepared NLCs were optimized via design expert in term of particle size, zeta potential and entrapment efficiency. FTIR, PXRD and TEM analysis were carried out to check chemical interaction, polymorphic form and surface morphology of the optimized formulation. ALP-loaded NLCs were then loaded into HPMC based poloxamer-407 gel and were characterized. In vitro and ex vivo analysis were carried out via dialysis membrane method and franz diffusion cell, respectively. Uric acid was used for induction of gout and the anti-gout activity of ALP-loaded NLCs gel was performed and compared with ALP suspension.

RESULTS

The optimized formulation had particles in nano-range (238.13 nm) with suitable zeta potential (-31.5 mV), poly-dispersity index (0.115) and entrapment of 87.24%. FTIR results confirmed absence of chemical interaction among formulation ingredients. XRD indicated amorphous nature of ALP-loaded NLCs, whereas TEM analysis confirmed spherical morphology of nanoparticles. The optimized formulation was successfully loaded in to gel and characterized accordingly. The in vitro release and drug release kinetics models showed sustained release of the drug from ALP-loaded NLCs gel. Furthermore, about 28 fold enhanced permeation was observed from ALP-loaded NLCs gel as compared to conventional gel. Skin irritation study disclosed safety of ALP-loaded NLCs gel for transdermal application. Furthermore, ALP-loaded NLCs gel showed significantly enhanced anti-gout activity in Sprague-Dawley rats after transdermal administration as compared to oral ALP suspension.

CONCLUSION

ALP-loaded NLCs gel after transdermal administration sustained the drug release, avoid gastrointestinal side effects and enhance the anti-gout performance of ALP. It can be concluded, that NLCs have the potential to deliver drugs via transdermal route as indicated in case of allopurinol.

Improved biopharmaceutical performance of antipsychotic drug using lipid nanoparticles via intraperitoneal route

This study aims to develop, characterize, and examine olanzapine-loaded solid lipid nanocarriers (OLAN-SLNs) for effective brain delivery. OLAN has poor water solubility and low penetration through blood-brain barrier (BBB). Herein, OLAN-SLNs were fabricated using high-pressure homogenization (HPH) method followed by their investigation for particle properties. Moreover, in vitro release and in vivo pharmacokinetics profiles of OLAN-SLNs were compared with pure drug. Anti-psychotic activity was performed in LPS-induced psychosis mice model. Furthermore, expressions of the COX-2 and NF-κB were measured trailed by histopathological examination. The optimized formulation demonstrated nanoparticle size (149.1 nm) with rounded morphology, negative zeta potential (-28.9 mV), lower PDI (0.334), and excellent entrapment efficiency (95%). OLAN-SLNs significantly retarded the drug release and showed sustained release pattern as compared to OLAN suspension. Significantly enhanced bioavailability (ninefold) was demonstrated in OLAN-SLNs when compared with OLAN suspension. Behavioral tests showed significantly less immobility and more struggling time in OLAN-SLNs treated mice group. Additionally, reduced expression of COX-2 and -NF κB in brain was found. Altogether, it can be concluded that SLNs have the potential to deliver active pharmaceutical ingredients to brain, most importantly to enhance their bioavailability and antipsychotic effect, as indicated for OLAN in this study.