Curcumin-loaded Nanoparticles Research Articles

Characterization and Therapeutic Potential of Curcumin-Loaded Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles for Interstitial Cystitis Management.

Oxidative stress resulting from reactive oxygen species (ROS) is often considered to be the leading cause of interstitial cystitis (IC), which is a chronic inflammatory disease. Antioxidants have been proven to have promising therapeutic effects on IC. In this study, we present an antioxidant intervention for IC by introducing curcumin-loaded cerium oxide nanoparticles (Cur-CONPs). Recognizing oxidative stress as the primary contributor to IC, our research builds on previous work utilizing cerium oxide nanoparticles (CONPs) for their outstanding antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, given the need to effectively relieve acute inflammation, we engineered Cur-CONPs to harness the short-term radical-scavenging antioxidant prowess of curcumin. Through in vitro studies, we demonstrate that the Cur-CONPs exhibit not only robust antioxidant capabilities but also superior anti-inflammatory properties over CONPs alone. Furthermore, in vivo studies validate the therapeutic effects of Cur-CONPs on IC. Mice with IC subjected to the Cur-CONP treatment exhibited improved micturition behaviors, relief from pelvic pain sensitivity, and reduced expression of inflammatory proteins (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, Cox2). These findings suggest that the synergistic antioxidant properties of the Cur-CONPs that combine the sustained antioxidant properties of CONPs and acute anti-inflammatory capabilities of curcumin hold promise as a novel treatment strategy for IC.

Characterization, in vitro elderly digestion, and organoids cell uptake of curcumin-loaded nanoparticles

Curcumin, a bioactive compound, showed versatile in anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer ability, while their biological fate in elderly is unclear. In this study, curcumin-loaded nanoparticles based on octyl succinate hydrate (OSA) starch and sodium caseinate were prepared and the in vitro elderly digestion and absorption fate was investigated. The loading capacity of curcumin-loaded nanoparticles prepared from OSA starch (HI), sodium caseinate (SC) and OSA starch‑sodium caseinate (HS) were all higher than 15%. Curcumin release behavior of the three nanoparticles during in vitro digestion conformed to first-order kinetics. Meanwhile, the transport efficiency of curcumin for HI, SC, and HS increased significantly than the free curcumin (near 1-fold), and the permeability were 1.9, 2.0, and 2.0 times, respectively. The gene expressions of TNF-α, SREBP2 and NPC1L1 in the organoids were enhanced than control group. This study provided scientific reference and guidance for encapsulation of curcumin and digestion and absorption properties in elderly.

Nutritional intervention based on curcumin-loaded polysaccharides nanoparticle for synergetic improvement of ulcerative colitis

Nutritional intervention based on curcumin-loaded polysaccharides nanoparticle for synergetic improvement of ulcerative colitis

Improvement effect of different polysaccharides on the functional properties of curcumin-loaded rice protein hydrolysate nanoparticles

The impact of different polysaccharides (chitosan, pectin, and chondroitin sulfate) on the functional properties of curcumin-loaded rice protein hydrolysates (RPH) was explored. Polysaccharides provided more surface charges for RPH nanoparticles, and enhanced the hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions between nanoparticles, thus contributing to the stability of RPH nanoparticles against environmental changes. Notably, RPH nanoparticles coated with chitosan have the largest surface charge (+33.04 mV) and best pH, ionic strength, and thermal stability. Furthermore, RPH nanoparticles coated with chondroitin sulfate had a more compact spherical structure with smaller particle size (111.23 nm), and possessed desirable sustained release properties. This study demonstrated the potential of polysaccharides to enhance the functional properties of rice protein-derived delivery systems for hydrophobic biomolecules, and suggested the necessity of polysaccharide type for creating ideal protein-polysaccharide composite nanoparticles.

Folate-Modified Curcumin-Loaded Nanoparticles for Overcoming Delivery Challenges in Cancer Treatment: A Narrative Review.

Curcumin, as an anti-tumor agent, is not widely used in cancer treatment due to the lack of effective levels of its metabolites in cancerous tissue. Addressing the barriers to the carrier and delivery of drugs to the specific sites of therapeutic action while reducing side effects is a priority. Folate receptor expression is high in malignant and low in normal cells. Folate as a targeted ligand could selectively target cancer cells. Thus, this narrative review aimed to provide an overview of the studies that have investigated the different types of folate-modified curcumin as a carrier and deliverer and their structural properties that enhance therapeutic drug efficacy. A literature search was performed using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. Thirty-eight preclinical studies addressing this topic were identified. The findings of the current review have shown that folate-modified nanoparticles containing curcumin as a promising therapeutic approach can be effective in improving different types of cancers. In vitro studies have shown a higher cellular uptake and cytotoxicity effect, higher cell inhibition, and anti-proliferation with a lower dosage of curcumin. In vivo studies have shown more tumor suppression and smaller tumor volume without toxicity after the administration of folate-modified nanoparticles containing curcumin. Future clinical trials are needed to confirm the beneficial effect of folate-modified curcumin as a new drug delivery platform for cancer treatment.

PLGA-LEC/F127 hybrid nanoparticles loaded with curcumin and their modulatory effect on monocytes.

Aim: To investigate the effect of surfactant type on curcumin-loaded (CUR) PLGA nanoparticles (NPs) to modulate monocyte functions. Materials & methods: The nanoprecipitation method was used, and PLGA NPs were designed using PluronicF127 (F127) and/or lecithin (LEC) as surfactants. Results: The Z-average of the NPs was <200nm, they had a spherical shape, Derjaguin-Muller-Toporov modulus >0.128MPa, they were stable during storage at 4°C, ζ-potential ∼-40mV, polydispersity index <0.26 and % EE of CUR >94%. PLGA-LEC/F127NPs showed favorable physicochemical and nanomechanical properties. These NPs were bound and internalized mainly by monocytes, suppressed monocyte-induced reactive oxygen species production,and decreased the ability of monocytes to modulate T-cell proliferation. Conclusion: These results demonstrate the potential of these NPs for targeted therapy.

Effect of gum Arabic coating on release behavior of curcumin-loaded kafirin and zein composite nanoparticles

Prolamins extracted from cereal crops have shown promise as delivery vessels for hydrophobic bioactives. Kafirin, the main prolamin in sorghum, is more hydrophobic than its better known relative, zein, which makes kafirin an interesting candidate for encapsulation applications. Our aim was to find effective ways to fabricate kafirin-based nanoparticles with excellent encapsulation and release properties in simulated gastrointestinal fluids. We introduced gum Arabic (GA), a food-grade polysaccharide to stabilize kafirin by collectively forming nanoparticles. We measured encapsulation and release properties of the resulting nanoparticles using curcumin as a model drug, and compared them to zein-based nanoparticles. Electrostatic, hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions drove the formation of curcumin-loaded GA-kafirin and GA-zein nanoparticles. The presence of GA coating improved encapsulation efficiency and pH stability of curcumin-loaded nanoparticles over a wide pH range of 3–8, and markedly slowed down curcumin release in simulated gastrointestinal fluids, especially for kafirin nanoparticles compared to zein-based ones. Regarding the release mechanism, binding forces between kafirin and curcumin played a more significant role in the slow-release rate in gastric fluid compared to the digestibility resistance characteristics of zein. These results indicate that GA-coated kafirin nanoparticles can significantly improve the bioavailability of hydrophobic nutrient molecules, such as curcumin. Our results provide a foundation for their application in sustained-release delivery systems and nutritious drinks, thereby expanding the range of prolamin species for encapsulation applications.

Studying the Characteristics of Curcumin-Loaded Liposomal Nanoparticles

Overview: In this study, the physical and chemical properties of curcumin are extensively examined when it is incorporated into liposome nanoparticles, to enhance its therapeutic potency and bioavailability. Curcumin, a plant-derived polyphenol, has garnered attention for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activities. However, its clinical utility is hindered by several limitations, including poor water solubility, inadequate absorption, and rapid metabolism. By leveraging the potential of liposome nanoparticles to improve drug delivery and efficacy, this research aims to overcome these obstacles and unlock the full therapeutic potential of curcumin. Methods: Curcumin-loaded liposome nanoparticles (CLLNs) were fabricated employing a thin-film hydration method, after sonication. The physicochemical attributes of CLLNs were subsequently characterized, encompassing particle size and zeta potential assessment utilizing dynamic light scattering (DLS), encapsulation efficiency (EE%) and drug loading efficiency (DLE%) determination through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), investigation of in vitro drug release patterns in simulated biological fluids. Results: The CLLNs optimized in this study had a mean particle diameter of less than 250 nm and a negative surface charge, implying good stability and potential for cellular uptake. The encapsulation efficiency and drug loading efficiency were both found to be high, indicating that curcumin was effectively loaded into the liposomes. In vitro release testing showed a sustained release pattern of curcumin from the CLLNs. Conclusion: The research offered important observations about the advantageous physicochemical features of curcumin-loaded liposome nanoparticles, highlighting their potential as a cutting-edge delivery system for curcumin. The study demonstrated that CLLNs have high encapsulation and drug loading efficiencies, as well as controlled release and improved stability, which suggests their ability to enhance the therapeutic benefits of curcumin. These findings set the stage for future in vivo and clinical trials to fully investigate the potential of CLLNs in medical applications.

An Effective Method to Prepare Curcumin-Loaded Soy Protein Isolate Nanoparticles Co-Stabilized by Carrageenan and Fucoidan.

In this study, a novel and simple strategy is proposed based on 3D network formed by easily blending polysaccharide carrageenan (Car) and fucoidan (Fuc) without a crosslinker. The Fuc/Car dual coating effectively assists the self-assembly of soy protein-isolated (SPI)/curcumin (Cur, C) composite microcapsules (SPI/C) and achieves an excellent curcumin encapsulation efficiency (EE) up to 95.28% with a 4.16% loading capacity (LC) under optimal conditions. The resulting nanocomposites achieved a satisfying redispersibility in aqueous solution and enhanced the water solubility with a lower size dispersity index (PDI) of 0.12 and a larger zeta potential of -29.67 mV. The Fuc/Car double-layer network not only dramatically improved its thermal stability and photostability, but also provided controlled release and enhanced antioxidant activity in in vitro conditions. The underlying mechanism of the self-assembly of the curcumin-loaded nanoparticles was also addressed. The results proved the feasibility of the encapsulation of unstable hydrophobic bioactive substances (curcumin) with the dual anionic polysaccharide Fuc/Car co-stabilized SPI nanoparticles. This study paves the way for an alternative way of developing novel curcumin delivery systems and will have broad prospects in the pharmaceutical industries.

The application of phenylboronic acid pinacol ester functionalized ROS-responsive multifunctional nanoparticles in the treatment of Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease induced by the complex interactions between the host immune system and the microbiota of dental plaque. Oxidative stress and the inflammatory microenvironment resulting from periodontitis are among the primary factors contributing to the progression of the disease. Additionally, the presence of dental plaque microbiota plays a significant role in affecting the condition. Consequently, treatment strategies for periodontitis should be multi-faceted. In this study, a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive drug delivery system was developed by structurally modifying hyaluronic acid (HA) with phenylboronic acid pinacol ester (PBAP). Curcumin (CUR) was encapsulated in this drug delivery system to form curcumin-loaded nanoparticles (HA@CUR NPs). The release results indicate that CUR can be rapidly released in a ROS environment to reach the concentration required for treatment. In terms of uptake, HA can effectively enhance cellular uptake of NPs because it specifically recognizes CD44 expressed by normal cells. Moreover, HA@CUR NPs not only retained the antimicrobial efficacy of CUR, but also exhibited more pronounced anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress functions both in vivo and in vitro. This provides a good potential drug delivery system for the treatment of periodontitis, and could offer valuable insights for dental therapeutics targeting periodontal diseases.

Curcumin-loaded mesoporous polydopamine nanoparticles modified by quaternized chitosan against bacterial infection through synergistic effect

Clinically, open wounds caused by accidental trauma and surgical lesion resection are easily infected by external bacteria, hindering wound healing. Antibacterial photodynamic therapy has become a promising treatment strategy for wound infection. In this study, a novel antibacterial nanocomposite material (QMC NPs) was synthesized by curcumin, quaternized chitosan and mesoporous polydopamine nanoparticles. The results showed that 150 μg/mL QMC NPs had good biocompatibility and exerted excellent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli after blue laser irradiation (450 nm, 1 W/cm2). In vivo, QMC NPs effectively treated bacterial infection and accelerated the healing of infected wounds in mice.

Eficacia de nuevos viscosuplementos activos en el comportamiento de un modelo experimental de osteoartritis

ObjectiveTo evaluate with an animal model of osteoarthritis (New Zealand rabbits) the effectiveness of treatment with active viscosupplements (hyaluronic acid loaded with nanoparticles (NPs) that encapsulate anti-inflammatory compounds or drugs. Material and methodsExperimental study composed of 5 groups of rabbits in which section of the anterior cruciate ligament and resection of the internal meniscus were performed to trigger degenerative changes and use it as a model of osteoarthritis. The groups were divided into osteoarthrosis without treatment (I), treatment with commercial hyaluronic acid (HA) (II), treatment with HA with empty nanoparticles (III), treatment with HA with nanoparticles encapsulating dexamethasone (IV) and treatment with HA with nanoparticles that encapsulate curcumin (V). In groups II to V, the infiltration of the corresponding compound was carried out spaced one week apart.Macroscopic histological analysis was performed using a scale based on the Outerbridge classification for osteoarthritis. ResultsWe observed that this osteoarthritis model is reproducible and degenerative changes similar to those found in humans are observed.The groups that were infiltrated with hyaluronic acid with curcumin-loaded nanoparticles (V), followed by the dexamethasone group (IV) presented macroscopically less fibrillation, exposure of subchondral bone and sclerosis (better score on the scale) than the control groups (I) (osteoarthritis without treatment), group (II) treated with commercial hyaluronic acid and hyaluronic acid with nanoparticles without drug (III). ConclusionsThe use of active viscosupplements could have an additional effect to conventional hyaluronic acid treatment due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect. The most promising group was hyaluronic acid with nanoparticles that encapsulate curcumin and the second group was the one that encapsulates dexamethasone.

Enhanced Drug Carriage Efficiency of Curcumin-Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles in Combating Diabetic Nephropathy via Mitigation of Renal Apoptosis.

The Curcuma-derived diferuloylmethane compound CUR, loaded on Poly (lactide-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles was utilized to combat DN-induced renal apoptosis by selectively targeting and modulating Bcl2. Upon in silico molecular docking and screening study CUR was selected as the core phytocompound for nanoparticle formulation. PLGA-nano-encapsulated-curcumin (NCUR) were synthesized following standard solvent displacement method. The NCUR were characterized for shape, size and other physico-chemical properties by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy studies. For in vivo validation of nephro-protective effects, Mus musculus were pre-treated with CUR at a dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. and NCUR at a dose of 25 mg/kg b.w. (dose 1), 12.5 mg/kg b.w (dose 2) followed by alloxan administration (100 mg/kg b.w) and serum glucose levels, histopathology and immunofluorescence study were conducted. The in silico study revealed a strong affinity of CUR towards Bcl2 (dock score -10.94 Kcal/mol). The synthesized NCUR were of even shape, devoid of cracks and holes with mean size of ~80 nm having -7.53 mV zeta potential. Dose 1 efficiently improved serum glucose levels, tissue-specific expression of Bcl2 and reduced glomerular space and glomerular sclerosis in comparison to hyperglycaemic group. This study essentially validates the potential of NCUR to inhibit DN by reducing blood glucose level and mitigating glomerular apoptosis by selectively promoting Bcl2 protein expression in kidney tissue.

DESIGN OF JACKFRUIT GUM-BASED GENIPIN CROSSLINKED NANOPARTICLES FOR SUSTAINED RELEASE OF CURCUMIN: OPTIMIZATION AND IN VITRO CHARACTERIZATION

The present work aims to design jackfruit gum-based curcumin-loaded nanoparticles (CUR-NPs) for improved drug entrapment and modified release of CUR using ionotropic gelation. Briefly, the optimization of CUR-NPs was confirmed using a 32 response surface methodology. The diffractogram and thermogram of CUR-NPs confirmed reduction of crystallinity of CUR (optimized batch: F5) due to jackfruit gum and genipin cross-linked polymeric network. The particle size and zeta potential analysis confirmed formation of nanosized and stable CUR-NPs, respectively. Also, the nanoparticles demonstrated 83.99 ± 1.23% entrapment efficiency, whereas they showed 98.36 ± 0.96% of CUR release within 12 h at pH 7.4. The CUR-NPs exhibited good mucoadhesive properties due to the presence of jackfruit gum. Finally, the MTT assay showed a decrease in colorectal cancer cell viability due to tailored CUR release from CUR-NPs. In conclusion, jackfruit gum-genipin-based CUR-NPs offered high entrapment efficiency, tailored releases of CUR, good mucoadhesive property and improved anticancer activity.

Preparation, characterization, and ex-vivo evaluation of curcumin-loaded niosomal nanoparticles on the equine sperm quality during cooled storage

Oxidative damage to sperm during cooled storage is a significant issue, and curcumin, with its antioxidant properties, could be a solution. However, its low bioavailability presents a challenge that this study aims to address. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the potential of curcumin-loaded niosomal nanoparticles (Cur-LNN) to enhance the antioxidant properties of curcumin and its effect on sperm quality during 72 h cooled storage. The thin-film hydration procedure was applied to prepare Cur-LNN. The fabricated noisomal nanocarriers were characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Moreover, the encapsulation and loading efficiency, in vitro release study, and ex-vivo antioxidant functionality of Cur-LNN on the stallion sperm preserved under cooled storage conditions were assessed. The fabricated Cur-LNN was spherical in shape and had an average particle size of 163.1 ± 1.8 nm, a zeta potential of −34.1 ± 1.9 mV, a poly-dispersity index of 0.339 ± 0.045, an encapsulation efficiency of 92.34 ± 0.18 %, and a loading efficiency of 35.57 ± 1.36 %. Ex-vivo evaluation revealed that supplementation of the semen extender with Cur-LNN has the potential to enhance sperm quality by improving total and progressive motility, plasma membrane functionality, and lipid peroxidation. These results demonstrate that Cur-LNN exhibited stronger antioxidant and protective effects than curcumin. Although further in vivo investigations are warranted, our ex-vivo results suggest that Cur-LNN has the potential to attenuate oxidative damage and can be used to fortify the antioxidant capacity of equine semen under cooled storage conditions.

Fenpropathrin provoked kidney damage via controlling the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD–mediated pyroptosis: The palliative role of curcumin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles

This study assessed the ability of formulated curcumin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CU-CS-NPs) to reduce the kidney damage resulting from fenpropathrin (FPN) in rats compared to curcumin (CU) in rats. Sixty male Sprague Dawley rats were separated into six groups and orally administered 1 mL/kg b.wt corn oil, 50 mg CU/kg b.wt, 50 mg CU-CS-NPs /kg b.wt., 15 mg FPN /kg b.wt, CU+ FPN or CU-CS-NPs + FPN for 60 days. Then, serum renal damage products were assessed. Total antioxidant capacity, reactive oxygen species, interleukin 1β (IL-1β), malondialdehyde, NF-κB P65, cleaved-Caspase-1, and Caspase-8 were estimated in kidney homogenates. The cleaved Caspase-3 and TNF-α immunoexpression and pyroptosis-related genes were determined in renal tissues. The results showed that CU-CS-NPS significantly repressed the FPN-induced increment in kidney damage products (urea, uric acid, and creatinine). Moreover, the FPN-associated hypo-proteinemia, renal oxidative stress and apoptotic reactions, and impaired renal histology were considerably repaired by CU and CU-CS-NPs. Additionally, compared to FPN-exposed rats, CU, and CU-CS-NPs-treated rats had considerably lower immunoexpression of cleaved Caspase-3 and TNF-α in renal tissue. The pyroptosis-related genes NLRP3, GSDMD, IL-18, Caspase-3, Caspase-1, IL-1β, Caspase-8, TNF-α, and NF-κB dramatically upregulated by FPN exposure in the renal tissues. Yet, in CU and CU-CS-NPs-treated rats, the gene above expression deviations were corrected. Notably, CU-CS-NPs were superior to CU in preventing oxidative damage and inflammation and regulating pyroptosis in the renal tissues of the FPN-exposed group. The results of the present study conclusively showed the superior favorable effect of CU-CS-NPs in counteracting renal impairment linked to environmental pollutants.

A new green self-assembly strategy for preparing curcumin-loaded starch nanoparticles based on natural deep eutectic solvent: Development, characterization and stability

At present, the primary solvents in nanocarrier systems for curcumin encounter challenges related to rapid degradation, and biosafety of organic reagents, surfactants and lipids, which are not suitable for food applications. Therefore, this research proposed an eco-friendly method for the first time, using choline chloride-lactic acid deep eutectic solvent as a solvent for curcumin and a self-assembly medium for short-chain amylose to prepare curcumin-loaded starch nanoparticles. This study investigated the interactions between curcumin and short-chain amylose as well as improved stability. Curcumin was successfully loaded into starch nanoparticles as demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy analyses. The loading capacity of curcumin-loaded starch nanoparticles on curcumin reached up to 7.99 mg/g, with an encapsulation efficiency of 56.18%. 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy peaks at 93–107 ppm and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy signals at 3386 cm−1 indicated the formation of a non-inclusion complex through hydrogen bond interactions between curcumin and short-chain amylose. While A-type crystalline pattern and weakening ordered crystallization structure were also probed. Additionally, the formation of non-inclusion complex improved the pH stability and photostability of curcumin through physical barrier of starch nanoparticles and the hydrogen bond interaction between curcumin and starch. Overall, this study established a novel and eco-friendly technique for loading and stabilizing curcumin with nanoscale dimensions, offering potential applications in edible packaging and functional foods.

Curcumin-conjugated Nanoparticles: An Approach to Target Mitochondria

Background: Unconjugated nanoparticles used in the treatment of cancer and various metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders exhibit extended blood circulation time, inhibition of enzymatic degradation, and increased chemical stability of the encapsulated therapeutic molecules. However, the unconjugated nanoparticles often show off-target effects and lack of specificity, which limit their applications in the healthcare system. Objective: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound known for its proficiency to scavenge reactive oxygen species attributed to antioxidant activity and anticancer effects associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, is one of the most effective therapeutic agents. Therefore, with respect to chemotherapeutic strategies, the development of mitochondrial targeting curcumin nanoparticles for target-specific drug delivery has been extensively studied. Conclusion: The present review has focused on diverse curcumin-loaded nanoparticles targeting mitochondria along with their improved delivery potential, enhanced localization and biodistribution profile.

Injectable, Antioxidative, and Tissue-Adhesive Nanocomposite Hydrogel as a Potential Treatment for Inner Retina Injuries.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been recognized as prevalent contributors to the development of inner retinal injuries including optic neuropathies such as glaucoma, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, traumatic optic neuropathy, and Leber hereditary optic neuropathy, among others. This underscores the pivotal significance of oxidative stress in the damage inflicted upon retinal tissue. To combat ROS-related challenges, this study focuses on creating an injectable and tissue-adhesive hydrogel with tailored antioxidant properties for retinal applications. GelCA, a gelatin-modified hydrogel with photo-crosslinkable and injectable properties, is developed. To enhance its antioxidant capabilities, curcumin-loaded polydopamine nanoparticles (Cur@PDA NPs) are incorporated into the GelCA matrix, resulting in a multifunctional nanocomposite hydrogel referred to as Cur@PDA@GelCA. This hydrogel exhibits excellent biocompatibility in both in vitro and in vivo assessments, along with enhanced tissue adhesion facilitated by NPs in an in vivo model. Importantly, Cur@PDA@GelCA demonstrates the potential to mitigate oxidative stress when administered via intravitreal injection in retinal injury models such as the optic nerve crush model. These findings underscore its promise in advancing retinal tissue engineering and providing an innovative strategy for acute neuroprotection in the context of inner retinal injuries.

Curcumin-loaded pH-sensitive carboxymethyl chitosan nanoparticles for the treatment of liver cancer

In this study, the pH-responsive API-CMCS-SA (ACS) polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) based on 1-(3-amino-propyl) imidazole (API), stearic acid (SA), and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) were fabricated for the effective transport of curcumin (CUR) in liver cancer. CUR-ACS-NPs with various degrees of substitution (DS) were employed to prepare through ultrasonic dispersion method. The effect of different DS on NPs formation was discussed. The obtained CUR-ACS-NPs (DSSA=12.4%) had high encapsulation rate (more than 85%) and uniform particle size (186.2 ± 1.42 nm). The CUR-ACS-NPs showed better stability than the other groups. Drug release from the CUR-ACS-NPs was pH-dependent, and more than 90% or 65% of CUR was released in 48 h in weakly acid medium (pH 5.0 or 6.0, respectively). Additionally, the CUR-ACS-NPs increased the intracellular accumulation of CUR and demonstrated high anticancer effect on HepG2 cells compared with the other groups. CUR-ACS-NPs prolonged the retention time of the drug, and the area under the curve (AUC) increased significantly in vivo. The in vivo antitumor study further revealed that the CUR-ACS-NPs exhibited the capability of inhibiting tumor growth and lower systemic toxicity. Meanwhile, CUR, CUR-CS-NPs, and CUR-ACS-NPs could be detected in the evaluated organs, including tumor, liver, spleen, lung, heart, and kidney in distribution studies. Among them, CUR-ACS-NPs reached the maximum concentration at the tumor site, indicating the tumor-targeting properties. In short, the results suggested that CUR-ACS-NPs could act a prospective drug transport system for effective delivery of CUR in cancer treatment.