Carrier System Research Articles

An injectable and absorbable magnesium phosphate bone cement designed for osteoporotic fractures

Magnesium phosphate cement as a substitute for osteoporotic fracture implants has gained increasing attention from the public. However, lack of sufficient mechanical strength and osteoinductive capacity, rapid setting time and strongly alkaline environment during degradation have hindered its practical application. Hence, a drug carrier system composed of chitosan and teriparatide solution of liquid phase is constructed and compounded into magnesium phosphate cement (CHI-TR MPC). The CHI-TR MPC composites exhibited almost neutral pH, extended setting time, excellent injectability, enhanced compressive strength, and increased porosity. Meanwhile，the CHI-TR MPC scaffold facilitated the controllable release of ions and drugs, promoted osteogenic differentiation and mineralization through its abundant pore structure, and possessed an appropriate degradation rate. Therefore, this CHI-TR MPC scaffold has huge potential for functional biomaterials design and clinical management in the treatment of osteoporotic fractures.

Catalyzed Henry Reaction by Compartmentalized Copper‐Pyrazolyl‐Complex Modified Microgels

AbstractCompartmentalization of homogeneous catalysts enhances their catalytic performance and can even increase the selectivity. Microgels can serve as smart catalyst carrier systems offering the compartmentalization combined with good accessibility of the catalyst enabling the recyclability and re‐usability. Yet, the incorporation of coordination complexes into microgels has not been studied systematically, lacking in detailed insight in their structure and catalytic performance. Herein, microgels are synthesized with controlled number and localization of copper(II)‐pyrazolyl‐complexes. The catalytic activity of microgels in the Henry reactions is examined showing significantly higher yields compared to pure copper(II)‐pyrazolyl‐complexes. Furthermore, the localization of the copper(II)‐pyrazolyl‐complexes in the microgel core resulted in higher product yields than for microgel catalysts with copper(II) complexes in the shell. Microgel catalysts are demonstrated with copper(II) complexes that can be used in numerous reaction cycles, allow re‐loading of copper to recover catalytically active centers, and can be applicable in industrially‐relevant catalytic processes.

Free energy of a two-liquid system of charge carriers in strongly coupled electron and phonon fields and common nature of three phases in hole-doped cuprates

Hole-doped cuprates exhibit partially coexisting pseudogap (PG), charge ordering (CO) and superconductivity; we show that there exists a class of systems in which they have a single nature as it has recently been supposed. Since the charge-ordered phase exhibits large frozen deformation of the lattice, we develop a method for calculating the phase diagram of a system with strong long-range (Fröhlich) electron–phonon interaction. Using a variational approach, we calculate the free energy of a two-liquid system of carriers with cuprate-like dispersion comprising a liquid of autolocalized carriers (large polarons and bipolarons) and Fermi liquid of delocalized carriers. Comparing it with the free energy of pure Fermi liquid and calculating (with standard methods of Bose liquid theory) a temperature of the superfluid transition in the large-bipolaron liquid we identify regions in the phase diagram with the presence of PG (caused by the impact of the (bi)polarons potential on delocalized quasiparticles), CO and superconductivity. They are located in the same places in the diagram as in hole-doped cuprates, and, as in the latter, the shape of the calculated phase diagram is resistant to wide-range changes in the characteristics of the system. As in cuprates, the calculated temperature of the superconducting transition increases with the number of conducting planes in the unit cell, the superfluid density decreases with doping at overdoping, the bipolaron density (and bipolaronic plasmon energy) saturates at optimal doping. Thus, the similarity of the considered system with hole-doped cuprates is not limited to the phase diagram. The results obtained allow us to discuss ways of increasing the temperature of the superfluid transition in the large-bipolaron liquid and open up the possibility of studying the current-carrying state and properties of the bipolaron condensate.

Albumin Nanoparticles Increase the Efficacy of Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Liposome Injection Based on Threshold Theory.

One of the most significant reasons hindering the clinical translation of nanomedicines is the rapid clearance of intravenously injected nanoparticles by the mononuclear phagocyte system, particularly by Kupffer cells in the liver, leading to an inefficient delivery of nanomedicines for tumor treatment. The threshold theory suggests that the liver's capacity to clear nanoparticles is limited, and a single high dose of nanoparticles can reduce the hepatic clearance efficiency, allowing more nanomedicines to reach tumor tissues and enhance therapeutic efficacy. Building upon this theory, researchers have conducted numerous validation studies based on the same nanoparticle carrier systems. These studies involve the use of albumin nanoparticles to improve the therapeutic efficacy of albumin nanomedicines as well as polyethylene glycol (PEG)-modified liposomal nanoparticles to enhance the efficacy of PEGylated liposomal nanomedicines. However, there is no research indicating the feasibility of the threshold theory when blank nanoparticles and nanomedicine belong to different nanoparticle carrier systems currently. In this study, we prepared two different sizes of albumin nanoparticles by using bovine serum albumin. We used the marketed nanomedicine liposomal doxorubicin hydrochloride injection (trade name: LIBOD, manufacturer: Shanghai Fudan-zhangjiang Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd.), as the representative nanomedicine. Through in vivo experiments, we found that using threshold doses of albumin nanoparticles still can reduce the clearance rate of LIBOD, prolong its time in vivo, increase the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC), and also lead to an increased accumulation of the drug at the tumor site. Furthermore, evaluation of in vivo efficacy and safety further indicates that threshold doses of 100 nm albumin nanoparticles can enhance the antitumor effect of LIBOD without causing harm to the animals. During the study, we found that the particle size of albumin nanoparticles influenced the in vivo distribution of the nanomedicine at the same threshold dose. Compared with 200 nm albumin nanoparticles, 100 nm albumin nanoparticles more effectively reduce the clearance efficiency of LIBOD and enhance nanomedicine accumulation at the tumor site, warranting further investigation. This study utilized albumin nanoparticles to reduce hepatic clearance efficiency and enhance the delivery efficiency of nonalbumin nanocarrier liposomal nanomedicine, providing a new avenue to improve the efficacy and clinical translation of nanomedicines with different carrier systems.

Novel thymohydroquinone gallate derivative loaded ligand modified quantum dots as pH-sensitive multi-modal theragnostic agent for cancer treatment

BackgroundNanomedicine, as the combination of radiopharmaceutical and nanocarrier (QDs), is developed for treating cancer. Gallic acid is antimutagenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic. Typical retention time of gallic acid is approximately 4 to 8 h. To increase the retention time gallic acid is converted to prodrug by adding lipophilic moieties, encapsulating in lipophilic nanoparticles, or liposome formation. Similarly, thymoquinone is powerful antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effect, with reduced DNA damage. MethodsIn this study, a hydrophilic drug (gallic acid) is chemically linked to the hydrophobic drug (thymohydroquinone) to overcome the limitations of co-delivery of drugs. Thymohydroquinone (THQG) as the combination of gallic acid (GA) and thymoquinone (THQ) is loaded onto the PEI functionalized antimonene quantum dots (AM-QDs) and characterized by FTIR, UV–visible spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, Zeta sizer, SEM and AFM, in-vitro and in-vivo assay, and hemolysis. ResultsThe calculated drug loading efficiency is 90 %. Drug release study suggests the drug combination is pH sensitive and it can encounters acidic pH, releasing the drug from the nanocarrier. The drug and drug-loaded nanocarrier possesses low cytotoxicity and cell viability on MCF-7 and Cal-27 cell lines. The proposed drug delivery system is radiolabeled with Iodine-131 (131I) and Technetium (99mTc) and its deposition in various organs of rats’ bodies is examined by SPECT-CT and gamma camera. Hemolytic activity of 2, 4, 6, and 8 μg/mL is 1.78, 4.16, 9.77, and 15.79 %, respectively, reflecting low levels of hemolysis. The system also sustains oxidative stress in cells and environment, decreasing ROS production to shield cells and keep them healthy. ConclusionsThe results of this study suggest that the proposed drug carrier system can be used as a multi-modal theragnostic agent in cancer treatment.

The impact of different length hooked‐end fibers on the structural performance of RC folded plates

AbstractIn this article, the effect of hooked‐end fibers with different lengths on the structural performance of RC‐FPs fabricated from hybrid fiber‐reinforced self‐compacting concrete (HFR‐SCC) was investigated. For this purpose, a total of 15 full‐scale test samples having different plate thicknesses (60, 70, and 80 mm) were produced and tested under bending after a 90‐day curing period. Subsequently, load‐carrying capacity (Pp), flexural toughness (Fth), and deflection ductility index (μu) of all RC‐FPs were found using load‐deflection curves obtained from bending tests, while crack patterns were drawn from the samples tested. Besides, high‐precision contour plots are proposed to estimate the structural performance values of RC‐FPs depending on plate thickness and fiber reinforcing index. As a result, the best structural performance in RC‐FPs was obtained from the use of a longer hooked‐end steel fiber together with micro steel fiber as a hybrid, followed by the lower length hooked‐end steel fibers as singles. Specifically, irrespective of the plate thickness, the hybrid use of longer hooked steel fibers in combination with micro fibers increased the Pp, Fth, and μu values of RC‐FPs on average 1.67, 1.76, and 1.57 times, respectively, compared to the control specimens. As for when using the lower length hooked‐end fiber as single, the values of Pp, Fth, and μu increased on average 1.57, 1.69, and 1.30 times. Lastly, whereas plate thickness has little effect on improving the structural performance of thin‐walled carrier elements such as RC‐FPs, adding fibers in different lengths, aspect ratios, and combinations is much more effective. The collective test results demonstrate that using RC‐FPs made of HFR‐SCC in the roof carrier system of large span structures could improve structural performance, aesthetics, erection time, and earthquake behavior thanks to reduced dead load.

Transdermal Delivery of Niacin Through Polysaccharide Films Ameliorates Cutaneous Flushing in Experimental Wistar Rats.

Niacin, an established therapeutic for dyslipidemia, is hindered by its propensity to induce significant cutaneous flushing when administered orally in its unmodified state, thereby constraining its clinical utility. This study aimed to fabricate, characterize, and assess the in-vitro and in-vivo effectiveness of niacin-loaded polymeric films (NLPFs) comprised of carboxymethyl tamarind seed polysaccharide. The primary objective was to mitigate the flushing-related side effects associated with oral niacin administration. NLPFs were synthesized using the solvent casting method and subsequently subjected to characterization, including assessments of tensile strength, moisture uptake, thickness, and folding endurance. Surface characteristics were analyzed using a surface profiler and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Potential interactions between niacin and the polysaccharide core were investigated through X-ray diffraction experiments (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The viscoelastic properties of the films were explored using a Rheometer. In-vitro assessments included drug release studies, swelling behavior assays, and antioxidant assays. In-vivo efficacy was evaluated through skin permeation assays, skin irritation assays, and histopathological analyses. NLPFs exhibited a smooth texture with favorable tensile strength and moisture absorption capabilities. Niacin demonstrated interaction with the polysaccharide core, rendering the films amorphous. The films displayed slow and sustained drug release, exceptional antioxidant properties, optimal swelling behavior, and viscoelastic characteristics. Furthermore, the films exhibited biocompatibility and non-toxicity towards skin cells. NLPFs emerged as promising carrier systems for the therapeutic transdermal delivery of niacin, effectively mitigating its flushing-associated adverse effects.

Ti3C2 (MXene), an advanced carrier system: role in photothermal, photoacoustic, enhanced drugs delivery and biological activity in cancer therapy.

In the realm of healthcare and the advancing field of medical sciences, the development of efficient drug delivery systems become an immense promise to cure several diseases. Despite considerable advancements in drug delivery systems, numerous challenges persist, necessitating further enhancements to optimize patient outcomes. Smart nano-carriers, for instance, 2D sheets nano-carriers are the recently emerging nanosheets that may garner attention for targeted delivery of bioactive compounds, drugs, and genes to kill cancer cells. Within these advancements, Ti3C2TX-MXene, characterized as a two-dimensional transition metal carbide, has surfaced as a prominent intelligent nanocarrier within nanomedicine. Its noteworthy characteristics facilitated it as an ideal nanocarrier for cancer therapy. In recent advancements in drug delivery research, Ti3C2TX-MXene 2D nanocarriers have been designed to release drugs in response to specific stimuli, guided by distinct physicochemical parameters. This review emphasized the multifaceted role of Ti3C2TX-MXene as a potential carrier for delivering poorly hydrophilic drugs to cancer cells, facilitated by various polymer coatings. Furthermore, beyond drug delivery, this smart nanocarrier demonstrates utility in photoacoustic imaging and photothermal therapy, further highlighting its significant role in cellular mechanisms.

Scutellarin-loaded pH/H2O2 dual-responsive polymer cyclodextrin mesoporous silicon framework nanocarriers for enhanced cancer therapy

Stimulus-responsive nanomaterials, particularly with targeting capabilities, have garnered significant attention in the cancer therapy. However, the biological safety of these innovative materials in vivo remains unknown, posing a hurdle to their clinical application. Here, a pH/H2O2 dual-responsive and targeting nano carrier system (NCS) was developed using core shell structure of Fe3O4 mesoporous silicon (MSN@Fe3O4) as main body, scutellarin (SCU) as antitumor drug and polymer cyclodextrin (PCD) as molecular switch (denoted as PCD@SCU@MSN@Fe3O4, abbreviated as NCS). The NCS, with an average particle size of 100 nm, displayed exceptional SCU loading capacity, a result of its uniform radial channel structure. The in vitro investigation under condition of pH and H2O2 indicated that NCS performed excellent pH/H2O2-triggered SCU release behavior. The NCS displayed a higher cytotoxicity against tumor cells (Huh7 and HCT116) due to its pH/H2O2 dual-triggered responsiveness, while the PCD@MSN@Fe3O4 demonstrated lower cytotoxicity for both Huh7 and HCT116 cells. In vivo therapeutic evaluation of NCS indicates significant inhibition of tumor growth in mouse subcutaneous tumor models, with no apparent side-effects detected. The NCS not only enhances the bioavailability of SCU, but also utilizes magnetic targeting technology to deliver SCU accurately to tumor sites. These findings underscore the substantial clinical application potential of NCS.

RP-HPLC-CAD method for the rapid analysis of lipids used in lipid nanoparticles derived from dual centrifugation

The use of lipids as suitable excipients for drug carrier systems has been established for years. Liposomes or lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) in general have been shown capable of delivering both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. The Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting vaccines have significantly increased interest in the potential for these lipid-based systems, which can carry different types of therapeutic RNAs. LNPs used for the transfection of RNA are usually a multi-component mixture of phospholipids and other lipids. Essential components are positively charged or ionizable lipids such as DOTAP or SM-102, but also uncharged helper lipids such as cholesterol, DOPE, DSPC, DMG-PEG2000 or DSPE-PEG2000. Due to the differences in charge, simultaneous detection is a challenge. Here, we present a reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography charged-aerosol-detector method (RP-HPLC-CAD method) using a C-18 column for the simultaneous determination of charged and uncharged lipids. Our method has been validated according to the ICH-Q2 (R2) guideline for accuracy, precision, specificity and working range, including the limit of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ), as well as the calibration range. We were able to show satisfactory results in both precision and accuracy. The working range also shows great potential with a calibration range from 9.375 to 1000 μg/ml, LODs <1.85 μg/ml and LOQs <6.16 μg/ml. This method represents a fast and reproducible procedure for quantifying the lipids mentioned. In combination with the novel approach for the production of LNPs using dual centrifugation (DC), it offers the possibility of extremely rapid production of RNA-loaded LNPs, and the immediate analysis for their lipid components.

Development and in vitro antiviral activity of ivermectin liposomes as a potential drug carrier system.

This study aimed to assess and compare diverse formulations of ivermectin-loaded liposomes, employing lipid film hydration and ethanol injection methods. Three lipids (DOPC, SPC, and DSPC) were used in predetermined molar ratios. A total of 18 formulations were created, and a factorial design determined the optimal formulation based on particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency. The average mean particle size, PDI and zeta potential of the selected formulations (F1, F2, F7, F9, and F11) was, respectively, 196.40 ± 44.60 nm, 0.39 ± 0.09, and -40.24 ± 9.17. The encapsulation efficiency exceeded 80%, with a mean loading capacity of 4.00 ± 1.70%. In vitro studies included transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, drug release, and antiviral activity assessments against SARS-CoV-2. The liposomal formulations demonstrated superior antiviral activity compared to free ivermectin, as indicated by lower IC50 values. The results of this study emphasize the effectiveness of ivermectin-loaded liposomes in inhibiting viral activity, highlighting their potential as promising candidates for antiviral therapy. The findings suggest that the strategic use of liposomes as drug carriers can significantly modulate and improve the antiviral properties of ivermectin, offering a novel approach to harnessing its full therapeutic potential. Collectively, these results provide a robust foundation for further exploration of ivermectin as a viral protection tool and optimization of its delivery mechanisms.

Introducing targeting units or pH-Releasable immunodrugs into Core-Clickable nanogels

The development of nano-sized carrier systems plays a fundamental role in immunodrug delivery and the treatment of cancer. Especially functional materials, coupled with a stimuli-responsive drug release, control the selective delivery of small molecular drugs to the target site and avoid systemic side effects. Based on this, we introduce a DBCO core-functionalized nanogel platform for pH-reversible conjugation of highly potent TLR7/8-activating imidazoquinolines and the selective targeting of macrophage mannose receptor (MMR/ CD206) expressed by immunosuppressive macrophages. DBCO-PEG4-amine functionalized polymethacrylates are synthesized by controlled RAFT polymerization and self-assembled into precursor micelles in polar aprotic solvents. Corresponding nanogels are generated via reactive ester chemistry, while conjugated DBCO–units are incorporated into the core, still accessible for click reaction with azide-functionalized structures. Regarding the preparation of targeted nanogels, trimannose equipped with azide moieties can be conjugated to the DBCO nanogels, revealing the efficient targeting of macrophages’ mannose receptor in vitro. Moreover, the broad applicability of the DBCO nanogel is demonstrated by the synthesis of an azide–containing 2-propionic-3-methylmaleic anhydride-based linker sensitive for the pH–reversible conjugation of secondary amine-modified immune modulators, such as IMDQ-Me. Via bioorthogonal DBCO click reaction, the immune modulator can reversibly be conjugated, affording pH-responsive drug-loaded nanogels that conserve the desired immune stimulatory effect in vitro. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of core–functionalized DBCO nanogels, a promising carrier system for pH–sensitive conjugated immunodrugs as well as an attractive platform for controlled targeting of MMR. Altogether, the versatile application of core-functionalized DBCO nanogels may pave the way for enhancing bioorthogonal multifunctionality inside nanocarrier systems that assist in addressing multiple targets in cancer immunotherapy.

Fabrication of biopolymer stabilized microcapsules for enhancing physicochemical stability, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of cinnamon essential oil

The current study entails the encapsulation validity to enclose naturally occurring food preservatives, such as cinnamon essential oil (CM), within various wall materials. This approach has demonstrated enhanced encapsulated compounds' stability, efficiency, and bioactivity. The base carrier system consisted of a solid lipid (Berry wax, RW) individually blended with whey protein (WYN), maltodextrin (MDN), and gum Arabic (GMC) as wall materials. The resulting formulations were freeze-dried: WYN/RW/CM, MDN/RW/CM, and GMC/RW/CM. The study comprehensively analyzed encapsulation efficiency, morphology, crystallinity, thermal, and physiochemical properties. When RW was combined with WYN, MDN, and GMC, the microcapsule WYN/RW/CM showed the highest efficiency at 93.4 %, while the GMC/RW/CM exhibited the highest relative crystallinity at 46.54 %. Furthermore, the investigation assessed storage stability, release of bioactive compounds, and oxidative stability during storage at 4 °C/ 25 % RH ± 5 % and 25 °C/40 % RH ± 5 % for 55 days, revealing optimal stability in the WYN/RW/CM microcapsule. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity was assessed at various concentrations of microcapsules, revealing their inhibitory effect against Escherichia coli (gram-negative) and Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive) bacteria. The WYN/RW/CM microcapsule exhibited the highest inhibition activity in both strains, reaching 40 mm. This study demonstrates that combining WYN with RW as a wall material has greater efficiency in encapsulation and potential uses in various industrial sectors.

Pt/Al2O3 as efficient catalyst for the dehydrogenation of Dodecahydro-N-ethylcarbazole

The use of dodecahydro-N-ethylcarbazole in hydrogen storage for liquid organic hydrogen carrier systems holds potential for achieving large-scale application. In order to investigate the relationship between dodecahydro-N-ethylcarbazole dehydrogenation performance and Pt particles size, a series of monometallic Pt/Al2O3 catalysts with different Pt particles size from 0.70 nm to 5.12 nm were controlled synthesized by a simple impregnation method. The obtained catalysts are systematically characterized via XRD, 27Al MAS NMR, SEM-EDS, TEM, N2-adsorption, CO-IR, H2-TPR and NH3-TPD analyses, which provide essential micro-structure of these catalysts. The dehydrogenation of dodecahydro-N-ethylcarbazole over Pt/Al2O3 is a typical consecutive reaction, which follows a reaction sequence of dodecahydro-N-ethylcarbazole → octahydro-N-ethylcarbazole → tetrahydro-N-ethylcarbazole → N-ethylcarbazole. These dehydrogenation steps are quite sensitive to the Pt particle size. Large Pt particle can greatly enhance the reaction rates in octahydro-N-ethylcarbazole → tetrahydro-N-ethylcarbazole and tetrahydro-N-ethylcarbazole → N-ethylcarbazole steps. However, these two steps are difficult to take place in small Pt particles. The high performance of large Pt particle in dehydrogenation can be ascribed to its highly exposed (111) crystal face. The optimized catalyst Pt5.0/γ-Al2O3 with Pt average size of 4.63 nm demonstrated exceptional performance in dodecahydro-N-ethylcarbazole dehydrogenation at 180 °C and 101 kPa, and the dodecahydro-N-ethylcarbazole conversion of 100 %, N-ethylcarbazole selectivity of 96.44 % and dehydrogenation efficiency of 98.73 % can be achieved. These results provide valuable insights for the development of efficient metal-based catalysts for liquid organic hydrogen carriers hydrogen storage system.

Solid self-emulsifying casein carrier for the improvement on the oral bioavailability of simvastatin

Simvastatin (SV) is a statin drug that can effectively control cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular diseases. However, SV is water-insoluble, and poor oral bioavailability (<5 %). Solid self-emulsifying carrier system is more stable than liquid emulsions, facilitating to improve the solubility and bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs. In the present study, a solid self-emulsifying carrier stabilized by casein (Cas-SSE) was successfully used to load SV to improve its solubility in water, by formulation selection and emulsification process optimization. Compared with oral tablets, the release of SV from Cas-SSE was significantly enhanced in artificial intestinal fluid. Furthermore, everted gut sac experiments indicated some water-soluble dispersing agents such as hydroxyethyl starch (HES), were not conducive to drug absorption. Pharmacokinetic studies suggested Cas-SSE without dispersing agent has much higher relative bioavailability (184.1 % of SV and 284.5 % of simvastatin acid) than SV tablet. The present work suggests Cas-SSE is a promising drug delivery platform with good biocompatibility for improving oral bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs.

A Review on Lipid-Based Nanoformulations for Targeting Brain through Non-invasive Nasal Route.

The nasal method for administering nanoformulations to the brain has been examined and proven successful by prior investigators. For the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders such as neuropsychiatric, depression, Alzheimer and anxiety, intranasal administration has become more popular for delivering drugs to the brain. This method offers direct transport through neuronal pathways. The lipid-based nanocarriers like nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) appear more favorable than other nanosystems for brain administration. The nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) system can quickly transform into a gelling system to facilitate easy administration into the nasal passages. The various compatibility studies showed that the other lipid structured-based formulations may not work well for various reasons, including a low drug filing capacity; during storage, the formulation showed changes in the solid lipid structures, which gives a chance of medication ejection. Formulations containing NLC can minimize these problems by improving drug solubility and permeation rate by incorporating a ratio of liquid lipids with solid lipids, resulting in improved stability during storage and drug bioavailability because of the higher drug loading capacity. This review aimed to find and emphasize research on lipid-based nanocarrier formulations that have advanced the treatment of central nervous system illnesses using nasal passages to reach the targeted area's drug molecules.

Complex coacervate of wheat germ protein/high methoxy pectin in encapsulation of d-limonene

d-limonene is a volatile compound widely used in food flavorings, but it is chemically unstable in the presence of air, light, moisture, and high temperatures. Coacervation is a well-established technique which involves the formation of biopolymer nanocomplexes between negatively charged polysaccharides and positively charged proteins to protect bioactive components. The study shows the effect of pH, protein/polysaccharide ratio and total biopolymer concentration on complex coacervation of defatted wheat germ protein (DWGP) and apple pectin (high methoxyl pectin (HMP)) in the food industry as a carrier and delivery system for d-limonene. DWGP was used for the first time to form coacervate with apple pectin. Turbidity, ζ-potential and particle size of the complex coacervate and their individual biopolymers were examined for preliminary assays of complex coacervation. The optimum condition for DWGP/pectin complex coacervation was found to be at a ratio of 4:1 with a total biopolymer concentration of 1% and a pH of 4.0. The rheological properties of DWGP, pectin, and their coacervate were measured at various pH levels and ratios. The resulting coacervates, used to microencapsulate d-limonene, underwent spray-dried and were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. These findings have the potential to contribute to the development of DWGP/pectin complex coacervates as effective delivery systems for volatile aromas or bioactive compounds.Graphical

Formulation Optimization and Characterization of Tizanidine Hydrochloride-Loaded Gold Nanoparticles Using Quality by Design Approach.

Gold nanoparticles (GNP) have been used extensively in cancer biologics and as drug carrier systems for improved pharmacokinetics and effective therapeutic action. GNPs also ensure reliable diagnosis with sensitive imaging. This study aimed to synthesize tizanidine hydrochloride (TZN)-biodegradable gold (Au) nanoparticles by the reduction of chloroauric acid (HAuCl4) with trisodium citrate using a microwave synthesizer and quality by design approach. The formulation method used was optimized using a 32 (two-factor, three-level design) factorial experiment. Temperature (X1) and concentration of gold salt (X2) were the two independent factors, and particle size (Y1), Percent drug entrapment efficiency (Y2), and polydispersity index (Y3) were the responses recorded for the study. The results of the study revealed that the optimized nanoparticles (TGN8) had a particle size (Y1) of 195 ± 1.2 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.2, and entrapment efficiency of 99.0 ± 2.9% at an optimized concentration of 14 mM gold salt (X1) and 100 0C temperature (X2). Atomic Force Microscopy showed the spherical shape particles. In vitro drug release was found to be 62.1 ± 0.5% release of TZN in simulated gastric buffer (pH 1.2) and 45.5 ± 2.8% in physiological buffer (pH 7.4). Overall, the study identified the optimal formulation conditions for TZN GNPs by considering the effects of independent variables on desired responses.

Stimuli-responsive nanogels: A smart material for biomedical applications

Nanogels (NGs) are gaining recognition as very promising platforms for many biological applications owing to their unique characteristics, such as small size, remarkable water retention capacities, and customizable properties. Compared to traditional and micro-sized delivery, NGs are more productive. In the realm of biotechnology, nanogels have been widely utilized in recent years to address protein synthesis, enzyme immobilization, and genetics. Additionally, it is a valuable asset for the creation of innovative medical treatment systems. These are soft materials having the ability to encapsulate pharmaceuticals, inorganic nanoparticles, and tiny molecular biomacromolecules within their crosslinked networks. This property enables the materials to be used for both imaging and treatment of a wide range of medical problems. These characteristics not only improve the carrier system's performance but also aid in resolving a number of issues related to the delivery of cargo molecules.. The phenomenon of stimuli-responsive nanogels (SRNGs) has garnered considerable attention because to its ability to undergo reversible alterations in response to specific stimuli, regardless of whether they originate from natural sources or external factors. This study investigates the methodologies employed in the production of SRNGs and their utilization in the realm of biomedicine, particularly focusing on their application in tissue engineering, drug administration, genetic treatment, and wound healing.

Benefits of Combined Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy and Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy for Biomedical Studies Demonstrated by Using a Liposome Model System

Drug delivery systems play a pivotal role in targeted pharmaceutical transport and controlled release at specific sites. Liposomes, commonly used as drug carriers, constitute a fundamental part of these systems. Moreover, the drug–liposome model serves as a robust platform for investigating interaction processes at both cellular and molecular levels. To advance our understanding of drug carrier uptake mechanisms, we employed fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS), leveraging the unique benefits of two-photon (2P) excitation. Our approach utilized giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) as a simplified model system for cell membranes, labelled with the amphiphilic fluorescent dye 3,3′-dioctadecyloxa-carbocyanine (DiOC18(3)). Additionally, large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) functioned as a drug carrier system, incorporating the spectrally distinct fluorescent sulforhodamine 101 (SRh101) as a surrogate drug. The investigation emphasized the diverse interactions between GUVs and LUVs based on the charged lipids employed. We examined the exchange kinetics and structural alterations of liposome carriers during the uptake process. Our study underscores the significance of employing 2P excitation in conjunction with FLIM and FCS. This powerful combination offers a valuable methodological approach for studying liposome interactions, positioning them as an exceptionally versatile model system with a distinct technical advantage.