Safety Assessment of Poloxamers 101, 105, 108, 122, 123, 124, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 188, 212, 215, 217, 231, 234, 235, 237, 238, 282, 284, 288, 331, 333, 334, 335, 338, 401, 402, 403, and 407, Poloxamer 105 Benzoate, and Poloxamer 182 Dibenzoate as Used in Cosmetics

Next-generation cancer nanotherapeutics: Pluronic® F127 based mixed micelles for enhanced drug delivery

Cancer, projected to become the second leading cause of mortality globally, underscores the critical need for precise drug delivery systems. Nanotechnology, particularly micelles, has emerged as a promising avenue. These nano-sized colloidal dispersions (< 100 nm) utilize amphiphilic molecules featuring a hydrophilic tail and hydrophobic core, facilitating efficient drug encapsulation and delivery. Pluronic® F127, a triblock copolymer (PEO101-PPO56-PEO101), has emerged as a promising drug carrier due to its non-ionic, less-toxic nature, which prolongs drug circulation time and improves drug delivery across blood-brain and intestinal barriers. Mixed micelles, formed using Pluronic® F127 combined with other polymers, surfactants, and drugs, enhance drug solubility, stability, and targeted delivery. This review highlights the key features of mixed micelles, including enhanced pharmacokinetics and targeting abilities, folic acid (FA) conjugation strategies, superior cytotoxicity with reduced side effects, overcoming multidrug resistance, and versatility across various cancer types and compounds. Additionally, the potential for clinical translation of Pluronic® F127-based mixed micelle in cancer treatment is discussed, addressing current challenges and paving the way for optimized applications.

A Bibliometric Analysis and Systematic Review of Research Advances in In Situ Gel Drug Delivery Systems from 2003 to 2023

Objective: We aimed analyze research trends in in situ gel drug delivery systems. Methods: Studies from 2003 to 2023 were systematically obtained from the Web of Science database and analyzed using VOSviewer software to evaluate publication trends, citation patterns, and collaborative networks. Results: A total of 990 articles were reviewed. There has been a significant increase in publications since 2019, with the highest number of publications occurring in 2023. China was the leading country in terms of publication output. Cairo University and King Abdulaziz University were identified as the top contributing institutions. Key researchers included Zhao, Xia, Hosny, and Kim. The research primarily focused on developing new formulations, optimizing materials (e.g., biocompatible and biodegradable materials), and exploring clinical applications such as nasal-brain delivery for Alzheimer's treatment. Conclusions: In situ gel systems have gained widespread use in clinical practice due to their ability to provide prolonged drug release and enhance patient compliance. This area remains crucial for future research, particularly in formulation design and administration methods.

Alteration of gel point of poloxamer 338 induced by pharmaceutical actives and excipients

Poloxamer 338 is used as versatile thermo-responsive gelling agent in topical and sub-cutaneous applications. Due to application specific needs a gel point below body or even below room temperature is required. The influence of inorganic salts and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) on the gel point was investigated using oscillatory rheology to identify the driving forces and predictors for gel point alteration. While most inorganic salts decreased the gel point, API salts exhibited an increase. Consistent with previous findings, the extent of gel point alteration caused by inorganic salts could be empirically described by the Hofmeister series, primarily influenced by the anion. Notably, this study revealed a concentration-dependent increase in the gel point in the presence of API salts. Moreover, this increase could be accurately predicted in a linear manner by considering the respective logP value. By utilizing the proposed prediction model, the effect of API addition on the gel point can be estimated, facilitating formulation development to achieve the desired gelling behavior for specific applications.

Balancing sterilization and functional properties in Poloxamer 407 hydrogels: comparing heat and radiation techniques

Poloxamer 407, also known as Pluronic® F127, is gaining interest in the cosmetic, biomedical and pharmaceutical fields for its biocompatibility, safety and thermo-sensitive properties. Ensuring sterility is critical in clinical applications, and sterilization is often preferred over aseptic processing. However, sterilization can impact the functional properties of the hydrogel. In this study, we investigate the effects of steam heat (121°C, 20 min), dry heat (160°C, 1 h), gamma irradiation (25 kGy) and electron beam (e-beam) irradiation (15 and 25 kGy) on a 30% w/v Poloxamer 407 hydrogel formulation. Our analysis encompasses gelling properties, pH, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, small-angle X-ray scattering, rheology, swelling, degradation by-products and lactate dehydrogenase release of the sterilized hydrogels, comparing them to a non-sterile counterpart. We demonstrated that heat sterilization alters the hydrogel's gelling and structural properties due to water evaporation and oxidation under harsh temperature conditions, especially when applying the dry heat method. Gamma irradiation proved unsuitable, resulting in an acidic and cytotoxic hydrogel due to oxidative degradation. In contrast, e-beam irradiation preserves the hydrogel's elasticity, gelling and structural properties while enhancing mechanical resilience and moderating swelling. Therefore, e-beam irradiation within the 15-25 kGy range appears to be the most suitable method for sterilizing a 30% w/v Poloxamer 407 hydrogel.

Influence of Parameters Used to Prepare Sterile Solutions of Poloxamer 188 on Their Physicochemical Properties

The physicochemical properties of emulsions based on poloxamers (triblock copolymers of a hydrophobic polyoxypropylene chain and two hydrophilic polyoxyethylene chains) depend on the composition and preparation method. This study examined the impact of poloxamer P188 concentration, autoclaving mode, heating, and salt presence on the viscosity, particle size distribution, and morphology of particles using viscometric analysis, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). It was shown that sample preparation affects the particle size and morphology but not the chemical composition of P188. The most similar properties were found for 10% P188 samples sterilized by filtration and autoclaving. The higher autoclave temperature and additional heating of the 10% P188 samples to 70 °C resulted in the formation of larger particles. For 4% P188 samples with 0.6% NaCl, samples heated at 70 °C for 15 h after sterilization filtration and autoclaving were the most similar and homogeneous. The 4% P188 sample with the higher autoclave temperature and subsequent heating had the lowest viscosity. In contrast to 10% P188, for 4% P188 in the presence of salt, the lack of heating resulted in the formation of large particles. The 4% P188 solutions with NaCl were more stable during storage than those with a higher concentration.

Formulation of Emulgels Containing Clotrimazole for the Treatment of Vaginal Candidiasis

Vaginal candidiasis poses significant health concerns that affect approximately 75% of women globally and often leads to discomfort and a decrease in quality of life. Traditional treatments, despite their effectiveness, may cause discomfort and adverse effects, such as vaginal discharge, bleeding, and dryness, promoting the exploration of alternative formulations. In this study, we aimed to develop a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis utilizing oleic acid containing emulgels made from thermoresponsive poloxamer-based hydrogels. These emulgels were designed to provide a sustained release of clotrimazole, an antifungal agent. Incorporating oleic acid enhanced the drug's solubility and contributed to vaginal health. The formulations were characterized by their rheological properties, in vitro release, mucoadhesion, and spreadability. We conducted rheological measurements on the hydrogels that served as the base for the emulgels, as well as on the emulgels themselves. The emulgels exhibited continuous rheological behavior with changing temperatures, making them suitable for storage at room temperature. With an increasing HPMC content, we achieved enhanced mucoadhesion, which is beneficial for formulations used in body cavities. Moreover, in vitro release studies revealed sustained drug release profiles, which can be adjusted by varying the ratios of poloxamers and HPMC. These findings suggest that the developed emulgels offer a promising therapeutic option for vaginal candidiasis, addressing both the symptoms and the treatment of discomfort.

In vivo evaluation of a Nano-enabled therapeutic vitreous substitute for the precise delivery of triamcinolone to the posterior segment of the eye

This study focused on the design of a thermoresponsive, nano-enabled vitreous substitute for the treatment of retinal diseases. Synthesis of a hydrogel composed of hyaluronic acid and a poloxamer blend was undertaken. Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) acid nanoparticles encapsulating triamcinolone acetonide (TA) were synthesised with a spherical morphology and mean diameter of ~ 153 nm. Hydrogel fabrication and nanoparticle loading within the hydrogel was confirmed via physicochemical analysis. Gelation studies indicated that hydrogels formed in nine minutes and 10 min for the unloaded and nanoparticle-loaded hydrogels, respectively. The hydrogels displayed in situ gel formation properties, and rheometric viscoelastic studies indicated the unloaded and loaded hydrogels to have modulus values similar to those of the natural vitreous at 37 °C. Administration of the hydrogels was possible via 26G needles allowing for clinical application and drug release of triamcinolone acetonide from the nanoparticle-loaded hydrogel, which provided sustained in vitro drug release over nine weeks. The hydrogels displayed minimal swelling, reaching equilibrium swelling within 12 h for the unloaded hydrogel, and eight hours for the nanoparticle-loaded hydrogel. Biodegradation in simulated vitreous humour with lysozyme showed < 20% degradation within nine weeks. Biocompatibility of both unloaded and loaded hydrogels was shown with mouse fibroblast and human retinal pigment epithelium cell lines. Lastly, a pilot in vivo study in a New Zealand White rabbit model displayed minimal toxicity with precise, localised drug release behaviour, and ocular TA levels maintained within the therapeutic window for the 28-day investigation period, which supports the potential applicability of the unloaded and nanoparticle-loaded hydrogels as vitreous substitutes that function as drug delivery systems following vitrectomy surgery.

Regulations on excipients used in 3D printing of pediatric oral forms

A promising solution to customize oral drug formulations for the pediatric population has been found in the use of 3D printing, in particular Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Semi-Solid Extrusion (SSE). Although formulation development is currently limited to research studies, the rapid advances in 3D printing warn of the need for regulation. Indeed, even if the developed formulations include pharmaceutical excipients used to produce traditional oral forms such as tablets, the quantities of excipients used must be adapted to the process. Therefore, the aim of this literature review is to provide a synthesis of the available safety data on excipients mainly used in extrusion-based 3D printing for the pediatric population. A total of 39 relevant articles were identified through two scientific databases (PubMed and Science Direct). Then, groups of the main excipients were listed including their general information (name, chemical structure and pharmaceutical use) and a synthesis of the available safety data extracted from several databases. Finally, the role of the excipients in 3D printing, the amount used in formulations and the oral dose administered per form are presented.

Development of an Intranasal In Situ System for Ribavirin Delivery: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation

Recently, ribavirin has demonstrated effectiveness in treating glioblastoma through intranasal administration utilizing the nose-to-brain delivery route. Enhancing ribavirin's bioavailability can be achieved by utilizing intranasal stimuli-responsive systems that create a gel on the nasal mucosa. The research examined thermosensitive, pH-sensitive, and ion-selective polymers in various combinations and concentrations, chosen in line with the current Quality by Design (QbD) approach in pharmaceutical development. Following a thorough assessment of key parameters, the optimal composition of gellan gum at 0.5%, Poloxamer 124 at 2%, and purified water with ribavirin concentration at 100 mg/mL was formulated and subjected to in vivo testing. Through experiments on male rats, the nose-to-brain penetration mechanism of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) was elucidated, showcasing drug accumulation in the olfactory bulbs and brain.

Synthesis of PEG-Polycycloether Block Copolymers: Poloxamer Mimics Containing a Rigid Helical Block

Poloxamers are amphiphilic block copolymers consisting of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and poly(propylene glycol) segments. Their self-assembly and interfacial properties are tied to the relative hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity of each block and can therefore be adjusted by changing block lengths. Here, a series of PEG-polycycloether block copolymers is synthesized that have the same structure as a poloxamer, but they encompass a rigid polycyclic backbone as the hydrophobic block. A variety of polymer structures are synthesized, for example diblock or triblock architectures, with/without olefinic units, atactic or isotactic backbone, and different block lengths. Due to their amphiphilicity, self-assembly into spherical aggregates (diameters ranging from 64 to 132 nm) at low concentrations (critical aggregation concentration as low as 0.04 mg mL-1) is observed in water. Low surface tensions (as low as 26.7 mN m-1) are observed as well as the formation of stable high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) irrespective of the oil/water ratio. This contrasts with the properties of the commonly used poloxamers P188 or P407 and illustrates the significance of the rigid polycycloether block. These new colloidal properties offer new prospects for applications in emulsion formulations for biomedicine, cosmetics, and the food industry.

Hydrogels for Gasotransmitter Delivery: Nitric Oxide, Carbon Monoxide, and Hydrogen Sulfide

Gasotransmitters, gaseous signaling molecules including nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2 S), maintain myriad physiological processes. Low levels of gasotransmitters are often associated with specific problems or diseases, so NO, CO, and H2 S hold potential in treating bacterial infections, chronic wounds, myocardial infarction, ischemia, and various other diseases. However, their clinical applications as therapeutic agents are limited due to their gaseous nature, short half-life, and broad physiological roles. One route toward the greater application of gasotransmitters in medicine is through localized delivery. Hydrogels are attractive biomedical materials for the controlled release of embedded therapeutics as they are typically biocompatible, possess high water content, have tunable mechanical properties, and are injectable in certain cases. Hydrogel-based gasotransmitter delivery systems began with NO, and hydrogels for CO and H2 S have appeared more recently. In this review, the biological importance of gasotransmitters is highlighted, and the fabrication of hydrogel materials is discussed, distinguishing between methods used to physically encapsulate small molecule gasotransmitter donor compounds or chemically tether them to a hydrogel scaffold. The release behavior and potential therapeutic applications of gasotransmitter-releasing hydrogels are also detailed. Finally, the authors envision the future of this field and describe challenges moving forward.

Long-acting dolutegravir formulations prevent neurodevelopmental impairments in a mouse model

The World Health Organization has recommended dolutegravir (DTG) as a preferred first-line treatment for treatment naive and experienced people living with human immunodeficiency virus type one (PLWHIV). Based on these recommendations 15 million PLWHIV worldwide are expected to be treated with DTG regimens on or before 2025. This includes pregnant women. Current widespread use of DTG is linked to the drug's high potency, barrier to resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Despite such benefits, potential risks of DTG-linked fetal neurodevelopmental toxicity remain a concern. To this end, novel formulation strategies are urgently needed in order to maximize DTG's therapeutic potentials while limiting adverse events. In regard to potential maternal fetal toxicities, we hypothesized that injectable long-acting nanoformulated DTG (NDTG) could provide improved safety by reducing drug fetal exposures compared to orally administered native drug. To test this notion, we treated pregnant C3H/HeJ mice with daily oral native DTG at a human equivalent dosage (5 mg/kg; n = 6) or vehicle (control; n = 8). These were compared against pregnant mice injected with intramuscular (IM) NDTG formulations given at 45 (n = 3) or 25 (n = 4) mg/kg at one or two doses, respectively. Treatment began at gestation day (GD) 0.5. Magnetic resonance imaging scanning of live dams at GD 17.5 was performed to obtain T1 maps of the embryo brain to assess T1 relaxation times of drug-induced oxidative stress. Significantly lower T1 values were noted in daily oral native DTG-treated mice, whereas comparative T1 values were noted between control and NDTG-treated mice. This data reflected prevention of DTG-induced oxidative stress when delivered as NDTG. Proteomic profiling of embryo brain tissues harvested at GD 17.5 demonstrated reductions in oxidative stress, mitochondrial impairments, and amelioration of impaired neurogenesis and synaptogenesis in NDTG-treated mice. Pharmacokinetic (PK) tests determined that both daily oral native DTG and parenteral NDTG achieved clinically equivalent therapeutic plasma DTG levels in dams (4,000-6,500 ng/mL). Importantly, NDTG led to five-fold lower DTG concentrations in embryo brain tissues compared to daily oral administration. Altogether, our preliminary work suggests that long-acting drug delivery can limit DTG-linked neurodevelopmental deficits.

Synthesis and Optimization of Next-Generation Low-Molecular-Weight Pentablock Copolymer Nanoadjuvants

Polymeric nanomaterials such as Pluronic®-based pentablock copolymers offer important advantages over traditional vaccine adjuvants and have been increasingly investigated in an effort to develop more efficacious vaccines. Previous work with Pluronic® F127-based pentablock copolymers, functionalized with poly(diethyl aminoethyl methacrylate) (PDEAEM) blocks, demonstrated adjuvant capabilities through the antigen presentation and crosslinking of B cell receptors. In this work, we describe the synthesis and optimization of a new family of low-molecular-weight Pluronic®-based pentablock copolymer nanoadjuvants with high biocompatibility and improved adjuvanticity at low doses. We synthesized low-molecular-weight Pluronic® P123-based pentablock copolymers with PDEAEM blocks and investigated the relationship between polymer concentration, micellar size, and zeta potential, and measured the release kinetics of a model antigen, ovalbumin, from these nanomaterials. The Pluronic® P123-based pentablock copolymer nanoadjuvants showed higher biocompatibility than the first-generation Pluronic® F127-based pentablock copolymer nanoadjuvants. We assessed the adjuvant capabilities of the ovalbumin-containing Pluronic® P123-based pentablock copolymer-based nanovaccines in mice, and showed that animals immunized with these nanovaccines elicited high antibody titers, even when used at significantly reduced doses compared to Pluronic® F127-based pentablock copolymers. Collectively, these studies demonstrate the synthesis, self-assembly, biocompatibility, and adjuvant properties of a new family of low-molecular-weight Pluronic® P123-based pentablock copolymer nanomaterials, with the added benefits of more efficient renal clearance, high biocompatibility, and enhanced adjuvanticity at low polymer concentrations.

A review of electrophoretic separations in temperature-responsive Pluronic thermal gels

Gel electrophoresis is a ubiquitous bioanalytical technique used in research laboratories to validate protein and nucleic acid samples. Polyacrylamide and agarose have been the gold standard gel materials for decades, but an alternative class of polymer has emerged with potentially superior performance. Pluronic thermal gels are water-soluble polymers that possess the unique ability to undergo a change in viscosity in response to changing temperature. Thermal gels can reversibly convert between low-viscosity liquids and high-viscosity solid gels using temperature as an adjustable parameter. The properties of thermal gels provide unmatched flexibility as a dynamic separations matrix to measure analytes ranging from small molecules to cells. This review article describes the physical and chemical properties of Pluronic thermal gels to provide a fundamental overview of polymer behavior. The performance of thermal gels is then reviewed to highlight their applications as a gel matrix for electrokinetic separations in capillary, microfluidic, and slab gel formats. The use of dynamic temperature-responsive gels in bioanalytical separations is an underexplored area of research but one that holds exciting potential to achieve performance unattainable with conventional static polymers.

Application of Pluronics for Enhancing Aqueous Solubility of Lipophilic Microtubule Destabilizing Compounds on the Sea Urchin Embryo Model

In screening, the dilution of DMSO stock solution of a lipophilic molecule with an assay medium often causes compound precipitation. To overcome the issue, the application of Pluronics as cosolvents was examined using a phenotypic sea urchin embryo assay that allows for the quick and facile evaluation of the antiproliferative effect together with systemic toxicity. Maximum tolerated concentration values for Pluronics L121, P123, and F127 were 1.4 μM, 8.6 μM, and 39.7 μM, respectively, and correlated directly with their hydrophilicity. Pluronics L121 and P123 suppressed cleavage and blastomeres retained the round shape, unlike hydrophilic Pluronic F127, which induced fertilization envelope creasing and embryo deformation that could be associated with the interaction of hydrophilic PEO units with mucopolysaccharides at the surface of sea urchin embryos. The toxicity of P123, but not of L121 and F127, was temperature-dependent and markedly increased at lower temperatures. CMC values obtained at different temperatures confirmed that the toxic effect of P123 was associated with both unimers and micelles, whereas F127 toxicity was related mainly to micelles. Evaluation using phenotypic sea urchin embryo assay revealed that potent microtubule destabilizers, namely albendazole, diarylisoxazole, and two chalcones, retained antimitotic activity after the dilution of their DMSO or 2-pyrrolidone stock solutions with 1.25% w/v Pluronic P123 or 5% w/v Pluronic F127. It was suggested that Pluronic P123 and Pluronic F127 could be used as cosolvents to improve the solubility of lipophilic molecules in aqueous medium.

Poloxamer-based nanogels as delivery systems: how structural requirements can drive their biological performance?

Poloxamers or Pluronics®-based nanogels are one of the most used matrices for developing delivery systems. Due to their thermoresponsive and flexible mechanical properties, they allowed the incorporation of several molecules including drugs, biomacromolecules, lipid-derivatives, polymers, and metallic, polymeric, or lipid nanocarriers. The thermogelling mechanism is driven by micelles formation and their self-assembly as phase organizations (lamellar, hexagonal, cubic) in response to microenvironmental conditions such as temperature, osmolarity, and additives incorporated. Then, different biophysical techniques have been used for investigating those structural transitions from the mechanisms to the preferential component's orientation and organization. Since the design of PL-based pharmaceutical formulations is driven by the choice of the polymer type, considering its physico-chemical properties, it is also relevant to highlight that factors inherent to the polymeric matrix can be strongly influenced by the presence of additives and how they are able to determine the nanogels biopharmaceuticals properties such as bioadhesion, drug loading, surface interaction behavior, dissolution, and release rate control. In this review, we discuss the general applicability of three of the main biophysical techniques used to characterize those systems, scattering techniques (small-angle X-ray and neutron scattering), rheology and Fourier transform infrared absorption spectroscopy (FTIR), connecting their supramolecular structure and insights for formulating effective therapeutic delivery systems.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12551-023-01093-2.

Molecular Insights on Morphology, Composition, and Stability of Mixed Micelles Formed by Ionic Surfactant and Nonionic Block Copolymer in Water Using Coarse-Grained Molecular Dynamics Simulations

The nanoscale association domains are the ultimate determinants of the macroscopic properties of complex fluids involving amphiphilic polymers and surfactants, and hence, it is foremost important to understand the role of polymer/surfactant concentration on these domains. We have used coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the effect of polymer/surfactant concentration on the morphology of poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO, i.e., pluronics or poloxamers) block copolymer, and ionic surfactants sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), mixed micelles in aqueous solution. The proclivity of the surfactant to form the mixed micelles is also probed using umbrella sampling simulations. In this study, we observed that the core of the pluronic + SDS formed mixed micelles consists of PPO, the alkyl tail of SDS, and some water molecules, whereas the PEO, water, and sulfate headgroups of SDS form a shell, consistent with experimental observations. The micelles are spherical at high-pluronic/low-SDS compositions, ellipsoidal at high-SDS/low-pluronic compositions, and wormlike-cylindrical at high-pluronic/high-SDS compositions. The transitions in micelle morphology are governed by the solvent accessible surface area of mixed aggregates, electrostatic repulsion between SDS-headgroups, and dehydration of PEO and PPO segments. The free energy barrier for SDS escape is much higher in mixed micelles than in pure SDS micelles, indicating a stronger tendency for SDS to form pluronic-SDS mixed micelles.

Pluronic® triblock copolymer-based nanoformulations for cancer therapy: A 10-year overview

This paper provides a review of the literature on the use of Pluronic® triblock copolymers for drug encapsulation over the last 10 years. A special focus is given to the progress of drug delivery systems (e.g., micelles, liposomes, micro/nanoemulsions, hydrogels and nanogels, and polymersomes and niosomes); the beneficial aspects of Pluronic® triblock copolymers as biological response modifiers and as pharmaceutical additives, adjuvants, and stabilizers, are also discussed. The advantages and limitations encountered in developing site-specific targeting approaches based on Pluronic-based nanostructures in cancer treatment are highlighted, in addition to innovative examples for improving tumor cytotoxicity while reducing side effects.

HIV-1 Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors and Neurodevelopment

Children born to mothers, with or at risk, of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) infection are on the rise due to affordable access of antiretroviral therapy (ART) to pregnant women or those of childbearing age. Each year, up to 1.3 million HIV-1-infected women on ART have given birth with recorded mother-to-child HIV-1 transmission rates of less than 1%. Despite this benefit, the outcomes of children exposed to antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy, especially pre- and post- natal neurodevelopment remain incompletely understood. This is due, in part, to the fact that pregnant women are underrepresented in clinical trials. This is underscored by any potential risks of neural tube defects (NTDs) linked, in measure, to periconceptional usage of dolutegravir (DTG). A potential association between DTG and NTDs was first described in Botswana in 2018. Incidence studies of neurodevelopmental outcomes associated with DTG, and other integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) are limited as widespread use of INSTIs has begun only recently in pregnant women. Therefore, any associations between INSTI use during pregnancy, and neurodevelopmental abnormalities remain to be explored. Herein, United States Food and Drug Administration approved ARVs and their use during pregnancy are discussed. We provide updates on INSTI pharmacokinetics and adverse events during pregnancy together with underlying mechanisms which could affect fetal neurodevelopment. Overall, this review seeks to educate both clinical and basic scientists on potential consequences of INSTIs on fetal outcomes as a foundation for future scientific investigations.

Direct and Reverse Pluronic Micelles: Design and Characterization of Promising Drug Delivery Nanosystems

Pluronics are a family of amphiphilic block copolymers broadly explored in the pharmaceutical field. Under certain conditions, Pluronics self-assemble in different structures including nanosized direct and reverse micelles. This review provides an overview about the main parameters affecting the micellization process of Pluronics, such as polymer length, fragments distribution within the chain, solvents, additives and loading of cargo. Furthermore, it offers a guide about the most common techniques used to characterize the structure and properties of the micelles. Finally, it presents up-to-date approaches to improve the stability and drug loading of Pluronic micelles. Special attention is paid to reverse Pluronics and reverse micelles, currently underexplored in the literature. Pluronic micelles present a bright future as drug delivery agents. A smart design and thorough characterization will improve the transfer to clinical applications.

The Multifunctional Role of Poloxamer P338 as a Biofilm Disrupter and Antibiotic Enhancer: A Small Step forward against the Big Trouble of Catheter-Associated Escherichia coli Urinary Tract Infections

Poloxamer 338 (P338), a nonionic surfactant amphiphilic copolymer, is herein proposed as an anti-biofilm compound for the management of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). P338’s ability to disrupt Escherichia coli biofilms on silicone urinary catheters and to serve as antibiotic enhancer was evaluated for biofilm-producing E. coli Ec5FSL and Ec9FSL clinical strains, isolated from urinary catheters. In static conditions, quantitative biofilm formation assay allowed us to determine the active P338 concentration. In dynamic conditions, the BioFlux system, combined with confocal laser scanning microscopy, allowed us to investigate the P338 solution’s ability to detach biofilm, alone or in combination with sub-MIC concentrations of cefoxitin (FOX). The 0.5% P338 solution was able to destroy the structure of E. coli biofilms, to reduce the volume and area fraction covered by adherent cells (41.42 ± 4.79% and 56.20 ± 9.22% reduction for the Ec5FSL and Ec9FSL biofilms, respectively), and to potentiate the activity of 1\2 MIC FOX in disaggregating biofilms (19.41 ± 7.41% and 34.66 ± 3.75% reduction in the area fraction covered by biofilm for Ec5FSL and Ec9FSL, respectively) and killing cells (36.85 ± 7.13% and 32.33 ± 4.65% increase in the biofilm area covered by dead Ec5FSL and Ec9FSL cells, respectively).

Evaluation of Usnea barbata (L.) Weber ex F.H. Wigg Extract in Canola Oil Loaded in Bioadhesive Oral Films for Potential Applications in Oral Cavity Infections and Malignancy

Usnea lichens are known for their beneficial pharmacological effects with potential applications in oral medicine. This study aims to investigate the extract of Usnea barbata (L.) Weber ex F.H. Wigg from the Călimani Mountains in canola oil as an oral pharmaceutical formulation. In the present work, bioadhesive oral films (F-UBO) with U. barbata extract in canola oil (UBO) were formulated, characterized, and evaluated, evidencing their pharmacological potential. The UBO-loaded films were analyzed using standard methods regarding physicochemical and pharmacotechnical characteristics to verify their suitability for topical administration on the oral mucosa. F-UBO suitability confirmation allowed for the investigation of antimicrobial and anticancer potential. The antimicrobial properties against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27353, Candida albicans ATCC 10231, and Candida parapsilosis ATCC 22019 were evaluated by a resazurin-based 96-well plate microdilution method. The brine shrimp lethality assay (BSL assay) was the animal model cytotoxicity prescreen, followed by flow cytometry analyses on normal blood cells and oral epithelial squamous cell carcinoma CLS-354 cell line, determining cellular apoptosis, caspase-3/7 activity, nuclear condensation and lysosomal activity, oxidative stress, cell cycle, and cell proliferation. The results indicate that a UBO-loaded bioadhesive film’s weight is 63 ± 1.79 mg. It contains 315 µg UBO, has a pH = 6.97 ± 0.01, a disintegration time of 124 ± 3.67 s, and a bioadhesion time of 86 ± 4.12 min, being suitable for topical administration on the oral mucosa. F-UBO showed moderate dose-dependent inhibitory effects on the growth of both bacterial and fungal strains. Moreover, in CLS-354 tumor cells, F-UBO increased oxidative stress, diminished DNA synthesis, and induced cell cycle arrest in G0/G1. All these properties led to considering UBO-loaded bioadhesive oral films as a suitable phytotherapeutic formulation with potential application in oral infections and neoplasia.

Dual Nanostructured Lipid Carriers/Hydrogel System for Delivery of Curcumin for Topical Skin Applications

This work focuses on the development and evaluation of a dual nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC)/Carbopol®-based hydrogel system as a potential transporter for the topical delivery of curcumin to the skin. Two populations of different sized negatively charged NLCs (P1, 70–90 nm and P2, 300–350 nm) were prepared and characterized by means of dynamic light scattering. NLCs presented an ovoid platelet shape confirmed by transmission electron microscopy techniques. Curcumin NLC entrapment efficiency and release profiles were assessed by HPLC (high pressure liquid chromatography) and spectrophotometric methods. Preservation and enhancement of curcumin (CUR) antioxidant activity in NLCs (up to 7-fold) was established and cell viability assays on fibroblasts and keratinocytes indicated that CUR-NLCs are non-cytotoxic for concentrations up to 10 μM and exhibited a moderate anti-migration/proliferation effect (20% gap reduction). CUR-NLCs were then embedded in a Carbopol®-based hydrogel without disturbing the mechanical properties of the gel. Penetration studies on Franz diffusion cells over 24 h in CUR-NLCs and CUR-NLCs/gels demonstrated an accumulation of CUR in Strat-M® membranes of 22% and 5%, respectively. All presented data support the use of this new dual CUR-NLC/hydrogel system as a promising candidate for adjuvant treatment in topical dermal applications.

Polyaphron Formulations Stabilised with Different Water-Soluble Polymers for Ocular Drug Delivery

As drug delivery to the eye has evolved over the last decades, researchers have explored more effective treatments for ocular diseases. Despite this, delivering drugs to the cornea remains one of the most problematic issues in ophthalmology due to the poor permeability of the cornea and tear clearance mechanisms. In this study, four different types of polyaphron formulations are prepared with 10% poloxamer 188 (P188), 10% poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline), 1% polyquaternium 10, and 3% sodium carboxymethylcellulose solutions mixed with 1% Brij® L4 in a caprylic/capric triglycerides solution. Their physicochemical characteristics, rheological properties, and stability are assessed. Additionally, a polyaphron with 3% polyquaternium 10 was prepared for the assessment of ex vivo corneal retention along with four other polyaphrons. The best retention on the ex vivo cornea was displayed by the 3% polyquaternium 10-based formulation. The 10% poloxamer 188 along with 1% polyquaternium 10-based polyaphrons appeared to be the most stable among the four prepared formulations. A toxicological evaluation of these formulations was performed using a slug mucosal irritation test and bovine corneal opacity and permeability assay, with all four polyaphrons proving good biocompatibility with ocular tissues. The developed drug delivery systems demonstrated an excellent potential for ocular drug delivery.

Impact of small molecule and reverse poloxamer addition on the micellization and gelation mechanisms of poloxamer hydrogels

Poloxamer 407 (P407) is widely used for targeted drug-delivery because it exhibits thermoresponsive gelation behavior near body temperature, stemming from a disorder-to-order transition. Hydrophobic small molecules can be encapsulated within P407; however, these additives often negatively impact the rheological properties and lower the gelation temperatures of the hydrogels, limiting their clinical utility. Here we investigate the impact of adding two BAB reverse poloxamers (RPs), 25R4 and 31R1, on the thermal transitions, rheological properties, and assembled structures of P407 both with and without incorporated small molecules. By employing a combination of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), rheology, and small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS), we determine distinct mechanisms for RP incorporation. While 25R4 addition promotes inter-micelle bridge formation, the highly hydrophobic 31R1 co-micellizes with P407. Small molecule addition lowers thermal transition temperatures and increases the micelle size, while RP addition mitigates the decreases in modulus traditionally associated with small molecule incorporation. This fundamental understanding yields new strategies for tuning the mechanical and structural properties of the hydrogels, enabling design of drug-loaded formulations with ideal thermal transitions for a range of clinical applications.

Poloxamer 188 as surfactant in biological formulations - An alternative for polysorbate 20/80?

Surfactants are used to stabilize biologics. Particularly, polysorbates (Tween® 20 and Tween® 80) dominate the group of surfactants in protein and especially antibody drug products. Since decades drug developers rely on the ethoxylated sorbitan fatty acid ester mixtures to stabilize sensitive molecules such as proteins. Reasons are (i) excellent stabilizing properties, and (ii) well recognized safety and tolerability profile of these polysorbates in humans, especially for parenteral applications. However, over the past decade concerns regarding the stability of these two polysorbates were raised. The search of alternatives with preferably less reservations concerning degradation and product quality reducing issues leads, among others, to poloxamer 188 (e.g. Kolliphor® P188), a nonionic triblock-copolymer surfactant. This review sums up our current knowledge related to the characterization and physico-chemical properties of poloxamer 188, its analytics and stability properties for biological formulations. Furthermore, the advantages and disadvantages as a suitable polysorbate-alternative for the stabilization of biologics are discussed.

Effects of Process and Formulation Parameters on Submicron Polymeric Particles Produced by a Rapid Emulsion-Diffusion Method

Emulsification-diffusion method is often used to produce polymeric nanoparticles. However, their numerous and/or lengthy steps make it difficult to use widely. Thus, a modified method using solvent blends (miscible/partially miscible in water, 25–100%) as the organic phases to overcome these disadvantages and its design space were investigated. To further simplify the process, no organic/aqueous phase saturation and no water addition after the emulsification step were performed. Biodegradable (PLGA) or pH-sensitive (Eudragit^® E100) nanoparticles were robustly produced using low/medium shear stirring adding dropwise the organic phase into the aqueous phase or vice versa. Several behaviors were also obtained: lowering the partially water-miscible solvent ratio relative to the organic phase or the poloxamer-407 concentration; or increasing the organic phase polarity or the polyvinyl alcohol concentration produced smaller particle sizes/polydispersity. Nanoparticle zeta potential increased as the water-miscible solvent ratio increased. Poloxamer-407 showed better performance to decrease the particle size (~50 nm) at low concentrations (≤1%, w/v) compared with polyvinyl alcohol at 1–5% (w/v), but higher concentrations produced bigger particles/polydispersity (≥600 nm). Most important, an inverse linear correlation to predict the particle size by determining the solubility parameter was found. A rapid method to broadly prepare nanoparticles using straightforward equipment is provided.

Unusual Growth and Hydration Characteristics of Oil Solubilized Micelles in Aqueous Pluronic Systems

Lipophile induced modulations of self-assembly characteristics in aqueous Pluronic systems merit attention because of wide-ranging uses of Pluronics as solubilizing agents of lipophilic substances. In this paper, we report unusual evolutions of structural and hydration properties in lavender essential oil (LO) solubilized Pluronic P85 aqueous micellar systems as a function of micellar volume fraction and temperature. Our DLS, SANS, and viscometry studies show that the spherical-to-wormlike micellar structural transition observed in 1% P85 solutions upon solubilization of LO quite unexpectedly gets suppressed with increased P85 concentration to ≥5%. Detailed SANS studies reveal that the core sizes of the oil solubilized micelles cannot attain the threshold value required for the onset of structural transition at higher copolymer concentrations due to their progressive shrinking with an increase in P85 concentration. Oil solubilized P85 solutions show two cloud points and very interestingly exhibit micellar growth upon cooling to their lower cloud points. Steady state fluorescence studies explain this based on increasing dehydration of micellar corona with a decrease in temperature, very much opposite to what is observed in pure aqueous Pluronic systems. The results give new insight into viscous flow properties and low temperature storage possibilities of oil solubilized aqueous Pluronic systems.

Microfluidic Technology for the Production of Hybrid Nanomedicines

Microfluidic technologies have recently been applied as innovative methods for the production of a variety of nanomedicines (NMeds), demonstrating their potential on a global scale. The capacity to precisely control variables, such as the flow rate ratio, temperature, total flow rate, etc., allows for greater tunability of the NMed systems that are more standardized and automated than the ones obtained by well-known benchtop protocols. However, it is a crucial aspect to be able to obtain NMeds with the same characteristics of the previously optimized ones. In this study, we focused on the transfer of a production protocol for hybrid NMeds (H-NMeds) consisting of PLGA, Cholesterol, and Pluronic® F68 from a benchtop nanoprecipitation method to a microfluidic device. For this aim, we modified parameters such as the flow rate ratio, the concentration of core materials in the organic phase, and the ratio between PLGA and Cholesterol in the feeding organic phase. Outputs analysed were the chemico-physical properties, such as size, PDI, and surface charge, the composition in terms of %Cholesterol and residual %Pluronic® F68, their stability to lyophilization, and the morphology via atomic force and electron microscopy. On the basis of the results, even if microfluidic technology is one of the unique procedures to obtain industrial production of NMeds, we demonstrated that the translation from a benchtop method to a microfluidic one is not a simple transfer of already established parameters, with several variables to be taken into account and to be optimized.

Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry method for quantifying polymer poloxamer 124 and its application to pharmacokinetic study

Poloxamer is a commonly used pharmaceutical excipient. It is a high molecular polymer formed using polypropylene oxide and polyethylene oxide units. Specifically, poloxamer 124 is one of the smaller molecular weight in the poloxamer series; however, its pharmacokinetic behaviors in vivo are still unclear. In this study, a method for quantifying poloxamer 124 in rat plasma through ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry was developed. The intravenous dosage of PL124 was 10 mg/kg. Plasma was collected at different times. The calibration curve was linear in the range of 0.1-5 μg/mL for the poloxamer 124 (r ≥ 0.9956) with the lower limit of quantitation of 0.1 μg/ml. The relative standard deviation of the intraday and interday precisions was below 8.0%, and the relative error of the accuracy was within ±12.0%. The extraction recovery, matrix effect, and stability were satisfactory in rat plasma. The validated method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of poloxamer 124 in rats. Results indicated that poloxamer 124 could be rapidly absorbed and eliminated through caudal vein injection. This study is helpful for the further study of poloxamer 124.

Efficacy and safety of a novel hemostatic material, BoneStat, compared with Ostene and Bone Wax in a rat calvarial defect model

Hemostasis has critical significance during surgical procedures. Bone Wax has traditionally been commonly used for bone hemostasis despite well-documented undesirable side effects: hindering osteogenesis and induction of inflammatory reactions with consequent increase in infection rates. A later developed formulation, Ostene, offers an alternative to Bone Wax with lesser undesired effects. In this study, BoneStat, a newly developed bone hemostatic formulation comprising water-soluble alkylene oxide co-polymers, was evaluated for water solubility, hemostatic efficacy, ease of handling, bone healing efficacy, and inflammatory reactions compared with Bone Wax and Ostene in a rat calvarial defect model. More than 95% of BoneStat was dissolved in water within 48 h, as was Ostene, but not Bone Wax. The time to hemostasis using BoneStat was significantly faster than with Ostene or Bone Wax. BoneStat also improved ease of handling compared to Ostene or BoneWax. BoneStat- and Ostene-treated groups constantly showed better bone healing than with Bone Wax. The BoneStat and Ostene groups presented no evidence of chronic inflammation reaction contrary to Bone Wax. These results suggest improved hemostasis, ease of handling, non-hindering bone healing, and unnoticeable chronic inflammatory reactions with BoneStat. Thus, Bonestat is a useful and reliable formulation for mechanical hemostasis.

Evaluation of the anti-biofilm effect of poloxamer-based thermoreversible gel of silver nanoparticles as a potential medication for root canal therapy

The purpose of this study was to design silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) poloxamer thermoreversible gel (AgNPs-PL) and investigate whether this gel could provide sustained antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) in the root canal. The gels fabricated were characterized in terms of gelatin temperature, particle size, in-vitro Ag⁺ release, and elemental content. Cytotoxicity of AgNPs-PL on primary human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (HPDLFs) was examined by CCK-8 assay. Characterization of AgNPs-PL gel revealed that it contained particles existing as large clumps/fused aggregates of different shapes, with a mean diameter of 21.624 ± 14.689 nm, exhibited sustained release of Ag⁺ for 9 days, and non-toxic to HPDLFs at a low dose (4–32 μg/mL) through 24, 48, and 72 h exposures. The antibacterial effect of 16 and 32 μg/mL concentrations of AgNPs-PL was compared with blank poloxamer gel (PL) and calcium hydroxide (CH) using three methods: (I) agar counting plate, (II) scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations, and (III) confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) analysis. AgNPs-PL at the two doses above was more effective than PL and CH in removing E. faecalis biofilm at 1, 3, 9 days. Thus, AgNPs-PL exhibits strong activity against E. faecalis and is easy to produce, with a continuous release profile of Ag⁺. AgNPs-PL gel may be a candidate for a new root canal disinfection.

Drug reformulation for a neglected disease. The NANOHAT project to develop a safer more effective sleeping sickness drug

Background

Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT or sleeping sickness) is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma brucei sspp. The disease has two stages, a haemolymphatic stage after the bite of an infected tsetse fly, followed by a central nervous system stage where the parasite penetrates the brain, causing death if untreated. Treatment is stage-specific, due to the blood-brain barrier, with less toxic drugs such as pentamidine used to treat stage 1. The objective of our research programme was to develop an intravenous formulation of pentamidine which increases CNS exposure by some 10–100 fold, leading to efficacy against a model of stage 2 HAT. This target candidate profile is in line with drugs for neglected diseases inititative recommendations.

Methodology

To do this, we evaluated the physicochemical and structural characteristics of formulations of pentamidine with Pluronic micelles (triblock-copolymers of polyethylene-oxide and polypropylene oxide), selected candidates for efficacy and toxicity evaluation in vitro, quantified pentamidine CNS delivery of a sub-set of formulations in vitro and in vivo, and progressed one pentamidine-Pluronic formulation for further evaluation using an in vivo single dose brain penetration study.

Principal Findings

Screening pentamidine against 40 CNS targets did not reveal any major neurotoxicity concerns, however, pentamidine had a high affinity for the imidazoline₂ receptor. The reduction in insulin secretion in MIN6 β-cells by pentamidine may be secondary to pentamidine-mediated activation of β-cell imidazoline receptors and impairment of cell viability. Pluronic F68 (0.01%w/v)-pentamidine formulation had a similar inhibitory effect on insulin secretion as pentamidine alone and an additive trypanocidal effect in vitro. However, all Pluronics tested (P85, P105 and F68) did not significantly enhance brain exposure of pentamidine.

Significance

These results are relevant to further developing block-copolymers as nanocarriers, improving BBB drug penetration and understanding the side effects of pentamidine.

Sleeping sickness or human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) is a disease caused by a parasite, which is transferred to humans by the bite of an infected tsetse fly. There are two disease stages: the first stage is the blood-based stage of the disease and the second stage affects the brain. It is fatal if left untreated. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) makes the brain stage difficult to treat because it prevents 99% of all drugs from entering the brain from the blood. Those anti-HAT drugs that do enter the brain are toxic and have serious side effects. Pentamidine is a less toxic blood stage drug, which our research has shown has a limited ability to cross the BBB due to its removal by proteins called transporters. The objective of this study was to use Pluronic to improve pentamidine delivery to target sites, whilst reducing its side effects. Pluronic is a polymer, which can assemble into micelles and encapsulate the drug. Thus, prolonging its circulation time and protecting it. Our study indicated that the selected Pluronics did not increase the brain delivery of pentamidine. However. Pluronic-pentamidine formulations were identified that harboured trypanocidal activity and did not increase safety concerns compared to unformulated pentamidine.

Alginate/poloxamer hydrogel obtained by thiol-acrylate photopolymerization for the alleviation of the inflammatory response of human keratinocytes

Hydrogel-based wound dressings have been intensively studied as promising materials for wound healing and care. The mixed-mode thiol-acrylate photopolymerization is used in this paper for alginate/poloxamer hydrogels formation. First, the alginate was modified with thiol groups using the esterification reaction with cysteamine, and second, the terminal hydroxyl groups of poloxamer were esterified with acryloyl chloride to introduce polymerizable acrylate groups. Finally, the cross-linking reaction between the two macromers was performed to produce degradable alginate/poloxamer hydrogels. The optimum conditions for the photo-initiated reaction were studied in order to obtain high gel fractions. The resulting hydrogels have high swelling capacity in simulated physiological conditions, good elasticity and strength, and appropriate porosity, some of the physico-chemical properties required for their applications as wound dressings/patches. The biological assays show that the alginate/poloxamer hydrogels induce proliferation of human keratinocyte and have an anti-inflammatory effect on lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-activated keratinocytes by inhibiting the extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK)/ nuclear factor (NF)-kB/ tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α signalling pathway. Taken together, the results showed that the chemical cross-linked alginate/poloxamer hydrogels may function as a dressing/patch applied directly on the skin lesion to heal the wound by reducing the exacerbated inflammation, the main cause of wound healing delay and local infection.

Pluronic F-127/Silk Fibroin for Enhanced Mechanical Property and Sustained Release Drug for Tissue Engineering Biomaterial

Herein, an injectable thermosensitive hydrogel was developed for a drug and cellular delivery system. The composite was prepared by facile physical mixing of pluronic F-127 (PF) and silk fibroin (SF) in an aqueous solution. The chemical structure, transparency, viscosity, injectability, degradation kinetic, cumulative release of dexamethasone (Dex), a type of corticosteroid drug, and size distribution of the fabricated hydrogels were characterized. Cytotoxicity of the hydrogels was also studied to verify the biocompatibility of the hydrogels. The addition of a proper amount of SF to PF not only improved the mechanical strength but also decreased the degradation rate which improved the fast rate release of hydrophobic drugs. The cytotoxicity of the hydrogel decreased when SF was added to PF in a proper amount. Overall, the results confirm that the composite of PF and SF can be a promising cell and drug delivery system for future application in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Poloxamer-188 and d-α-Tocopheryl Polyethylene Glycol Succinate (TPGS-1000) Mixed Micelles Integrated Orodispersible Sublingual Films to Improve Oral Bioavailability of Ebastine; In Vitro and In Vivo Characterization

Orodispersible sublingual films (OSFs) composed of hydrophilic polymers were loaded with poloxamer-188 and d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS-1000) mixed micelles to improve the oral bioavailability of a poorly soluble drug, ebastine (EBT). Mixed micelles formed by thin-film hydration method were incorporated into orodispersible sublingual film, consisting of HPMC and glycerol, using solvent casting technique. The mixed micelles and films were thoroughly evaluated for physicochemical characterization (size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, thickness, weight, surface pH studies, disintegration time, swelling indices, mechanical properties, FTIR, PXRD, DSC, SEM, AFM, in vitro drug release, in vivo bioavailability, and toxicological studies). The results showed that the average particle size of mixed micelles was 73 nm. The mean zeta potential and PDI of the optimal mixed micelles formulation were -26 mV and 0.16, respectively. Furthermore, the maximum entrapment efficiency 82% was attained. The film's disintegration time was in the range of 28 to 102 s in aqueous media. The integrity of micelles was not affected upon incorporation in films. Importantly, the micelles-loaded films revealed rapid absorption, high permeability, and increased bioavailability of EBT as compared to the pure drug. The existence of ebastine loaded mixed micelles in the films enhanced the bioavailability about 2.18 folds as compared to pure drug. Further, the results evidently established in-vitro and in-vivo performance of bioavailability enhancement, biocompatibility, and good safety profile of micelles-loaded orodispersible EBT films. Finally, it was concluded that film loaded with poloxamer-188/TPGS-1000 mixed micelles could be an effective carrier system for enhancing the bioavailability of ebastine.

Poloxamer 338 Affects Cell Adhesion and Biofilm Formation in Escherichia coli: Potential Applications in the Management of Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections

Poloxamers are nontoxic, amphiphilic copolymers used in different formulations. Due to its surfactant properties, Poloxamer 338 (P388) is herein proposed as a strategy to avoid biofilm formation often causing recalcitrant catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI). The aim is to evaluate the ability of P388 coatings to affect the adhesion of Ec5FSL and Ec9FSL Escherichia coli strains on silicone urinary catheters. Attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and static water contact angle measurement were employed to characterize the P388-coated silicone catheter in terms of amount of P388 layered, coating thickness, homogeneity, and hydrophilicity. In static conditions, the antifouling power of P388 was defined by comparing the E. coli cells adherent on a hydrophilic P388-adsorbed catheter segment with those on an uncoated one. A P388-coated catheter, having a homogeneous coverage of 35 nm in thickness, reduced of 0.83 log₁₀ and 0.51 log₁₀ the biofilm of Ec5FSL and Ec9FSL, respectively. In dynamic conditions, the percentage of cell adhesion on P388-adsorbed silicone channels was investigated by a microfluidic system, simulating the in vivo conditions of catheterized patients. As a result, both E. coli isolates were undetected. The strong and stable antifouling property against E. coli biofilm lead us to consider P388 as a promising anti-biofilm agent for CAUTIs control.

Materials promoting viral gene delivery

Therapeutic viral gene delivery is an emerging technology which aims to correct genetic mutations by introducing new genetic information to cells either to correct a faulty gene or to initiate cell death in oncolytic treatments. In recent years, significant scientific progress has led to several clinical trials resulting in the approval of gene therapies for human treatment. However, successful therapies remain limited due to a number of challenges such as inefficient cell uptake, low transduction efficiency (TE), limited tropism, liver toxicity and immune response. To adress these issues and increase the number of available therapies, additives from a broad range of materials like polymers, peptides, lipids, nanoparticles, and small molecules have been applied so far. The scope of this review is to highlight these selected delivery systems from a materials perspective.

Co-grinding with surfactants as a new approach to enhance in vitro dissolution of praziquantel

This paper evaluates the process of co-grinding with a surfactant as a new approach to enhance physicochemical and biopharmaceutical properties of praziquantel (PZQ), a poorly soluble drug that is essential for the treatment of schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease. Surfactants used in this study were poloxamer F-127 and sucrose stearate (C-1816), selected based on their well-documented biocompatibility and solubilizing activity. A series of products were prepared by mechanochemical activation using vibrational ball-mill at different drug to surfactant ratio and milling times. The obtained products were characterised in terms of drug recovery, solubility and in vitro dissolution rates. The obtained results were correlated to solid-state properties of the products analysed by differential scanning calorimetry, powder X-ray diffraction and particle size analysis. Results of UPLC-MS analysis and ¹H-NMR spectroscopy showed that the used surfactants and applied grinding procedures caused no chemical degradation of the PZQ. The physicochemical properties, solubility and the in vitro dissolution enhancement of the co-ground products were related to the drug to surfactant ratio and the grinding protocol applied. The highest enhancement of the in vitro dissolution rate was achieved at the drug to surfactant ratio of 10:3 and 10:2 for F-127 and C-1816, respectively with the milling time of 30 min. The MTT assay on Caco-2 cell line demonstrated the biocompatibility of both co-ground products. Furthermore, the surfactants used did not change intrinsically high intestinal permeability of PZQ (Papp ∼ 4.00 × 10^-5 cm s^-1). The presented results confirmed that the co-grinding with surfactant is a promising new approach in enhancing in vitro dissolution of poorly soluble drugs like PZQ.

Poloxamer 188 exerts a cryoprotective effect on rooster sperm and allows decreasing glycerol concentration in the freezing extender

Glycerol is the most widely used cryoprotectant for rooster sperm because it declines the mechanical damage to sperm during the freezing process. Despite its high molecular weight and viscosity, which may be cytotoxic, glycerol can cause damage to cells during the cryopreservation process, resulting in less fertility. Poloxamer 188 (P188) is an embryo cryopreservation supplement effective in many species and also for cell lines and plant cells. We tested the suitability of P188 in the cryopreservation of rooster sperm, considering post-thawing motility, abnormalities, membrane functionality (hypo-osmotic swelling test), mitochondrial activity, viability, apoptosis status, reactive oxygen species production, and ATP content after thawing and the fertility and hatchability after AI. We carried out a factorial experiment with glycerol concentrations of 2% glycerol (G2) and 8% glycerol (G8) and P188 concentrations of 0% (P0), 0.1% (P0.1), 0.5% (P0.5), and 1% (P1) as fixed effects, with replicate (seven) as a random effect. Interactions between glycerol and P188 were found, with G2P1 yielding higher quality and fertility. G8P0.5 yielded better in most parameters, however, not reaching G2P1. G2P1 showed significantly higher results for total and progressive motility, kinetic parameters (average path velocity, straight-line velocity, and linearity), membrane functionality, viability, mitochondrial activity, and ATP content and lower apoptosis, dead sperm, and reactive oxygen species production. G2P1 resulted in the highest percentages of fertilized and hatched eggs, with no effects in the hatched eggs ratio. Interestingly, G2 was less efficient in many parameters than G8 when combined with P0 and P0.1, being equivalent to G8 with P0.5 and superior to any G8 treatment as G2P1. In conclusion, P188 could improve rooster semen cryopreservation and allow reduction of glycerol in extenders, with a consequent impact in the poultry industry.

Evaluation of the activity of a chemo-ablative, thermoresponsive hydrogel in a murine xenograft model of lung cancer

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive intratumoural administration of thermoresponsive hydrogels, that transition from liquid to gel in response to temperature, has been proposed as a potential treatment modality for solid tumours. The aim of this study was to assess the inherent cytotoxicity of a poloxamer-based thermoresponsive hydrogel in a murine xenograft model of lung cancer.

METHODS

In vitro viability assessment was carried out in a lung cancer (A549) and non-cancerous (Balb/c 3T3 clone A31) cell line. Following intratumoural administration of saline or the thermoresponsive hydrogel to an A549 xenograft model in female Athymic Nude-Foxn1nu mice (n = 6/group), localisation was confirmed using IVIS imaging. Tumour volume was assessed using callipers measurements over 14 days. Blood serum was analysed for liver and kidney damage and ex vivo tissue samples were histologically assessed.

RESULTS

The thermoresponsive hydrogel demonstrated a dose-dependent cancer cell-specific toxicity in vitro and was retained in situ for at least 14 days in the xenograft model. Tumour volume increase was statistically significantly lower than saline treated control at day 14 (n = 6, p = 0.0001), with no associated damage of hepatic or renal tissue observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Presented is a poloxamer-based thermoresponsive hydrogel, suitable for intratumoural administration and retention, which has demonstrated preliminary evidence of local tumour control, with minimal off-site toxicity.

Multifunctional Supramolecular Hydrogel for Prevention of Epidural Adhesion after Laminectomy

Postoperative epidural adhesion remains a clinically challenging problem in spine surgery. Currently there are no effective and safe antifibrotic and antiadhesion biomaterials that have been specifically developed for this complication in clinical practice. Herein we designed and engineered an advanced antiadhesion hydrogel with multiple functionalities, including temperature-responsive gelation, self-healing, tissue adhesiveness, antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and antifibrosis. This multifunctional supramolecular hydrogel can be facilely constructed by integrating three functional modules, i.e., a thermosensitive triblock copolymer, poloxamer 407 (PX); a reactive oxygen species-eliminating and anti-inflammatory nanoparticle (TPCD NP); and an adhesion-enhancing compound, tannic acid (TA). The optimal formulation (PXNT) was hierarchically screened based on in vitro properties and in vivo activities. Therapeutically, local treatment with PXNT hydrogel effectively prevented epidural fibrosis and adhesion after laminectomy in both rats and rabbits. Of note, PXNT hydrogel showed more beneficial efficacy than different control thermosensitive hydrogels and a commercially available barrier product, Interceed. Mechanistically, PXNT hydrogel significantly attenuated local oxidative stress, inhibited inflammatory responses, and reduced fibrotic tissue formation. Moreover, treatment with PXNT hydrogel did not cause systemic adverse effects and neurological symptoms. Consequently, PXNT hydrogel is a highly promising biomaterial for preventing postlaminectomy epidural adhesion and adhesions after other surgeries.

Pharmacotechnical Development of a Nasal Drug Delivery Composite Nanosystem Intended for Alzheimer's Disease Treatment

Direct nose-to-brain delivery has been raised as a non-invasive powerful strategy to deliver drugs to the brain bypassing the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This study aimed at preparing and characterizing an innovative composite formulation, associating the liposome and hydrogel approaches, suitable for intranasal administration. Thermosensitive gel formulations were obtained based on a mixture of two hydrophilic polymers (Poloxamer 407, P407 and Poloxamer 188, P188) for a controlled delivery through nasal route via liposomes of an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) of potential interest for Alzheimer’s disease. The osmolarity and the gelation temperature (T° sol-gel) of formulations, defined in a ternary diagram, were investigated by rheometry and visual determination. Regarding the issue of assays, a mixture composed of P407/P188 (15/1%, w/w) was selected for intranasal administration in terms of T° sol-gel and for the compatibility with the olfactory mucosal (280 ± 20 mOsmol, pH 6). Liposomes of API were prepared by the thin film hydration method. Mucoadhesion studies were performed by using mucin disc, and they showed the good natural mucoadhesive characteristics of in situ gel formulations, which increased when liposomes were added. The study demonstrated successful pharmacotechnical development of a promising API-loaded liposomes in a thermosensitive hydrogel intended for nasal Alzheimer’s disease treatment.

Hyaluronic acid on the urokinase sustained release with a hydrogel system composed of poloxamer 407: HA/P407 hydrogel system for drug delivery

Pleural empyema is an inflammatory condition characterized by accumulation of pus inside the pleural cavity, which is usually followed by bacterial pneumonia. During the disease process, the pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic cytokines in the purulent pleural effusion cause proliferation of fibroblasts and deposition of extracellular matrix, which lead to fibrin deposition and fibrothorax. Urokinase instillation therapy through a chest drainage tube is frequently used for fibrinolysis in patients with empyema. However, urokinase treatment requires multiple instillation (2-3 times per day, for 4-8 days) and easily flows out from the chest drainage tube due to its high water solubility. In this in vitro study, we developed a thermo-responsive hydrogel based on poloxamer 407 (P407) combined with hyaluronic acid (HA) for optimal loading and release of urokinase. Our results show that the addition of HA to poloxamer gels provides a significantly more compact microstructure, with smaller pore sizes (**p < 0.001). The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) profile revealed no influence on the micellization intensity of poloxamer gel by HA. The 25% poloxamer-based gel was significantly superior to the 23% poloxamer-based gel, with slower gel erosion when comparing the 16th hour residual gel weight of both gels (*p < 0.05; **p < 0.001). The 25% poloxamer-HA gel also exhibited a superior urokinase release profile and longer release time. A Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) study of the P407/HA hydrogel showed no chemical interactions between P407 and HA in the hydrogel system. The thermoresponsive P407/HA hydrogel may have a promising potential in the loading and delivery of hydrophilic drugs. On top of that, in vitro toxicity test of this combination demonstrates a lower toxicity.