Increased Encapsulation Efficiency of Methotrexate in Liposomes for Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapy

Targeted nanoliposomes for precision rheumatoid arthritis therapy: a review on mechanisms and in vivo potential

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory immune-triggered disease that causes synovitis, cartilage degradation, and joint injury. In nanotechnology, conventional liposomes were extensively investigated for RA. However, they frequently undergo rapid clearance, reducing circulation time and therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, their stability in the bloodstream is often compromised, resulting in premature drug release. The current review explores the potential of targeted liposomal-based nanosystems in the treatment of RA. It highlights the pathophysiology of RA, explores selective targeting sites, and elucidates diverse mechanisms of novel liposomal types and their applications. Furthermore, the targeting strategies of pH-sensitive, flexible, surface-modified, PEGylated, acoustic, ROS-mediated, and biofunctionalized liposomes are addressed. Targeted nanoliposomes showed potential in precisely delivering drugs to CD44, SR-A, FR-β, FLS, and toll-like receptors through the high affinity of ligands. In vitro studies interpreted stable release profiles and improved stability. Ex vivo studies on skin demonstrated that ultradeformable and glycerol-conjugated liposomes enhanced drug penetrability. In vivo experiments for liposomal types in the arthritis rat model depicted remarkable efficacy in reducing joint swelling, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and synovial hyperplasia. In conclusion, these targeted liposomes represented a significant leap forward in drug delivery, offering effective therapeutic options for RA. In the future, integrating these advanced liposomes with artificial intelligence, immunotherapy, and precision medicine holds great promise.

Enhancing quality-by-design through weighted goal programming: a case study on formulation of ultradeformable liposomes

INTRODUCTION

Optimization of pharmaceutical formulations requires advanced tools to ensure quality, safety, and efficacy. quality-by-design (QbD), introduced by the FDA, emphasizes understanding and controlling processes early in development. Advanced optimization methods, such as desirability, have surpassed traditional single-objective techniques. Others, such as weighted goal programming (WGP) offers unique advantages by integrating decision-maker preferences, enabling balanced solutions for complex drug delivery systems. This study applies WGP to optimize timolol (TM)-loaded nanoliposomes aligning with QbD principles.

METHODS

The optimization process followed six steps: identifying factors and responses, developing a Design of Experiments (DoE) plan, defining ideal and anti-ideal points, setting aspiration levels, assigning relative weights, and applying WGP compared to desirability function. Minimized and balanced deviations from aspiration levels served as criteria for selecting the most robust optimization results. Six responses were analyzed: vesicle size ( z 1 ) , polydispersity index ( z 2 ) , zeta potential ( z 3 ) , deformability index ( z 4 ) , phosphorus content ( z 5 ) , and drug entrapment efficiency ( z 6 ) .

RESULTS

WGP produced a more balanced formulation that simultaneously optimized multiple responses. By incorporating the importance of each response, the WGP approach improved control over size, colloidal stability, and drug entrapment, based on its mathematical formulation. Comparative analysis with the desirability function confirmed that WGP effectively addressed potential tradeoffs without oversimplifying conflicting objectives.

CONCLUSIONS

This case-study demonstrates WGP potential as an advanced multi-objective optimization tool for pharmaceutical applications, improving upon traditional methods in complex formulations. Its ability to harmonize multiple critical attributes in line with QbD highlights its value in developing high-quality pharmaceutical products.

Hyaluronic acid modified liposomes with enhanced transdermal delivery of methotrexate for psoriasis treatment

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by immune dysregulation and cutaneous symptoms. Methotrexate (MTX), efficacious in psoriasis, suffers from limited transdermal permeability due to its hydrophilic nature. Liposomal nanomedicine, which offers increased bioavailability and targeted delivery with minimized systemic effects, is a promising approach. The application of hyaluronic acid (HA) as a penetration enhancer and modifier leverages its binding to the upregulated CD44 receptor in psoriasis, enhancing the efficacy of liposomes. In this study, we synthesized HA-modified liposomes by conjugating HA with distearoyl phosphatidyl ethanolamine-poly (ethylene glycol) (DSPE-PEG) and encapsulated methotrexate for targeted treatment of psoriasis. The research entailed the meticulous preparation and physicochemical characterization of these HA-modified liposomes, followed by in vitro transdermal delivery assays, cellular uptake studies, and the development of a psoriasis animal model to rigorously assess therapeutic efficacy. Our findings underscore the significant improvement in methotrexate's transdermal penetration and retention within psoriatic lesions afforded by the HA-modified liposomes, indicating a novel and efficacious therapeutic approach for the management of dermatological disorders.

Development and evaluation of methotrexate-loaded nanoemulsion formulation for topical treatment of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that is becoming widespread and is associated with many kinds of additional severe diseases. The present study aimed to develop a methotrexate-loaded almond oil-based nanoemulsion formulation (MTX NE) for topical administration. The drug-loaded nanoemulsion formulation was prepared by high shear homogenization technique. The formulation's stability, as well as other physical and chemical characteristics, including entrapment effectiveness, drug release kinetics, skin permeability, skin irritation, and in vivo evaluation of the optimized formulation, was assessed. Additionally, imiquimod-induced psoriasis in rats was employed to investigate the efficacy of MTX NE against skin disorders. The MTX NE formulation was developed with a particle size of 18.74 ± 9.748 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.198 ± 0.01, and an average entrapment efficiency of 79.65 ± 3.84%. The release kinetics model estimates 81.08% drug release at pH 5.5 after 24 h. The major layers of the skin, the epidermis, and dermis were successfully fluidized by the optimized MTX NE formulation, as shown by FTIR results, most likely enhancing drug retention and permeability. However, since Tween 80 and PEG 400 are well-known penetration enhancers, their application greatly accelerates these effects. Permeation data indicate that after 24 h, methotrexate was released from the nano-emulsion at 76.83 ± 4.98 g/cm2 with a flux rate of 2.385 ± 0.61 µg/cm2/h. The in vivo study conducted on rabbit skin showed that the enhanced skin penetration of the prepared MTX-loaded nanoemulsion formulation does not cause any structural modifications in the inter-cellular lipid layers of the stratum corneum. Rabbits used in the in vivo anti-psoriatic investigation demonstrated that MTX NE produced a 95% reduction in PASI. The pharmacokinetic profile revealed that the Cmax, Tmax, and t1/2 values were 8.63 µg/mL, 12.5 h, and 17.77 ± 2.21 h, respectively. These findings suggest that the formulation MTX NE is effective in treating psoriasis and may reduce psoriasis symptoms.

Cationic Micelle-like Nanoparticles as the Carrier of Methotrexate for Glioblastoma Treatment

In the present study, ultra-small, magnetic, oleyl amine-coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles were synthesized and stabilized with a cationic ligand, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, and an anticancer drug, methotrexate, was incorporated into a micelle-like nanoparticle structure for glioblastoma treatment. Nanoparticles were further characterized for their physicochemical properties using spectroscopic methods. Drug incorporation efficiency, drug loading, and drug release profile of the nanoparticles were investigated. According to the results, max incorporation efficiency% of 89.5 was found for 25 µg/mL of methotrexate-loaded nanoparticles. The cumulative amount of methotrexate released reached 40% at physiological pH and 85% at a pH of 5.0 up to 12 h. The toxicity and anticancer efficacy of the nanoparticles were also studied on U87 cancer and L929 cells. IC50 concentration of nanoparticles reduced cell viability to 49% in U87 and 72% in L929 cells. The cellular uptake of nanoparticles was found to be 1.92-fold higher in U87 than in L929 cells. The total apoptosis% in U87 cells was estimated to be ~10-fold higher than what was observed in the L929 cells. Nanoparticles also inhibited the cell motility and prevented the metastasis of U87 cell lines. Overall, designed nanoparticles are a promising controlled delivery system for methotrexate to the cancer cells to achieve better therapeutic outcomes.

Application of Microsponge Drug Platform to Enhance Methotrexate Administration in Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapy

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to develop a novel nanotechnological slow-release drug delivery platform based on hyaluronic acid Microsponge (MSP) for the subcutaneous administration of methotrexate (MTX) in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation and damage, while MTX is a common disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD), the conventional use of which is limited by adverse effects and the lack of release control.

METHODS

MSP were synthesized as freeze-dried powder to increase their stability and allow for a facile reconstitution prior to administration and precise MTX dosing.

RESULTS

A highly stable and rounded-shaped micrometric MSP, characterized by an open porosity inner structure, achieved both a high MTX loading efficiency and a slow release of MTX after injection. Our drug release assays indeed demonstrated a characteristic drug release profile consisting of a very limited burst release in the first few hours, followed by a slow release of MTX sustained for over a month. By means of a preclinical rat model of RA, the administration of MTX-loaded MSP proved to nearly double the therapeutic efficacy compared to sole MTX, according to a steep reduction in arthritic score compared to control groups. The preclinical study was replicated twice to confirm this improvement in performance and the safety profile of the MSP.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that the MSP drug delivery platform holds significant potential for clinical use in improving RA therapy by enabling the sustained slow release of MTX, thereby enhancing therapeutic outcomes and minimizing side effects associated with conventional burst-release drug administration.

Unveiling the Performance of Co-Assembled Hybrid Nanocarriers: Moving towards the Formation of a Multifunctional Lipid/Random Copolymer Nanoplatform

Despite the appealing properties of random copolymers, the use of these biomaterials in association with phospholipids is still limited, as several aspects of their performance have not been investigated. The aim of this work is the formulation of lipid/random copolymer platforms and the comprehensive study of their features by multiple advanced characterization techniques. Both biomaterials are amphiphilic, including two phospholipids (1,2-dioctadecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DSPC), 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC)) and a statistical copolymer of oligo (ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (OEGMA) and 2-(diisopropylamino) ethyl methacrylate (DIPAEMA). We examined the design parameters, including the lipid composition, the % comonomer ratio, and the lipid-to-polymer ratio that could be critical for their behavior. The structures were also probed in different conditions. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first time that P(OEGMA-co-DIPAEMA)/lipid hybrid colloidal dispersions have been investigated from a membrane mechanics, biophysical, and morphological perspective. Among other parameters, the copolymer architecture and the hydrophilic to hydrophobic balance are deemed fundamental parameters for the biomaterial co-assembly, having an impact on the membrane's fluidity, morphology, and thermodynamics. Exploiting their unique characteristics, the most promising candidates were utilized for methotrexate (MTX) loading to explore their encapsulation capability and potential antitumor efficacy in vitro in various cell lines.

Improving Skin Cancer Treatment by Dual Drug Co-Encapsulation into Liposomal Systems-An Integrated Approach towards Anticancer Synergism and Targeted Delivery

Skin cancer is a high-incidence complex disease, representing a significant challenge to public health, with conventional treatments often having limited efficacy and severe side effects. Nanocarrier-based systems provide a controlled, targeted, and efficacious methodology for the delivery of therapeutic molecules, leading to enhanced therapeutic efficacy, the protection of active molecules from degradation, and reduced adverse effects. These features are even more relevant in dual-loaded nanosystems, with the encapsulated drug molecules leading to synergistic antitumor effects. This review examines the potential of improving the treatment of skin cancer through dual-loaded liposomal systems. The performed analysis focused on the characterization of the developed liposomal formulations' particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, drug release, and in vitro and/or in vivo therapeutic efficacy and safety. The combination of therapeutic agents such as doxorubicin, 5-fluorouracil, paclitaxel, cetuximab, celecoxib, curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, bufalin, hispolon, ceramide, DNA, STAT3 siRNA, Bcl-xl siRNA, Aurora-A inhibitor XY-4, 1-Methyl-tryptophan, and cytosine-phosphate-guanosine anionic peptide led to increased and targeted anticancer effects, having relevant complementary effects as well, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities, all relevant in skin cancer pathophysiology. The substantial potential of co-loaded liposomal systems as highly promising for advancing skin cancer treatment is demonstrated.

(S)-3-(3,4-Dihydroxybenzyl) piperazine-2,5-dione (cyclo-Gly-L-DOPA or CG-Nio-CGLD) peptide loaded in Chitosan Glutamate-Coated Niosomes as anti-Colorectal cancer activity

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC), now the second most prevalent malignant tumor worldwide, is more prevalent in young adults. In recent decades, there has been progress in creating anti-colorectal cancer medications, including cytotoxic compounds.

OBJECTIVES

Novel anticancer drugs are needed to surmount existing obstacles. A recent study investigated the effectiveness of novel formulations in preventing colorectal cancer.

METHODS

During this study, we assessed a new kind of niosome called cyclo-Gly-L-DOPA (CG-Nio-CGLD) made from chitosan glutamate. We evaluated the anti-colorectal cancer properties of CG-Nio-CGLD utilizing CCK-8, invasion assay, MTT assay, flow cytometry, and cell cycle analysis. The transcription of genes associated with apoptosis was analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR. At the same time, the cytotoxicity of nanomaterials on both cancer and normal cell lines was assessed using MTT assays. Novel anticancer drugs are needed to surmount existing obstacles. A recent study investigated the effectiveness of newly developed formulations in preventing colorectal cancer.

RESULTS

The Nio-CGLD and CG-Nio-CGLD were spherical mean diameters of 169.12 ± 1.87 and 179.26 ± 2.17 nm, respectively. Entrapment efficiency (EE%) measurements of the Nio-CGLD and CG-Nio-CGLD were 63.12 ± 0.51 and 76.43 ± 0.34%, respectively. In the CG-Nio-CGLD group, the percentages of early, late, necrotic, and viable CL40 cells were 341.93%, 23.27%, 9.32%, and 25.48%. The transcription of the genes PP53, cas3, and cas8 was noticeably higher in the treatment group compared to the control group (P > 0.001). Additionally, the treatment group had lower BCL2 and survivin gene expression levels than the control group (P < 0.01). Additionally, CG-Nio-CGLD formulations demonstrated a biocompatible nanoscale delivery mechanism and displayed little cytotoxicity toward the CCD 841 CoN reference cell line.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that chitosan-based noisome encapsulation may enhance the effectiveness of CG-Nio-CGLD formulations in fighting cancer.

Dynamic Release from Acetalated Dextran Nanoparticles for Precision Therapy of Inflammation

Polymer-based nanoparticles (NPs) that react to altered physiological characteristics have the potential to enhance the delivery of therapeutics to a specific area. These materials can utilize biochemical triggers, such as low pH, which is prone to happen locally in an inflammatory microenvironment due to increased cellular activity. This reduced pH is neutralized when inflammation subsides. For precise delivery of therapeutics to match this dynamic reaction, drug delivery systems (DDS) need to not only release the drug (ON) but also stop the release (OFF) autonomously. In this study, we use a systematic approach to optimize the composition of acetalated dextran (AcDex) NPs to start (ON) and stop (OFF) releasing model cargo, depending on local pH changes. By mixing ratios of AcDex polymers (mixed NPs), we achieved a highly sensitive material that was able to rapidly release cargo when going from pH 7.4 to pH 6.0. At the same time, the mix also offered a stable composition that enabled a rapid ON/OFF/ON/OFF switching within this narrow pH range in only 90 min. These mixed NPs were also sensitive to biological pH changes, with increased release in the presence of inflammatory cells compared to healthy cells. Such precise and controllable characteristics of a DDS position mixed NPs as a potential treatment platform to inhibit disease flare-ups, reducing both systemic and local side effects to offer a superior treatment option for inflammation compared to conventional systems.

Synthesis, Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamic Simulation Studies, and Antitubercular Activity Evaluation of Substituted Benzimidazole Derivatives

Tuberculosis, also known as TB, is a widespread bacterial infection that remains a significant global health issue. This study focuses on conducting a thorough investigation into the synthesis, evaluation of anti-Tb activity, molecular docking, and molecular dynamic simulation of substituted benzimidazole derivatives. A series of twelve substituted benzimidazole derivatives (1-12) were successfully synthesized, employing a scaffold consisting of electron-withdrawing and electron-donating groups. The newly synthesized compounds were defined by their FTIR, 1H NMR, and mass spectra. The microplate Alamar blue assay (MABA) was used to evaluate the antimycobacterial activity of the synthesized compound against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). Compounds 7 (MIC = 0.8 g/mL) and 8 (MIC = 0.8 g/mL) demonstrated exceptional potential to inhibit M. tuberculosis compared to the standard drug (isoniazid). In addition, the synthesized compounds were docked with the Mtb KasA protein (PDB ID: 6P9K), and the results of molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation confirmed the experimental results, as compounds 7 and 8 exhibited the highest binding energy of -7.36 and -7.17 kcal/mol, respectively. The simulation results such as the RMSD value, RMSF value, radius of gyration, and hydrogen bond analysis illustrated the optimum potential of compounds 7 and 8 to inhibit the M. tuberculosis strain. Hydrogen bond analysis suggested that compound 7 has greater stability and affinity towards the KasA protein compared to compound 8. Moreover, both compounds (7 and 8) were safe for acute inhalation and cutaneous sensitization. These two compounds have the potential to be potent M. tuberculosis inhibitors.

In Vitro and in Silico Analysis of α -Amylase Inhibitory Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Adhatoda vasica Leaves

Objective

Diabetic individuals have a higher probability of suffering from illness and death due to small blood vessel-related problems such as retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy, and stroke than other complications. There are many synthetic anti-diabetic agents available, but these can be expensive and have undesirable pathological effects. The enzyme α-amylase (hydrolase), catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch to maltose and glucose via the cleavage of α-1,4-glucosidic linkages. Diabetes mellitus patients may benefit from a therapeutic strategy that involves slowing the hydrolysis of starch by inhibiting the activity of α-amylase. Thus, looking for cost-effective, natural, and safe antidiabetic agents is essential. This study aims to screen phytoconstituents and evaluate the in-vitro and in-silico α-amylase inhibitory activity of the ethanolic extract of Adhatoda vasica leaves.

Methods

The extraction of Adhatoda vasica leaves was performed using ethanol via the Soxhlet extraction process. Different concentrations (100 μg/mL to 1000 μg/mL) of ethanolic extract, Acarbose, and Sitagliptin, were prepared and evaluated for α-amylase inhibitory activity using the spectrophotometric method. Molecular docking (AutodockVina 1.2.0) and toxicity profiling (SToPToX web server) studies were performed.

Results

The ethanolic extract of Adhatoda vasica leaves showed the highest percentage inhibition against α-amylase (56.763 ± 0.0035) at a concentration of 1000 μg/mL. The in-silico study supported this inhibitory activity. Vasicoline (C5) and Quercetin (C9), the active constitute of Adhatoda vasica, showed the best binding energies of -8.3 and -8.0 Kcal/mol, respectively against α-amylase enzyme (PDBID: 4W93). A toxicity study revealed the safety profile of the plant extract.

Conclusion

It was concluded that Adhatoda vasica leaves possess some bioactive compounds that are responsible for controlling blood glucose levels, and their identification, purification, and isolation may lead to the development of new therapeutic agents with fewer side effects than the available drugs.

Neutral Oil-Incorporated Liposomal Nanocarrier for Increased Skin Delivery of Ascorbic Acid

In this study, a neutral oil-incorporated liposomal system (lipo-oil-some, LOS) was designed to improve the skin absorption of ascorbic acid (Vit C), and the effects of an edge activator and neutral oil on the skin absorption of Vit C were evaluated. As components of the LOS system, sodium deoxycholate, polysorbate 80, and cholesterol were screened as edge activators, and camellia oil, tricaprylin, and grapeseed oil were employed as neutral oils. The LOS systems prepared by the ethanol injection method were spherical in shape, 130-350 nm in size, and had 4-27% Vit C loading efficiency (%). In a skin absorption study using a Franz diffusion cell mounted with porcine skin, the LOS system prepared with sodium deoxycholate (10 w/w% of phospholipid) exhibited 1.2-and 2.9-fold higher absorption than those prepared with polysorbate 80 and cholesterol, respectively. Moreover, the type of neutral oil had a marked effect on the absorption of Vit C; the liposomal system containing camellia oil provided 1.3 to 1.8 times higher flux (45.4 μg/cm²∙h) than vesicles with tricaprylin or grapeseed oil, respectively. The optimized lipid nanocarrier is expected to be a promising tool for promoting the skin absorption of Vit C and improving its dermatological functions.

Design of Novel Tricaprylin-Incorporated Multi-Layered Liposomal System for Skin Delivery of Ascorbic Acid with Improved Chemical Stability

L-ascorbic acid (Vit C) possesses a variety of dermatological functions in maintaining skin health and anti-aging properties. However, its topical application is challenging owing to its liability to light, oxygen, or heat. Therefore, in this study, a novel liposomal system, including a lipophilic neutral oil named a lipo-oil-some (LOS), was designed to improve the chemical stability and aid the skin absorption of Vit C. The vesicular systems were prepared using the ethanol injection method, employing phosphatidylcholine, cholesterol, dipalmitoyl-sn-glycerol-3-phosphoglycerol, and tricaprylin as neutral oil. The optimized LOS was characterized as follows: shape, multi-layered sphere; size, 981 nm; zeta potential, -58 mV; and Vit C encapsulation efficiency, 35%. The encapsulation of the labile compound into the novel system markedly enhanced photostability, providing over 10% higher Vit C remaining compared to Vit C solution or Vit C-loaded conventional liposome under a light intensity of 20,000 lx. On the other hand, the ex vivo skin permeation and accumulation of Vit C with the LOS system were comparable to those of smaller conventional liposomes (198 nm) in a Franz diffusion cell model mounted with porcine skin. Based on these findings, we concluded that the novel liposomal system could be utilized for skin delivery of Vit C with enhanced chemical stability.

Development of a hyperbranched polymer-based methotrexate nanomedicine for rheumatoid arthritis

Methotrexate (MTX) is an effective disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug, but can cause significant hepatotoxicity and liver failure in some individuals. The goal of this work was to develop a MTX-conjugated hyperbranched polymeric nanoparticle based on oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (OEGMA) and examine its ability to selectively deliver MTX to rheumatic joints while sparing the liver. MTX was conjugated to the hyperbranched polymer via a matrix metalloproteinase-13 cleavable peptide linker. Two populations of nanoparticles were produced, with sizes averaging 20 and 200nm. Tri-peptide (FFK)-modified MTX was liberated in the presence of matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP-13)and showed 100 to 1000-fold lower antiproliferative capacity in monocytic THP-1 cells compared to unmodified MTX, depending on whether the gamma-carboxylate of MTX was functionalized with O-tert-butyl. Nanoparticles showed prolonged plasma exposure after intravenous injection with a terminal half-life of approximately 1 day, but incomplete (50%) absorption after subcutaneous administration. Nanoparticles selectively accumulated in inflamed joints in a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis and showed less than 5% biodistribution in the liver after 5 days. MTX-OtBu nanoparticles also showed no hepatocellular toxicity at 500 μM MTX equivalents. This work provides support for the further development of OEGMA-based hyperbranched polymers as MTX drug delivery systems for rheumatoid arthritis. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Nanomedicines containing covalently conjugated methotrexate offer the potential for selective accumulation of the potent hepatotoxic drug in rheumatic joints and limited liver exposure. One limitation of the high surface presentation of methotrexate on a nanoparticle surface, however, is the potential for enhanced liver uptake. We developed several OEGMA-based hyperbranched polymers containing alpha-carboxyl modified and unmodified methotrexate conjugated via an MMP-13 cleavable hexapeptide linker. The modified methotrexate polymer showed promising in vitro and in vivo behavior warranting further development and optimization as an anti-rheumatic nanomedicine. This work presents a new avenue for further research into the development of hyperbranched polymers for rheumatoid arthritis and suggests interesting approaches that may overcome some limitations associated with the translation of anti-rheumatic nanomedicines into patients.

Theophylline-encapsulated Nile Tilapia fish scale-based collagen nanoparticles effectively target the lungs of male Sprague-Dawley rats

Nile Tilapia fish scale collagen has high biodegradability, excellent biocompatibility, and low antigenicity. We assessed both the encapsulation efficiency of theophylline into Nile Tilapia fish scale-based collagen nanoparticles and their stability as a pulmonary drug delivery system in male Sprague-Dawley rats. The present study has demonstrated the successful encapsulation of theophylline into the synthesised nanoparticles as shown by spectrophotometric analysis, light microscope, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, and dynamic light scattering. The antibacterial activity of the nanoparticles improves with increasing their concentrations. Intratracheal treatment of rats using theophylline-encapsulated nanoparticles reduced the levels of creatinine, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase, compared to the control group. Nevertheless, nanoparticles combined with theophylline exhibited no effects on cholesterol and triglycerides levels. Histopathological examination revealed typical uniform and diffuse thickening of the alveolar walls with capillary oedema in treated rats. We concluded that the synthesised collagen nanoparticles appropriately target the lungs of male Sprague-Dawley rats when delivered via a nebuliser, showing good tolerability to lung cells. However, dose ratio of collagen nanoparticles to theophylline needs further evaluation. The nanoprecipitation method may be optimised to involve poorly water-soluble inhaled drugs, and avoid the drawbacks of traditional drug delivery.

Methods of Liposomes Preparation: Formation and Control Factors of Versatile Nanocarriers for Biomedical and Nanomedicine Application

Liposomes are nano-sized spherical vesicles composed of an aqueous core surrounded by one (or more) phospholipid bilayer shells. Owing to their high biocompatibility, chemical composition variability, and ease of preparation, as well as their large variety of structural properties, liposomes have been employed in a large variety of nanomedicine and biomedical applications, including nanocarriers for drug delivery, in nutraceutical fields, for immunoassays, clinical diagnostics, tissue engineering, and theranostics formulations. Particularly important is the role of liposomes in drug-delivery applications, as they improve the performance of the encapsulated drugs, reducing side effects and toxicity by enhancing its in vitro- and in vivo-controlled delivery and activity. These applications stimulated a great effort for the scale-up of the formation processes in view of suitable industrial development. Despite the improvements of conventional approaches and the development of novel routes of liposome preparation, their intrinsic sensitivity to mechanical and chemical actions is responsible for some critical issues connected with a limited colloidal stability and reduced entrapment efficiency of cargo molecules. This article analyzes the main features of the formation and fabrication techniques of liposome nanocarriers, with a special focus on the structure, parameters, and the critical factors that influence the development of a suitable and stable formulation. Recent developments and new methods for liposome preparation are also discussed, with the objective of updating the reader and providing future directions for research and development.

coupled Hydrodynamic Flow Focusing (cHFF) to Engineer Lipid–Polymer Nanoparticles (LiPoNs) for Multimodal Imaging and Theranostic Applications

An optimal design of nanocarriers is required to overcome the gap between synthetic and biological identity, improving the clinical translation of nanomedicine. A new generation of hybrid vehicles based on lipid–polymer coupling, obtained by Microfluidics, is proposed and validated for theranostics and multimodal imaging applications. A coupled Hydrodynamic Flow Focusing (cHFF) is exploited to control the time scales of solvent exchange and the coupling of the polymer nanoprecipitation with the lipid self-assembly simultaneously, guiding the formation of Lipid–Polymer NPs (LiPoNs). This hybrid lipid–polymeric tool is made up of core–shell structure, where a polymeric chitosan core is enveloped in a lipid bilayer, capable of co-encapsulating simultaneously Gd-DTPA and Irinotecan/Atto 633 compounds. As a result, a monodisperse population of hybrid NPs with an average size of 77 nm, with preserved structural integrity in different environmental conditions and high biocompatibility, can be used for MRI and Optical applications. Furthermore, preliminary results show the enhanced delivery and therapeutic efficacy of Irinotecan-loaded hybrid formulation against U87 MG cancers cells.

Folate-Targeted Liposomal Formulations Improve Effects of Methotrexate in Murine Collagen-Induced Arthritis

Methotrexate (MTX) is first-line therapy for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), however, its use may be limited by side effects notably post-injection malaise. When patients are intolerant or become unresponsive, second-line or antibody therapy may be indicated. A folate-targeted liposomal formulation of MTX (FL-MTX) is tropic to arthritic paws and prevents the onset of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in the mouse. We optimized the drug-to-lipid molar ratio to 0.15 and demonstrated the therapeutic efficacy of this form at 2 mg/kg MTX intraperitoneal (i.p.) twice a week. These improved liposomes were present in inflamed joints in proportion to the degree of swelling of the paw and bone remodeling activity. FL-MTX had lower hepatic and renal elimination of MTX than the free substance. FL-MTX provided equivalent results when given i.p. or subcutaneous (s.c.) and FL-MTX 2 mg/kg (drug/lipid 0.15), twice weekly, was similar to or more effective than 35 mg/kg MTX (same route and schedule) in reducing the incidence and swelling in the murine CIA model. These results suggest that FL-MTX is a more potent nanotherapeutic formulation than free MTX treatment. Its potential benefits for patients may include reduced frequency of treatment and lower overall doses for a given response.

Comparing the delivery to the hair bulb of two fluorescent molecules of distinct hydrophilicities by different nanoparticles and a serum formulation

The follicular route is an important drug penetration pathway in any topical application, either concerning dermatological and cosmetic skin treatments or any transdermal administration regimen. Efficient transport into follicles will depend on drug inherent properties but also on the chosen vehicle. The main study goal was to compare several systems for the delivery to the hair bulb of two fluorescent molecules of different water affinities: the hydrophobic Nile Red and the quite similar but hydrophilic Nile Blue. Three common nanoparticle types were compared in terms of encapsulation efficiency and stability: liposomes, ethosomes and polymeric nanoparticles. A liquid serum-like formulation was also developed, adjusting the final ethanol amount to the type of dye to be solubilized. Then, this formulation and the nanoparticle systems that successfully passed characterization and stability stages were further studied on their ability to reach the bulb. The serum formulation was able to deliver, both drug models, to deeper follicular regions than nanoparticles. Attending to the envisioned zone target of the follicle, the simplest approach proved to be the best choice from all the systems tested in this work. Nonetheless, nanocarriers and the inherent complexity of their manufacturing processes may be justified under very specific requirements.

Liposomal Nanosystems in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints and results in reduced patient quality of life due to its chronic nature and several comorbidities. RA is also associated with a high socioeconomic burden. Currently, several available therapies minimize symptoms and prevent disease progression. However, more effective treatments are needed due to current therapies' severe side-effects, especially under long-term use. Drug delivery systems have demonstrated their clinical importance-with several nanocarriers present in the market-due to their capacity to improve therapeutic drug index, for instance, by enabling passive or active targeting. The first to achieve market authorization were liposomes that still represent a considerable part of approved delivery systems. In this manuscript, we review the role of liposomes in RA treatment, address preclinical studies and clinical trials, and discuss factors that could hamper a successful clinical translation. We also suggest some alterations that could potentially improve their progression to the market.

Nanomaterials for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Inflammatory Arthritis

Nanomaterials have received increasing attention due to their unique chemical and physical properties for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the most common complex multifactorial joint-associated autoimmune inflammatory disorder. RA is characterized by an inflammation of the synovium with increased production of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10) and by the destruction of the articular cartilage and bone, and it is associated with the development of cardiovascular disorders such as heart attack and stroke. While a number of imaging tools allow for the monitoring and diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis, and despite ongoing work to enhance their sensitivity and precision, the proper assessment of RA remains difficult particularly in the early stages of the disease. Our goal here is to describe the benefits of applying various nanomaterials as next-generation RA imaging and detection tools using contrast agents and nanosensors and as improved drug delivery systems for the effective treatment of the disease.

Synthesis of Two Methotrexate Prodrugs for Optimizing Drug Loading into Liposomes

Methotrexate (MTX), a compound originally used as an anticancer drug, has also found applications in a broad variety of autoimmune disorders thanks to its anti-inflammation and immunomodulatory functions. The broad application of MTX is anyway limited by its poor solubility in biological fluids, its poor bioavailability and its toxicity. In addition, encapsulating its original form in nanoformulation is very arduous due to its considerable hydrophobicity. In this work, two strategies to efficiently encapsulate MTX into liposomal particles are proposed to overcome the limitations mentioned above and to improve MTX bioavailability. MTX solubility was increased by conjugating the molecule to two different compounds: DSPE and PEG. These two compounds commonly enrich liposome formulations, and their encapsulation efficiency is very high. By using these two prodrugs (DSPE-MTX and PEG-MTX), we were able to generate liposomes comprising one or both of them and characterized their physiochemical features and their toxicity in primary macrophages. These formulations represent an initial step to the development of targeted liposomes or particles, which can be tailored for the specific application MTX is used for (cancer, autoimmune disease or others).