Food additives impair gut microbiota from healthy individuals and IBD patients in a colonic in vitro fermentation model

Intestinal fibrosis is a long-term complication of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Changes in microbial populations have been linked with the onset of fibrosis and some food additives are known to promote intestinal inflammation facilitating fibrosis induction. In this study, we investigated how polysorbate 80, sucralose, titanium dioxide, sodium nitrite and maltodextrin affect the gut microbiota and the metabolic activity in healthy and IBD donors (patients in remission and with a flare of IBD). The Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME®) with a static (batch) configuration was used to evaluate the effects of food additives on the human intestinal microbiota. Polysorbate 80 and sucralose decreased butyrate-producing bacteria such as Roseburia and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. Both compounds, also increased bacterial species positively correlated with intestinal inflammation and fibrosis (i.e.: Enterococcus, Veillonella and Mucispirillum schaedleri), especially in donors in remission of IBD. Additionally, polysorbate 80 induced a lower activity of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in the three groups of donors, which can affect the intestinal homeostasis. Maltodextrin, despite increasing short-chain fatty acids production, promoted the growth of Ruminococcus genus, correlated with higher risk of fibrosis, and decreased Oscillospira which is negatively associated with fibrosis. Our findings unveil crucial insights into the potential deleterious effects of polysorbate 80, sucralose and maltodextrin on human gut microbiota in healthy and, to a greater extent, in IBD patients.

Maternal polysorbate 80 intake promotes offspring metabolic syndrome through vertical microbial transmission in mice

Polysorbate 80 (P80) is an emulsifier extensively produced, consumed and discharged into the environment, consequently making human exposure inevitable. Despite evidence suggesting that P80 intake causes metabolic syndrome (MS) in mammals via microbial perturbation, limited data exist on its transgenerational impacts on offspring. In this study, we found that maternal P80 treatment impaired intestinal barrier integrity, leading to metabolic endotoxemia, low-grade inflammation and MS-related symptoms in C57BL/6J female offspring. Further analysis of the gut microbiome revealed MS-related changes in the offspring of P80-treated dams. Fecal microbiota transplantation experiment confirmed the crucial role of the altered microbiome in offspring in the transgenerational impacts of P80. Furthermore, we found that the P80-induced microbial alterations were directly transmitted from P80-treated mothers to their offspring and that interrupting vertical microbial transmission through cesarean section and foster nursing blocked the transgenerational impacts of P80 on the offspring microbiome and metabolic health. Moreover, maternal pectin supplementation also effectively mitigated P80-induced microbial alterations and MS-associated phenotypes in offspring. Together, our results indicated that maternal P80 intake could impair offspring metabolic health through the mother-to-offspring transmission of the microbiome, and maternal pectin supplementation might be a promising strategy for reducing the adverse effects of P80.

Apolipoprotein E3 functionalized lipid-drug conjugated nanoparticles of Levetiracetam for enhanced delivery to the brain: In-vitro cell line studies and in-vivo study

A significant portion of brain-tumor patients suffer from 'brain-tumor-related epilepsy (BTE)' which results in depression, anxiety and hampered quality of life. Conventional anti-epileptic drugs indicate negative interaction with other drugs augmenting the poor outcome of overall therapy. Levetiracetam (LVM) has evidenced effectiveness for BTE but its hydrophilicity restricts the passage into blood-brain barrier. The majority of lipid nanoparticles fails to load hydrophilic drug sufficiently. Therefore, lipid-drug conjugates (LDC) were synthesized using stearic acid via amide bond formation confirmed by FTIR and NMR. The nanoparticles of synthesized LDC were prepared by solvent injection method followed by functionalization with Apolipoprotein E3 (ApoE3@LDC-NP). The nanoparticles were characterized by DSC, XRD, particle size (131.6 ± 1.24 nm), zeta potential (-15.6 ± 0.09 mV), and for storage stability. In-vitro release study indicated initial burst release of 20 ± 0.63 % followed by sustained release up to 30 h (66 ± 1.40 %) for ApoE3@LDC-NP. The cell-line study on HEK293 indicated no significant cytotoxic effect and greater cell uptake through U87MG cell line. The pharmacokinetic and bio-distribution study indicated 2.5-fold greater brain-targeting of ApoE3@LDC-NP as compared to LVM solution. It proved safe in the haemolysis study and exhibited the absence of tissue necrosis. Thus, ApoE3@LDC-NP might be a promising approach for effective brain-targeting of LVM for improved clinical response in BTE.

Maternal polysorbate 80 exposure causes intestinal ILCs and CD4+ T cell developmental abnormalities in mouse offspring

This study aimed to investigate the transgenerational impacts of maternal intake of polysorbate 80 (P80), an emulsifier widely used in modern society, on the development of offspring immunity. Our results revealed that maternal P80 treatment led to impaired differentiation of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) and CD4+ T cells in the small intestinal lamina propria (SiLP), resulting in intestinal dyshomeostasis in female offspring. Furthermore, we found that SiLP ILCs abundances were significantly altered in 0-day-old fetuses from P80-treated mothers, indicating a prenatal impact of P80-treated mothers on offspring immunity. Additionally, cesarean section and foster-nursing studies demonstrated that P80-induced altered SiLP ILCs in 0-day-old fetuses could further induce dysregulation of ILCs and CD4+ T cells in the SiLP, thus promoting intestinal dysregulation in offspring later in life. Overall, our findings suggest that maternal P80 intake could prenatally program the development of offspring immunity, exerting a significant and long-lasting impact.

Endotyping of IgE-Mediated Polyethylene Glycol and/or Polysorbate 80 Allergy

BACKGROUND

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polysorbate 80 (PS80) allergy preclude from SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. The mechanism(s) governing cross-reactivity and PEG molecular weight dependence remain unclear.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate PEGylated lipid nanoparticle (LNP) vaccine (BNT162b2) tolerance and explore the mechanism of reactivity in PEG and/or PS80 allergic patients.

METHODS

PEG/PS80 dual- (n = 3), PEG mono- (n = 7), and PS80 mono-allergic patients (n = 2) were included. Tolerability of graded vaccine challenges was assessed. Basophil activation testing on whole blood (wb-BAT) or passively sensitized donor basophils (allo-BAT) was performed using PEG, PS80, BNT162b2, and PEGylated lipids (ALC-0159). Serum PEG-specific IgE was measured in patients (n = 10) and controls (n = 15).

RESULTS

Graded BNT162b2 challenge in dual- and PEG mono-allergic patients (n = 3/group) was well tolerated and induced anti-spike IgG seroconversion. PS80 mono-allergic patients (n = 2/2) tolerated single-dose BNT162b2 vaccination. Wb-BAT reactivity to PEG-containing antigens was observed in dual- (n = 3/3) and PEG mono- (n = 2/3), but absent in PS80 mono-allergic patients (n = 0/2). BNT162b2 elicited the highest in vitro reactivity. BNT162b2 reactivity was IgE mediated, complement independent, and inhibited in allo-BAT by preincubation with short PEG motifs, or detergent-induced LNP degradation. PEG-specific IgE was only detectable in dual-allergic (n = 3/3) and PEG mono-allergic (n = 1/6) serum.

CONCLUSION

PEG and PS80 cross-reactivity is determined by IgE recognizing short PEG motifs, whereas PS80 mono-allergy is PEG-independent. PS80 skin test positivity in PEG allergics was associated with a severe and persistent phenotype, higher serum PEG-specific IgE levels, and enhanced BAT reactivity. Spherical PEG exposure via LNP enhances BAT sensitivity through increased avidity. All PEG and/or PS80 excipient allergic patients can safely receive SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.

Drying behaviour and visualization of surfactants after co-spray drying of surfactant-stabilized aqueous suspensions

Surfactants are widely used in many industries as dispersants or flocculants for suspensions. As the addition of low concentrations of surfactant is sufficient to execute their effect, they barely alter the formulation composition. In this research it was examined whether surfactants, in particular polysorbate 80 (PS80), were suitable as suspension stabilizers for co-spray drying of drug-filler combinations. Therefore, their drying behaviour at different process and formulation settings was studied and mapped by means of fluorescently labelled PS80. Co-spray drying of 10% w/w aqueous suspensions stabilized with 0.1% w/w PS80 resulted in excessive loss of sticky powder in the conical lower part of the drying chamber and the powder conveyor ducts. Up to 16% of powder was lost in the first transporter (i.e. the first part of the conveyor ducts). The amount of powder deposited in the first transporter, and by extension the stickiness of the recovered powder, was correlated with the presence of PS80 on the surface of the spray dried particles. Redistribution of free surfactant molecules during droplet drying depended on the process and formulation parameters. Enrichment of PS80 at the particle surface was most pronounced after co-spray drying of liquid feedstocks with low suspended fraction at process conditions favouring rapid droplet drying.

Investigation of excipients impact on polysorbate 80 degradation in biopharmaceutical formulation buffers

A study on the polysorbate 80 stability in various formulation buffers commonly used in biopharmaceuticals was performed, to investigate the excipients influence on polysorbate 80 degradation. Polysorbate 80 is a common excipient in biopharmaceutical products. However, its degradation will potentially impact the drug product quality, and may trigger protein aggregation and particles formation. Due to the heterogeneity of the polysorbates and the mutual effects with other formulation compositions, the study of polysorbate degradation is challenging. Herein, a real-time stability study was designed and performed. The polysorbate 80 degradation trend was monitored by fluorescence micelle-based assay (FMA), reversed-phase-ultra-performance liquid chromatography-evaporative light scattering detector (RP-UPLC-ELSD) assay, and LC-MS assay. These assays provide orthogonal results to reveal both the micelle-forming capability and the compositional changes of polysorbate 80 in different buffer systems. The degradation occurred after a period of storage under 25 °C in different trend, which indicates the excipients could impact the degradation kinetics. Upon comparison, the degradation is prone to happen in histidine buffer than in acetate, phosphate or citrate buffers. LC-MS confirms oxidation as an independent degradation pathway with detection of the oxidative aldehyde. Thus, it is necessary to pay more attention to the excipients selection and their potential impact on polysorbate 80 stability to achieve longer shelf life for the biopharmaceuticals. Besides, the protective roles of several additives were figured out, which could be applied as potential industrial solutions to the polysorbate 80 degradation issues.

Neurospecific fabrication and toxicity assessment of a PNIPAM nanogel encapsulated with trans-tephrostachin for blood-brain-barrier permeability in zebrafish model

Biocompatible Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) nanogels (NGs) were developed at 40–65 nm to deliver Trans-Tephrostachin (TT) in zebrafish brain. Neurospecific PNIPAM NGs are functionalized with polysorbate 80 (PS80) to overcome the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB). The TT loaded with NG (NG + TT) was confirmed in UV-spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with 90% efficiency of controlled release at 37 °C. The neurospecificity of NG was confirmed in 144 hours post fertilization (hpf) larvae with PS80 surface-treated rhodamine-B (Rh–B) conjugated NG and visualized in the zebrafish CNS. Oral gavaging of TT loaded NG with PS80 surface treatment (NG + TT + PS80) was confirmed to cross the BBB in adult zebrafish at 37 °C. TT release was detected by RP-HPLC. LC₅₀ was determined as 250 μg/ml for NG, 172 μg/ml for NG + TT, and 0.9 μg/ml for TT at 96 hpf and confirmed the lesser toxicity in TT bound NG. Delays in growth and malformations were observed at concentrations above the 96 hpf-LC₅₀. The behavior outcomes were varied with phase - and concentration-dependent hypo- or hyperactivity. The altered expression of genes associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) was found at 96 hpf of its LC₅₀ concentration. The expression of appa was significantly increased for TT and supporting the TT to bind NG without altering the AD genes. Thus the study suggests the biocompatible potential of PNIPAM and its neurospecific delivery to the brain.

In-vial printing and drying of biologics as a personalizable approach

This study addressed the need for a flexible (personalizable) production of biologics, allowing their stabilization in the solid state and processing of small batch volumes. Therefore, inkjet printing into vials followed by a gentle vacuum drying step at ambient temperature was investigated by screening different formulations with a 2²-full factorial design of experiments regarding printability. Human Serum Albumin (HSA) was used as a model protein in a wide range of concentrations (5 to 50 mg/ml), with (10 w/v%) and without the surfactant polysorbate 80 (PS80). PS80 was identified to positively affect the formulations by increasing the Ohnesorge number and stabilizing the printing process. The dispensed volumes with a target dose of 0.5 mg HSA were dried and analyzed concerning their residual moisture (RM) and protein aggregation. All investigated formulations showed an RM < 10 wt% and no significant induced protein aggregation as confirmed by Size Exclusion Chromatography (<2.5%) and Dynamic Light Scattering (Aggregation Index ≤ 2.5). Additionally, long-term printability and the available final dose after reconstitution were investigated for two optimized formulations. A promising formulation providing ∼93% of the targeted dose and a reconstitution time of 30 s was identified.

Interaction of surfactant coated PLGA nanoparticles with in vitro human brain-like endothelial cells

Treatment for CNS related diseases are limited by the difficulty of the drugs to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The functionalization of polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) coated with the surfactants polysorbate 80 (PS80) and poloxamer 188 (P188), have shown promising results as drugs carriers are able to cross the BBB on animal models. In this study, poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) NPs coated with PS80 and P188, labelled with a fluorescent dye were tested on human pre-clinical in vitro model to evaluate and compare their uptake profiles, mechanisms of transport and crossing over human brain-like endothelial cells (BLECs) mimicking the human BBB. In addition, these NPs were produced using a method facilitating their reproducible production at high scale, the MicroJet reactor® technology. Results showed that both formulations were biocompatible and able to be internalized within the BLECs in different uptake profiles depending on their coating: P188 NP showed higher internalization capacity than PS80 NP. Both NPs uptakes were ATP-dependent, following more than one endocytosis pathway with colocalization in the early endosomes, ending with a NPs release in the brain compartment. Thus, both surfactant-coated PLGA NPs are interesting formulations for delivery to the brain through the BBB, presenting different uptake profiles.

The proliferation and colonization of functional bacteria on amorphous polyethylene terephthalate: Key role of ultraviolet irradiation and nonionic surfactant polysorbate 80 addition

Environmental pollution with plastics including polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has become a severe global problem, especially microplastic pollution, which is acknowledged as an emerging global pollutant. Biodegradation as a feasible and promising method has been studied, while colonization as the initiating step of the degradation process has seldom been studied. Here in this paper, we explored for the first time the key role of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and nonionic surfactant polysorbate 80 (Tween-80, 0.2% V/V) in the proliferation and colonization of three functional bacteria (Pseudomonas putida, Pseudomonas sp. and Paracoccus sp.) on amorphous PET (APET). We found that 25 days of UV irradiation can trigger photolytic degradation process (appear the stretching vibration of associating carboxyl end group and the in-plane bending vibration of -OH) and introduce oxygen-containing functional groups on the surface of APET, even though the hydrophobicity of APET was scarcely changed. With regard to Tween-80, it can be utilized by these bacteria strains as carbon source to promote the proliferation, and it can also improve the cell surface hydrophobicity to stimulate the bacterial colonization during the first ten days of the experiment. When UV-irradiation and Tween-80 were provided together, the former factor can provide the target sites for functional bacteria to colonize, and the later factor can provide more candidates waiting to colonize by stimulating proliferation. As a result, an even better proliferation and colonization result can be achieved through the synergistic effect between the two factors. To some extent, the exposure between potential degrading bacteria and substrates to be degraded can be increased, which will create conditions for degrading. Generally, this research can provide certain theoretical basis and technical guidance for the remediation of plastic-polluted soil and the ocean.

Polysorbate 80 controls Morphology, structure and stability of human insulin Amyloid-Like spherulites

Amyloid protein aggregates are not only associated with neurodegenerative diseases and may also occur as unwanted by-products in protein-based therapeutics. Surfactants are often employed to stabilize protein formulations and reduce the risk of aggregation. However, surfactants alter protein-protein interactions and may thus modulate the physicochemical characteristics of any aggregates formed. Human insulin aggregation was induced at low pH in the presence of varying concentrations of the surfactant polysorbate 80. Various spectroscopic and imaging methods were used to study the aggregation kinetics, as well as structure and morphology of the formed aggregates. Molecular dynamics simulations were employed to investigate the initial interaction between the surfactant and insulin. Addition of polysorbate 80 slowed down, but did not prevent, aggregation of insulin. Amyloid spherulites formed under all conditions, with a higher content of intermolecular beta-sheets in the presence of the surfactant above its critical micelle concentration. In addition, a denser packing was observed, leading to a more stable aggregate. Molecular dynamics simulations suggested a tendency for insulin to form dimers in the presence of the surfactant, indicating a change in protein-protein interactions. It is thus shown that surfactants not only alter aggregation kinetics, but also affect physicochemical properties of any aggregates formed.

The Risk of Allergic Reaction to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines and Recommended Evaluation and Management: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, GRADE Assessment, and International Consensus Approach

Concerns for anaphylaxis may hamper severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) immunization efforts. We convened a multidisciplinary group of international experts in anaphylaxis composed of allergy, infectious disease, emergency medicine, and front-line clinicians to systematically develop recommendations regarding SARS-CoV-2 vaccine immediate allergic reactions. Medline, EMBASE, Web of Science, the World Health Organizstion (WHO) global coronavirus database, and the gray literature (inception, March 19, 2021) were systematically searched. Paired reviewers independently selected studies addressing anaphylaxis after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polysorbate allergy, and accuracy of allergy testing for SARS-CoV-2 vaccine allergy. Random effects models synthesized the data to inform recommendations based on the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, agreed upon using a modified Delphi panel. The incidence of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine anaphylaxis is 7.91 cases per million (n = 41,000,000 vaccinations; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 4.02-15.59; 26 studies, moderate certainty), the incidence of 0.15 cases per million patient-years (95% CI 0.11-0.2), and the sensitivity for PEG skin testing is poor, although specificity is high (15 studies, very low certainty). We recommend vaccination over either no vaccination or performing SARS-CoV-2 vaccine/excipient screening allergy testing for individuals without history of a severe allergic reaction to the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine/excipient, and a shared decision-making paradigm in consultation with an allergy specialist for individuals with a history of a severe allergic reaction to the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine/excipient. We recommend further research to clarify SARS-CoV-2 vaccine/vaccine excipient testing utility in individuals potentially allergic to SARS-CoV2 vaccines or their excipients.

Brain-Targeted Polysorbate 80-Emulsified Donepezil Drug-Loaded Nanoparticles for Neuroprotection

Most Alzheimer's disease drugs do not work efficiently because of the blood-brain barrier. Therefore, we designed a new nanopreparation (PS-DZP-CHP): cholesterol-modified pullulan (CHP) nanoparticle with polysorbate 80(PS) surface coverage, as donepezil (DZP) carrier to realize brain tissue delivery. By size analysis and isothermal titration calorimetry, we chose the optimal dosing ratio of the drug with nanomaterials (1:5) and designed a series of experiments to verify the efficacy of the nanoparticles. The results of in vitro release experiments showed that the nanoparticles can achieve continuous drug release within 72 h. The results of fluorescence observation in mice showed a good brain targeting of PS-DZP-CHP nanoparticles. Furthermore, the nanoparticle can enhance the drug in the brain tissue concentration in mice. DZP-CHP nanoparticles were used to pretreat nerve cells with Aβ protein damage. The concentration of lactate dehydrogenase was determined by MTT, rhodamine 123 and AO-EB staining, which proved that DZP-CHP nanoparticles had a protective effect on the neurotoxicity induced by Aβ25-35 and were superior to free donepezil. Microthermal perpetual motion meter test showed that PS-DZP-CHP nanoparticles have an affinity with apolipoprotein E, which may be vital for this nanoparticle targeting to brain tissue.

Effects of ethylene oxide chain length on crystallization of polysorbate 80 and its related compounds

As a result of the synthesis protocol polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate (polysorbate 80, PS80) is a highly complex mixture of compounds. PS80 was therefore separated into its main constituents, e.g. polyoxyethylene isosorbide esters and polyoxyethylene esters, as well as mono- di- and polyesters using preparative high-performance liquid chromatography. In this comprehensive study the individual components and their ethoxylation level were verified by matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight and their thermotropic behavior was analyzed using differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction. A distinct correlation was found between the average length of the ethylene oxide (EO) chains in the headgroup and the individual compounds' ability to crystallize. Importantly, a critical number of EO units required for crystallization of the headgroup was determined (6 EO units per chain or 24 per molecule). The investigation also revealed that the hydrocarbon tails only crystallize for polyoxyethylene sorbitan esters if saturated. PS80 is synthesized by reacting with approximately 20 mol of EO per mole of sorbitol, however, the number of EO units in the sorbitan ester in commercial PS80 products is higher than the expected 20 (5 EO units per chain). The complex behavior of all tested compounds revealed that if the amount of several of the linear by-products is reduced, the number of EO units in the chains will stay below the critical number and the product will not be able to crystallize by the EO chains.

Non-ionic surfactants as innovative skin penetration enhancers: insight in the mechanism of interaction with simple 2D stratum corneum model system

Transdermal drug delivery is a passive diffusion process of an active compound through the skin which is affected by drug solubility in the multilamellar lipidic matrix of the stratum corneum (SC). Widely used non-ionic surfactants (NIS) can be added into transdermal formulations to enhance the penetration of drugs by influencing the packing of the stratum corneum lipidic matrix. Objective of our study was to analyse the interaction between selected NIS and a simple SC lipidic matrix model system using a variety of surface-sensitive techniques based on the application of Langmuir monolayers. In this work, the well-known surfactant Polysorbate 80 was compared with a modern surfactant Sucrose monolaurate. Infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy (IRRAS) and epifluorescence microscopy provide information about the effects of those surfactants on the SC model system. Monolayer isotherms of the SC model mixture indicate a very stiff and well-packed layer, however, packing defects are evidenced in epifluorescence studies. The injection of the two NIS underneath the SC monolayers proved their potential to penetrate into the SC model at the air-water interface having a maximum insertion pressure (MIP) above the assumed lateral pressure of biological membranes. The NIS adsorbed preferentially into packing defects seen in epifluorescence microscopy studies with Sucrose monolaurate being more active than Polysorbate 80 in disordering the SC monolayer.

Improving the clarity and sensitization of polysorbate 80 by ultrasonic-assisted ultrafiltration technology

The safety problem of injections caused by clarity has lately become a widely shared concern. Due to the synthesis process, polysorbate 80 had a wide molecular weight distribution, which is also related to the clinical anaphylaxis. In this paper, ultrasonic-assisted ultrafiltration (UAU) technology was firstly applied to regulate colloidal structure and remove macromolecules from polysorbate 80 to improve injection clarity. In the separation process, ultrafiltration molecular weight cut off (MWCO), ultrasonic power and polysorbate 80 concentraion were selected as variables to adjust the separation efficiency. The ultrasonic frequency and power were provided by KQ-700DE ultrasonic system, based on the data analysis by response surface methodology (RSM), the optimal UAU parameters were as follows: ultrafiltration MWCO of 50,000, ultrasonic power of 900 W and polysorbate 80 concentration of 15.00 mg/mL. The experimental transmittance of polysorbate 80 was 87.6% and the qualification rate of clarity was 94.5%, which solved the separation contradiction among yield, clarity and safety. As an innovation in colloidal separation fields, UAU had a vast range of prospects for making use in pharmaceutical area.

Impact of Surfactants on the Functionality of Prefilled Syringes

Previous studies revealed the impact of formulation factors (excipients and pH) on the functionality of prefilled syringes. Surfactant, a critical formulation component for therapeutic proteins and antibodies, aids in minimizing protein adsorption onto interfaces and reduces protein aggregation or particulate formation. This study evaluated the impact of different surfactants and protein concentration on the functionality of prefilled syringes. Syringes filled with solution formulations with different surfactants were stored at various temperatures and evaluated at selected time points. Upon thermal stress, polysorbate 80 and dodecyl-β-d-maltoside containing formulations showed significantly greater increase in glide force when compared with poloxamer 407 containing formulations. In contrast, syringes filled with poloxamer 188 containing formulations did not show any increase in glide force under the same conditions. Based on the results from this study, the increase in syringe glide force was inversely correlated with hydrophobic-lipophilic balance values and surface tension of different surfactants. The mechanism of increase in glide force was primarily the change of silicone oil coverage and lubricity in the barrel of syringes.

Comparative analysis of docetaxel: physical and chemical characterisation of Taxotère® and generics

Several cases of fatal enterocolitis have been described in association with the use of docetaxel (DTX), and this increase in adverse events has been concomitant with a change in formulation. Indeed in 2010, a new DTX-based presentation has been introduced in the form of a single ready-to-use vial by Sanofi-Aventis, presentation also used for generics. In this study, different available formulations were compared (Sanofi 2 vials, Sanofi 1 vial, Accord Healthcare, Kabi, Hospira) in terms of composition compliance with control specifications and simulated micelle behaviour to try to determine what could be the potential causes of this problem. This work had permitted to show that all the tested products complied with specifications in terms of dosage and purity. Variations in the composition of polysorbate 80 (PS80) have been observed but are probably too small to be responsible for the toxicity found in patients. However, we identified a difference in micelle size and release kinetics probably because of doubling concentration of ethanol in new formulation. As a result, we emphasised the importance in the case of DTX of conducting bioequivalence studies as expected in European Medicines Agency (EMA) guidance to ensure patient safety, even though these formulation changes might seem minor. Therefore, further studies are needed to explore the potential role of ethanol, PS80 and the unbound fraction of DTX in the development of enterocolitis in patients treated with DTX.

Using First Principles to Link Silicone Oil/Formulation Interfacial Tension With Syringe Functionality in Pre-Filled Syringes Systems

Numerous interactions can arise at the interface between the glass barrel/silicone oil coating/aqueous formulation in pre-filled syringes that can affect the functionality of the medical device. In this study, the Young-Dupré equation was applied at these interfaces to correlate the interfacial tension between the silicone oil coating and aqueous formulation to the functionality of the syringe. It was shown that lower silicone oil/drug product formulation interfacial tension led to an increase in the glide force of the syringe. The relationship between glide force profiles and silicone oil thickness after injection was also investigated and the data revealed that the silicone oil was removed at the end of the syringe barrel when the formulation contains polysorbate 80.

Catalase to demulsify oil-in-water fish oil-polysorbate emulsion and affect lipid oxidation

The physicochemical and oxidative stability of oil emulsion has been one of the major challenges in food industry. Factors influencing the emulsion stability have seemingly been exhaustedly elucidated, such as temperature, pH, salts, proteins, polysaccharides and digestive enzymes. Here we report the previously unrecognized influence of catalase on emulsion stability. Submicron oil-in-water fish oil emulsion was prepared by high speed homogenization in the presence of polysorbate 80. Influence of catalase on the emulsion's stability was investigated in comparison with its deactivated version and bovine serum albumin (BSA) by visual examination, turbidity and DLS measurement and TEM observation. Catalase demulsified the emulsion instantly in a concentration-responsive manner at concentrations higher than 0.8 μmol/L, resulting a decreased turbidity, oil flocculation and precipitation of the enzyme itself. Neither BSA nor the thermally inactivated CAT caused demulsification at the same speed, indicating that CAT's demulsification effect was attributed to its enzymatic activity rather than its general protein properties. The enlargement of oil-polysorbate droplets and precipitation of CAT were confirmed by both TEM and DLS. Furthermore, CAT's demulsification effect was found irrelevant of the lipid oxidation. This insight into catalase's influences on emulsion not only sheds lights on food processing and shelf-life, nutritional value and potential biological effects, but also presents an exciting challenge to elucidate the mechanism behind.

Thymoquinone-encapsulated chitosan nanoparticles coated with polysorbate 80 as a novel treatment agent in a reserpine-induced depression animal model

Depression is a mental illness with a high prevalence in humans reaching 21% of the worldwide population.The present study aims to evaluate the antidepressant effect of different formulations of Thymoquinone; free Thymoquinone (TQ), Thymoquinone-loaded Chitosan nanoparticles (TQ-TPP-Cs NPs) and Thymoquinone-loaded Chitosan nanoparticles coated with polysorbate 80 (TQ-TPP-Cs NPs-PSb80) that have been prepared to avoid the low bioavailability of TQ. Rats were randomly separated into control rats, depression control induced by reserpine, rat model treated with TQ, rat model treated with TQ-TPP-Cs NPs and rat model treated with TQ-TPP-Cs NPs-PSb80. The results indicate that TQ-TPP-Cs NPs loaded with polysorbate 80 was more efficient in ameliorating the behavioral and neurochemical changes induced by reserpine than TQ and TQ-TPP-Cs NPs. Formulationswere characterized for size, morphology, encapsulation efficiency and in vitro drug release before their use in treatment. Reserpine induced a reduction in motor activity and swimming time and increased immobility time as indicated from the open field test (OFT) and forced swimming test (FST). In addition, a significant decrease in the monoamine neurotransmitters serotonin (5-HT), norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) was recorded in the cortex, hippocampus and striatum of reserpine-treated rats. The present data suggest that the antidepressant efficacy of TQ could be enhanced by engaging TQ with chitosan nanoparticles as a drug carrier and the formulations were modified by coating with polysorbate 80.

Development of a simple high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)/evaporative light scattering detector (ELSD) method to determine Polysorbate 80 in a pharmaceutical formulation

The amount of polysorbate 80 in pharmaceutical formulations affects the product quality and efficacy. A reliable test method is required to quantify the amount of Polysorbate 80 present in the drug product formulations. The test method for the determination of Polysorbate 80 may be used during process development and final product quality assessment. A simple, fast and efficient quantitative method, making use of HPLC-ELSD and a C18 column without sample pretreatment was developed. The developed method demonstrated specificity to polysorbate 80 with high precision as indicated by percent relative standard deviation (%RSD) of 3.0% for six determinations. The accuracy of this method for the determination of polysorbate 80 in a pharmaceutical formulation was demonstrated with an overall recovery of 94.9%.

Polysorbate 80 add-on therapy in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection: Polysorbate 80 and HP antibiotic resistance

Polysorbate 80, a sorbitan derivate, is a surfactant used as an emulsifier in some foods in concentrations of up to 0.5%. It was recently shown in vitro that polysorbate 80 decreases the minimum bactericidal concentrations of clarithromycin and metronidazole and may also revert antibiotic resistance. We report the case of an adult man, suffering from symptomatic Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection resistant to two courses of treatment with PPI plus amoxicillin and clarithromycin, and PPI plus clarithromycin and metronidazole. He was treated with a further antibiotic approach consisting of two-week administration of clarithromycin, metronidazole, PPI and polysorbate 80 as an add on therapy. Eradication of infection was confirmed by ¹³C-urea breath test two and five months after completion of the treatment course. Complete regression of symptoms was also achieved. To our knowledge, this is the first case of HP infection eradicated with a combination therapy based on polysorbate 80 added to antibiotics.

Comparison of the Extraction Properties of Binary Polysorbate 80/Water and Isopropanol/Water Solutions for Organic Substances Originating from a Parenteral Infusion Pump

Pharmaceutical products come into contact with a diverse range of materials during their manufacture, storage, and administration. As a consequence of this contact, substances can leach from these materials and into the product, which may negatively affect its quality. It has been shown that leaching is increased for drug products that contain the nonionic surfactant polysorbate 80. However, the specific extraction properties of this surfactant are not well characterized. To address this deficiency in the knowledge base, the goal of this study was to determine the quantitative profile of 10 compounds extracted from a parenteral infusion pump by aqueous polysorbate 80 solutions. For comparison purposes, the extractable profiles of isopropanol/water solutions, which were utilized as a representative nonsurfactant solvent system, were also determined. The results obtained in this study have shown that relatively low (≤0.1%) concentrations of polysorbate 80 were capable of facilitating leaching, consistent with previous reports. More importantly, it was found that the full quantitative extractable profiles obtained for the polysorbate 80 solutions were not comparable to those obtained for isopropanol/water. However, when considering extractables as subsets based on their polarity, it was found that 10% and 45% isopropanol solutions could be used to simulate the quantitative profile of polysorbate 80 for polar and non-polar substances, respectively.LAY ABSTRACT: When a pharmaceutical product comes into contact with a material during its manufacturing, packaging, or delivery, the substances present in that material may migrate (leach) into the product. Because these substances are not an intended constituent of the product, they have the potential to negatively impact its quality and ultimately patient safety. In general, the surfactant polysorbate 80 has been shown to facilitate the leaching of these substances when present in a product's formulation; however, its specific extraction properties are not well understood. Thus, the goal of this study was to better characterize these properties by determining what compounds, and in what quantities, can be solubilized by polysorbate 80 solutions from a representative pharmaceutical packaging system. Additionally, a range of isopropanol/water solutions were also assessed as a comparative nonsurfactant solvent. The results obtained illustrate the differences between the extraction properties of polysorbate 80 and isopropanol/water, including the concentration of each required to extract substances and the overall quantitative profiles obtained. However, it was shown that isopropanol/water solutions could be used to simulate the extractable profiles obtained for a solution containing polysorbate 80 when evaluating compounds as subsets based on their physical properties, namely their solubility in an aqueous medium.

Effect of polysorbate 80 on the intranasal absorption and brain distribution of tetramethylpyrazine phosphate in rats

Drug delivery to the brain is limited by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Intranasal delivery is a non-invasive route of drug administration which can bypass the BBB and contributed to a direct and rapid transport of drugs to the brain. However, intrinsic drug distribution to the brain after intranasal administration may not be sufficient to achieve required clinical efficacy. In this study, taking 2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine (TMPP) as a model drug, the feasibility of using polysorbate 80 as an absorption enhancer and message guider to increase drug distribution in the brain was employed. After intravenous/intranasal administration of TMPP formulations with/without polysorbate 80, drug concentration in both plasma and brain was measured at specific time points, and the pharmacokinetic parameters were compared. It was demonstrated that compared with intravenous administration, brain targeting efficiency of TMPP was improved remarkably by intranasal route. Upon intranasal administration, the addition of polysorbate 80 significantly increased TMPP concentration in both plasma and brain linearly up to polysorbate 80 concentration 2%. Based on drug targeting efficiency, drug targeting index, and nose-to-brain direct transport percentage, polysorbate 80 decreased the nose-to-brain direct transport ratio of TMPP in a polysorbate 80 concentration-dependent manner although the total brain targeting efficiency was unchanged, with significantly enhanced absolute drug concentration in the brain achieved. In summary, polysorbate 80 is a promising excipient to increase drug concentration in both plasma and brain via intranasal route.

Quantitation of low concentrations of polysorbates 80 in protein formulations by Coomassie brilliant blue

Polysorbate 80, as pharmaceutical excipient and virus inactivating agent, is commonly used in the protein pharmaceutical industry. In this study, a method has been developed for the determination of low concentration of Polysorbate 80 in the presence of high concentration proteins (≤100 mg/ml) and excipients. This colorimetric method is based on the interaction of Polysorbate 80 and Coomassie brilliant blue, and suitable for quantitation of Polysorbate 80 in the range of 10-100 μg/ml. Dozens or hundreds of samples can be quantified simultaneously by using microplate. Besides Polysorbate 80, this method can also be used to determine other types of surfactants in protein solutions, such as Polysorbate 20, Triton X-100, NP40, SDS, Benzalkonium chloride/bromide and PEG4000.

First report of polymyxin B activity in Klebsiella pneumoniae biofilm

Considering the clinical importance of biofilm in medical devices and chronic infections, this study aimed to investigate the action of polymyxin B on Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) biofilm. The experiments were performed using a biofilm formation assay and the interaction of polysorbate 80 was explored. Both inhibition of biofilm formation and reduction of pre-formed biofilm occurred in a concentration-dependent manner with inhibition as high as 56 and 64%, and reduction of pre-formed biofilm as high as 70 and 66%, with and without polysorbate, respectively. The addition of polysorbate enhances the biofilm reduction, but more studies are needed to elucidate this mechanism. Our findings reveal, for the first time, polymyxin B as a potential agent for the treatment of K. pneumoniae biofilm, a current challenge for clinical practice.

Interrelation between Tween and the membrane properties and high pressure tolerance of Lactobacillus plantarum

Tween® 80 is a frequently used supplement of media for the cultivation of lactic acid bacteria. We investigated its effect on the cell physiology and stress tolerance of Lactobacillus (L.) plantarum. Data on the transcriptomic response to Tween 80 supplementation and its effects on cellular fatty acid profiles and growth characteristics are compared with data characterizing the effect of Tween 80, other Tween types and free fatty acids on the high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) tolerance of L. plantarum strain TMW 1.708. These include effects on cell viability, sub-lethal injury, metabolic activity, protein release and propidium iodide uptake. Tween 80 caused the downregulation of fatty acid biosynthesis and an increase in oleic acid and cyclopropane fatty acid levels in the cell membrane. Tween 20, Tween 80 and free oleic acid, but not Tween 40, Tween 60 and other free fatty acids, conferred resistance against HHP. Tween 80 diminished pressure-induced loss of metabolic activity, protein release and uptake of propidium iodide. However, loss of cell viability exceeded by far membrane permeabilization, suggesting that membrane permeabilization, which has frequently been postulated as a major factor in HHP inactivation of microbes, is not necessarily required for HHP-induced cell death of Lactobacillus plantarum.

Safety of Polysorbate 80 in the Oncology Setting

Polysorbate 80 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant used as an excipient in drug formulation. Various products formulated with polysorbate 80 are used in the oncology setting for chemotherapy, supportive care, or prevention, including docetaxel, epoetin/darbepoetin, and fosaprepitant. However, polysorbate 80, like some other surfactants, is not an inert compound and has been implicated in a number of systemic and injection- and infusion-site adverse events (ISAEs). The current formulation of intravenous fosaprepitant has been associated with an increased risk of hypersensitivity systemic reactions (HSRs). Factors that have been associated with an increased risk of fosaprepitant-related ISAEs include the site of administration (peripheral vs. central venous), coadministration of anthracycline-based chemotherapy, number of chemotherapy cycles or fosaprepitant doses, and concentration of fosaprepitant administered. Recently, two polysorbate 80-free agents have been approved: intravenous rolapitant, which is a neurokinin 1 (NK-1) receptor antagonist formulated with the synthetic surfactant polyoxyl 15 hydroxystearate, and intravenous HTX-019, which is a novel NK-1 receptor antagonist free of synthetic surfactants. Alternative formulations will obviate the polysorbate 80-associated ISAEs and HSRs and should improve overall management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

Funding Heron Therapeutics, Inc.

Development of microemulsions of suitable viscosity for cyclosporine skin delivery

Psoriasis is a widespread chronic disease affecting 2-4% of the population in Western countries. Its mild-to-moderate form, representing approximately 80% of the total cases, is treated by topical application, with corticosteroid being the standard treatment. However, in case of psoriasis, no single treatment works for every patient and optimizing topical therapy is a key aspect. A possible alternative is represented by cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant cyclic peptide administered orally in the treatment of the severe form. Its topical application could avoid the problems related to systemic immunosuppression, but the unfavourable physico-chemical properties (MW: 1202 Da; LogP ≈ 3) hinder its permeation across the stratum corneum. The aim of the paper was the preparation, characterization and ex-vivo evaluation of cyclosporine loaded microemulsions using oleic acid as oil phase, either Tween^®80 or a soluble derivative of vitamin E (TPGS) as surfactants and either Transcutol^®, propylene glycol or 1,3 propanediol as co-surfactants. The issue of formulation viscosity was also addressed 1) by evaluating the thickening of Tween^®80-based microemulsions by direct addition of different rheological modifiers, 2) by building pseudo-ternary phase diagrams using TPGS, to identify the water/oil/surfactants proportions resulting in viscous self-gelifying systems. Nine formulations (five Tween^®80-based and four TPGS-based) were selected, characterized in terms of droplets size (low viscosity systems) or rheological properties (high viscosity systems), loaded with 6 mg/g cyclosporine and applied ex-vivo on porcine skin for 22 h. A relevant skin accumulation was obtained either with a low-viscosity Tween^®80-based microemulsion (9.78 ± 3.86 µg/cm²), or with a high viscosity TPGS-based microemulsion (18.3 ± 5.69 µg/cm²), with an increase of about 3 and 6 times respectively for comparison with a control cyclosporine solution in propylene glycol. The role of water content, surfactant, co-surfactant and viscosity was also addressed and discussed. The kinetic of skin uptake from the best performing formulation was finally evaluated, highlighting a relatively quick skin uptake and the achievement, after 2 h of contact, of potentially therapeutic cyclosporine skin concentrations.

Impact of Stainless Steel Exposure on the Oxidation of Polysorbate 80 in Histidine Placebo and Active Monoclonal Antibody Formulation

Rapid oxidation of polysorbate 80 in histidine buffer was observed upon brief exposure to stainless steel. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis indicates degradation of both polyoxyethylene sorbitan and polyoxyethylene head groups and unsaturated fatty acid chains, with further confirmation by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography data. Both Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺ were shown to induce polysorbate 80 oxidation. The degree of oxidation in polysorbate 20 and polysorbate 80 are comparable for the head groups and saturated fatty acid esters. However, the same phenomenon was not observed with placebo or monoclonal antibody at a threshold protein concentration, formulated in sodium citrate, in combination with histidine and sodium citrate, or with Na₂ ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Further, polysorbate 80 oxidation was not observed with Lilly's antibody containing the active ingredient LY2951742, at or above a threshold concentration. Finally, no major polysorbate 80 degradation was observed in histidine buffer, with or without protein, in containers composed of glass or plastic, or when stainless steel exposure was otherwise completely absent. Finally, the 2-oxo oxidation form of histidine was not observed, but the other oxidation products and modifications of histidine were identified.LAY ABSTRACT: Rapid oxidation of polysorbate 80 in histidine buffer was observed upon brief exposure to stainless steel. The degree of oxidation in polysorbate 80 and polysorbate 20 were comparable. However, the same phenomenon was not observed with placebo when formulated in sodium citrate, in combination with histidine and sodium citrate, or with Na₂ ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Polysorbate 80 oxidation was not observed with Lilly's antibody containing the active ingredient, LY2951742, at or above a threshold concentration. No major polysorbate 80 degradation in histidine buffer was observed when stainless steel contact was completely absent.

Rational design of polysorbate 80 stabilized human serum albumin nanoparticles tailored for high drug loading and entrapment of irinotecan

Human serum albumin (HSA) nanoparticles are considered to be versatile carrier of anticancer agents in efficiently delivering the drug to the tumor site without causing any toxicity. The aim of the study was to develop stable HSA nanoparticles (NPs) of drug irinotecan (Iro) having slightly water solubility and moderate HSA binding. A novel strategy of employing a hydrophilic non-ionic surfactant polysorbate 80 which forms protein-polysorbate 80 complex with increased affinity and improvement in Iro-HSA binding has been used to maximize the loading and entrapment efficiency of Iro in HSA-NPs. Bespoke nanoparticles with entrapment efficiency (79.09%) and drug loading of 9.62% could be achieved with spherical shape and particle size of 77.38 nm, 0.290 polydispersity index and -23.7 mv Zeta potential. The drug entrapment in nanoparticles was confirmed by Differential Scanning Calorimeter, Fourier Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy and Fluorescence Spectroscopy. In vitro release of Iro from NPs showed biphasic-release with initial burst followed by prolonged release upto 24 h. The short-term stability investigation of nanodispersion showed no significant changes in physicochemical properties of NPs. Long-term studies on freeze dried Iro-HSA-NPs indicated good stability of NPs up to 12 months. This is the first report for efficient fabrication of Iro delivery system based on HSA nanoparticles.

In vitro drug release characteristic and cytotoxic activity of silibinin-loaded single walled carbon nanotubes functionalized with biocompatible polymers

In this paper, we demonstrate the preparation of silibinin-loaded carbon nanotubes (SWSB) with surface coating agents via non-covalent approach as an effective drug delivery system. The resulting surface-coated SWSB nanocomposites are extensively characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopies, ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrometry and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The FTIR and Raman studies show that an additional layer is formed by these coating agents in the prepared nanocomposites during the coating treatment and these results are confirmed by FESEM. Drug loading and release profiles of the coated SWSB nanocomposites in phosphate buffered saline solution at pH 7.4 is evaluated by UV-Vis spectrometry. The in vitro results indicate that the surface-modified nanocomposites, with SB loading of 45 wt%, altered the initial burst and thus, resulted in a more prolonged and sustained release of SB. In addition, these nanocomposites exhibit a pseudo-second-order release kinetic which was driven by the ion exchange between the ionized SWSB and the anions in the release medium. The cytotoxicity effect of the resulting nanocomposites on normal mouse fibroblast cells is evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. It is observed that the surfactant and polymer coating improved the biocompatibility of the SWSB nanocomposites significantly, which deem further exploitation for their application as potential anticancer drug delivery system.

A surface modification of clozapine-loaded nanocapsules improves their efficacy: A study of formulation development and biological assessment

This work aimed to develop nanocapsules (NC) coated with polysorbate 80 (P80), cationic chitosan (CS) or polyethylene glycol (PEG) using clozapine (CZP) as the drug model. The zeta potential, pH and encapsulation efficiency were directly affected by the CS coating. Using the bag dialysis method, the in vitro CZP release from CS-coated nanocapsules was similar to the PEG-coated at pH 7.4. Nanocapsules coated with PEG and CS exhibited an increased action duration compared to the P80-coated nanocapsules in pseudo-psychosis induced by d,l-amphetamine in rats. When comparing both groups, the group administered CS-coated nanocapsules showed better activity than the PEG-coated nanocapsules at 6, 10 and 12h after d,l-amphetamine administration. The pharmacokinetic assessment in rats demonstrated that the observed half-lives were free CZP<P80-coated<PEG-coated ̴ CS-coated nanocapsules. Both the P80- and PEG-coated nanocapsules showed a statistically significant increase in their volume of distribution compared to free CZP. On the other hand, the cationic nanocapsules showed a decrease in total clearance. Together, these results indicate that the PEG and CS coatings are a promising delivery system for CZP in the treatment of schizophrenia.

Solubilization Behavior of Polyene Antibiotics in Nanomicellar System: Insights from Molecular Dynamics Simulation of the Amphotericin B and Nystatin Interactions with Polysorbate 80

Amphotericin B (AmB) and Nystatin (Nys) are the drugs of choice for treatment of systemic and superficial mycotic infections, respectively, with their full clinical potential unrealized due to the lack of high therapeutic index formulations for their solubilized delivery. In the present study, using a coarse-grained (CG) molecular dynamics (MD) simulation approach, we investigated the interaction of AmB and Nys with Polysorbate 80 (P80) to gain insight into the behavior of these polyene antibiotics (PAs) in nanomicellar solution and derive potential implications for their formulation development. While the encapsulation process was predominantly governed by hydrophobic forces, the dynamics, hydration, localization, orientation, and solvation of PAs in the micelle were largely controlled by hydrophilic interactions. Simulation results rationalized the experimentally observed capability of P80 in solubilizing PAs by indicating (i) the dominant kinetics of drugs encapsulation over self-association; (ii) significantly lower hydration of the drugs at encapsulated state compared with aggregated state; (iii) monomeric solubilization of the drugs; (iv) contribution of drug-micelle interactions to the solubilization; (v) suppressed diffusivity of the encapsulated drugs; (vi) high loading capacity of the micelle; and (vii) the structural robustness of the micelle against drug loading. Supported from the experimental data, our simulations determined the preferred location of PAs to be the core-shell interface at the relatively shallow depth of 75% of micelle radius. Deeper penetration of PAs was impeded by the synergistic effects of (i) limited diffusion of water; and (ii) perpendicular orientation of these drug molecules with respect to the micelle radius. PAs were solvated almost exclusively in the aqueous poly-oxyethylene (POE) medium due to the distance-related lack of interaction with the core, explaining the documented insensitivity of Nys solubilization to drug-core compatibility in detergent micelles. Based on the obtained results, the dearth of water at interior sites of micelle and the large lateral occupation space of PAs lead to shallow insertion, broad radial distribution, and lack of core interactions of the amphiphilic drugs. Hence, controlled promotion of micelle permeability and optimization of chain crowding in palisade layer may help to achieve more efficient solubilization of the PAs.

Acute hepatitis after amiodarone infusion

Acute hepatitis is a very rare, but potentially fatal, adverse effect of intravenous amiodarone. We present a case of an 88-year-old man with history of ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy and severely depressed left ventricular function that was admitted to our coronary care unit with diagnosis of decompensated heart failure and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia. A few hours after the beginning of intravenous amiodarone he developed an acute hepatitis. There was a completely recovery within the next days after amiodarone withdrawn and other causes of acute hepatitis have been ruled out. This case highlights the need for close monitoring of hepatic function during amiodarone infusion in order to identify any potential hepatotoxicity and prevent a fatal outcome. Oral amiodarone is, apparently, a safe option in these patients.

Surface engineered polymeric nanocarriers mediate the delivery of transferrin-methotrexate conjugates for an improved understanding of brain cancer

The objective of present study was to enhance permeation of bioactive molecules across blood brain barrier (BBB) through polysorbate 80 coated poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with methotrexate-transferrin (Tw-Mtx-Tf-NP) conjugates (Mtx-Tf). The easy trans-BBB migration of developed formulations through endocytosis, and inhibition of P-gp efflux pump present in brain were established by Pluronic F-68 and/or polysorbate 80 (Tween 80/Tw). The over-expression of transferrin (Tf) receptors on cancer cell surface allowed targeted and sustained delivery of Mtx-Tf conjugated to brain cancer cells by receptor mediated endocytosis. The developed formulations showed improved penetration in comparison to non-targeting experimental NP controls. The transportation potential and bio-distribution studies of such nanosized polymeric carriers showing successful migration and trans-BBB passage was carried out by administering FITC labeled drug loaded NPs to albino rats through intravenous route. We have validated anti-tumor efficiency of newly formulated and drug loaded NPs compared to controls in experimentally induced tumor-harboring rat model. The present study suggests greater compatibility, less organ toxicity and higher anti-tumor activity of developed formulations due to their targeting and sustained delivery potential in cancer therapeutic interventions. In conclusion, our findings of targeted and sustained drug delivery potential of NPs for are corroborated with in vitro and in vivo evidence, and formulated novel delivery vehicle shows its value in developing new tools for treating brain cancer.