Chitosan Nanoparticles Research Articles

Sublingual Route for the Continuous Release of Epinephrine from Chitosan Nanoparticles

Administration of Epinephrine (Epi) using an intramuscular autoinjector (EAI) is the primary first aid treatment available for the management of anaphylaxis in the community of many countries. Around 1 in 10 patients require a second EAI within 5-15 min. Previously, we successfully developed rapidly disintegrating sublingual tablets (RDST) containing Epi microcrystals that exhibited comparable in vivo pharmacokinetics to that of EAI to overcome the drawbacks of EAIs. To further advance these RDST, we hypothesized that synthesizing Epi nanoparticles (Epi-NP) for incorporation into our previously developed Epi RDST could prolong Epi release sufficiently to eliminate the need for a second dose. Therefore, the primary objective of this research was to synthesize various Epi-NP with different drug loads and investigate their release profiles and sublingual permeability. In vitro release and ex vivo permeability studies were performed using synthetic dialysis membranes and excised porcine sublingual membranes, receptively. The release and permeation of Epi from both NP with adsorbed Epi (Ads Epi-NP) and NP with encapsulated Epi (Enc Epi-NP) were significantly slowed down and achieved continuous control over 8 hours. At 60% Epi load, Epi release from Enc Epi-NP was significantly lower than from Ads Epi-NP, however, the cumulative permeated Epi was only significantly lower towards the end of the experiment, suggesting similar control over Epi permeability. Finally, visualization of NP permeation across the sublayers of the sublingual mucosa confirmed the formation of a temporary depot for Epi and maintained Epi release for several hours post-administration. The results from this study demonstrate for the first time the short-term sustained-release potential of the sublingual route to overcome the need for a second dose.

PEGylated lipid polymeric nanoparticles for management of rheumatoid arthritis

PEGylation, an extensively used surface modification method for nanoparticles (NPs), continues to hold promise for optimizing therapy for various medical conditions by achieving efficient and selective delivery of multiple therapeutics and nanocarriers. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune and inflammatory disease treated mainly by disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) (e.g., leflunomide); however, these drugs suffer from systemic exposure and adverse effects. Leflunomide (LEF) was loaded into PEGylated (PEG)-lecithin chitosan nanoparticles (LCNPs) to enhance its therapeutic efficacy and safety profile. LEF-PEG-LCNPs showed a particle size of 115.31 ±3.24 nm, a zeta potential of 31.3±1.8 mV, an entrapment efficiency of 89.63 ±2.25 %, and an improved release profile than non-pegylated LCNPs and LEF-pure. Fourier transform-infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were also performed. The effects of orally administrated LEF-pure, LEF-marketed, LEF-LCNPs and LEF-PEG-LCNPs against Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA)-induced rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in rats were investigated. LEF-PEG-LCNPs showed more significant inhibition of paw edema (72.74%), rheumatoid factor RF (40.76%), TNF-α (55.6%), IL-6 (47.42%), ALT (80.59%), and AST (39.83%) as compared to positive control. Furthermore, histopathological studies showed a nearly normal appearance of bone trabecular tissue, liver, kidney, lung, and heart. This highlights LEF-PEG-LCNPs as an exceptional anti-rheumatoid arthritis therapy compared to pure and marketed formulations.

An innovative approach to control fish-borne zoonotic metacercarial infections in aquaculture by utilizing nanoparticles

Fish-borne zoonotic trematodes (FBZTs) pose significant health risks and economic challenges worldwide. This study investigated the prevalence of encysted metacercariae (EMCs) in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) from two Egyptian governorates and evaluated the antiparasitic efficacy of chitosan, silver, and selenium nanoparticles against these parasites. A cross-sectional analysis of 453 O. niloticus specimens revealed an overall EMC prevalence of 40.8%, with infection rates of 34.11% in Giza and 49.5% in Dakahlia. Clinostomid and Prohemistomid metacercariae were the most common, with mixed infections observed. Transmission electron microscopy characterized the synthesized nanoparticles, showing average diameters of 9.6–18.7 nm for chitosan, 13.2–19.8 nm for selenium, and 11.7–15.1 nm for silver nanoparticles. In vitro antiparasitic assays demonstrated varying efficacies among the nanoparticles. Against Clinostomum spp. metacercariae, chitosan nanoparticles showed the highest potency, achieving LC50 at 66 μg/ml after 30 min and LC90 at 100 μg/ml after 120 min. For Prohemistomum vivax EMCs, chitosan nanoparticles exhibited superior efficacy, achieving LC50 at 8 μg/ml after 1 h and LC90 at 16 μg/ml after 2 h. Silver and selenium nanoparticles showed lower efficacy for both parasite species. Scanning electron microscopy revealed significant ultrastructural damage to the parasite tegument following nanoparticle exposure, including disappearance of transverse ridges, integument shrinkage, and formation of blebs. This study provided valuable insights into the prevalence of FBZTs in Egyptian Nile tilapia and demonstrated the potential of nanoparticles, particularly chitosan, as effective antiparasitic agents. These findings pave the way for developing novel, targeted strategies to control fish-borne zoonotic trematodes, potentially reducing their impact on public health and aquaculture economies.

Silver nanoparticles versus chitosan nanoparticles effects on demineralized enamel

BackgroundTo compare the impacts of different remineralizing agents on demineralized enamel, we focused on chitosan nanoparticles (ChiNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs).MethodsThis study was conducted on 40 extracted human premolars with artificially induced demineralization using demineralizing solution. Prior to the beginning of the experimental procedures, the samples were preserved in artificial saliva solution. The nanoparticles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and teeth were divided into four equal groups: Group A was utilized as a control group (no demineralization) and received no treatment. Group B was subjected to demineralization with no treatment. Group C was subjected to demineralization and then treated with ChiNPs. Group D was subjected to demineralization and then treated with AgNPs. The teeth were evaluated for microhardness. The enamel surfaces of all the samples were analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for morphological changes and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) for elemental analysis.ResultsThe third and fourth groups had the highest mean microhardness and calcium (Ca) and phosphorous (P) contents. SEM of these two groups revealed relative restoration of homogenous remineralized enamel surface architecture with minimal micropores.ConclusionChitosan nanoparticles (NPs) and silver NPs help restore the enamel surface architecture and mineral content. Therefore, chitosan NPs and AgNPs would be beneficial for remineralizing enamel.

Comparative efficiency of Geotrichum candidum microcapsules prepared with alginate and in combination with other polymers: In vitro evaluation

Microencapsulation is utilized to protect probiotics, such as Geotrichum candidum, ensuring their survival, stability, and targeted release. The encapsulation efficiency depends on factors such as the type and concentration of the polymers and the encapsulation method. In this study, G. candidum was encapsulated using alginate (Alg) combined with starch (AlgS) or xanthan (Alg-X) and coated with chitosan aand chitosan nanoparticles (AlgC, Alg-S-C, Alg-X-C, Alg-CN, Alg-S-CN, and Alg-X-CN) using a simple extrusion technique. The structural characteristics and surface morphology of the microcapsules were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Encapsulation efficiency (EE) and pH and temperature tolerances were assessed using in vitro assays. SEM results showed that the Alg-CN microcapsules were notably spherical and smooth, in contrast to the irregular and rough textures of the uncoated forms. Notably, Alg-CN exhibited the highest EE (99.3 %), followed by Alg-C (96.6 %) and Alg-X-CN (96.03 %). Moreover, chitosan-coated microcapsules, particularly Alg-CN, demonstrated superior viability at various pH levels and after exposure to 60 °C, along with extended shelf life at room temperature and 4 °C. These findings suggest that a 2 % alginate and 0.4 % chitosan combination is optimal for preserving G. candidum's viability in various applications.

Hepatoprotective effect of silymarin-chitosan nanocomposite against aluminum-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis

Aluminum (Al) is abundant in the environment, and its toxicity is attributed to free radical formation and subsequent oxidative stress. While silymarin is a well-known antioxidant, its low water solubility and bioavailability limit its therapeutic effects. This study was designated to formulate silymarin chitosan nanoparticles (SM-CS-NPs) and evaluate its ameliorative effect against hepatotoxicity induced by aluminum chloride (AlCl3). SM-CS-NPs were prepared by ionotropic gelation method and characterized using different techniques. Rats were distributed into six groups (n=7/group), control, silymarin (SM; 15 mg/kg B.W), silymarin-chitosan nanoparticles (SM-CS-NPs; 15 mg/kg), aluminum chloride (AlCl3, 34 mg/kg), SM or SM-CS-NPs administrated orally one hour before the treatment with AlCl3 for 30 days, respectively. Results showed that supplementation of SM-CS-NPs or SM solo improved the antioxidant state and reduced oxidative stress. On the other hand, the pretreatment with SM-CS-NPs or SM followed by AlCl3 significantly restored liver functions (AST, ALT, ALP, LDH, total protein, albumin, globulin, and bilirubin) and modulated oxidative stress biomarkers (TBARS and H2O2), with improved cellular antioxidant defense (SOD, CAT, GPx, GR, GST, and GSH) and maintained normal liver histological structure compared to rats treated with AlCl3 alone. Furthermore, they alleviated the inflammation and apoptosis by downregulating the expression level of COX-2, caspase-3, and TNFα. This ameliorative effect was stronger with silymarin nanoform than in bulk-state silymarin. According to the findings, silymarin preparation in nanoform boosts its ameliorative and protective effects against AlCl3 hepatotoxicity.

Formulation and characterization of 5-fluorouracil and metformin biodegradable nanospheres for treating colon cancer

BackgroundCancer and diabetes mellitus are quite common diseases found together worldwide. A considerable amount of evidence is available for the rapid development and presentation of various types of cancer in the type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) population as compared with the population without diabetes. The objective of the study is to formulate and evaluate 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and metformin (MET) nanoparticles (NPs) and to establish the characteristic features of the biodegradable NPs. 5-FU and MET NPs with chitosan as a biodegradable polymer were formulated by the ionotropic cross-linking method. 0.25 gm of MET and 0.25 gm of 5-FU were dissolved in 100 ml of distilled water, and stock solution was prepared. 5 ml of stock solution was slowly mixed into the chitosan solution to obtain the mixture of drugs and chitosan. The tripolyphosphate reserve liquid was dripped slowly into the chitosan solution with constant stirring until the opaline appearance was noticed in the mixture, then filtered, and dried. The NPs were evaluated for their physical properties and drug release kinetics. Cell proliferation assay was done using human colorectal carcinoma cell line (HCT 116).ResultsThe formulation composed of 1.5 w/v of chitosan, 0.25 w/v of MET, and 5-FU had an average particle diameter of 198.7 nm. The polydispersity index was 0.757. Thermal and infrared spectroscopy results indicated the drugs and polymers selected for the formulation were unique without any identifiable interaction. The NPs were spherical in appearance, with numerous pours on the surface, which was evident when microscopically examined. Uniformity in drug release was observed, and the formulation demonstrated excellent release kinetics. HTC 116 cell line confirmed that the maximum percentage of cell death and minimum viability of cells were observed while using the combination of MET and 5-FU-NPs as compared to the pure MET or 5-FU alone.ConclusionMET and 5-FU-loaded chitosan NPs were found to have excellent physiochemical properties, particle size, and drug release from the polymer in a controlled manner. Half-maximal inhibitory concentration value (IC50) of MET and 5-FU-NPs was found to be significantly less as compared to MET and 5-FU alone or the combination.

Hybrid Hydrogels of Polyacrylamide and Self-assembly Photodynamic Nanoparticles with Diverse Adhesion for Infected Chronic Wound Healing.

The healing of infected wounds is challenging for patients. In this paper, a hybrid hydrogel with strong tissue adhesion, self-healing, and antibiosis without antibiotics was developed as a dressing to promote the healing of infected chronic wounds. Acrylamide (PAM) was polymerized with N,N-methylene bis(acrylamide) (BIS) as the substrate, and self-assembled nanoparticles of carboxymethyl chitosan and chlorin e6 (CMCS/Ce6 NPs) trapped with magnesium (Mg2+) ions were dispersed in the hydrogel substrate. CMCS/Ce6 NPs provided favorable photodynamic antibiosis via the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under NIR irradiation. The hybrid hydrogels exhibited excellent self-healing properties, diverse adhesion, and biocompatibility. The in vivo results indicated that the hybrid hydrogel accelerated wound healing significantly via comprehensive factors of photodynamic antibiosis of CMCS/Ce6 NPs, cell proliferation promotion by Mg2+, good bioadhesion, and moisture retention of the PAM hydrogel, which promoted collagen deposition and blood vessel maturation.

Efficacy of Quercetin and Quercetin Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles Against Cisplatin-Induced Renal and Testicular Toxicity via Attenuation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Apoptosis.

Flavonoids, including quercetin, have attracted much attention due to their potential health-promoting effects. The current experiment aims to see whether quercetin (QUE) in nanoparticle form could mitigate testicular and renal toxicity caused by cisplatin (CIS) more effectively than normally formulated QUE. Rats were randomly treated with CIS alone or in combination with QUE or QUE.NPs (Quercetin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles) for 4 weeks. QUE and QUE.NPs were given orally (10 mg/kg, three times a week), while CIS was given intraperitoneally (2 mg/kg, twice a week). Compared to QUE- and CIS + QUE.NP-treated rats, CIS exposure induced anxiety and emotional stress as well as promoted oxidative stress in both testicular and renal tissues. Moreover, CIS reduced serum testosterone levels and diminished testicular IL-10, as well as CIS-induced renal failure, as indicated by hypokalemia, and increased levels of creatinine, urea, sodium, IL-18, and KIM-1. Further, severe histological changes were observed in the testis and kidney of CIS-intoxicated rats. Regarding immunohistochemical staining, CIS significantly upregulated Bax, downregulated Bcl-2, and moderately enhanced PCNA expression. Our findings suggest that both QUE and QUE.NPs modulated emotional disturbance and improved testicular and renal functions via modulation of oxidation, inflammation, and apoptosis. However, QUE.NPs performed better than QUE-treated rats.

Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) conferred salinity tolerance in maize by upregulating E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase, P5CS1, HKT1, NHX1, and PMP3 genes.

This study explored the transcriptional behaviors of several candidate genes in response to the application of CSNPs (50 and 100 mgl-1) in maize seedlings grown under two salinity levels (NaCl of 0.07 and 0.14 gkg-1soil). Employing CSNPs at both concentrations mitigated the inhibitory role of salinity on the leaf and root fresh weights. The application of CSNPs enhanced the transcription of the E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase gene by an average of threefold, contrasted with the salinity controls. The Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase (P5CS1) gene was upregulated in response to both individual and mixed treatments of CSNPs and salinity. The transcription of the high-affinity K+ transporter (HKT1) gene displayed an upward trend in response to the CSNPs and salinity treatments. The Na+/H+ exchangers (NHX1) gene exhibited a similar trend to that of the HKT1 gene. The utilization of CSNPs was accompanied by an upregulation in the plasma membrane proteolipid 3 (PMP3) gene, contrasted with the salinity controls. The phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) activity displayed an upward trend in response to the foliar application of CSNPs. The CSNPs at the 100 mgl-1 concentration were more capable of inducing the ascorbate peroxidase enzyme under both salinity conditions than the 50 mgl-1 dose. The simultaneous exposure of maize seedlings to CSNPs and salinity resulted in the drastic upregulation of the catalase activities. This study provides novel insights into the major mechanisms underlying the stress-mitigating effects of CSNPs, thereby providing a suitable platform for their application in sustainable agricultural practices.

Co-delivery of Doxorubicin and VEGF siRNA using carcinoembryonic antigen-targeted chitosan nanoparticles for colorectal cancer

Developing a targeted nanocarrier-based therapeutic approach is highly effective in delivering therapeutics to specific cancer cells. Combining two or more therapeutic approaches with different mechanisms of action can effectively maintain their unique benefits while considerably improving cancer treatment. Doxorubicin (DOX) binds to DNA by intercalation and triggers a cascade of biochemical processes in tumor cells leading to death. Anti-VEGF medicines may sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapeutics by limiting blood supply and increasing penetration by disrupting tumor vasculature. In this study, DOX and vascular endothelial growth factor siRNA (VEGF siRNA) loaded chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs) were prepared by using the ionic gelation method. The DOX-siRNA-ChNPs surface was then functionalized with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) targeted monoclonal antibody (DOX-siRNA-ChNPs-CMAb), thereby delivering therapeutic moieties into the cancer milieu. The cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of the developed nanocarrier were tested in-vitro on HT-29, which revealed that DOX-siRNA-ChNPs-CMAb possessed the highest cytotoxicity when compared with other prepared formulations and free DOX. The cellular uptake using fluorescence microscopy displayed a significantly higher uptake of DOX-siRNA-ChNPs-CMAb (targeted) than free DOX and DOX-siRNA-ChNPs (non-targeted). Apoptosis analysis in flow cytometry using annexin-V/PI staining demonstrated a substantially higher apoptosis rate of HT-29 cells using DOX-siRNA-ChNPs-CMAb than DOX-siRNA-ChNPs. Moreover, DOX-siRNA-ChNPs-CMAb were studied in CRC induced animal models, showing that DOX-siRNA-ChNPs-CMAb specifically targets CRC cells without showing organ toxicity. Thus, the novel approach of simultaneous delivery of DOX and siRNA using CMAb conjugated ChNPs demonstrated significant targeting in both in-vitro and in-vivo with minimal organ toxicity.

Chitosan nanoparticles for single and combinatorial delivery of 5-fluorouracil and ursolic acid for hepatocellular carcinoma

Chitosan nanoparticles for single and combinatorial delivery of 5-fluorouracil and ursolic acid for hepatocellular carcinoma

Effect of chitosan nanoparticle filled methylcellulose coatings on the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon levels of deep-fried meatballs

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of carcinogens commonly found in deep-fried food products. The potential health risks of dietary exposure to PAHs are well recognized. Recent studies have shown that PAHs can penetrate into food through oil uptake, implying potential of edible coatings to reduce oil uptake and then PAHs level. This study investigated the effect of incorporation of 0.2/0.5% chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs, w: v) into 0.8/0.5% methylcellulose (MC, w: v) for edible coating of meatballs to reduce the PAH levels under deep-frying condition at 190 °C for 5min. The results showed that the deep-fried meatballs coated with 0.5 % MC and CSNPs had the lowest moisture loss (25.87 %), oil uptake (1.29 %), lipid oxidation (0.54 mg MDA/kg) and PAH4 levels (0.73 ng/g). The results suggested that the incorporation of CSNPs into MC edible coating could be an effective method in reducing the PAHs levels and enhancing the quality and safety of deep-fried foods. Future study would incorporate CSNP-MC coatings with antioxidants to further enhance the quality and safety of deep-fried foods and their impacts on sensory properties.

Highly efficient dip catalysts using bacterial cellulose impregnated with self-crosslinked glycol chitosan and silver nanoparticles for 4-nitrophenol reduction

The application of environmentally friendly and sustainable catalysts requires efficient and safe preparation methods using cheap and renewable materials. Although many metal nanoparticles (NPs) have low colloidal stability, they are still very effective as catalysts. Using a straightforward method, we developed a bacterial cellulose–glycol chitosan–silver (BC–GCS–Ag) nanocomposite, by introducing both AgNPs and self-crosslinked GCS within the BC network. Self-crosslinking of GCS occurred during the formation of AgNPs by employing the glycol moieties for reduction to produce aldehyde functionalities, thereby forming Schiff's base bonds within the GCS structure. Using GCS, well-defined AgNPs within the BC matrix. The formation of AgNPs and the self-crosslinking of GCS were characterized using UV–visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed that spherical AgNPs with a mean diameter of 10 nm exhibited a well-organized structure within the BC–GCS matrix. The BC–GCS–Ag nanocomposite was applied as dip catalyst for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4NP) to 4-aminophenol (4AP), chosen as a model reaction. The results showed that the catalytic reaction was completed within 4 min, with high reusability (10 times) and without loss of catalyst. The reaction followed pseudo-first-order kinetics with a high rate constant of 0.582 min−1. Therefore, the BC–GCS–Ag dip catalyst is an attractive alternative for environmentally friendly and sustainable catalysis, owing to its exceptional catalytic performance, high recyclability, and stability, as well as the minimal environmental footprint of the supporting materials.

Efficacy of Eugenol Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles on Sepsis Induced Liver Injury in Rats

Background: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition responsible for high morbidity and mortality rates around the world and is characterized by a dysregulated host response to infection, resulting in multiple organ dysfunctions. Eugenol is a phenolic aromatic compound derived from clove oil. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anticancer characteristics, which have led to its extensive use in diverse fields, including cosmetology, medicine, and pharmacology. The ongoing study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of eugenol-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (EC-NPs) on sepsis-induced liver damage using the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model. Methods: Thirty male albino rats were randomly divided into five groups: Sham, sepsis, and septic rats treated with chitosan, eugenol, or EC-NPs. Results: EC-NPs showed excellent antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro. EC-NP administration significantly improved liver function, as indicated by the decreased liver enzyme activities and C-reactive protein (CRP) level, as well as the increase of albumin content. Moreover, EC-NPs caused an increase in glutathione-reduced and antioxidant enzyme activities, as well as a reduction of malondialdehyde and nitric oxide formation. In addition, the EC-NP treatment reduced the DNA damage in septic rats; also, the EC-NP treatment repaired, to some extent, the abnormal architecture of the hepatic tissues of septic rats. Furthermore, the immunohistochemical examination showed a marked decrease in inflammation through the reduction of TNF-α and IL-1β expression. Conclusion: In conclusion, EC-NPs attenuated liver injury in sepsis through its antiinflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-oxidant activities and protection of DNA.

Potential of chitosan and silver nanoparticles as fungicides against chocolate spot of faba bean: physiological, ultrastructural and toxicity studies

Potential of chitosan and silver nanoparticles as fungicides against chocolate spot of faba bean: physiological, ultrastructural and toxicity studies

Formulation development, characterization, and evaluation of sorafenib-loaded PLGA-chitosan nanoparticles.

The basic purpose of this work was to develop environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and biocompatible polymeric nanoparticles of sorafenib that can effectively release the desired drug in a customized and controlled manner for targeting hepatocellular carcinoma. The solvent evaporation technique was employed for the synthesis of sorafenib-loaded PLGA-chitosan nanoparticles, followed by various experimental specifications and compatibility studies using poloxamer 407 as the stabilizer. The best nanoparticles thus synthesized were selected to be used for cytotoxicity investigations through in vitro and in vivo assessments. For the in vitro drug release tests, the dialysis bag diffusion technique was used. For both chitosan nanoparticles and PLGA loaded with sorafenib, a biphasic release pattern was found, exhibiting a protracted release lasting 10 days after a 24-h burst release. As experimental animals, rabbits were utilized to evaluate different in vivo pharmacokinetic properties of the selected formulations. Plasma samples were extracted with acetonitrile and analyzed through the developed HPLC method. Pharmacokinetic parameters such as AUC0-t, Cmax MRT, Vd, and half-life (t1/2) were enhanced significantly (p ≤ 0.001), while clearance was considerably decreased (p ≤ 0.001) for the chosen synthesized nanoparticles in contrast to the commercially accessible sorafenib formulation (Nexavar®). The cytotoxicity of the reference drug and sorafenib-loaded PLGA and chitosan nanoparticles was calculated by performing an MTT assay against HepG2 cell lines. The developed polymeric sorafenib nanoformulations possess the appropriate physicochemical properties, better targeting, surface morphology, and prolonged release kinetics. The pharmacokinetic parameters were improved significantly when the results were compared with commercially available sorafenib formulations.

Exploring chitosan nanoparticles for enhanced therapy in neurological disorders: a comprehensive review.

Chitosan nanoparticles have emerged as a promising therapeutic platform for treating neurological disorders due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ease of functionalization. One of the significant challenges in treating neurological conditions is overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which restricts the effective delivery of therapeutic agents to the brain. Addressing this barrier is crucial for the successful treatment of various neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, migraine, psychotic disorders, and brain tumors. Chitosan nanoparticles offer several advantages: they enhance drug absorption, protect drugs from degradation, and enable targeted delivery. These properties open new possibilities for non-invasive therapies for neurological conditions. Numerous studies have highlighted the neuroprotective potential of chitosan nanoparticles, demonstrating improved outcomes in animal models of neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. Additionally, surface modifications of these nanoparticles allow for the attachment of specific ligands or molecules, enhancing the precision of drug delivery to neuronal cells. Despite these advancements, several challenges persist in the clinical translation of chitosan nanoparticles. Issues such as large-scale production, regulatory hurdles, and the need for further research into long-term safety must be addressed. This review explores recent advancements in the use of chitosan nanoparticles for managing neurological disorders and outlines potential future directions in this rapidly evolving field of research.

Zinc-based Polyoxometalate Nanozyme Functionalized Hydrogels for optimizing the Hyperglycemic-Immune Microenvironment to Promote Diabetic Wound Regeneration.

In diabetic wounds, hyperglycemia-induced cytotoxicity and impaired immune microenvironment plasticity directly hinder the wound healing process. Regulation of the hyperglycemic microenvironment and remodeling of the immune microenvironment are crucial. Here, we developed a nanozymatic functionalized regenerative microenvironmental regulator (AHAMA/CS-GOx@Zn-POM) for the effective repair of diabetic wounds. This novel construct integrated an aldehyde and methacrylic anhydride-modified hyaluronic acid hydrogel (AHAMA) and chitosan nanoparticles (CS NPs) encapsulating zinc-based polymetallic oxonate nanozyme (Zn-POM) and glucose oxidase (GOx), facilitating a sustained release of release of both enzymes. The GOx catalyzed glucose to gluconic acid and (H₂O₂), thereby alleviating the effects of the hyperglycemic microenvironment on wound healing. Zn-POM exhibited catalase and superoxide dismutase activities to scavenge reactive oxygen species and H₂O₂, a by-product of glucose degradation. Additionally, Zn-POM induced M1 macrophage reprogramming to the M2 phenotype by inhibiting the MAPK/IL-17 signaling diminishing pro-inflammatory cytokines, and upregulating the expression of anti-inflammatory mediators, thus remodeling the immune microenvironment and enhancing angiogenesis and collagen regeneration within wounds. In a rat diabetic wound model, the application of AHAMA/CS-GOx@Zn-POM enhanced neovascularization and collagen deposition, accelerating the wound healing process. Therefore, the regenerative microenvironment regulator AHAMA/CS-GOx@Zn-POM can achieve the effective conversion of a pathological microenvironment to regenerative microenvironment through integrated control of the hyperglycemic-immune microenvironment, offering a novel strategy for the treatment of diabetic wounds.

Chitosan, Alginate and Polyethylene Glycol Capped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles for Hyperthermia Applications

Functional oxides have been very ingeniously used for diverse applications, recently in biomedical applications. Among the functional oxides, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) have proven to be exceptional for biomedical applications. Chitosan (CS), alginate (Alg) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) have been explored in the synthesis of ZnONPs as potential capping agents for hyperthermia applications. X-rays diffraction (XRD), UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) techniques have been used to analyze the crystallinity, absorbance, morphology and magnetic properties of the samples, respectively. In our research described here the hyperthermia analyses of ZnONPs and PEG, CS and Alg capped ZnONPs were conducted under an applied field of 180 Oe. The results indicated that the samples could reach elevated temperatures that fall within the therapeutic range. A high specific absorbance degree (SAR) was obtained for the capped samples when compared with the pristine sample, making them more suitable for hyperthermia applications.