Gum acacia stabilized silver nanoparticles based nano-cargo for enhanced anti-arthritic potentials of hesperidin in adjuvant induced arthritic rats

Role and uptake of metal-based nanoconstructs as targeted therapeutic carriers for rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune systemic inflammatory disease that affects the joints and other vital organs and diminishes the quality of life. The current developments and innovative treatment options have significantly slowed disease progression and improved their quality of life. Medicaments can be delivered to the inflamed synovium via nanoparticle systems, minimizing systemic and undesirable side effects. Numerous nanoparticles such as polymeric, liposomal, and metallic nanoparticles reported are impending as a good carrier with therapeutic properties. Other issues to be considered along are nontoxicity, nanosize, charge, optical property, and ease of high surface functionalization that make them suitable carriers for drug delivery. Metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) (such as silver, gold, zinc, iron, titanium oxide, and selenium) not only act as good carrier with desired optical property, and high surface modification ability but also have their own therapeutical potential such as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-arthritic properties, making them one of the most promising options for RA treatment. Regardless, cellular uptake of MNPs is one of the most significant criterions for targeting the medication. This paper discusses the numerous interactions of nanoparticles with cells, as well as cellular uptake of NPs. This review provides the mechanistic overview on MNPs involved in RA therapies and regulation anti-arthritis response such as ability to reduce oxidative stress, suppressing the release of proinflammatory cytokines and expression of LPS induced COX-2, and modulation of MAPK and PI3K pathways in Kuppfer cells and hepatic stellate cells. Despite of that MNPs have also ability to regulates enzymes like glutathione peroxidases (GPxs), thioredoxin reductases (TrxRs) and act as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Self-assembled micelles loaded with itraconazole as anti-Acanthamoeba nano-formulation

Acanthamoeba castellanii are opportunistic pathogens known to cause infection of the central nervous system termed: granulomatous amoebic encephalitis, that mostly effects immunocompromised individuals, and a sight threatening keratitis, known as Acanthamoeba keratitis, which mostly affects contact lens wearers. The current treatment available is problematic, and is toxic. Herein, an amphiphilic star polymer with AB2 miktoarms [A = hydrophobic poly(ℇ-Caprolacton) and B = hydrophilic poly (ethylene glycol)] was synthesized by ring opening polymerization and CuI catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition. Characterization by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, size-exclusion chromatography and fluorescence spectroscopy was accomplished. The hydrophobic drug itraconazole (ITZ) was incorporated in self-assembled micellar structure of AB2 miktoarms through co-solvent evaporation. The properties of ITZ loaded (ITZ-PCL-PEG2) and blank micelles (PCL-PEG2) were investigated through zeta sizer, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Itraconazole alone (ITZ), polymer (DPB-PCL), empty polymeric micelles (PCL-PEG2) alone, and itraconazole loaded in polymeric micelles (ITZ-PCL-PEG2) were tested for anti-amoebic potential against Acanthamoeba, and the cytotoxicity on human cells were determined. The polymer was able to self-assemble in aqueous conditions and exhibited low value for critical micelle concentration (CMC) 0.05-0.06 µg/mL. The maximum entrapment efficiency of ITZ was 68%. Of note, ITZ, DPB, PCL-PEG2 and ITZ-PCL-PEG2 inhibited amoebae trophozoites by 37.34%, 36.30%, 35.77%, and 68.24%, respectively, as compared to controls. Moreover, ITZ-PCL-PEG2 revealed limited cytotoxicity against human keratinocyte cells. These results are indicative that ITZ-PCL-PEG2 micelle show significantly better anti-amoebic effects as compared to ITZ alone and thus should be investigated further in vivo to determine its clinical potential.

Gum acacia dietary fiber: Significance in immunomodulation, inflammatory diseases, and cancer

Gum arabic/acacia (GA), derived from Acacia trees, is a versatile natural product offering a broad spectrum of applications. Its rich content of soluble dietary fibers, coupled with a low caloric profile, renders GA a valuable dietary component associated with numerous health benefits. Furthermore, its fermentation by gut microbiota yields short-chain fatty acids, renowned for their positive impact on health. Immunomodulation, a crucially regulated mechanism in the body, serves to fend off pathogenic infections by releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, prolonged synthesis of these cytokines can lead to chronic inflammation, tissue damage, and potentially contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases and cancer. Hence, there is an urgent need to identify plant-based biomolecules that can effectively reduce inflammation and inhibit inflammation-induced complications or disorders. In this context, edible biomolecules like GA are gaining prominence for their noteworthy immunomodulatory properties. Therefore, in the present review we have explored the role of GA in immunomodulation, inflammation, and inflammation-associated metabolic diseases, and cancer.

Polysaccharide mediated nanodrug delivery: A review

Polysaccharides have drawn a lot of attention due to their potential as carriers for drugs and other bioactive chemicals. In drug delivery systems, natural macromolecules such as polysaccharides are widely utilized as polymers. This utilization extends to various polysaccharides employed in the development of nanoparticles for medicinal administration, with the goal of enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing side effects. This study not only offers an overview of the existing challenges faced by these materials but also provides detailed information on key polysaccharides expertly engineered into nanoparticles. Noteworthy examples include Bael Fruit Gum, Guar Gum, Pectin, Agar, Cellulose, Alginate, Chitin, and Gum Acacia, each selected for their distinctive properties and strategically integrated into nanoparticles. The exploration of these natural macromolecules illuminates their diverse applications and underscores their potential as effective carriers in drug delivery systems. By delving into the unique attributes of each polysaccharide, this review aims to contribute valuable insights to the ongoing advancements in nanomedicine and pharmaceutical technologies. The overarching objective of this review research is to assess the utilization and comprehension of polysaccharides in nanoapplications, further striving to promote their continued integration in contemporary therapeutics and industrial practices.

Plant-Based Approaches for Rheumatoid Arthritis Regulation: Mechanistic Insights on Pathogenesis, Molecular Pathways, and Delivery Systems

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is classified as a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder, associated with a varied range of immunological changes, synovial hyperplasia, cartilage destructions, as well as bone erosion. The infiltration of immune-modulatory cells and excessive release of proinflammatory chemokines, cytokines, and growth factors into the inflamed regions are key molecules involved in the progression of RA. Even though many conventional drugs are suggested by a medical practitioner such as DMARDs, NSAIDs, glucocorticoids, etc., to treat RA, but have allied with various side effects. Thus, alternative therapeutics in the form of herbal therapy or phytomedicine has been increasingly explored for this inflammatory disorder of joints. Herbal interventions contribute substantial therapeutic benefits including accessibility, less or no toxicity and affordability. But the major challenge with these natural actives is the need of a tailored approach for treating inflamed tissues by delivering these bioactive agentsat an appropriate dose within the treatment regimen for an extended periodof time. Drug incorporated with wide range of delivery systems such as liposomes, nanoparticles, polymeric micelles, and other nano-vehicles have been developed to achieve this goal. Thus, inclinations of modern treatment are persuaded on the way to herbal therapy or phytomedicines in combination with novel carriers is an alternative approach with less adverse effects. The present review further summarizes the significanceof use of phytocompounds, their target molecules/pathways and, toxicity and challenges associated with phytomolecule-based nanoformulations.

Effect of Leflunomide-Metal Complexes on ROS, TNF, and Brain Indolamines in Comparison with Anti-Depressants as Adjunct Therapy in Rheumatoid Arthritic Model

Leflunomide is an isoxazole immunomodulating drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is adopted as a metal-containing molecule to proceed with saturated salts of essential and detected metals; it amends the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics activity of leflunomide to provide [M(Lef)4]X2-type complexes. Earlier it has been reported that after forming complexes with metals, leflunomide anti-arthritic activity was significantly altered in an acute arthritic model. In the present study, we evaluated the possible modification in anti-arthritic activities of leflunomide-metal complexes (Mg+2, Ca+2, Fe+2, Zn+2) with and without an anti-depressant drug, i.e., fluoxetine (10 mg/kg) in a chronic AIA model. Rats (n = 5) were administered with 0.1 mL of CFA into the right hind paw while treated groups received leflunomide and its metal complexes orally (3.2 mg/kg) for 24 days. On the final day of experiment, rats were sacrificed; a specific rat immunoassay ELISA kit was used to assess TNF-α in serum samples and read at 450 nm; a tissue sample of a paw was homogenized in a phosphate buffer using DCFH-DA dye for binding to assess ROS. A rat's brain sample was homogenized and evaluated for tryptophan, serotonin (5-HT), and HIAA by RP-HPLC with EC detector. The overall TNF production was altered in treated rats. In addition, a decreased ROS was observed in all categories, except lef+Mg+2 group. Moreover, depletion in the brain indolamine levels were found in treated groups; an upraised level of these indolamines was observed when fluoxetine was added. It is concluded that metals affect leflunomide activity on complexation and simultaneous administration of fluoxetine cope up with the depression in arthritic-induced rats.

Cinnamic acid and lactobionic acid based nanoformulations as a potential antiamoebic therapeutics

Acanthamoeba castellanii causes granulomatous amoebic encephalitis, an uncommon but severe brain infection and sight-threatening Acanthamoeba keratitis. Most of the currently used anti-amoebic treatments are not always effective, due to persistence of the cyst stage, and recurrence can occur. Here in this study we synthesize cinnamic acid and lactobionic acid-based magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) using co-precipitation technique. These nanoformulations were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Atomic form microscopy. The drugs alone (Hesperidin, Curcumin and Amphotericin B), magnetic NPs alone, and drug-loaded nano-formulations were evaluated at a concentration of 100 μg/mL for antiamoebic activity against a clinical isolate of A. castellanii. Amoebicidal assays revealed that drugs and conjugation of drugs and NPs further enhanced amoebicidal effects of drug-loaded nanoformulations. Drugs and drug-loaded nanoformulations inhibited both encystation and excystation of amoebae. In addition, drugs and drug-loaded nanoformulations inhibited parasite binding capability to the host cells. Neither drugs nor drug-loaded nanoformulations showed cytotoxic effects against host cells and considerably reduced parasite-mediated host cell death. Overall, these findings imply that conjugation of medically approved drugs with MNPs produce potent anti-Acanthamoebic effects, which could eventually lead to the development of therapeutic medications.

Advent of phytobiologics and nano-interventions for bone remodeling: a comprehensive review

Bone metabolism constitutes the intricate processes of matrix deposition, mineralization, and resorption. Any imbalance in these processes leads to traumatic bone injuries and serious disease conditions. Therefore, bone remodeling plays a crucial role during the regeneration process maintaining the balance between osteoblastogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. Currently, numerous phytobiologics are emerging as the new therapeutics for the treatment of bone-related complications overcoming the synthetic drug-based side effects. They can either target osteoblasts, osteoclasts, or both through different mechanistic pathways for maintaining the bone remodeling process. Although phytobiologics have been widely used since tradition for the treatment of bone fractures recently, the research is accentuated toward the development of osteogenic phytobioactives, constituent-based drug designing models, and efficacious delivery of the phytobioactives. To achieve this, different plant extracts and successful isolation of their phytoconstituents are critical for osteogenic research. Hence, this review emphasizes the phytobioactives based research specifically enlisting the plants and their constituents used so far as bone therapeutics, their respective isolation procedures, and nanotechnological interventions in bone research. Also, the review enlists the vast array of folklore plants and the newly emerging nano-delivery systems in treating bone injuries as the future scope of research in the phytomedicinal orthopedic applications.

Recent developments in citrus bioflavonoid encapsulation to reinforce controlled antioxidant delivery and generate therapeutic uses: Review

Citrus fruits contain numerous antioxidative biomolecules including phenolic acids, flavonols, flavanones, polymethoxyflavones (PMFs), and their derivatives. Previous in vitro and in vivo studies thoroughly investigated the antioxidant and therapeutic potential of bioflavonoids extracted from different citrus varieties and fruit fractions. Major bioflavonoids such as hesperidin, naringin, naringenin, and PMFs, had restricted their incorporation into food and health products due to their poor solubility, chemical stability and bioavailability. Considering these limitations, modern encapsulation methodologies such as hydrogelation, liposomal interactions, emulsifications, and nanoparticles have been designed to shield bioflavonoids with improved target distribution for therapeutic enhancements. The size, durability, and binding efficiency of bioflavonoid-loaded encapsulates were acquired by the optimized chemical and instrumental parameters such as solubility, gelation, dispersion, extrusion, and drying. Bioflavonoid-enriched encapsulates have been also proven to be effective against cancer, inflammation, neurodegeneration, and various other illnesses. However, in the future, newer natural binding agents with higher binding capacity might accelerate the encapsulating potential, controlled release, and enhanced bioavailability of citrus bioflavonoids. Overall, these modern encapsulation systems are currently leading to a new era of diet-based medicine, as demand for citrus fruit-based nutritional supplements and edibles grows.

Photocatalysis of environmental organic pollutants and antioxidant activity of flavonoid conjugated gold nanoparticles

The unique properties of nanomaterials have the potential application in different fields of biomedical application along with the management of environmental pollutants. This research work involved the isolation of hesperidin from the orange peel and the preparation of hesperidin gold nanoparticles by the chemical reduction method. The high substrate specificity and lower band gap enable the excitation of gold nanoparticles in visible light. Hence gold nanoparticles are chosen nowadays for the management and removal of organic pollutants. The efficacy of hesperidin gold nanoparticles was evaluated by the photocatalytic activity on organic dyes and pollutants like methyl orange, methylene blue, bromocresol green, and 4 - nitro phenol with sodium borohydride as reducing agent and the antioxidant study by scavenging of free radicals of DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl free radicals of hydrogen peroxide. The kinetics of photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes and 4 - nitro phenol was found to follow the first order with rate constants of 10 × 10^-3, 37 × 10^-3, 23 × 10^-3 and 49 × 10^-3 min^-1 for methyl orange, methylene blue, bromocresol green and 4 - nitro phenol respectively. The hesperidin gold nanoparticles showed significant antioxidant activity as compared to ascorbic acid as standard. The flavonoid conjugated gold nanoparticles can be an efficient antioxidant and photocatalyst for the management of different diseases and wastewater treatment respectively.

Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Commiphora mukul Extract: Evaluation of Anti-Arthritic Activity in Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis Rat Model

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major global public health challenge, and novel therapies are required to combat it. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been employed as delivery vehicles of anti-inflammatory drugs for RA therapy, and it has been recently realized that AgNPs have anti-inflammatory action on their own. However, their conventional synthesis processes might result in cytotoxicity and environmental hazards. Instead, the use of natural products as a reducing and stabilizing agent in the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles has arisen as an option to decrease the cytotoxic and environmental concerns associated with chemical synthesis of AgNPs. In this study, we challenged the efficacy of Commiphora mukul (guggul) aqueous extract as a reducing and/or capping agent for the biosynthesis of AgNPs. Guggul-mediated biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (G-AgNPs) were characterized via UV-vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, their anti-arthritic potential was evaluated in an adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) model. The fabricated NPs showed an absorption peak at 412 nm, corresponding to the typical surface plasmon resonance band of AgNPs. The synthesized G-AgNPs were nearly spherical, with a particle size of 337.6 ± 12.1 nm and a negative surface charge (−18.9 ± 1.8 mV). In AIA rat model, synthesized G-AgNPs exerted a potent anti-inflammatory action, as manifested by a remarkable reduction in paw volume (>40%) along with elicitation of a minimal arthritic score, compared to control rats. In addition, when compared to arthritic rats, treatment with G-AgNPs efficiently restored the activity of antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase, and catalase, indicating the efficiency of synthesized G-AgNPs in alleviating the oxidative stress associated with RA. Finally, histological examination revealed comparatively lower inflammatory cells infiltration in ankle joint tissue upon treatment with G-AgNPs. Collectively, biosynthesized G-AgNPs might represent a plausible therapeutic option for the management of RA.

Recent developments in the use of gold and silver nanoparticles in biomedicine

Gold and silver nanoparticles (NPs) are widely used in the biomedical research both in the therapeutic and the sensing/diagnostics fronts. Both metals share some common optical properties with surface plasmon resonance being the most widely exploited property in therapeutics and diagnostics. Au NPs exhibit excellent light‐to‐heat conversion efficiencies and hence have found applications primarily in precision oncology, while Ag NPs have excellent antibacterial properties which can be harnessed in biomaterials' design. Both metals constitute excellent biosensing platforms owing to their plasmonic properties and are now routinely used in various optical platforms. The utilization of Au and Ag NPs in the COVID‐19 pandemic was rapidly expanded mostly in biosensing and point‐of‐care platforms and to some extent in therapeutics. In this review article, the main physicochemical properties of Au and Ag NPs are discussed with selective examples from the recent literature.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease

Diagnostic Tools > In Vitro Nanoparticle‐Based Sensing

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology

Comparing the Anticancer Activities of Green-Synthesized Ginsenoside and Transformed Ginsenoside Nanoconjugates (Ag, Au, and Pt)

Aim: To assess the anticancer activity of nanoparticles synthesized via a green method using American ginseng (AG). Methods: Stem-leaf saponins from AG (SAG) and heat-transformed stem-leaf saponins from AG (TSAG) were used to synthesize different SAG nanoparticles (SAG-NPs) and TSAG nanoparticles (TSAG-NPs). The NPs were characterized, and their anticancer activity was assessed in vitro. Results: The NPs, which differed in size (16.69 nm∼253.8 nm), were spherical or polyhedral with a low PDI and good stability. The TSAG-NPs inhibited cancer cells by inhibiting proliferation, promoting cancer cell apoptosis and directly leading cancer cells to necrosis. The small cell lung cancer cell line (SCLC) NCI-H446 was the most sensitive to the TSAG-AgNPs, with an IC50 value of 20.71±2.38 μg/mL, and the TSAG-AgNPs inhibited invasiveness and reduced the risk of metastasis. Conclusion: TSAG-AgNPs, selected from many SAG-NPs and TSAG-NPs, are sensitive to SCLC and provide a new approach to the currently limited treatment.

Metal-based nano-delivery platform for treating bone disease and regeneration

Owing to their excellent characteristics, such as large specific surface area, favorable biosafety, and versatile application, nanomaterials have attracted significant attention in biomedical applications. Among them, metal-based nanomaterials containing various metal elements exhibit significant bone tissue regeneration potential, unique antibacterial properties, and advanced drug delivery functions, thus becoming crucial development platforms for bone tissue engineering and drug therapy for orthopedic diseases. Herein, metal-based drug-loaded nanomaterial platforms are classified and introduced, and the achievable drug-loading methods are comprehensively generalized. Furthermore, their applications in bone tissue engineering, osteoarthritis, orthopedic implant infection, bone tumor, and joint lubrication are reviewed in detail. Finally, the merits and demerits of the current metal-based drug-loaded nanomaterial platforms are critically discussed, and the challenges faced to realize their future applications are summarized.

Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticle composites based on hesperidin and pectin and their synergistic antibacterial mechanism

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were widely used in the antibacterial field because of their excellent antibacterial properties. In this study, we used hesperidin and pectin as reductants and stabilizers, and prepared uniform and stable Hesperidin-Pectin AgNPs (HP-AgNPs) by a simple microwave-assisted process. Increasing the proportion of hesperidin, P-AgNPs, HP-AgNPs1, HP-AgNPs2 and H-AgNPs were obtained respectively. With the increase of hesperidin ratio, the mean particle size and zeta potential increased gradually. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed that Ag⁺ was reduced by hesperidin and pectin. Antibacterial tests showed that HP-AgNPs2 showed the MIC values of 66.7 μg/mL against E. coli. In addition, HP-AgNPs2 was selected to clarify its antibacterial mechanism against E. coli. Morphological experiments showed that HP-AgNPs2 stress caused damage to the cell wall of E. coli, as well as leakage of its contents and an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS). On the other hand, the release of Ag⁺ during cell co-culture was studied and the results showed that most of the Ag⁺ released was taken up by E. coli. The synergistic effect of hesperidin and pectin resulted in a significant enhancement of the antibacterial properties of AgNPs. These preliminary data suggest that HP-AgNPs has good antibacterial activity and may be developed as an effective antibacterial nanomaterial.

Hesperidin-, Curcumin-, and Amphotericin B- Based Nano-Formulations as Potential Antibacterials

To combat the public health threat posed by multiple-drug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, new drugs with novel chemistry and modes of action are needed. In this study, several drugs including Hesperidin (HES), curcumin (CUR), and Amphotericin B (AmpB) drug–nanoparticle formulations were tested for antibacterial strength against MDR Gram-positive bacteria, including Bacillus cereus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Gram-negative bacteria, including Escherichia coli K1, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enterica, and Serratia marcescens. Nanoparticles were synthesized and subjected to Atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, and Zetasizer for their detailed characterization. Antibacterial assays were performed to determine their bactericidal efficacy. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays were carried out to measure drugs’ and drug–nanoparticles’ cytotoxic effects on human cells. Spherical NPs ranging from 153 to 300 nm were successfully synthesized. Results from antibacterial assays revealed that drugs and drug–nanoparticle formulations exerted bactericidal activity against MDR bacteria. Hesperidin alone failed to exhibit antibacterial effects but, upon conjugation with cinnamic-acid-based magnetic nanoparticle, exerted significant bactericidal activity against both the Gram-positive and Gram-negative isolates. AmpB-LBA-MNPs produced consistent, potent antibacterial efficacy (100% kill) against all Gram-positive bacteria. AmpB-LBA-MNPs showed strong antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria. Intriguingly, all the drugs and their conjugated counterpart except AmpB showed minimal cytotoxicity against human cells. In summary, these innovative nanoparticle formulations have the potential to be utilized as therapeutic agents against infections caused by MDR bacteria and represent a significant advancement in our effort to counter MDR bacterial infections.

Dietary polyphenols for management of rheumatoid arthritis: Pharmacotherapy and novel delivery systems

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, complex, systemic autoimmune disease causing chronic inflammation, swelling, and pain. It affects pulmonary and ocular physiology, gastrointestinal disturbance, skeletal disorders, and renal malfunctioning. Although conventional and biological drugs available to treat RA are potent and effective, they lead to life-threatening side effects and patient discomfort. Hence, alternative therapies are explored for their treatment which is safe, effective, and economical. Herbal drugs are widely used as an alternative therapy and some medicinal plants, especially dietary polyphenols proved their efficacy in treating RA. Polyphenols are secondary metabolites of plants possessing several pharmacological actions. They exert anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anti-rheumatoid activity by modulating tumor necrosis factor, mitogen-activated protein kinase, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, and c-Jun N-terminal kinases. Thus, polyphenols could be a promising option for the management of RA. Unfortunately, polyphenols suffer from poor bioavailability due to their physicochemical properties and incorporation into novel delivery systems such as liposomes, nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, micelles improved their oral bioavailability. This review article summarizes dietary polyphenols, their pharmacological actions and novel delivery systems for the treatment of RA. Nevertheless, the commercial translation of polyphenols could be only possible after establishing their safety profile and successful clinical trials.

Hyaluronic Acid-Silver Nanocomposites and Their Biomedical Applications: A Review

For the last years scientific community has witnessed a rapid development of novel types of biomaterials, which properties made them applicable in numerous fields of medicine. Although nanosilver, well-known for its antimicrobial, anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, as well as hyaluronic acid, a natural polysaccharide playing a vital role in the modulation of tissue repair, signal transduction, angiogenesis, cell motility and cancer metastasis, are both thoroughly described in the literature, their complexes are still a novel topic. In this review we introduce the most recent research about the synthesis, properties, and potential applications of HA-nanosilver composites. We also make an attempt to explain the variety of mechanisms involved in their action. Finally, we present biocompatible and biodegradable complexes with bactericidal activity and low cytotoxicity, which properties suggest their suitability for the prophylaxis and therapy of chronic wounds, as well as analgetic therapies, anticancer strategies and the detection of chemical substances and malignant cells. Cited studies reveal that the usage of hyaluronic acid-silver nanocomposites appears to be efficient and safe in clinical practice.

Nanoparticle conjugated with aptamer anti-MUC1/Y for inflammatory arthritis

Aptamers may form well-defined three-dimensional structures binding with high affinity and stability to a specific receptor. The aptamer anti-MUC1 isoform Y is one the most used due the affinity to MUC1, which is overexpressed in several types of cancer and inflammation process. In this study we have developed, characterized, in vitro as in vivo evaluated a nanoaptamer (anti-MUC1/Y) as a nanoagent for rheumatoid arthritis treatment. The results showed that a nanoaptamer with a size range of 241 nm was produced. The entrapment efficacy was 90% with a biodistribution showing a high hepatic uptake (>98%). The results in vivo showed a potent effect in arthritis experimental model, especially in low doses. The results corroborate the applicability of this nanosystem for RA treatment.

Nano Drug Delivery Platforms for Dental Application: Infection Control and TMJ Management-A Review

The oral cavity is an intricate environment subjected to various chemical, physical, and thermal injuries. The effectiveness of the local and systemically administered drugs is limited mainly due to their toxicities and poor oral bioavailability that leads to the limited effectiveness of the drugs in the target tissues. To address these issues, nanoparticle drug delivery systems based on metals, liposomes, polymeric particles, and core shells have been developed in recent years. Nano drug delivery systems have applications in the treatment of patients suffering from temporomandibular joint disorders such as preventing degeneration of cartilage in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis and alleviating the pain along with it. The antibacterial dental applications of nano-drug delivery systems such as silver and copper-based nanoparticles include these agents used to arrest dental caries, multiple steps in root canal treatment, and patients suffering from periodontitis. Nanoparticles have been used in adjunct with antifungals to treat oral fungal infections such as candida albicans in denture wearers. Acyclovir being the most commonly used antiviral has been used in combination with nanoparticles against an array of viral infections such as the herpes simplex virus. Nanoparticles based combination agents offer more favorable drug release in a controlled manner along with efficient delivery at the site of action. This review presents an updated overview of the recently developed nanoparticles delivery systems for the management of temporomandibular joint disorders along with the treatment of different oral infections.

Enhancement of bioavailability and bioactivity of diet-derived flavonoids by application of nanotechnology: a review

Flavonoids, which are a class of polyphenols widely existing in food and medicine, have enormous pharmacological effects. The functional properties of flavonoids are mainly distributed to their anti-oxidative, anticancer, and anti-inflammatoryeffects, etc. However, flavonoids' low bioavailability limits their clinical application, which is closely related to their intestinal absorption and metabolism. In addition, because of the short residence time of oral bioactive molecules in the stomach, low permeability and low solubility in the gastrointestinal tract, flavonoids are easy to be decomposed by the external environment and gastrointestinal tract after digestion. To tackle these obstacles, technological approaches like microencapsulation have been developed and applied for the formulation of flavonoid-enriched food products. In the light of these scientific advances, the objective of this review is to establish the structural requirements of flavonoids for appreciable anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, and elucidate a comprehensive mechanism that can explain their activity. Furthermore, the novelty in application of nanotechnology for the safe delivery of flavonoids in food matrices is discussed. After a literature on the flavonoids and their health attributes, the encapsulation methods and the coating materials are presented.

A review on plant-mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles, their characterization and applications

For decades, silver has been used as a non-toxic inorganic antimicrobial agent. Silver has a lot of potential in a variety of biological/chemical applications, particularly in the form of nanoparticles (NPs). Eco-friendly synthesis approach for NPs are becoming more common in nanobiotechnology, and the demand for biological synthesis methods is growing, with the goal of eliminating hazardous and polluting agents. Cultures of bacteria, fungi, and algae, plant extracts, and other biomaterials are commonly used for NP synthesis in the ‘green synthesis’ process. Plant-based green synthesis is a simple, fast, dependable, cost-effective, environmentally sustainable, and one-step method that has a significant advantage over microbial synthesis due to the lengthy process of microbial isolation and pure culture maintenance. In this report, we focussed on phytosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their characterization using various techniques such as spectroscopy (UV–vis, FTIR), microscopy (TEM, SEM), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), and other particle analysis. The potential applications of AgNPs in a variety of biological and chemical fields are discussed.

Chronic Inflammatory Diseases, Anti-Inflammatory Agents and Their Delivery Nanosystems

Inflammatory diseases, whether caused by excessive stress on certain tissues/parts of the body or arising from infections accompanying autoimmune or secondary diseases, have become a problem, especially in the Western world today. Whether these are inflammations of visceral organs, joints, bones, or the like, they are always a physiological reaction of the body, which always tries to eradicate noxious agents and restore tissue homeostasis. Unfortunately, this often results in damage, often irreversible, to the affected tissues. Nevertheless, these inflammatory reactions of the body are the results of excessive stress, strain, and the generally unhealthy environment, in which the people of Western civilization live. The pathophysiology and pathobiochemistry of inflammatory/autoimmune processes are being studied in deep detail, and pharmaceutical companies are constantly developing new drugs that modulate/suppress inflammatory responses and endogenous pro-inflammatory agents. In addition to new specifically targeted drugs for a variety of pro-inflammatory agents, a strategy can be found for the use of older drugs, which are formulated into special nanodrug delivery systems with targeted distribution and often modified release. This contribution summarizes the current state of research and development of nanoformulated anti-inflammatory agents from both conventional drug classes and experimental drugs or dietary supplements used to alleviate inflammatory reactions.

Structural characterization and stability study of green synthesized starch stabilized silver nanoparticles loaded with isoorientin

Isoorientin (Iso) is a natural flavonoid, the effect of metal nanoparticles loaded with it was unknown. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized by corn starch and sodium citrate with the green synthesis method, and the structural characterization and stability of AgNPs loaded with Iso (AgNPs-Iso) were examined by UV-vis spectroscopy and zetasizer. Results showed that AgNPs (65 ± 0.87 nm, spheres) successfully loaded with Iso (117 ± 2.13 nm, loading efficiency: 76.60%). There are no significant changes of the stability of AgNPs and AgNPs-Iso in pH 5-9 and 0-0.30 M of NaCl solution. AgNPs-Iso was more stable than AgNPs in the simulated gastrointestinal digestion in vitro. Furthermore, AgNPs-Iso showed the lower erythrocytes hemolysis ratio and cytotoxicity, and exhibited a notably inhibitive effect on α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase. Therefore, this study could provide the basic support for the further development of highly stable and lowly cytotoxic AgNPs-Iso on Type II diabetes and obesity.

Food-Derived Nanoscopic Drug Delivery Systems for Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a severe systemic inflammatory disease with no cure at present. Recent developments in the understanding of inflammation and nanomaterial science have led to increased applications of nanostructured drug delivery systems in the treatment of RA. The present review summarizes novel fabrications of nanoscale drug carriers using food components as either the delivered drugs or carrier structures, in order to achieve safe, effective and convenient drug administration. Polyphenols and flavonoids are among the most frequently carried anti-RA therapeutics in the nanosystems. Fatty substances, polysaccharides, and peptides/proteins can function as structuring agents of the nanocarriers. Frequently used nanostructures include nanoemulsions, nanocapsules, liposomes, and various nanoparticles. Using these nanostructures has improved drug solubility, absorption, biodistribution, stability, targeted accumulation, and release. Joint vectorization, i.e., using a combination of bioactive molecules, can bring elevated therapeutic outcomes. Utilization of anti-arthritic chemicals that can self-assemble into nanostructures is a promising research orientation in this field.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles mediated by traditionally used medicinal plants in Sudan

Sudan has a tremendous wealth flora due to its unique geographical location and diverse climate. Vast records of plants and plants’ secondary metabolites are reported to possess redox capacity and can be exploited for the biosynthesis of nanoparticles. Plant-mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles is preferred due to their availability and their various metabolites. The present review explores the potentiality and diversity of biological activities of silver nanoparticles that originated from the combination of silver and phyto-constituents of mostly traditionally used Sudanese medicinal and aromatic plants. The green synthesis methods of silver nanoparticles mediated by more than 45 traditionally used medicinal plants are critically reviewed. In addition, parameters that affect the synthesis of plant-mediated silver nanoparticles, their characterization techniques and various biological activities are summarized and discussed. Thus, the study of green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and its applications can be extended to involve vast plant diversity of Sudan.

Antimicrobial activities of green synthesized gums-stabilized nanoparticles loaded with flavonoids

Herein, we report green synthesized nanoparticles based on stabilization by plant gums, loaded with citrus fruits flavonoids Hesperidin (HDN) and Naringin (NRG) as novel antimicrobial agents against brain-eating amoebae and multi-drug resistant bacteria. Nanoparticles were thoroughly characterized by using zetasizer, zeta potential, atomic force microscopy, ultravoilet-visible and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopic techniques. The size of these spherical nanoparticles was found to be in the range of 100–225 nm. The antiamoebic effects of these green synthesized Silver and Gold nanoparticles loaded with HDN and NRG were tested against Acanthamoeba castellanii and Naegleria fowleri, while antibacterial effects were evaluated against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and neuropathogenic Escherichia coli K1. Amoebicidal assays revealed that HDN loaded Silver nanoparticles stabilized by gum acacia (GA-AgNPs-HDN) quantitatively abolished amoeba viability by 100%, while NRG loaded Gold nanoparticles stabilized by gum tragacanth (GT-AuNPs-NRG) significantly reduced the viability of A. castellanii and N. fowleri at 50 µg per mL. Furthermore, these nanoparticles inhibited the encystation and excystation by more than 85%, as well as GA-AgNPs-HDN only completely obliterated amoeba-mediated host cells cytopathogenicity. Whereas, GA-AgNPs-HDN exhibited significant bactericidal effects against MRSA and E. coli K1 and reduced bacterial-mediated host cells cytotoxicity. Notably, when tested against human cells, these nanoparticles showed minimal (23%) cytotoxicity at even higher concentration of 100 µg per mL as compared to 50 µg per mL used for antimicrobial assays. Hence, these novel nanoparticles formulations hold potential as therapeutic agents against infections caused by brain-eating amoebae, as well as multi-drug resistant bacteria, and recommend a step forward in drug development.

Synthesis of Nitrogen Containing Biocompatible Non-ionic Surfactants and Investigation for Their Self-Assembly Based Nano-Scale Vesicles

Nonionic surfactants are increasingly interesting because of the solubility and release of drugs. Here, a synthesis of four nonionic nitrogen-containing surfactants is reported. In the synthesis, sulfonamide was reacted with alkyl halides of different lipophilicity. The synthesized nonionic surfactants were characterized by 1H NMR and mass spectroscopy. Their critical micelle concentration (CMC) was determined with a UV spectrophotometer. The self-assembly of surfactants to form drug-loaded, niosomal vesicles with Simvastatin as model drug was investigated. The resulting niosoaml vesicles were characterized by atomic force microscope (AFM), zeta-sizer, and UV spectrophotometer for shape, size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and drug inclusion efficiency. Their biocompatibility has been determined by blood hemolysis and cell toxicity tests. The synthesized surfactants showed low CMC values and were able to form nano-sized round niosomal vesicles with a homogeneous population and surface negativity. Depending on the lipophilicity, they absorbed an increased amount of drug. The biocompatibility studies show that the surfactants are hemocompatible and non-toxic. The results of the study confirm that the synthesized nonionic surfactants are suitable for the solubilization and release of hydrophobic drugs as efficient novel biocompatible carriers.

Larvicidal Activity of Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles from Curcuma zedoaria Essential Oil against Culex quinquefasciatus

Culex quinquefasciatus is the major vector of the bancroftian filarial parasite which causes human lymphatic filariasis and St. Louis encephalitis. The simple way to stop the transmission is to control the vector by using synthetic chemicals. However, herbal essential oils have biological properties, such as a larvicidal effect and are ecofriendly to use. In this study, we investigated the larvicidal activity of Curcuma zedoaria essential oil (ZEO) and biosynthesized silver nanoparticles using this essential oil (ZEO-AgNPs). The larvicidal activity against both insecticide-susceptible and -resistant strains of Cx. quinquefasciatus larvae of ZEO were investigated and compared with ZEO-AgNPs. The ZEO-AgNPs showed the utmost toxicity against both strains of Cx. quinquefasciatus. After 24 h of exposure, LC₅₀ and LC₉₉ of ZEO against susceptible strain were 36.32 and 85.11 ppm, respectively. While LC₅₀ and LC₉₉ of ZEO against the resistant strain were 37.29 and 76.79 ppm, respectively. Whereas ZEO-AgNPs offered complete larval mortality within 24 h of exposure, LC₅₀ and LC₉₉ of ZEO-AgNPs against the susceptible strain, were 0.57 and 8.54 ppm, respectively. For the resistant strain, LC₅₀ and LC₉₉ values were 0.64 and 8.88 ppm, respectively. The potency in killing Cx. quinquefasciatus and stability of ZEO-AgNPs have made this product a good candidate for the development of novel natural larvicides.

Nano-gold displayed anti-inflammatory property via NF-kB pathways by suppressing COX-2 activity

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease, affecting almost 1% of world population. Although the exact cause of RA is not known but the complex interaction between inflammatory mediators like tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and nitric oxide (NO) is accountable for cartilage destruction in joints. Gold is used for arthritis treatment since long without knowing its mechanism of action. Hence, the present study was designed to assess antiarthritic activity of nanogold (AuNGs) in collagen-induced arthritic (CIA) rat model by virtue of decreasing inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress. After induction CIA rats were treated with AuNGs in phosphate buffer at a dose of 20 μg/kg body weight for 20 days and found a significant decrease in the level of inflammatory mediators like TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-2 and transcription factor NF-kB (Nuclear factor-kB), which was found to be elevated in CIA rats. Additionally imbalance in oxidant and antioxidant status were determined and perceived that AuNGs remarkably attenuates the imbalance in level of antioxidant and oxidant near to normal. In consistent to biochemical results, mRNA expression of NF-kB, TNF-α, COX-2, and iNOS were also up-regulated in CIA rats, which were considerably down regulated by AuNGs treatment. These findings were positively correlated with the histological results of joints, displayed reduced inflammation and bone erosion in treated group. This study demonstrates the ability of AuNGs to ameliorate production of inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress in CIA rats. Induction of arthritis in rats showed increased inflammation, which activate the transcription factor NF-kB through activation of of IkB kinases (IKK) and ubiquination/proteosome degradation of IKB and transportation of activated NF-kB from cytoplasm to nucleus. In nucleus activated NF-kB bind to the promoter region of target gene and up regulate the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, COX-2 and other inflammatory mediators that leads to cartilage destruction. AuNGs inhibit the activation of NF-kB and other inflammatory mediators and attenuate inflammation and cartilage destruction. COX-2: cyclooxygenase-2; IKK: IkB kinases; IKB: I Kappa B; IL-1β: interleukin-6; IL-6: interleukin-6; iNOS: inducible nitric oxide synthase; NF-kB: nuclear transcription factor kappa B; ROS: reactive oxygen species; TNF-α: tumour necrosis factor-alpha.

Bergenin loaded gum xanthan stabilized silver nanoparticles suppress synovial inflammation through modulation of the immune response and oxidative stress in adjuvant induced arthritic rats

Bergenin (BG) is a naturally occurring C-glycoside with demonstrated anti-arthritic potential.