Chitosan Surface-Modified PLGA Nanoparticles Loaded with Cranberry Powder Extract as a Potential Oral Delivery Platform for Targeting Colon Cancer Cells

Phloretin-nanospanlastics for targeting the Akt/PI3K signaling pathways in dimethylhydrazine-induced colon cancer in mice

Objectives

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide, accounting for approximately 10 % of all cancer cases. It is also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Phloretin is a natural compound found in apples and other fruits. It has been studied for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, more research is needed to fully understand its impact on cancer prevention or treatment. This article aimed to prepare phloretin-nanospanlastics (Ph-NSLs) to evaluate their effects on dimethylhydrazine (DMH)-induced colon cancer in mice.

Methods

Morphology, Particle size, zeta potential, UV-vis, entrapment efficiency, polydispersity index, FT-IR spectra, and drug release of phloretin and Ph-NSLs at pH 6.8.were described. Ph-NSLs were also tested for their anti-cancer properties in DMH-induced colon cancer in mice. A 36 mice were divided into 6 groups; Normal control, DMH (20 mg/k.g.b.w.), DMH + Ph-NSLs (25 mg/k.g.b.w.), DMH + Ph-NSLs (50 mg/k.g.b.w.), DMH + 5-FU(20 mg/k.g.b.w.), DMH + Ph-NSLs (50 mg), 5-FU (20 mg). Ph-NSLs were tested for their anticancer properties in DMH-treated mice by evaluating the IC50, viability and inhibitory values of Ph-NSLs against Caco-2. Also, the effect of Ph-NSLs administration on number of surviving mice, number of tumors/mice, average of tumor size, Hb, RBCs, WBCs, C19-9, MDA, GSH, SOD, IL-2, TNF-α, TGF-β1, CEA, and P53 levels in mice treated DMH were estimated.

Results

The synthesized Ph-NSLs were uniform, spherically shaped, and well dispersed, with a size, entrapment efficiency, and polydispersity index of approximately 114.06 ± 8.35 nm, 78.60 %, and 0.05, respectively. The zeta potential value of Ph-NSLs was measured at -21.5 ± 1.47 mV. Zeta potential reflects the surface charge of nanoparticles and affects their stability and interactions. UV spectra of phloretin and Ph-NSLs showed strong absorption peaks at 225 and 285 nm. These peaks correspond to specific wavelengths where the compound absorbs light. The percentage of Ph- NSLs release was found to be 56.87 ± 2.45 %. IC50 of Ph-NSLs was recorded 15.76 ± 0.42 μg/ml and the viability and inhibitory values of Ph-NSLs against Caco-2 cell lines was resorded 2.39, and 97.61 %, respectively at 100 μg/ml as well as 10.3, and 89.7 %, respectively at 50 μg/ml.Moreover, The combination of 5-FU and Ph-NSLs resulted in a moderate increase in survival and significantly reduces tumor size and number, showing enhanced anticancer efficacy compared to individual treatments as well as attenuated levels of hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBCs), and white blood cells (WBCs). Reduced plasma cancer antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) levels as well as improved of colon malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), interleukine-2 (IL-2), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), tumor growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), and tumor protein (P53) levels. Also, Ph-NSLs and 5FU, either alone or together, decreased the expression of the Akt and PI3K genes in the colon. The combination of Ph-NSLs and 5FU showed more pronounced anticancer activity than Ph-NSLs administered individually.

Conclusion

The combination of 5-FU and Ph-NSLs significantly enhances anticancer efficacy, reducing both the number of tumors and average tumor size more effectively than either treatment alone. This synergistic effect leverages 5-FU's inhibition of DNA synthesis and phloretin's induction of apoptosis and inhibition of cell proliferation, offering a promising approach for improved cancer treatment outcomes.

Luteolin loaded PEGylated cerosomes: a novel treatment for MRSA skin infections

BACKGROUND

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major cause of skin and soft tissue infections which, due to the spread of antimicrobial resistance, have become increasingly serious. Bacterial skin infection affects the barrier function of skin causing depletion of the ceramide content in the stratum corneum (SC) of the epidermis. In the study reported herein, luteolin (LUT) a naturally-occurring flavonoid was incorporated in PEGylated cerosomes (PCs) to boost its antibacterial action as a topical application. The opimal formulation of the surface-modified lipidic vesicles was chosen with the aid of a 23 full factorial design. The effectiveness of the optimal LUT formulation which was developed was evaluated using several MRSA strains both in vitro and in vivo studies.

RESULTS

A 23 full factorial design was employed for the preparation of the optimum PC formulation, designated herein as F5. A comparative in vitro release study revealed the superiority of F5 over a LUT suspension in solubilizing and releasing after 24 h, a higher percentage 78.1 ± 1.8% of luteolin compared with only 18.3 ± 2.1% for the luteolin suspension. When tested against MRSA strains, F5 showed antimicrobial activity that was higher than that of the luteolin suspension, having a MIC value of 187.5 µg/mL versus 1500 µg/mL. In addition to having enhanced anti-virulence activity than the luteolin suspension in terms of antibiofilm formation (with % inhibition ranging from 45 to 99% with the tested strains at 0.5 × and 0.25 × MICs, where the luteolin suspension only had a range from 1 to 45%), enhanced anti-pigment production, and anti-α-hemolysin activity were also observed. Moreover, F5 affected the cell wall integrity as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) verified the effect of F5 on bacterial biofilm formation, showing reduction of cellular adhesion and disruption of biofilm, factors which greatly contribute to bacterial pathogenesis and antibiotic resistance. When compared to the negative control and the luteolin suspension groups, the F5 formulation also resulted in reducing the bacterial load in the murine skin infection model.

CONCLUSIONS

F5 PEGylated cerosomes are potential new potent defense agents against MRSA infections, demonstrating promising therapeutic capabilities.

Chitosan nanoparticles of imatinib mesylate coated with TPGS for the treatment of colon cancer: In-vivo & in-vitro studies

The study aimed to develop and evaluate chitosan-based nanoparticles coated with TPGS for the targeted delivery of imatinib mesylate to colon cancer cells. Particle size and zeta potential analysis were within the acceptable range for targeting colon cancer. CS-IMT-TPGS-NPs had a significant positive zeta potential of 30.4 mV, suggesting improved cellular intake. FE-SEM and TEM demonstrated that the nanoparticles appeared spherical, smooth, and did not aggregate, with a visible TPGS coating. XRD confirmed that crystalline imatinib transitioned to an amorphous state during nano formulation. In-vitro tests on HCT-116 cells demonstrated that CS-IMT-TPGS-NPs outperformed free IMT regarding cytotoxicity, apoptosis induction, cellular uptake, and cell migration inhibition. Additionally, the nanoparticles were examined in vitro using mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA fragmentation, GAPDH relative gene expression, ROS estimation, and cell cycle analysis. The effect of therapy on expected colon-associated bacterial strains was also investigated. The biocompatibility of nanoparticles was assessed by hemolysis and platelet aggregation experiments. The anti-inflammatory impact was determined using the HET-CAM test. Non-Fickian diffusion at pH 5.5 resulted in sustained in-vitro drug release, with no initial burst. In-vivo investigations using albino Wistar rats suggest pharmacokinetic properties for produced nanoparticles, whereas histopathological examinations assess acute toxicity.

RES-CMCNPs Enhance Antioxidant, Proinflammatory, and Sensitivity of Tumor Solids to γ-irradiation in EAC-Bearing Mice

OBJECTIVES

Resveratrol (Res) is a bifunctional compound found in numerous plants, including grapes and mulberries. Nanotechnology has promising applications in medicine. The ability of various nanomaterials to serve as radiosensitizers against tumor cells were reported in several manuscripts. The present investigation aimed to assess the antitumor and radiosensitizing effects of Res-CMCNPs on EAC-bearing mice.

METHODS

Res-CMCNPs have been developed using the CMC emulsification cross-linking technique. Entrapment efficiency (%), particle size, Polydispersity index and ZETA potential, UV, FTIR spectra, and drug release were evaluated and described for RES-CMCNPs. The radiosensitizing properties of RES-CMCNPs were also evaluated in vitro and in vivo against EAC-carrying rodents. The LD50 of Res-CMCNPs was estimated and its 1/20 LD50 was prepared for treating EAC transplanted mice.

RESULTS

The results revealed that the Res-CMCNPs exhibited a high entrapment efficiency (85.46%) and a size of approximately 184.60 ±17.36 nm with zeta potential value equals -51.866 mv. Also, the UV spectra of Res and Res-CMCNPs have strong absorption at 225 and 290 nm. The percentage of resveratrol release at pHs 5.8 and 7.4 was found to be 56.73% and 51.60%, respectively, after 24 h at 100 rpm. Also, the FTIR analysis confirmed the chemical stability of resveratrol in Res-CMCNPs cross-linking. The IC50 values of Res-CMCNPs against EAC cells viability were 32.99, 25.46, and 22.21 μg after 24-, 48- and 72 h incubation, respectively, whereas those of Res- CMCNPs in combination with γ-irradiation after 6-, 10 and 12-mins exposure were 24.07, 16.06 and 7.48 μg, respectively. Also, the LD50 of Res-CMCNPs was 2180 mg/kg.b.w. The treatment of EAC-bearing mice with Res-CMCNPs plus γ-irradiation improved plasma levels of NO, caspase-3, P53 and NF-kB levels as well as liver MDA, GSH, SOD, CAT, LT-B4, aromatase, Bax, Bcl2 and TGF-β levels and exhibited more significant anticancer activity than administration of Res- CMCNPs and/or exposure to γ-irradiation individually. On the other hand, administration of Res- CMCNPs in combination with γ-irradiation attenuated liver mRNAs (21, 29b, 181a, and 451) gene expression.

CONCLUSION

Grafting resveratrol onto carboxymethyl chitosan appears to be a promising strategy for cancer therapy as a radiosensitizer, potentiating tumor cells' sensitivity to radiation by improving levels of proinflammatory features and antioxidant biomarkers.

Biological and computational assessments of thiazole derivative-reinforced bile salt enriched nano carriers: a new gate in targeting SARS-CoV-2 spike protein

There is merit in investigating novel therapeutic molecules that hit vital targets during the viral infection cycle i.e. disrupting the interaction between SARS-CoV-2's spike glycoprotein and the host's angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, potentially offering new avenues for treatment. Accordingly, lipid-based vesicular systems like liposomes or niosomes are frequently utilized to overcome these hurdles. Thus, chemically synthesized compounds were encapsulated within PEGylated bilosomes (PBs) to improve their solubility and intestinal permeability, thereby enhancing their anti-SARS-CoV-2 effectiveness. The formulae were prepared according to 23 full factorial design which was also used to explore the impact of the change in predetermined formulation variables on the properties of the prepared vesicles (entrapment efficiency EE%, particle size PS, and zeta potential ZP). Additionally, the optimized formula (F4) which is composed of 3% bile salt (BS), 40 mg 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[amino(polyethylene glycol)-2000] (DSPE) and sodium deoxycholate (SDC) as a bile salt, was selected as an optimum formula with desirability value 0.674 using Design Expert® software. Both the in vitro release and ex vivo experiments results confirmed the significant superiority of the F4 over the drug dispersion. Both cytotoxicity and anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity of all examined compound-loaded PBs (PB3a-PB3g) were assessed in Vero E6 cells via MTT assay. Both compounds PB3c and PB3g displayed the highest IC50 values (0.71 and 1.25 μg mL-1, respectively) ensuring their superior antiviral potential. Moreover, it was revealed that PB3c demonstrated more than 80% virucidal activity and over 80% inhibition of viral adsorption with little effect on the viral replication ∼(5-10%). Moreover, molecular docking and dynamic studies were conducted to pursue the binding affinities of the investigated compounds towards the ACE2 target of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, assuring their feasible inhibitory potential. Collectively, the investigated compound-loaded PBs can be treated as promising lead drug delivery panels for COVID-19 management.

Novel drug delivery systems in colorectal cancer: Advances and future prospects

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an abnormal proliferation of cells within the colon and rectum, leading to the formation of polyps and disruption of mucosal functions. The disease development is influenced by a combination of factors, including inflammation, exposure to environmental mutagens, genetic alterations, and impairment in signaling pathways. Traditional treatments such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are often used but have limitations, including poor solubility and permeability, treatment resistance, side effects, and post-surgery issues. Novel Drug Delivery Systems (NDDS) have emerged as a superior alternative, offering enhanced drug solubility, precision in targeting cancer cells, and regulated drug release. Thereby addressing the shortcomings of conventional therapies and showing promise for more effective CRC management. The present review sheds light on the pathogenesis, signaling pathways, biomarkers, conventional treatments, need for NDDS, and application of NDDS against CRC. Additionally, clinical trials, ongoing clinical trials, marketed formulations, and patents on CRC are also covered in the present review.

The therapeutic effect and possible mechanisms of alginate oligosaccharide on metabolic syndrome by regulating gut microbiota

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a disease condition incorporating the abnormal accumulation of various metabolic components, including overweight or abdominal obesity, insulin resistance and abnormal glucose tolerance, hypertension, atherosclerosis, or dyslipidemia. It has been proved that the gut microbiota and microbial-derived products play an important role in regulating lipid metabolism and thus the onset and development of MetS. Previous studies have demonstrated that oligosaccharides with prebiotic effects, such as chitosan oligosaccharides, can regulate the structure of the microbial community and its derived products to control weight and reduce MetS associated with obesity. Alginate oligosaccharides (AOS), natural products extracted from degraded alginate salts with high solubility and extensive biological activity, have also been found to modulate gut microbiota. This review aims to summarize experimental evidence on the positive effects of AOS on different types of MetS while providing insights into mechanisms through which AOS regulates gut microbiota for preventing and treating MetS.

Sustainable Synthesis of Novel Green-Based Nanoparticles for Therapeutic Interventions and Environmental Remediation

The advancement in nanotechnology has completely revolutionized various fields, including pharmaceutical sciences, and streamlined the potential therapeutic of many diseases that endanger human life. The synthesis of green nanoparticles by biological processes is an aspect of the newly emerging scientific field known as "green nanotechnology". Due to their safe, eco-friendly, nontoxic nature, green synthesis tools are better suited to produce nanoparticles between 1 and 100 nm. Nanoformulation of different types of nanoparticles has been made possible by using green production techniques and commercially feasible novel precursors, such as seed extracts, algae, and fungi, that act as potent reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents. In addition to this, the biofunctionalization of nanoparticles has also broadened its horizon in the field of environmental remediation and various novel therapeutic innovations including wound healing, antimicrobial, anticancer, and nano biosensing. However, the major challenge pertaining to green nanotechnology is the agglomeration of nanoparticles that may alter the surface topology, which can affect biological physiology, thereby contributing to system toxicity. Therefore, a thorough grasp of nanoparticle toxicity and biocompatibility is required to harness the applications of nanotechnology in therapeutics.

Polymeric nanoparticles decorated with fragmented chitosan as modulation systems for neuronal drug uptake

This study aimed to modify chitosan (CS) by gamma irradiation and use it as a surface coating of nanoparticles (NPs) fabricated of poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) to create mostly biocompatible nanosystems that can transport drugs to neurons. Gamma irradiation produced irradiated CS (CSγ) with a very low molecular weight (15.2-19.2 kDa). Coating NPs-PLGA with CSγ caused significant changes in their Z potential, making it slightly positive (from -21.7 ± 2.8 mV to +7.1 ± 2.3 mV) and in their particle size (184.4 0.4 ± 7.9 nm to 211.9 ± 14.04 nm). However, these changes were more pronounced in NPs coated with non-irradiated CS (Z potential = +54.0 ± 1.43 mV, size = 348.1 ± 16.44 nm). NPs coated with CSγ presented lower cytotoxicity and similar internalization levels in SH-SY5Y neuronal cells than NPs coated with non-irradiated CS, suggesting higher biocompatibility. Highly biocompatible NPs are desirable as nanocarriers to deliver drugs to the brain, as they help maintain the structure and function of the blood-brain barrier. Therefore, the NPs developed in this study could be evaluated as drug-delivery systems for treating brain diseases.

Deciphering JAK/STAT signaling pathway: A multifaceted approach to tumorigenesis, progression and therapeutic interventions

The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway, essential for cellular communication, orchestrates a myriad of physiological and pathological processes. Recently, the intricate association between the pathway's dysregulation and the progression of malignant tumors has garnered increasing attention. Nevertheless, there is no systematic summary detailing the anticancer effects of molecules targeting the JAK/STAT pathway in the context of tumor progression. This review offers a comprehensive overview of pharmaceutical agents targeting the JAK/STAT pathway, encompassing phytochemicals, synthetic drugs, and biomolecules. These agents can manifest their anticancer effects through various mechanisms, including inhibiting proliferation, inducing apoptosis, suppressing tumor metastasis, and angiogenesis. Notably, we emphasize the clinical challenges of drug resistance while spotlighting the potential of integrating JAK/STAT inhibitors with other therapies as a transformative approach in cancer treatment. Moreover, this review delves into the avant-garde strategy of employing nanocarriers to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of anticancer drugs, significantly amplifying their therapeutic prowess. Through this academic exploration of the multifaceted roles of the JAK/STAT pathway in the cancer milieu, we aim to sketch a visionary trajectory for future oncological interventions.

Optimization of Naringenin-loaded nanoparticles for targeting of Vanin-1, iNOS, and MCP-1 signaling pathway in HFD-induced obesity

Naringenin, a natural dihydrochalcone flavonoid, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties. This study investigates the hypolipidemic effects of Nar-NPs on obese mice. The characteristics of Nar-NPs, including morphology, particle size, zeta potential, UV-vis, and FT-IR spectra, were examined. The anti-obesity properties of Nar-NPs were evaluated in obese rats, considering LD50, 1/20 LD50, and 1/50 LD50 for treatment preparation. Results indicated that synthesized Nar-NPs were uniform, spherical, and well-dispersed, with a size of 130.06 ± 1.98 nm and with a zeta potential of -25.6 ± 0.8 mV. Nar-NPs exhibited enhancement in the cumulative release of naringenin (56.87 ± 2.45 %) as compared to pure naringenin suspension 87.83 ± 1.84 % in 24 h of the study. The LD50 of Nar-NPs was determined as 412.5 mg/kg.b.w. HFD induced elevated glycemic, oxidative stress, and inflammatory biomarkers while reducing HDL-C, GSH, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. Administration of Nar-NPs significantly mitigated body weight, glucose, insulin, leptin, TC, TG, SREBP1c, pAMPK, PPAR-α, as well as vanin-1, MCP-1, and iNOS mRNA gene expression. Histological investigations supported the biochemical and PCR findings. In a nutshell, the study suggests that the Nar-NPs could serve as a promising and viable pharmacological strategy for the treatment of obesity-related disorders.

Flavonoid-Labeled Biopolymer in the Structure of Lipid Membranes to Improve the Applicability of Antioxidant Nanovesicles

Nanovesicles produced with lipids and polymers are promising devices for drug and bioactive delivery and are of great interest in pharmaceutical applications. These nanovesicles can be engineered for improvement in bioavailability, patient compliance or to provide modified release or enhanced delivery. However, their applicability strongly depends on the safety and low immunogenicity of the components. Despite this, the use of unsaturated lipids in nanovesicles, which degrade following oxidation processes during storage and especially during the proper routes of administration in the human body, may yield toxic degradation products. In this study, we used a biopolymer (chitosan) labeled with flavonoid (catechin) as a component over a lipid bilayer for micro- and nanovesicles and characterized the structure of these vesicles in oxidation media. The purpose of this was to evaluate the in situ effect of the antioxidant in three different vesicular systems of medium, low and high membrane curvature. Liposomes and giant vesicles were produced with the phospholipids DOPC and POPC, and crystalline cubic phase with monoolein/DOPC. Concentrations of chitosan-catechin (CHCa) were included in all the vesicles and they were challenged in oxidant media. The cytotoxicity analysis using the MTT assay (3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide) revealed that concentrations of CHCa below 6.67 µM are non-toxic to HeLa cells. The size and zeta potential of the liposomes evidenced the degradation of their structures, which was minimized by CHCa. Similarly, the membrane of the giant vesicle, which rapidly deteriorated in oxidative solution, was protected in the presence of CHCa. The production of a lipid/CHCa composite cubic phase revealed a specific cubic topology in small-angle X-ray scattering, which was preserved in strong oxidative media. This study demonstrates the specific physicochemical characteristics introduced in the vesicular systems related to the antioxidant CHCa biopolymer, representing a platform for the improvement of composite nanovesicle applicability.

BAO-Ag-NPs as Promising Suppressor of ET-1/ICAM-1/VCAM-1 Signaling Pathway in ISO-induced AMI in Rats

OBJECTIVES

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the most prevalent cause of myocardial fibrosis and the leading cause of mortality from cardiovascular disease. The goal of this work was to synthesize Balanites aegyptiaca oil-silver nanoparticles (BAO-Ag-NPs) and evaluate their cardioprotective effect against ISO-induced myocardial infarction in rats, as well as their mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

BAO was isolated, and the unsaturated fatty acids were estimated. BAO-Ag-NPs was prepared, LD50 was calculated to evaluate its cardioprotective activity against ISO (85 mg/kg)-induced AMI. Different doses of BAO-Ag-NPs (1/50 LD50; 46.6 mg/kg.b.w and 1/20 LD50; 116.5 mg) were received to the rats.

RESULTS

The total fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids generated by BAO were 909.63 and 653.47 mg/100 g oil, respectively. Oleic acid methyl ester, 9-octadecenoic acid methyl ester, and 9, 12-Octadecadienoic acid methyl ester were the predominant ingredients, with concentrations of 107.6, 243.42, and 256.77 mg/100 g oil, respectively. According to TEM and DLS examinations, BAO-Ag-NPs have a size of 38.20 ± 2.5 nm and a negative zeta potential of -19.82 ± 0.30 mV, respectively. The LD50 of synthesized BAO-Ag-NPs is 2330 mg. On the other hand, BAOAg- NPs reduce myocardial necrosis by lowering increased BNP, cTnI, CK-MB, TC, TG, MDA, MMP2, TGF-β1, PGE2, and IL-6 levels. Furthermore, BAO-Ag-NPs inhibit the expression of ET-1, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 genes as well as enhance HDL-C, CAT, and GSH levels when compared to the ISO-treated group of rats. Histopathological findings suggested that BAO-Ag- NPs enhance cardiac function by increasing posterior wall thickness in heart tissues.

CONCLUSION

BAO-Ag-NPs protect against AMI in vivo by regulating inflammation, excessive autophagy, and oxidative stress, as well as lowering apoptosis via suppression of the ET-1, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 signaling pathways.

Folic acid-chitosan functionalized polymeric nanocarriers to treat colon cancer

In the present study, polymeric nanoparticles loaded with IRI and quercetin, a p-gp inhibitor, were developed to target folate receptors expressed by colon cancer cells for oral targeted delivery. This work reports the development of PNPs with an entrapment efficiency of 41.26 ± 0.56 % for IRI and 55.83 ± 4.51 for QT. PNPs were further surface modified using chitosan-folic acid conjugates for better targetability to obtain folic acid-chitosan coated nanoparticles. DLS and FeSEM revealed particles in the nanometric size range with spherical morphology, while FTIR and DSC provided details on their structure and encapsulation. In vitro drug release studies confirmed a sustained release pattern of IRI and QT, while cell line studies confirmed the superiority of C-FA-PNPs when tested on Caco2 cells. Pharmacodynamic studies in colon cancer induced rats showed similar efficacy for PNPs and C-FA-PNPs. Further examination from a bio-distribution study in healthy rats, revealed the failure of C-FA-PNPs to deliver the drugs to the colon adequately, while the PNPs improved the available concentration of IRI at the colon by almost 1.8 folds when compared to the available marketed product. Hence, the developed PNP formulation sticks out as a plausible substitute for the intravenous dosage forms of IRI which have been conventionally prevailing.

Colon-targeted delivery of polyphenols: construction principles, targeting mechanisms and evaluation methods

Polyphenols have received considerable attention for their promotive effects on colonic health. However, polyphenols are mostly sensitive to harsh gastrointestinal environments, thus, must be protected. It is necessary to design and develop a colon-targeted delivery system to improve the stability, colon-targeting and bioavailability of polyphenols. This paper mainly introduces research on colon-targeted controlled release of polyphenols. The physiological features affecting the dissolution, release and absorption of polyphenol-loaded delivery systems in the colon are first discussed. Simultaneously, the types of colon-targeted carriers with different release mechanisms are described, and colon-targeting assessment models that have been studied so far and their advantages and limitations are summarized. Based on the current research on polyphenols colon-targeting, outlook and reflections are proposed, with the goal of inspiring strategic development of new colon-targeted therapeutics to ensure that the polyphenols reach the colon with complete bioactivity.

Zinc-Boron-PLGA biocomposite material: preparation, structural characterization, and in vitro assessment

Nowadays, the state-of-the-art discoveries in the field of delivery systems for therapeutic purposes have redefined the importance of biocompatible and biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanocomposites. The study aimed to obtain a biocomposite material, with improved properties of its constituents [zinc-boron (Zn-B) complex and PLGA], by a simple, cost-effective method. The water∕oil∕water double emulsion technique allowed the adjustment of the synthesis parameters, to maximize the degree of Zn-B complex encapsulation. The morphological aspects of the samples were established by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Particle size distribution was determined by dynamic light scattering (DLS). Morphology was typical for PLGA, spherical one. Depending on the synthesis conditions, the obtained particles have diameters between 10-450 nm. Zeta potential (ZP) showed that the particles have electronegative surface charge, offering a favorable perspective on aggregation, flocculation, and dispersion phenomena. It was observed, applying the design of experiments, that the particles size increased with increasing amounts of PLGA and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), while ZP increased with higher PLGA and smaller PVA amounts in the formulation. The encapsulation efficiency was determined by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography∕mass spectrometry (UHPLC∕MS). The in vitro assessment was performed using Vero CCL-81 epithelial cell line and the 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) test. Zn-B-PLGA biocomposite has promising characteristics and can be used for future biomedical applications.

Polymer Tablet Matrix Systems for the Controlled Release of Dry Betula pendula Leaf Extract

The aim of the study was to develop polymer matrix tablets with modified release of dry Betula pendula leaf extract and to investigate basic parameters influencing the drug release pattern. To fully assess the statistical significance of the influence of the individual factors in the tablet formulation development as well as the combination of them, Tukey's tests and a complete 33 factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) were applied. The following three factors were studied at three levels (low, medium and high): influence of the hydrophobic/hydrophilic polymer ratio Ethylcellulose (EC)/Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) (40/60, 25/75 and 10/90), influence of HPMC molecular weight (500 kDa, 750 kDa and 1150 kDa), and influence of the compression force applied (1 t, 1.5 t and 2 t). The effect of these varied parameters on the drug release parameter t80 was evaluated statistically. Twenty-seven tablet models were formulated, including all possible combinations of the variables. The obtained drug release profiles demonstrated that a 25/75 (EC/HPMC) ratio was the most suitable for prolonging the release process. Increasing the molecular weight of HMPC from 500 kDa to 750-1150 kDa and applying higher compression force significantly influenced the studied t80 values and caused sustained drug release (t80 up to 7.97 h). The combination of the hydrophilic HPMC polymer with the hydrophobic EC can result in the formation of a promising drug-carrying matrix, offering effective control of the drug release process.

A short appraisal of polylactic-co-glycolic acid based polymer nanotechnology for colon cancer: recent advances and literature evidences

The currently available formulations provided non-targeted treatment of colon cancer, the deadliest cancer variant. Due to biopharmaceutical hindrances, the majority of the drugs are unable to reach the target site. Polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) is one of the versatile polymers in cancer treatment, diagnostics and theranostics. The unique mechanism of surface modifications in PLGA properties in colon cancer has been a keen interest to be used in different nanoparticles for improving biopharmaceutical attributes. The ongoing use of these smart nano-carriers has allowed targeted delivery of several active components on a wide scale. The main goal of this review is to compile information on PLGA-based nanocarriers which possess several desirable properties for drug delivery applications, including biocompatibility, biodegradability and tunable drug-release kinetics.

Weibull β value for the discernment of drug release mechanism of PLGA particles

Mathematical models are used to characterize and optimize drug release in drug delivery systems (DDS). One of the most widely used DDS is the poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based polymeric matrix owing to its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and easy manipulation of its properties through the manipulation of synthesis processes. Over the years, the Korsmeyer-Peppas model has been the most widely used model for characterizing the release profiles of PLGA DDS. However, owing to the limitations of the Korsmeyer-Peppas model, the Weibull model has emerged as an alternative for the characterization of the release profiles of PLGA polymeric matrices. The purpose of this study was to establish a correlation between the n and β parameters of the Korsmeyer-Peppas and Weibull models and to use the Weibull model to discern the drug release mechanism. A total of 451 datasets describing the overtime drug release of PLGA-based formulations from 173 scientific articles were fitted to both models. The Korsmeyer-Peppas model had a mean Akaike Information Criteria (AIC) value of 54.52 and an n value of 0.42, while the Weibull model had a mean AIC of 51.99 and a β value of 0.55, and by using reduced major axis regression values, a high correlation was found between the n and β values. These results demonstrate the ability of the Weibull model to characterize the release profiles of PLGA-based matrices and the usefulness of the β parameter for determining the drug release mechanism.

Do Elevated YKL-40 Levels Drive the Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment in Colorectal Cancer? Assessment of the Association of the Expression of YKL-40, MMP-8, IL17A, and PD-L1 with Coexisting Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity, and Active Smoking

The influence of chitinase-3-like protein 1 (YKL-40 or CHI3L1) expression on the immunological properties of the tumor microenvironment, which may affect the effectiveness of immunotherapy, is currently not sufficiently understood in colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between YKL-40 expression and the immunological properties of the tumor microenvironment in CRC. We performed in silico analysis, including analysis of immune cell infiltration scores and the immune landscape depending on YKL-40 expression, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and analysis of three Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. In 48 CRC tissue homogenates and the surgical margin, we analyzed the expression of YKL-40, MMP8, IL17A, and PD-L1. Moreover, we analyzed the expression of YKL-40 in tissue homogenates retrieved from patients with coexisting diabetes, obesity, and smoking. The expression of YKL-40 was significantly higher in CRC tumor tissue compared to healthy tissue and correlated with MMP-8, IL17A, and PD-L1 expression. In silico analysis revealed an association of YKL-40 with disease recurrence, and GSEA revealed a potential link between elevated YKL-40 expression and immunosuppressive properties of the tumor microenvironment in CRC.