Controlled Release Properties Research Articles

Hybrid poly(lactide-co-glycolide) membranes incorporated with doxycycline-loaded copper-based metal-organic nanosheets as antibacterial platforms.

The rise of antimicrobial resistance necessitates innovative strategies to combat persistent infections. Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) have attracted significant attention as antibiotic carriers due to their high drug loading capacity and structural adaptability. In particular, 2D MOF nanosheets are emerging as a notable alternative to their traditional 3D relatives due to their remarkable advantages in enhanced surface area, flexibility and exposed active region properties. Herein, we synthesized 2D Copper 1,4-benzendicarboxylate (CuBDC) nanosheets and utilized them as a carrier and controlled release system for Doxycycline (Doxy@CuBDC), for the first time. The Doxy@CuBDC nanosheets were subsequently incorporated into poly (DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) electrospun membranes (Doxy@CuBDC/PLGA). The resultant bioactive fibrous membranes exhibited double-barrier controlled release properties, extending the Doxy release up to ∼9 days at pH 7.4 and 5.5. Significant inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were observed. The morphological analyses revealed the deformed bacterial cell structures on Doxy@CuBDC/PLGA membranes that indicates potent bactericidal activity. Furthermore, cytotoxicity assays demonstrated the non-toxic nature of the fabricated membranes, underscoring their potential use for biomedical applications. Overall, the hybrid antibacterial PLGA membranes present a promising strategy for combating microbial infections while maintaining biocompatibility and offer a versatile approach for biomedical material design and surface coatings (e.g., wound dressings, implants).&#xD.

Optimising the production of PLGA nanoparticles by combining design of experiment and machine learning

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a widely used biodegradable polymer in drug delivery and nanoparticle (NP) formulation due to its controlled drug release properties and safety profiles. Among the methods available for NP production, nanoprecipitation is distinguished by its simplicity and scalability. However, it requires careful optimisation to achieve the desired NP characteristics, making the process potentially lengthy and costly. This study aimed to assess and compare the predictive performance of Design of Experiments (DOE) and Machine Learning (ML) models for the optimisation of PLGA nanoparticle size and zeta potential produced by nanoprecipitation. Various ML methods were employed to predict particle size, with Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) identified as the best performing. The key finding is that integrating ML with DOE provides deeper insights into the dataset than either method alone. While ML outperformed DOE in predictive performance, as evidenced by lower root mean squared error values and higher coefficients of determination, both methods struggled to accurately predict zeta potential, generating models with high errors. However, ML proved more effective in identifying the parameters that most significantly influence NP size, even with a smaller DOE dataset. Combining DOE datasets with ML for parameter importance was particularly advantageous in situations where data is limited, offering superior predictive power and the potential to streamline experimental design and optimisation. These results suggest that the synergistic use of ML and DOE can lead to more robust feature analysis and improved optimisation outcomes, particularly for NP size. This integrated approach can enhance the accuracy of predictions and supports more efficient experimental design, streamlining nanoparticle production processes, especially under resource-constrained conditions.

Fabrication and characterization of curcumin-encapsulated composite nanoparticles based on soybean protein isolate hydrolysate/soybean polysaccharides: Interaction mechanism, stability and controlled release properties

This study developed a stable nanoparticle (CUR-SPIH/SSPS) using soybean protein isolate hydrolysate (SPIH) and soybean polysaccharides (SPSS) to protect curcumin (CUR) from degradation during storage and exposure to light and heat conditions, achieving controlled release. The SPIH to SPSS mass ratio of 5:1 gave the CUR-SPIH/SPSS nanoparticles with the highest CUR encapsulation efficiency (95.60 ± 3.00 %) and the strongest antioxidant capacity (90.26 ± 2.42 % and 66.78 ± 1.89 % for ABTS•+ and DPPH radical scavenging ability, respectively), and CUR was successfully encapsulated within the CUR-SPIH/SPSS as evidenced by X-ray diffraction. FTIR and fluorescence spectroscopy analysis confirmed that the interactions in CUR-SPIH/SPSS are primarily driven by electrostatic, hydrogen bonding, and hydrophobic interactions. Moreover, the CUR-SPIH/SPSS nanoparticles significantly enhanced CUR's thermal and UV light stability. The UV degradation kinetics showed that the half-life of CUR-SPIH/SPSS (247.55 min) was 1.61 times longer than that of free CUR (154.03 min). The release rate of CUR incorporated into CUR-SPIH/SPSS was significantly delayed during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. This study introduces an innovative nanoparticle strategy for the stable delivery of lipophilic compounds.

Liposome/chitosan coating film bioplastic packaging for Litchi fruit preservation

Chitosan is an ideal coating film for food preservation, but the performance of a single chitosan coating film is not good. Herein, the liposome was prepared by embedding copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) and thyme essential oil (TEO) in the hydrophilic and hydrophobic double-domain structure formed by phospholipids, and combining with chitosan to obtain a chitosan-based coating film for litchi preservation. The liposome was well-dispersed and stable with an average particle size of about 190 nm. The liposome showed excellent controllable release properties, and the cumulative release rate of TEO was 65.17 % and that of CuNPs was 15.17 % after 7 days. Furthermore, the oxygen and water vapor barrier properties of the coating film were greatly improved. Importantly, the film possessed effective antioxidant, antibacterial activity and excellent safety, which presents a better fresh-keeping effect on litchi. This study provides insights into the design and manufacture of food packaging for controllable and long-lasting preservation.

Development of phage-containing hydrogel for treating Enterococcus faecalis-infected wounds.

Chronic wound infections caused by Enterococcus faecalis pose formidable challenges in clinical management, exacerbated by the emergence of vancomycin-resistant strains. Phage therapy offers a targeted approach but encounters delivery hurdles. Due to their biocompatibility and controlled release properties, hydrogels hold promise as carriers. This study aimed to fabricate phage-containing hydrogels using sodium alginate (SA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and hyaluronic acid (HA) to treat E. faecalis-infected wounds. We assessed the efficacy of these hydrogels both in vitro and in vivo. The hydrogel was prepared using SA-CMC-HA polymers. Phage SAM-E.f 12 was incorporated into the SA-CMC-HA hydrogel. The hydrogel's swelling index was measured after 24 h, and degradation was assessed over seven days. Surface morphology and composition were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Antibacterial activity was tested via optical density (OD) and disk diffusion assays. Phage release and stability were evaluated over a month. In vivo efficacy was tested in mice through wound healing and bacterial count assays, with histopathological analysis. Hydrogels exhibited a swelling index of 0.43, a water absorption rate of %30, and 23% degradation over seven days. FTIR confirmed successful polymer incorporation. In vitro studies demonstrated that phage-containing hydrogels significantly inhibited bacterial growth, with an OD of 0.3 compared to 1.1 for the controls. Hydrogels remained stable for four weeks. In vivo, phage-containing hydrogels reduced bacterial load and enhanced wound healing, as shown by improved epithelialization and tissue restoration. Phage-containing hydrogels effectively treat wounds infected with E. faecalis-infected wounds, promoting wound healing through controlled phage release. These hydrogels can improve clinical outcomes in the treatment of infected wounds.

Triggering Pyroptosis by Doxorubicin-Loaded Multifunctional Nanoparticles in Combination with Decitabine for Breast Cancer Chemoimmunotherapy.

Pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death, holds great promise for breast cancer treatment. However, the downregulation of gasdermin E (GSDME) limits the effectiveness of pyroptosis. To address this challenge, we developed a folic acid-modified and glutathione/reactive oxygen species dual-responsive nanocarrier (FPSD NPs) for the targeted delivery of doxorubicin (DOX). Through the combination with DNA methyltransferase inhibitor decitabine (DAC), the GSDME protein expression was significantly increased in 4T1 cells, resulting in cell swelling and ballooning, which are characteristic features of pyroptosis. In vivo experiments further demonstrated the antitumor efficacy of DAC + DOX@FPSD NPs, and the 4T1-bearing mice treated with DAC + DOX@FPSD NPs exhibited reduced tumor volumes, minimized tumor weights, decreased Ki67-positive cells, increased TUNEL apoptosis ratios, and pronounced lesions in H&E staining. Furthermore, DAC + DOX@FPSD NP treatment could promote pyroptosis-associated antitumor immunity, as evidenced by the increased presence of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells, heightened secretion of tumor necrosis factor-α and interferon-γ, elevated high-mobility group box-1 levels, and enhanced calreticulin exposure. The FPSD nanocarrier developed in this study had favorable stability, active targeting ability, biocompatibility, and controlled release properties, and the DAC + DOX@FPSD NPs represented an approach to antitumor therapy by inducing pyroptosis, which offers a promising avenue for breast cancer treatment.

Synthesis of Reduction-Sensitive Brush-Arm Star Polymers via Combined Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization–Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization and Controlled-Release Properties

Synthesis of Reduction-Sensitive Brush-Arm Star Polymers via Combined Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization–Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization and Controlled-Release Properties

Quantum Insights into Partially Molecular Imprinted Microspheres for Anticancer Therapeutics: Experimental and Theoretical Studies.

Drug solubility is a determining factor for controlled release, and solubility-dependent release kinetics can be modified by changing the drug's state in the polymer matrix through partial molecular imprinting (PMI), although research in this area remains limited. This novel PMI approach creates nanocavities within the polymer by partially retaining the imprinting molecule and trapping the drug. Such a method holds promise for developing advanced biomaterial-based drug delivery systems for anticancer therapies. In this study, we developed microspheres designed for anticancer drug delivery utilizing PMI to enhance controlled release properties. Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) microspheres were partially imprinted with aspirin (ASP) to create nanocavities for gemcitabine (GEM) molecules, inducing a polymorphic shift of GEM within the polymer matrix. This novel PMI approach enhanced drug release properties by enabling control over the drug crystallinity and release rate. The PVA-ASP-GEM complex showed zero-order release kinetics, releasing 21.6% of GEM over 48 h, maintaining steady state release profile. In contrast, nonimprinted PVA-GEM microspheres exhibited first-order kinetics with a faster release of 46.85% in the same period. Quantum insights from density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed the superior stability of the PVA-ASP-GEM complex, with a binding free energy of -56.03 kcal/mol, compared to -29.07 kcal/mol for PVA-GEM. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations demonstrated that ASP's presence created nanocavities that restricted GEM's movement, further contributing to the controlled release. Experimental validation through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the polymorphic transitions within the PVA-ASP-GEM complex. This PMI-based approach offers a promising method for modulating drug release kinetics and improving the stability of anticancer therapeutics, paving the way for innovative biomaterial-based drug delivery systems.

Recent Advances in Ocular Drug Delivery: Insights into Lyotropic Liquid Crystals.

Background/Objectives: This review examines the evolution of lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs) in ocular drug delivery, focusing on their ability to address the challenges associated with traditional ophthalmic formulations. This study aims to underscore the enhanced bioavailability, prolonged retention, and controlled release properties of LLCs that significantly improve therapeutic outcomes. Methods: This review synthesizes data from various studies on both bulk-forming LLCs and liquid crystal nanoparticles (LCNPs). It also considers advanced analytical techniques, including the use of machine learning and AI-driven predictive modeling, to forecast the phase behavior and molecular structuring of LLC systems. Emerging technologies in biosensing and real-time diagnostics are discussed to illustrate the broader applicability of LLCs in ocular health. Results: LLCs are identified as pivotal in promoting targeted drug delivery across different regions of the eye, with specific emphasis on the tailored optimization of LCNPs. This review highlights principal categories of LLCs used in ocular applications, each facilitating unique interactions with physiological systems to enhance drug efficacy and safety. Additionally, novel applications in biosensing demonstrate LLCs' capacity to improve diagnostic processes. Conclusions: Lyotropic liquid crystals offer transformative potential in ocular drug delivery by overcoming significant limitations of conventional delivery methods. The integration of predictive technologies and biosensing applications further enriches the utility of LLCs, indicating a promising future for their use in clinical settings. This review points to continued advancements and encourages further research in LLC technology to maximize its therapeutic benefits.

Carboxymethyl chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel films by incorporating MSNs as ε-PL carrier with pH-responsive controlled release and antibacterial properties

A hydrogel film with pH-responsive release and excellent antibacterial properties was developed by utilizing mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) as carriers for ε-PL. Carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) is grafted onto aminated-MSNs through amine-bond reaction mediated, which is subsequently bound to polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) by esterification reaction. The addition of MSNs and optimization of CMCS proportion improved the dispersion stability of CMCS/PVA, resulting in a TSI value of 0.6 for 1.6CMCS/0.8PVA@MSNs-ε-PL, which is significantly lower than other groups. The proportion increase of CMCS improved the thermal stability and water oxygen barrier capacities of the 1.6CMCS/0.8PVA@MSNs-ε-PL by enhancing cross-linking with MSNs. The 1.6CMCS/0.8PVA@MSNs-ε-PL exhibited pH-responsive release behavior, with the extent of release increasing proportionally with higher pH levels. The 1.6CMCS/0.8PVA@MSNs-ε-PL exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas azotoformans MN10 in vitro, attributed to the ε-PL's ability to damage the bacterial membrane structure. Hence, the 1.6CMCS/0.8PVA@MSNs-ε-PL exhibits significant potential in food preservation.

Novel thermal-regulation and temperature-responsive controlled-release fibermats with porous sheath-core structures

Active regulation of the wound microenvironment as well as on-demand drug delivery have proven to be effective ways to accelerate wound healing, and the development of advanced textiles offers feasibility. A novel fibermat with thermal-regulation and temperature-responsive controlled-release properties was fabricated by using coaxial electrospinning, consisting of porous sheath-core polylactic acid (PLA)/ polyethylene glycol (PEG) fibers. The pore generation in the PLA shell of the PLA/PEG fiber was achieved through a phase separation method. The fiber diameter and pore size of the obtained fiber could be controlled by adjusting the flow rate of shell solution during electrospinning. Increasing the flow rate of shell solution form 0.8 mm·min-1 to 1.4 mm·min-1 resulted in an increase in fiber diameter from 4.8 μm to 15.3 μm, and an increase in pore size from 59.4 nm to 305.6 nm. Due to the high enthalpy and coverage of the PEG core, the PLA/PEG fibermats exhibited excellent thermal-regulation performance, with a surface temperature that was 2.5 °C- 5.6 °C lower than that of pure PLA fibermat during heating process. On-demand release was achieved by directly controlling the core layer of the coaxial PLA/PEG fiber through temperature. The hydrophobicity of the PLA shell initially reduced burst release, followed by increased release as the temperature reached the phase transition temperature of PEG. Furthermore, this advanced fibermat demonstrated desirable moisture permeability, appropriate mechanical properties and good thermal stability, indicating broad potential applications in medical and health fields.

Exploring the insights of bioslurry-Nanoparticle amalgam for soil amelioration.

In response to global agricultural challenges, this review examines the synergistic impact of bioslurry and biogenic nanoparticles on soil amelioration. Bioslurry, rich in N, P, K and beneficial microorganisms, combined with zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized through eco-friendly methods, demonstrates remarkable soil improvement capabilities. Their synergistic effects include enhanced nutrient availability through increased soil enzymatic activities, improved soil structure via stable aggregate formation, stimulated microbial activity particularly beneficial groups, enhanced water retention due to increased organic matter and modified soil surface properties and reduced soil pH fluctuations. These mechanisms significantly impact soil physico-chemical properties including cation exchange capacity, electrical conductivity and nutrient dynamics. This review analyses these effects and their implications for sustainable agricultural practices, focusing on crop yield improvements, reduced chemical fertilizer dependence and enhanced plant stress tolerance. Knowledge gaps such as long-term nanoparticle accumulation effects and impacts on non-target organisms are identified. Future research directions include optimizing bioslurry-nanoparticle ratios for various soil types and developing "smart" nanoparticle-enabled biofertilizers with controlled release properties. This innovative approach contributes to environmentally friendly farming practices, potentially enhancing global food security and supporting sustainable agriculture transitions. The integration of bioslurry and biogenic nanoparticles presents a promising solution to soil degradation and agricultural sustainability challenges.

Antimicrobial Peptide Hydrogel with pH-Responsive and Controllable Drug Release Properties for the Efficient Treatment of Helicobacter pylori Infection.

Helicobacter pylori is the primary cause of gastric adenocarcinoma, which afflicts more than half of the world's population and seriously affects human health. However, achieving efficient treatment of H. pylori infection by effective drug delivery and bioavailability after oral administration remains a challenge due to the harsh microenvironment, short drug retention time, and physiological barriers in the stomach. Moreover, H. pylori has shown resistance to many clinical antibiotics. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) exhibit substantial therapeutic efficacy against H. pylori, while they are not likely to induce drug resistance, suggesting their potential utility for the treatment of diseases related to H. pylori. In this paper, we report the design and synthesis of an AMP (GE33) hydrogel with pH-responsive and controlled peptide release properties, in which the minimal inhibitory concentration of the AMP against H. pylori is as low as 1 μg/mL. GE33 self-assembles into a stable peptide hydrogel under neutral pH conditions but decomposes into monomers or oligomers under acidic conditions. Upon oral administration of the hydrogel, the acidic gastric environment would facilitate rapid release of active AMP molecules from the hydrogel and immediate targeting of H. pylori in the stomach wall. Additionally, the remaining peptide is protected in the hydrogel, extending its retention time in the stomach, so that persistent drug release is achieved. The controlled and sustained release manner of the active molecule GE33, which enhances drug bioavailability, along with its excellent bactericidal efficacy opens a great potential for treating H. pylori infection.

Platelet-cloaked alginate-poly (β-amino ester) a novel platform bioinspired polyelectrolyte nanoparticle for targeted delivery of carboplatin in breast cancer: An in vitro/in vivo study

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has poor prognosis. Carboplatin (Crb) is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, in TNBC but with serious systemic toxicity and poor tumor targeting. Bioinspired drug-loaded platelets (Plt) and Plt-coated nanocarriers evade macrophage phagocytosis by membrane proteins like CD47. The goal of this study was preparation of a novel alginate-poly (β-amino ester) (PβAE) nanoparticles (NPs) for targeted delivery of Crb to TNBC cells by developing and comparison of two bioinspired carriers of Plt membrane (PltM) coated Crb-loaded alginate-poly (β-amino ester) nanoparticles (PltM@Crb-PβAE-ALG NPs) and Plt loaded Crb (Plt@Crb). The NPs were prepared by ionic gelation and subsequently were coated by platelet membrane using ultra-sonication method. The loading efficiency, release profile, and in vitro cytotoxicity of both formulations were evaluated on HUVEC and 4 T1 cells. Additionally, the in vivo tumor targeting, therapeutic efficacy, and organ toxicity of the two formulations were assessed in a murine tumor model. Results showed both Plt@Crb and (PltM@Crb-PβAE-ALG NPs) exhibited high drug loading efficiency, sustained release, enhanced cytotoxicity against 4 T1 cells, and decreased cytotoxicity in normal cells (HUVEC) in vitro. In vivo studies revealed that although both formulations considerably improved tumor inhibition compared to free Crb, but the PltM@Crb-PβAE-ALG NPs demonstrated superior cytotoxicity and therapeutic efficacy, thanks to improved Crb’s internalization efficiency, enhanced stability, and controlled release properties.

Advancing Oil Production Efficiency with Next-Generation Nano emulsion Capsules: Harnessing Doped MgZnO2 for Superior Inhibition of Calcite Scale Formation

Abstract This work presents doped MgZnO2 nano emulsion capsules as a novel approach for reducing calcite scale formation in oil production. The nano emulsion capsules are synthesized via ultrasonication and precipitation methods, with morphology and size distribution analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscope [TEM] and dynamic light scattering (DLS).` with an average particle size of 50 nm. Static scale inhibition tests showed over 90% inhibition efficiency at a Nano emulsion concentration of 100 mg/L. Rigorous static and dynamic scale inhibition testing precipitation and showcases remarkable efficiency exceeding 80% in preventing calcite deposition under simulated conditions. Gravimetric validates cation and online pressure monitoring validate superior performance compared to conventional inhibitors, with up to 30% enhancement in mitigation. The controlled release properties of the Nano emulsion capsule allow for persistent scale inhibition even after 72 hours of continuous operation. Furthermore, ecotoxicity evaluations through bioassays affirm the eco-friendly characteristics of the Nano emulsion technology. As a whole, this research shows how highly promising doped MgZnO2 Nano emulsion capsules are as a long-term, high-performing solution to scale-related problems in the oil sector.

Synthesis of thiomer/nanoclay nanocomposites as a potential drug carrier: Evaluation of mucoadhesive and controlled release properties

Novel thiomer/nanoclay nanocomposites based on a thiomer and montmorillonite (MMT) were prepared in order to obtain a mucoadhesive material with controlled release properties for its potential use as drug carrier. The thiomer was synthesized by immobilization of L-cysteine in alginate mediated by carbodiimide reaction and further characterized by FT-IR and Ellman's reaction. Nanocomposites with growing concentrations of thiomer and MMT were prepared and analyzed by XRD, TGA and TEM. Rheological behavior of nanocomposite in contact with mucin and intestinal mucus were studied as in vitro and in situ mucoadhesion approach, showing until ∼10-fold increasing in the complex viscosity and ∼27-fold in elastic modulus when the amount of thiomer is increased. Higuchi and Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetic models were evaluated in order to study the release of deltamethrin from nanocomposite films. Release profiles showed a retard in the migration of the drug influenced by the amount of MMT (P < 0.05). Diffusion coefficient (D) showed a significant decrease (P < 0.0001) when concentration of MMT is increased reaching D = 4.18 × 10–7 m2 h–1, which resulted ∼7-fold lower in comparison with formulation without MMT. This hybrid nanocomposite can be projected as a potential mucoadhesive drug carrier with controlled release properties.

Prevention of secondary caries using fluoride-loaded chitosan nanoparticle-modified glass-ionomer cement.

To study the effect of incorporating chitosan and fluoride-loaded chitosan nanoparticles into a glass-ionomer cement (GIC) to prevent secondary caries. A standard cervical cavity (mesio-distal width 6mm, cervico-occlusal width 2mm, and depth 2mm) was prepared on 30 molars for the following restoration groups: group 1, conventional GIC restoration; group 2, chitosan (10%) modified GIC restoration; group 3, fluoride loaded chitosan nanoparticles (10%) modified GIC restoration. The restored teeth were subjected to 1,500 thermal cycles before undergoing a multi-species cariogenic biofilm challenge. The restored teeth were examined by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX). Data were analyzed by the one-way ANOVA, Tukey HDS, Kruskal Wallis, and Dunn's test. Micro-CT determined outer lesion depths for groups 1-3 were: 614 ± 20μm, 589 ± 17μm, and 560 ± 19μm respectively. Both modifications with chitosan and fluoride-loaded chitosan nanoparticles significantly affected outer lesion depth (p < 0.05). The modification with fluoride-loaded chitosan nanoparticles statistically significantly decreased the outer lesion depth compared to all other groups (p < 0.05). SEM/EDX showed an increase of calcium, phosphorus, and fluoride at the root dentine adjacent to the restoration in groups 2 and 3 (modified GIC). This increase was statistically significantly higher in the group modified with fluorine-loaded nano chitosan particles compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). Incorporation of 10% chitosan and 10% fluoride-loaded chitosan nanoparticles into GIC restorative material can prevent secondary root caries development. 10% fluoride-loaded chitosan nanoparticles were more effective. Glass ionomer cement modified with fluoride-loaded chitosan nanoparticles may be a promising restorative material in pediatric and preventive dentistry due to their controlled release properties.

Development and evaluation of biodegradable alginate beads loaded with sorafenib for cancer treatment

The study focused on fabricating and characterizing sorafenib-loaded calcium alginate beads for potential cancer therapy application. The beads were synthesized via ionotropic gelation using calcium chloride as a crosslinker. Successful sorafenib encapsulation was confirmed through various analytical techniques, including FTIR, XRD, SEM, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. FTIR analysis showed shifts in characteristic bands, indicating effective drug loading. XRD patterns revealed both amorphous and crystalline characteristics, with peaks corresponding to the drug and polymer. SEM images depicted spherical beads with surface roughness. UV-Vis spectrum analysis demonstrated high encapsulation efficiencies ranging from 99.48 % to 99.82 %, depending on the sorafenib concentration. Biodegradation studies suggested the beads' potential for drug delivery, showing gradual weight and shape loss. Antioxidant assays indicated superior scavenging activity, while antibacterial assays showed good activity against Bacillus species. Cytotoxicity studies revealed specific toxicity against MCF7 breast cancer cells. Drug release data fitted well with the first-order model, indicating controlled release properties. These findings highlight the potential of sorafenib-loaded calcium alginate beads as an effective delivery system for cancer therapy.

Preparation of trilayer film with slow-release, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities and its effects on scallop preservation

Scallops are renowned for their delicious taste and rich nutritional profile, including high contents of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. However, they are highly susceptible to spoilage caused by lipid oxidation and microorganism proliferation. Therefore, in this study, trilayer films based on gelatin/gelatin-dextran/gelatin with different concentrations (0%, 0.3%, 0.6%, 0.9%, and 1.2%, w/w) of active fillers (citronellal and α-tocopherol) were developed to preserve scallop adductor muscle during cold storage. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that each layer was well-bonded with no gaps, indicating the successful preparation of the trilayer films. The addition of citronellal and α-tocopherol resulted in a porous cross-section with a slightly rough surface and increased hydrophobicity of the trilayer films. With increase in concentrations of citronellal and α-tocopherol, the thickness, opacity, antioxidant capability, and antibacterial activity of the trilayer films increased, while water vapor permeability and mechanical properties decreased. Both citronellal and α-tocopherol showed controlled release properties in four food simulants, with the longest release times in 95% (v/v) ethanol solution. Furthermore, the incorporation of 1.2% (w/w) of active fillers into the trilayer film significantly enhanced the chemical and microbiological stabilities of the scallop adductor muscles, thereby prolonging their shelf life by six days during cold storage. The developed trilayer films showed excellent controlled release, antibacterial properties, and antioxidant capabilities, indicating their potential for effective preservation of aquatic food products.

Characterization of pectin-zein nanoparticles encapsulating tanshinone: Antioxidant activity, controlled release properties, physicochemical stability to environmental stresses

Tanshinone compounds, natural antioxidants found in the roots of Salvia subg Perovskia plants, offer various health benefits and can serve as natural food additives, replacing synthetic antioxidants. In this study, the nanoparticles were created using the antisolvent method, which were then evaluated for their antioxidant and antibacterial properties, as well as their ability to release tanshinone and withstand environmental stress. The results of the study demonstrated a significant improvement in the antioxidant capabilities of tanshinone with the nanoparticle coating. The T/Z/P NPs exhibited enhanced tanshinone release under simulated gastrointestinal conditions compared to T/Z nanoparticles. These nanoparticles displayed remarkable stability against fluctuations in environmental pH and thermal conditions. The study also revealed that the critical flocculation concentration of the system was 0.5 M of salt. Furthermore, the T/Z/P NPs showed good stability during storage at 4°C for 30 days, making them an excellent candidate for use in various food products.