Development and characterization of a nanoemulsion containing propranolol for topical delivery

Xanthan and gum acacia modified olive oil based nanoemulsion as a controlled delivery vehicle for topical formulations

In this study, olive oil nanoemulsion modified with xanthan gum and gum acacia was explored as a potential controlled topical delivery vehicle. Oil-in-water nanoemulsion formulated with optimized composition of olive oil, tween 80, and water was used as the drug carrier and further modified with gum. Effect of gum on nanoemulsion different physiochemical characteristics, stability, rheology, drug release and encapsulation efficiency were investigated. Results showed that developed nanoemulsion behaved as low viscosity Newtonian fluid and released 100 % drug within 6 h. Modification with xanthan and gum acacia had significantly improved formulation viscosity, drug encapsulation efficiency (>85 %) and controlled drug release up to 40 % with release pattern following Korsmeyer-Peppas model. Additionally, xanthan gum modified formulation exhibited shear thinning rheology by forming an extended network in the continuous phase, whereas gum acacia modified formulation behaved as Newtonian fluid at high shear rate (>200 s-1). Furthermore, xanthan gum modified formulations had improved zeta potential, stability, monodispersity, and hemocompatibility and showed high antibacterial activity against S. aureus than gum acacia modified formulations. These results indicate the higher potential of xanthan gum modified formulation as a topical delivery vehicle. Moreover, skin irritation test demonstrated the safety of developed formulations for topical application.

Biogenic engineered nanomaterials for enhancing bioavailability via developing nano-iron-fortified smart foods: advances, insight, and prospects of nanobionics in fortification of food

Iron deficiency is a significant cause of iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Treatment of IDA is challenging due to several challenges, including low target bioavailability, low palatability, poor pharmacokinetics, and extended therapeutic regimes. Nanotechnology holds the promise of revolutionizing the management and treatment of IDA. Smart biogenic engineered nanomaterials (BENMs) such as lipids, protein, carbohydrates, and complex nanomaterials have been the subject of extensive research and opened new avenues for people and the planet due to their enhanced physicochemical, rheological, optoelectronic, thermomechanical, biological, magnetic, and nutritional properties. Additionally, they show eco-sustainability, low biotoxicity, active targeting, enhanced permeation and retention, and stimuli-responsive characteristics. We examine the opportunities offered by emerging smart BENMs for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia by utilizing iron-fortified smart foods. We review the progress made so far and other future directions to maximize the impact of smart nanofortification on the global population. The toxicity effects are also discussed with commercialization challenges.

Aceclofenac/Citronellol Oil Nanoemulsion Repurposing Study: Formulation, In Vitro Characterization, and In Silico Evaluation of Their Antiproliferative and Pro-Apoptotic Activity against Melanoma Cell Line

Aceclofenac (ACF) is a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) known for its effectiveness in treating pain and inflammation. Recent studies have demonstrated that ACF possesses antiproliferative properties, inhibiting the growth of cancer cells in various cancer cell lines. Citronellol, a monoterpenoid alcohol found in essential oils, exhibits antioxidant properties and activities such as inhibiting cell growth and acetylcholinesterase inhibition. In this study, the objective was to formulate and evaluate an aceclofenac/citronellol oil nanoemulsion for its antiproliferative effects on melanoma. The optimal concentrations of citronellol oil, Tween 80, and Transcutol HP were determined using a pseudoternary phase diagram. The formulated nanoemulsions were characterized for droplet size, zeta potential, thermophysical stability, and in vitro release. The selected formula (F1) consisted of citronellol oil (1 gm%), Tween 80 (4 gm%), and Transcutol HP (1 gm%). F1 exhibited a spherical appearance with high drug content, small droplet size, and acceptable negative zeta potential. The amorphous state of the drug in the nanoemulsion was confirmed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry, while FTIR analysis indicated its homogenous solubility. The nanoemulsion showed significant antiproliferative activity, with a lower IC50 value compared to aceclofenac or citronellol alone. Flow cytometric analysis revealed cell cycle arrest and increased apoptosis induced by the nanoemulsion. In silico studies provided insights into the molecular mechanism underlying the observed antitumor activity. In conclusion, the developed aceclofenac/citronellol oil nanoemulsion exhibited potent cytotoxicity and pro-apoptotic effects, suggesting its potential as a repurposed antiproliferative agent for melanoma treatment. In a future plan, further animal model research for validation is suggested.

Fabrication and Biological Activities of All-in-One Composite Nanoemulsion Based on Blumea balsamifera Oil-Tea Tree Oil

Nanoemulsion is a new multi-component drug delivery system; the selection of different oil phases can give it special physiological activity, and play the role of "medicine and pharmaceutical excipients all-in-one". In this paper, we used glycyrrhizic acid as the natural surfactant, and Blumea balsamifera oil (BB) and tea tree oil (TTO) as the mixed oil phase, to obtain a new green functional composite nanoemulsion. Using the average particle size and polydispersion index (PDI) as the evaluation criteria, the effects of the oil ratio, oil content, glycyrrhizic acid concentration, and ultrasonic time on the nanoemulsion were systematically investigated. The stability and physicochemical properties and biological activities of BB-TTO NEs prepared via the optimum formulation were characterized. The optimal prescription was BB: TTO = 1:1, 5% oil phase, 0.7% glycyrrhizic acid, and 5 min ultrasonication time. The mean particle size, PDI, and zeta potential were 160.01 nm, 0.125, and -50.94 mV, respectively. The nanoemulsion showed non-significant changes in stability after centrifugation, dilution, and 120 days storage. These nanoemulsions were found to exhibit potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of BB-TTO NEs against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa is 2975 μg/mL, 2975 μg/mL, and 5950 μg/mL, respectively. A lower level of inflammatory cell infiltration and proportion of fibrosis were found in the synovial tissue of AIA rats treated with BB-TTO NEs. These findings demonstrate that the BB-TTO NEs produced in this study have significant potential for usage in antibacterial and anti-inflammatory areas.

Nanotechnology as a Tool for Optimizing Topical Photoprotective Formulations Containing Buriti Oil (Mauritia flexuosa) and Dry Aloe vera Extracts: Stability and Cytotoxicity Evaluations

Human beings are actively exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is associated with skin cancer. This has encouraged the continuous search for more effective and safer photoprotective formulations. Along with the application of traditional organic sunscreens, there is a growing interest in “green products” containing natural compounds such as plant extracts and oils. This trend is combined with the use of nanotechnology as a tool for optimizing the vehicles of such compounds. Nanoemulsions (NEs) are suitable for the encapsulation of natural compounds, which improves topical treatment. Therefore, we have developed oil-in-water (O/W) nanoemulsions containing 3% buriti oil (BO), incorporated in a 10% vegetal extract of Aloe vera (AV) by means of ultrasonic processing to improve the chemical characteristics of this component and, consequently, its efficacy and safety in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. The composition of the formulation was initially defined in a preliminary study on surfactants where the concentrations of Tween® 80 and Span® 20 were evaluated in relation to particle size and the polydispersity index (PDI). The nanoemulsion was prepared and then chemical sunscreens were incorporated with the aim of developing a sunscreen nanoemulsion called NE-A19. This nanoemulsion was found to be the best formulation due to its stability, droplet size (146.80 ± 2.74), and PDI (0.302 ± 0.088), with a monomodal size distribution. The stability was evaluated over 90 days and showed a low growth in particle size at the end of the study. NE-A19 exhibited good viscosity and organoleptic properties, in addition to an occlusion factor indicating an interesting and higher water holding capacity when compared with a NE without AV (p < 0.05). The in vitro efficacy and safety studies of NE-19A were promising. Its average in vitro sun protection factor value was 49, with a critical wavelength (λc) of 369.7 nm, satisfactory UVA protection, and a UVA/UVB ratio of 0.40, indicating broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation. Furthermore, NE-19A displayed a good safety profile in dermal keratinocytes. It can be concluded that NE-19A is a promising formulation for carrying natural products, such as buriti oil and AV, associated with synthetic filters in lower concentrations.

Ultrasonically Fabricated Beta-Carotene Nanoemulsion: Optimization, Characterization and Evaluation of Combinatorial Effect with Quercetin on Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rat Model

Diabetes mellitus (D.M.) is a metabolic disease that has affected over 500 million people globally. Bioactive compounds such as β-carotene and Quercetin have gained research interest for their potential antidiabetic properties, and bioactives have reported superior combinatorial effects in several ailments, including D.M. However, poor oral bioavailability has limited their potential application. Thus, the present study was focused on developing ultrasonically fabricated β-Carotene nanoemulsion (βC-NE) by employing capmul as the oil phase, Gelucire 44/14 as surfactant and Acconon MCM C8 as co-surfactant. The 3 factor- 3 level Box-Behnken design (BBD) was applied to optimise the βC-NE and study the impact of selected independent variables such as % Smix (5 to 9%), amplitude (20-30%) and sonication time (2.5-7.5 min) on responses including globule size (G.S.), poly dispersibility Index (PDI) and entrapment efficiency (E.E.). Further, the combinatorial effect of βC-NE with Quercetin Nanoemulsion (QU-NE) in the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model was evaluated. The results exhibited that 7% Smix at 25% amplitude for 5 min produced βC-NE with a droplet size of 153.1 ± 12.25 nm, 0.200 ± 0.04 PDI, and 73.25 ± 3.25% E.E. The βC-NE showed superior in-vivo bioavailability by 5.38 folds. The βC-NE, combined with QU-NE, exhibited potential therapeutic benefits in controlling body weight, blood sugar level, lipid levels, and tissue damage markers. Additionally, the pancreatic cells and hepatic cells were well protected. These results demonstrate the potential benefits of βC-NE and QU-NE in combination and recommend them as a substitute strategy for diabetes.

Development of SEDDS formulation containing caffeine for dermal delivery

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this work was to develop a self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) containing caffeine for the treatment of cellulite.

METHODS

SEDDS were prepared using the solution method. 0.5% (w/v) caffeine was added to the previously selected excipients. The system was characterized by droplet size, zeta potential, emulsification time and long-term stability. In vitro release and skin permeation were investigated using Franz-type diffusion cells. The cytotoxicity was evaluated on normal human keratinocytes.

RESULTS

Caffeine SEDDS were thermodynamically stable, with a zeta potential less than - 22 mV and droplet size around 30 nm, and were long-term stable. The permeation study showed that the formulation promoted caffeine accumulation in the skin layers, suggesting an increase in local circulation. Cytotoxicity studies on HaCaT cells were not conclusive as the surfactant used indicated false-positive results due to its high molar mass.

CONCLUSION

It was possible to obtain a stable SEDDS that could cause an increase in blood flow in the applied area, resulting in cellulite reduction.

Preparation, Characterization and Biological Activities of an Oil-in-Water Nanoemulsion from Fish By-Products and Lemon Oil by Ultrasonication Method

Fish by-product oil and lemon oil have potential applications as active ingredients in many industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and food. However, the physicochemical properties, especially the poor stability, compromised the usage. Generally, nanoemulsions were used as an approach to stabilize the oils. This study employed an ultrasonication method to form oil-in-water nanoemulsion of lemon and fish by-product oils (NE-FLO). The formulation is produced at a fixed amount of 2 wt% fish by-product oil, 8 wt% lemon oil, 10 wt% surfactant, 27.7 wt% co-surfactants and 42 min of ultrasonication time. The size, polydispersity index (PDI) and zeta potential obtained were 44.40 nm, 0.077, and −5.02 mV, respectively. The biological properties, including antioxidant, antibacterial, cell cytotoxicity, and anti-inflammatory, showed outstanding performance. The antioxidant activity is comparable without any significant difference with ascorbic acid as standard and is superior to pure lemon oil. NE-FLO successfully inhibits seven Gram-positive and seven Gram-negative bacterial strains. NE-FLO’s anti-inflammatory activity is 99.72%, comparable to nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) as the standard. At a high concentration of 10,000 µg·mL⁻¹, NE-FLO is non-toxic to normal skin cells. These findings demonstrate that the NE-FLO produced in this study has significant potential for usage in various industries.

Microencapsulation of DEET in Solid Lipid Microparticles: production, characterization and safety evaluation

DEET is considered the gold standard for insect repellent products. However, it behaves as a strong skin permeant. DEET was encapsulated in Solid Lipid Microparticles (SLM) and characterized in terms of morphology, particle size, cytotoxicity and ex vivo permeation. The particles exhibited micrometric size with a spherical shape. In addition, we developed and validated an analytical method for DEET quantification by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), which was selective, linear, precise, accurate and robust. The toxicity test in cell culture of keratinocytes, fibroblasts and macrophages showed that the formulation did not present cytotoxicity. The SLM were able to decrease the skin permeation of DEET in relation to the free active in ethanol with gain in the safe. Microparticles were able to increase the skin retention of DEET, which can contribute to extend the time of repellent action. The results showed that Solid Lipid Microparticles are safe and promising topical formulation to insect bite prevention.

Development of Nanogel Loaded with Lidocaine for Wound-Healing: Illustration of Improved Drug Deposition and Skin Safety Analysis

A wound refers to a cut or blow that may result in primary or secondary infection or even death, if untreated. In the current study, we have explored the wound-healing properties of lidocaine nanogel, owing to its antioxidant and neutrophilic modulatory potential. Initially, the pre-formulation study was performed and then using central composite design (CCD) fabrication and the characterization of lidocaine-loaded nanoemulsion was carried out. After the preparation of a nanogel of lidocaine-loaded nanoemulsion, it was evaluated on various parameters, such as pH, spreadability, extrudability, drug content, in vitro drug release, dermatokinetic study and in vivo skin safety. Based on the pre-formulation study, the maximum solubility of lidocaine was found in oleic acid (324.41 ± 4.19 mg/mL) and in Tween 20 (192.05 ± 8.25 mg/mL), selected as a suitable emulsifier. The refractive index of the optimized nanoemulsion was found to be 1.35 ± 0.04, the electrokinetic potential was recorded as −15.47 ± 0.95 mV. The pH, spreadability and extrudability of nanogel was found to be 6.87 ± 0.51, 73.32 ± 4.59 gm.cm/sec and 107.41 ± 6.42 gm/cm2, respectively. The percentage of the cumulative drug content and drug release from nanogel was found to be 99.94 ± 1.70% and 93.00 ± 4.67%, respectively. Moreover, dermatokinetic study showed significantly (p < 0.0005) improved drug deposition and the in vivo skin safety study showed no sign of dermal erythematous lesion or any visible damage. Stability studies also testified the secureness of nanogel after storage in a prescribed environmental condition. Thus, this study provides substantial evidence for healing wounds effectively and the further evaluation of the in vivo model. The patent related to this work was published in the Indian Official Journal of the Patent Office (Issue number: 20/2022).

Tamoxifen Citrate Containing Topical Nanoemulgel Prepared by Ultrasonication Technique: Formulation Design and In Vitro Evaluation

The present study aims to design and develop a nanoemulgel formulation of Tamoxifen citrate (TAM), a water-insoluble, potent anticancer drug, using the spontaneous emulsification method to improve topical delivery, achieve high accumulation at the tumour site, and spare the healthy tissues. The oil-based selection was related to the TAM solubility, while the surfactant and co-surfactant were chosen based on the droplets’ thermodynamic stability and size. Afterwards, a pseudo-ternary phase diagram was built for the most promising formulation using two oils, olive and sesame, with a varied mix of Tween 40 as the surfactant and Trascutol HP as the co-surfactant (Smix), by the optimisation of experiments. The nanoemulsion (NE) formulations that were prepared were found to have an average droplet size of 41.77 ± 1.23 nm and 188.37 ± 3.53 nm, with suitable thermodynamic stability and physicochemical properties. Both olive and sesame oils are natural food additives due to their associated antioxidant effects; therefore, they showed no toxicity profile on breast cell lines (MCF-7, ATCC number HTB-22). The TAM-NE preparations revealed a prolonged and doublings superior cumulative percentage of in vitro release of TAM compared to TAM plain gel suspension over 24 h. The release data suggested that the Higuchi model was the best fitting kinetical model for the developed formulations of NE1, NE9, and NE18. The extended release of the drug as well as an acceptable amount of the drug permeated TAM via nanogel preparations suggested that nanoemulgel (NEG) is suitable for the topical delivery of TAM in breast cancer management. Thus, this work suggests that a nanogel of TAM can improve anticancer properties and reduce systemic adverse effects compared to a suspension preparation of TAM when applied in the treatment of breast cancer.

Propranolol-loaded electrospun nanofibrous wound dressing: From fabrication and characterization to preliminary wound healing evaluation

OBJECTIVES

The wound healing potential of beta-blocker drugs such as propranolol (PNL) has recently attracted attention. To date, incorporation of PNL into electrospun nanofibrous wound dressing mats has not been tested as a novel topical drug delivery system. Presently, electrospun nanofibrous mats loaded with PNL were fabricated, and their physicochemical properties and wound healing activities were evaluated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Polyvinyl alcohol solutions containing 0, 2% or 4% (wt/vol) PNL were electrospun into mats, and the physicochemical properties and PNL release were evaluated. In vitro biocompatibility of selected PNL-loaded mats was tested in human foreskin fibroblasts and wound healing capability was evaluated in mouse skin wounds.

RESULTS

The 4% PNL mat had thin fibers (160 nm), convincing porosity (79.5%), and good hydrophilicity (swelling: 89.1%, water contact angle: 42.1°) with little degradability (14.2%). The release of PNL was not in bursts and was best explained by the Korsmeyer-Peppas equation (R2 = 0.96, n = 0.40), suggesting Fickian release. The viability of fibroblasts was 173% on day 5 of incubation with 4% PNL mats, indicating good mat biocompatibility. In vivo treatment for 14 days with 4% PNL mats resulted in wounds with a surface area of only 9% of the original wound area. These wounds had better histopathologic characteristics and were associated with less oxidative stress.

CONCLUSION

The wound dressing fabricated with 4% PNL showed good potential for wound healing because of a favorable drug release profile from the nanofiber scaffold, and can be considered eligible for further clinical research.

Design and characterization of propolis extract loaded self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system as immunostimulant

This current study aims to optimize, characterize, and observe the stability of the self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) of propolis extract (PE) for improving the immune response. Optimization of the selected composition of SNEDDS was conducted using a D-optimal mixture design. SNEDDS was prepared by loading 150 mg/mL of PE in oil, surfactant, and cosurfactant phases. The thermodynamic stability test was carried out with phase separation parameters followed by the robustness to dilution and accelerated stability test. The immunostimulant activity was examined in vitro and in vivo by determining the phagocytic activity, cell proliferation, production of nitrite oxide levels of RAW 264.7 cells, phagocytic activity of macrophages, and the number of leukocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes. The formula optimization showed that the formula containing Capryol-90, Cremophor RH40, and PEG 400 at a ratio of 30: 34: 36 was optimum. The verification response of the optimum formula with drug loading showed that the transmittance, droplet size, and zeta potential were 96.90 ± 0.00%, 28.7 ± 1.20 nm, and -56.5 ± 2.05 mV, respectively. The thermodynamic stability test and robustness to dilution did not find any separation phase. The accelerated stability test results were classified as stable. The in vitro and in vivo immunostimulant activity test showed that PE-loaded SNEDDS exhibited a higher immunostimulant effect than PE. In conclusion, the optimum and stable composition of PE loaded SNEDDS was found with a simple and accurate method using the D-Optimal mixture design and demonstrated an immunostimulant activity.

Cationic zinc (II) phthalocyanine nanoemulsions for photodynamic inactivation of resistant bacterial strains

BACKGROUND

The growing emergence of microbial resistance to antibiotics represents a worldwide challenge. Antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (aPDI) has been introduced as an alternative technique, especially when combined with nanotechnology. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the therapeutic merits of combined aPDI and nanoemulsion in infections caused by resistant bacterial strains.

METHODS

Cationic zinc (II) phthalocyanine nanoemulsions (ZnPc-NE) were prepared using isopropyl myristate (IPM) as oil phase, egg phosphatidylcholine (egg PC) as emulsifier, and N-cetyl-N,N,N-trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB). Nanoemulsions were characterized for particle size, polydispersity, zeta potential, viscosity, and skin deposition. The in-vitro aPDI was investigated on human resistant pathogens; gram-positive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and gram-negative Multidrug-resistant strain of Escherichia coli (MDR E. coli), under different experimental conditions. In addition, in-vivo model of abrasion wound infected by MDR E. coli was induced in rats to investigate the therapeutic potential of the selected formulation.

RESULTS

It was evident that the selected ZnPc formulation (20 % IPM, 2 % egg PC and 0.5 % CTAB) displayed a particle size of 209.9 nm, zeta potential +73.1 mV, and 23.66 % deposition of ZnPc in skin layers. Furthermore, the selected formulation combined with light achieved almost 100 % eradication of the two bacterial strains, with superior bacterial load reduction and wound healing propertiesin-vivo, compared to either the nanoemulsion formulation or laser alone.

CONCLUSION

ZnPc nanoemulsion improved antimicrobial photodynamic therapy in inactivating resistant bacterial infections and provided a promising therapeutic means of treating serious infections, and hence could be applied in diseases caused by other bacterial strains.

Design and Evaluation of Dissolving Microneedles for Enhanced Dermal Delivery of Propranolol Hydrochloride

Oral propranolol hydrochloride has been the first-line treatment for infantile hemangioma (IH), whereas systemic exposure to propranolol has the potential of causing serious adverse reactions. Dermal delivery of propranolol is preferable due to high local drug concentration and fewer adverse effects. However, propranolol hydrochloride (BCS class I) is highly hydrophilic and has difficulty in penetrating the stratum corneum (SC) barrier. Dissolving microneedles (MNs) are an efficient tool for overcoming the barrier of the SC and enhancing dermal drug delivery. In this study, propranolol hydrochloride-loaded dissolving MNs were fabricated by using hyaluronic acid and polyvinyl pyrrolidone as matrix materials. Controllable drug loading in needle tips was achieved by a two-step casting procedure. The needles were good in mechanical strength for penetrating the SC while presented excellent dissolving capability for releasing propranolol hydrochloride. In comparison with the solution counterpart, irrespective of being applied to intact skin or solid MNs-pretreated skin, dissolving MNs significantly increased the permeability and skin retention of propranolol. In conclusion, dissolving MNs could be a potential approach for enhancing dermal delivery of propranolol to treat IH.

Disturbance of cellular homeostasis as a molecular risk evaluation of human endothelial cells exposed to nanoparticles

Even though application of nanoparticles in medicine seems to provide unique solutions for drug delivery and diagnosis diseases, understanding interactions between nanoscale materials and biological systems is imperative. Therefore, this study determined the effect of different types of nanoparticles (NPs) on human endothelial cells and examined the types of toxicity responses they can induce. Four different types of NPs were tested (PLA/MMT/TRASTUZUMAB, PLA/EDTMP, PLGA/MDP, and Pluronic F127 MICELLES), representing three putative areas of application: anticancer therapy, scintigraphy, and cosmetology. The experiments were performed on immortalized human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC-STs). Light contrast phase microscopy as well as cell viability assays showed that only Pluronic F127 MICELLES decreased the number of HUVEC-STs in contrast to PLA/MMT/TRASTUZUMAB, PLA/EDTMP, and PLGA/MDP NPs, which altered cell morphology, but not their confluency. The tested NPs induced not only DNA strand-breaks and alkali-labile sites, but also internucleosomal DNA fragmentation, visualized as a DNA ladder pattern typical of apoptosis. Moreover, generation of free radicals and subsequent mitochondrial membrane potential collapse showed the significance of free radical production during interactions between NPs and endothelial cells. High concentrations of NPs had different degrees of toxicity in human endothelial cells and affected cell proliferation, redox homeostasis, and triggered mitochondrial dysfunction.

Osthole-Loaded Nanoemulsion Enhances Brain Target in the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease via Intranasal Administration

Osthole (OST) is a natural coumarin compound that exerts multiple pharmacologic effects. However, the poor water solubility and the low oral absorption of OST limit its clinical application for the treatment of neurologic diseases. A suitable preparation needs to be tailored to evade these unfavourable properties of OST. In this study, an OST nanoemulsion (OST-NE) was fabricated according to the pseudoternary phase diagram method, which was generally used to optimize the prescription in light of the solubility of OST in surfactants and cosurfactants. The final composition of OST-NE was 3.6% of ethyl oleate as oil phase, 11.4% of the surfactant (polyethylene glycol ester of 15-hydroxystearic acid: polyoxyethylene 35 castor oil = 1 : 1), 3% of polyethylene glycol 400 as cosurfactant, and 82% of the aqueous phase. The pharmacokinetic study of OST-NE showed that the brain-targeting coefficient of OST was larger by the nasal route than that by the intravenous route. Moreover, OST-NE inhibited cell death, decreased the apoptosis-related proteins (Bax and caspase-3), and enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase and glutathione) in L-glutamate-induced SH-SY5Y cells. OST-NE improved the spatial memory ability, increased the acetylcholine content in the cerebral cortex, and decreased the activity of acetylcholinesterase in the hippocampus of Alzheimer's disease model mice. In conclusion, this study indicates that the bioavailability of OST was improved by using the OST-NE via the nasal route. A low dose of OST-NE maintained the neuroprotective effects of OST, such as inhibiting apoptosis and oxidative stress and regulating the cholinergic system. Therefore, OST-NE can be used as a possible alternative to improve its bioavailability in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Coconut Oil Nanoemulsion Loaded with a Statin Hypolipidemic Drug for Management of Burns: Formulation and In Vivo Evaluation

Burn wound healing is a complex process that involves the repair of injured tissues and the control of infection to diminish the scar formation, pain, and discomfort associated with such injuries. The aim of this research was to formulate and optimize a self-nanoemulsion drug delivery system based on the use of coconut oil and loaded with simvastatin. Coconut oil possesses antiinflammatory and antibacterial activity, and simvastatin has interesting properties for promoting the wound-healing process because it increases the production of the vascular endothelial growth factor at the site of injury. The Box–Behnken design was employed for the optimization of the coconut oil–simvastatin self-nanoemulsion drug delivery system. The prepared formulations were characterized according to globular size and their activity in the healing of burn wounds by assessing the mean wound diameter and level of interlukin-6 in experimental animals. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of the prepared formulations was assessed. The nanoemulsion was considered adequately formed when it had droplets of between 65 and 195 nm. The statistical design proved the important synergistic effect of coconut oil and simvastatin for burn wound management in their synergistic potentiation of wound closure and their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. The optimum formulation achieved up to a 5.3-fold decrease in the mean burn wound diameter, a 4.25-fold decrease in interleukin-6 levels, and a 6-fold increase in the inhibition zone against Staphylococcus aureus when compared with different control formulations. Therefore, the designed nanoemulsions containing a combination of coconut oil and simvastatin could be considered promising platforms for the treatment of chronic and burn wounds.

Freeze-Dried Matrices for Buccal Administration of Propranolol in Children: Physico-Chemical and Functional Characterization

Buccal matrices represent a widely accepted dosage form permitting a convenient, easy, reliable drug administration and reducing administration errors. The aim of this study was the development of mucoadhesive buccal matrices for propranolol administration in children. Matrices were obtained by freeze-drying of drug loaded polymeric solutions based on gum tragacanth (GT), pectin (PEC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), sodium hyaluronate (HA), gelatin (GEL), chitosan (CH) or a mixture of CH and HPMC (CH/HPMC). Matrices were characterized for drug solid state, morphology, water-uptake, mucoadhesion ability, in vitro drug release and permeation through porcine epithelium. The most promising formulations were tested for in vitro biocompatibility in human dental pulp fibroblasts. The preparative method and the polymeric composition influenced the drug solid state, as a complete amorphization as well as different polymorphic forms were observed. GEL and PEC guaranteed a fast and complete drug release due to their rapid dissolution, while for the other matrices the release was influenced by drug diffusion through the viscous gelled matrix. Moreover, matrices based on CH and CH/HPMC showed the best mucoadhesive properties, favoured the drug permeation, in virtue of CH ability to interfere with the lipid organization of biological membrane, and were characterized by a good biocompatibility profile.

Propranolol Is an Effective Topical and Systemic Treatment Option for Experimental Epidermolysis Bullosa Acquisita

Propranolol is an ADRB2 blocker that regulates heart muscle contractions, smooth muscle relaxation, and glycogenolysis. In addition, an increasing number of applications in dermatology have been described, most prominently, the use as a first-line treatment for infantile hemangiomas. We here show that propranolol enhances IL-8-induced neutrophil chemotaxis and reduces the release of ROS after immune complex stimulation. To obtain further molecular insights into the modulatory effects of propranolol in activated neutrophils, we performed RNA sequencing of immune complex-stimulated neutrophils in the absence and presence of the drug. We identified the transcriptomic signature of propranolol and demonstrated an ADR2-independent immunomodulatory effect. To determine if the anti-inflammatory transcriptomic signature of propranolol also translates into clinical effects, we next evaluated the impact of propranolol in a prototypical neutrophil-dependent skin disease, specifically, antibody transfer-induced epidermolysis bullosa acquisita in mice. To validate the identified propranolol gene signature obtained in human neutrophils, we analyzed a selection of genes by RT-PCR in mouse epidermolysis bullosa acquisita skin and confirmed TNF, among others, to be differentially regulated by propranolol treatment. Our data clearly indicate that, based on its molecular impact on immune complex-activated neutrophils, propranolol is a potential treatment option for neutrophil-mediated inflammatory skin diseases.

Transdermal patches: Design and current approaches to painless drug delivery

Use of transdermal patches can evade many issues associated with oral drug delivery, such as first-pass hepatic metabolism, enzymatic digestion attack, drug hydrolysis and degradation in acidic media, drug fluctuations, and gastrointestinal irritation. This article reviews various transdermal patches available in the market, types, structural components, polymer role, and the required assessment tools. Although transdermal patches have medical applications for smoking cessation, pain relief, osteoporosis, contraception, motion sickness, angina pectoris, and cardiac disorders, advances in formulation development are ongoing to make transdermal patches capable of delivering more challenging drugs. Transdermal patches can be tailored and developed according to the physicochemical properties of active and inactive components, and applicability for long-term use. Therefore, a number of chemical approaches and physical techniques for transdermal patch development are under investigation.

A high bioavailability and sustained-release nano-delivery system for nintedanib based on electrospray technology

BACKGROUND

Nintedanib is a new tyrosine kinase inhibitor and growth factor antagonist. It can be used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis diseases. Nintedanib has poor solubility in the intestinal tract environment, which leads to low bioavailability of just 4.7%.

METHODS

In this study, a nintedanib solid dispersion was prepared by electrospray technology with an optimized formula (nintedanib:PVPK30:Soybean lecithin=1:5:0.25) and electrospray parameters (21 kV voltage, 18 cm receiving distance, 0.3 mL/h solution flow rate, 0.5 mm pinhole inner diameter).

RESULTS

The accumulative release rate of the optimized solid dispersion was more than 60% in 30 minutes and 100% in 60 minutes. The size distribution was uniform and the surface observed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was smooth. The DSC and X-ray diffraction results showed that nintedanib existed in the solid dispersion through an amorphous form. Nintedanib solid dispersion sustained-release capsules were prepared to prolong drug release, improve patient compliance and reduce side effects. The accumulative release rate from the sustained release capsules was 35.17%, 54.78%, 70.58%, and 93.93% after 2 h, 6 h, 8 h, and 12 h, respectively, having obvious sustained release effects in vitro. The release behavior of solid dispersion sustained-release capsules in vitro was in accordance with the Ritger-Peppas model. The in vivo studies of nintedanib soft capsules, solid dispersion and nintedanib sustained release capsules in SD rats were investigated; the results showed that the Tmax of the soft capsule, solid dispersion and sustained release capsules were 3 h, 2 h, and 6 h, respectively. The Cmax were 2.945 mg/mL, 5.32 mg/mL, and 3.75 mg/mL, respectively, while the AUC0-24 h was 15.124 mg·h/mL, 23.438 mg·h/mL, and 24.584 mg·h/mL, respectively. The relevant bioavailability of the sustained-release capsules was 162.55% compared to the nintedanib soft capsule and 104.89% compared to the nintedanib solid dispersion.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested superior bioavailability and a sustained-release effect from nintedanib sustained-release capsules, as compared to the reference (commercial nintedanib soft capsule).