Sustained Drug Release Research Articles

Nefopam HCl in situ mucoadhesive liquid suppository, a potential drug delivery system to enhance bioavailability

Background Nefopam hydrochloride (NPH) is a non-narcotic analgesic that is severely affected by its extensive hepatic metabolism resulting in low oral bioavailability. This study aimed to develop NPH thermosensitive in situ gel to enhance its bioavailability by avoidance of first pass effect through rectal administration. Methods A cold method was employed to develop NPH thermosensitive rectal in situ gel utilizing various concentrations of poloxamer 407 (P 407) and poloxamer 188 (P188) alone or in mixture as thermosensitive polymers and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose K4M (HPMCK4M) as well as carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as mucoadhesive polymers. The achieved formulas were assessed for various in vitro constraints including: solution-gel temperature, gelation time, appearance, pH, gel strength, viscosity, in vitro drug release study. Furthermore, the optimized formula was evaluated for in vivo localization and permeability. Results The obtained outcomes demonstrated a direct correlation between solution-gelation temperatures and poloxamer 188 concentration as well as an inverse correlation with the concentration of both P407 and HPMCK4M. A direct correlation was perceived between the mucoadhesive forces and viscosity with HPMCK4M concentration. Additionally, an inverse correlation was observed between NPH released with HPMCK4M concentration. The optimal NPH gel formula (F8) (18% P407/2% P188 and 0.6%) presented a compatible pH value (7.2±0.35), an acceptable sol-gel T (35.4 °C), gel strength (39.54 ± 0.803), a mucoadhesion force of 6340.6 dyne/cm2 and sustained drug release of 85% at 8 hrs. Additionally it showed sufficient localization and a permeation flux of 0.0398 mg/cm2/h, and apparent permeability (Papp) of 1.99*10−3. Conclusions It was concluded that this drug delivery system may serve as a promising alternative to other dosage forms containing NPH, owing to avoidance of first-pass metabolism, enhanced bioavailability, non-invasiveness, and reduced adverse effects associated with other forms.

Abuse-deterrent wearable device with potential for extended delivery of opioid drugs

Abstract Purpose Unethical attempts to misuse and overdose opioids have led to strict prescription limits, necessitating frequent hospital visits and prescriptions for long-term severe pain management. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a prototype wearable device that facilitates the extended delivery of opioid drugs while incorporating abuse-deterrent functionality, referred to as the abuse deterrent device (ADD). Methods The ADD was designed and fabricated using 3D-printed components, including reservoirs for the drug and contaminant, as well as an actuator. In vitro tests were conducted using a skin-mimicking layer and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) to evaluate the drug release profile and the effectiveness of the ADD abuse-deterrent mechanism. Results Under simulated skin attachment, ADD demonstrated sustained drug release with the potential to persist for up to 200 days. Upon detachment from the skin mimic, the mechanical components of the ADD facilitated immediate exposure of the contaminant to the drug and effectively halted further drug exposure throughout-diffusion. Conclusion Wearable ADD provides a secure and practical solution for the long-term treatment of high-risk medications such as opioids, enhances patient convenience, and addresses important public health concerns.

Formulation of Letrozole-loaded Ethyl Cellulose and Eudragit S100 Nanoparticles by Nanoprecipitation Technique and Determination of Cytotoxic Activity by MTT Assay

Introduction: The major goal of this work is to develop letrozole nanoparticles using the polymer precipitation technique. Formulations were prepared by using Ethyl cellulose and Eudragit S100 as polymers. Methods: By varying drug-polymer ratios, a total of ten formulations were prepared. By altering the drug concentration to polymer, five formulations were prepared with Ethyl cellulose and five with Eudragit S100. All ten formulations were evaluated for different characterization and evaluation parameters such as Entrapment efficiency, Loading capacity and in vitro drug release studies, particle size, stability (zeta potential), surface morphology, and drug-polymer interaction study. Result: In comparison, the NEC 2:1 formulation showed the smallest particle size,high stability, good entrapment efficiency, and sustained drug release. This formulation was further studied to determine the anticancer activity in vitro in the MCF-7 Breast cancer cell line by MTT assay. The results indicated that the prepared formulation exhibited anticancer activity with an IC50 value of 91.26 micromolar. Conclusion: Comparatively, Ethyl cellulose was proven to be a better polymer than Eudragit S100, and the nanoprecipitation technique was considered the most suitable technique for preparing letrozole nanoparticles.

Chitosan-based thermosensitive injectable hydrogel with hemostatic and antibacterial activity for preventing breast cancer postoperative recurrence and metastasis via chemo-photothermal therapy.

Primary resection surgery is a conventional approach in breast cancer treatment, which plays a pivotal role in the prevention of recurrence and metastasis. In this study, an injectable hydrogel comprising chitosan (CS), β-glycerophosphate (β-GP), and dopamine (DA) with near-infrared (NIR) photothermal attributes was developed. The composite hydrogels integrate doxorubicin (DOX), termed DCGD, and can be used for chemotherapy, synergistic photothermal therapy, anti-bacterial and hemostasis. Local administration of injectable DCGD hydrogels into breast cancer resection cavities could prevent the postoperative breast cancer recurrence and metastasis via chemo-photothermal therapy. Additionally, the remarkable hemostatic and anti-bacterial properties of DCGD facilitated postoperative wound healing. Notably, the DCGD hydrogel had a dual pH- and photothermal-responsive DOX release profile, ensuring sustained drug release to residual tumor tissues triggered by NIR laser irradiation and the acidic tumor microenvironment. Histological analyses including H&E, TUNEL, and Ki67 immunohistochemistry confirmed the potent anti-recurrent and anti-metastatic efficacy of DCGD hydrogels. Therefore, the DCDG hydrogels developed in our study had the favorable hemostatic, anti-bacterial, photothermal and drug-loading effects, which provided a new strategy for postoperative breast cancer recurrence and metastasis treatment.

Droplet capture mechanism and sustainable drug release of a titanium mandibular drug reservoir modified by laser grid texturing and silicone oil heat treatment

Droplet capture mechanism and sustainable drug release of a titanium mandibular drug reservoir modified by laser grid texturing and silicone oil heat treatment

Formation and evaluation of doxorubicin and cromoglycate metal-organic framework for anti-cancer activity.

We develop and evaluate copper-based metal-organic frameworks (Cu-MOFs) incorporating cromolyn as a linker to enhance structural stability, drug delivery efficiency, and therapeutic potential, particularly for breast cancer treatment. Two Cu-MOF formulations were synthesized: Cu-MOFs-BDC-DOX (using terephthalic acid) and Cu-MOFs-CROMO-DOX (using cromolyn as a linker). Characterization was performed using SEM/TEM for morphology, and FTIR, XRD, and TGA to confirm structural integrity. Drug encapsulation efficiency and release profiles were assessed, followed by in vitro cytotoxicity, cell migration, and colony formation assays using MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Both formulations demonstrated a high encapsulation efficiency (83-91%) and sustained drug release over 48h at pH 7.4. Cu-MOFs-CROMO-DOX exhibited superior cytotoxicity with an IC50 of 0.88 ± 0.07 µM compared to 7.1 ± 0.11 µM for Cu-MOFs-BDC-DOX. Both formulations inhibit cancer cell migration and colony formation in a dose-dependent manner. The Cu-MOFs-CROMO-DOX formulation demonstrated enhanced therapeutic potential, outperforming its counterpart in targeting breast cancer cells. This study highlights the promise of MOF-based nanocarriers in overcoming the limitations of conventional chemotherapy, offering a pathway to more effective and targeted cancer treatments with reduced side effects.

Dual release scaffolds as a promising strategy for enhancing bone regeneration: an updated review.

Advancements in tissue regeneration, particularly bone regeneration is key area of research due to potential of novel therapeutic approaches. Efforts to reduce reliance on autologous and allogeneic bone grafts have led to the development of biomaterials that promote synchronized and controlled bone healing. However, the use of growth factors is limited by their short half-life, slow tissue penetration, large molecular size and potential toxicity. These factors suggest that traditional delivery methods may be inadequate hence, to address these challenges, new strategies are being explored. These novel approaches include the use of bioactive substances within advanced delivery systems that enable precise spatiotemporal control. Dual-release composite scaffolds offer a promising solution by reducing the need for multiple surgical interventions and simplifying the treatment process. These scaffolds allow for sustained and controlled drug release, enhancing bone repair while minimizing the drawbacks of conventional methods. This review explores various dual-drug release systems, discussing their modes of action, types of drugs used and release mechanisms to improve bone regeneration.

Locally administered liposomal drug depot enhances rheumatoid arthritis treatment by inhibiting inflammation and promoting cartilage repair

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by synovial hyperplasia, where inflammatory macrophages within the joint synovium produce multiple inflammatory cytokines, leading to cartilage damage. The development of therapeutic strategies that combine anti-inflammatory effects and cartilage repair mechanisms holds great promise for effective RA treatment. To address the limitations associated with the off-target effects of intravenous administration and the risk of synovial cavity infection with repeated local injections, we have innovatively developed a liposomal drug depot through hyaluronic acid (HA)-modified liposomes encapsulating dexamethasone sodium phosphate (DSP)-loaded nanogels, termed HA-Lipo@G/D. The nanogels were prepared by ionic cross-linking of chondroitin sulfate and gelatin, both of which have notable cartilage repair properties. In vitro studies demonstrated that this formulation exhibited sustained drug release, enhanced uptake by inflammatory macrophages, reduced secretion of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β), and significantly decreased chondrocyte apoptosis induced by inflammatory factors. Moreover, in vivo assessments in a rat model of collagen-induced arthritis revealed effective accumulation of the liposomal drug depot at the inflamed joint site, resulting in macrophage repolarization and cartilage tissue repair. Our findings provide a synergistic strategy for inhibiting inflammation and mitigating cartilage damage through local joint cavity injection, thereby enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of RA.Graphical

Quercetin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles for enhanced anti-helminthic activity.

Quercetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, exhibits various anti-carcinogenic, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory properties, and anti-helminthic properties. Still, a major portion of orally administered quercetin is metabolized in the intestine and only little amount get absorbed in the portal veins, attributing to its poor bioavailability. The lipid content of food increases the solubility, which inspired us to fabricate lipid-based nanoparticles that will be biocompatible, orally administrable, and enhance the effectiveness of quercetin in hosts. Quercetin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN-Qt) are spherical-shaped, water-soluble in nature, and nanocarriers having a hydrodynamic size of 130.7 ± 42.0 nm showing a drug entrapment efficiency of 79.75 % with sustained drug release of 37.5 ± 1.5 % within the first 24 h at pH 6.4. The drug release was observed till 6 days with 93.7 ± 3.0 % of drug release at pH 7.4. These results suggest improved drug entrapment, high saturation solubility, and better drug distribution. The in-vivo analysis was performed in house rats (Rattus rattus), which were found infected with Syphacia muris, Aspicularis tetraptera, Hymenolepis diminuta, Hymenolepis nana, Cysticercus fasciolaris, Calodium hepaticum, and/ or Trichuris muris. SLN-Qt (200 mg/Kg) treatment showed a significant reduction of parasite egg counts (85.09 ± 15.00 %) of gastrointestinal helminths after 3-dose weekly treatment. Liver histology and biochemical analysis of blood plasma and liver homogenate showed no toxic effects of quercetin and SLN-Qt. Therefore, SLN-Qt presents a promising strategy for delivering poorly soluble drugs and could be a valuable tool in controlling parasitic infections and diseases.

Self-assembling chemodrug fiber-hydrogel for transarterial chemoembolization and radiotherapy-enhanced antitumor immunity.

Hydrogel, as a promising embolic material for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), may fully embolize both major vessels and peripheral microvessels. A self-assembling hydrogel composed of chemotherapeutic drugs offers significant clinical benefits without carrier introduction. Herein, we developed a sustained drug-releasing complex hydrogel (RKT@gel), which was fabricated by the self-assembly of raltitrexed chemotherapeutic drugs (R@gel), along with the incorporation of kaempferol and tantalum nanoparticles (Ta NPs). Kaempferol enhances the mechanical strength of R@gel and inhibits hypoxia-induced angiogenesis post-embolization, improving embolization effectiveness. In addition to enabling X-ray-guided transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), Ta NPs enhance radiation sensitivity. These synergistic effects of RKT@gel not only significantly induce immunogenic cell death, thereby enhancing the activation of dendritic cells, but also activate major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I)-mediated antitumor immune recognition and cytotoxicity. In vivo, RKT@gel achieves enhanced tumor deposition and sustained drug release, effectively suppressing tumor progression. Additionally, when combined with radiotherapy, RKT@gel achieves efficient antitumor immunoactivation. Overall, this versatile composite hydrogel not only achieves effective embolization therapy but also substantially triggers antitumor immune responses with good biocompatibility. This multifunctional design provides a TACE-based multidisciplinary strategy for HCC.

Study of Drug Release of Diclofenac Sodium Matrix Tablets Using Synergistic Effect of HPMC and Xanthan Gum Polymer

Aims: To check the release efficacy of active pharmaceutical ingredients from tablet dosage form using synthetic and natural polymers. Background: Diclofenac sodium in sustained release manner tablets was created by Xanthan gum, HPMC, and mixed with both polymers to change the concentration ratio. The dosage form of the tablet was examined for the early stage formulation studies such as repose angle, apparent density, compressibility index, and some corporal properties like weight variant, friability, and content of the drug. For post-formulation studies, like in-vitro studies were implemented in a solution of phosphate buffer pH 7.4 for 8 hours. All the corporal properties of the diclofenac sodium tablets were within the limit of tolerance. Objective: The study checked the Diclofenac Sodium release kinetics from synthetic and natural polymer-modified tablets. Method: Following the wet granulation method, we prepared a diclofenac sodium tablet using HPMC and Xanthan Gum Polymer Result: The tablet that contained both HPMC and Xanthan gum (Batch C-I and C-II) shows the best drug content than other polymer-based batches like HPMC (Batch A-I, A-II) and Xanthan gum (Batch B-I, B-II). The great sustained drug release was shown in the HPMC and Xanthan gum mixed polymer-based matrix tablet (Batch C-I). The data showed that the mixing of polymers could lead to sustaining drug release from the formulation. Conclusion: From the research, we can conclude that the diclofenac release % was maximum when we used a combination of both polymers in the tablet dosage form.

Platelet membrane-cloaked biomimetic nanoparticles for targeted acute lung injury therapy.

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a medical condition characterized by significant morbidity and elevated mortality rates; however, to date, there are no clinically approved pharmacological interventions that are both safe and effective for its treatment. In the pathophysiology of ALI, a robust inflammatory response is a critical factor. Dexamethasone (Dex), a potent glucocorticoid, is commonly employed in clinical settings to manage inflammatory conditions. However, the frequent or high-dose administration of corticosteroids can result in significant adverse effects and long-term complications. In this study, we have developed a biomimetic anti-inflammatory nanosystem, designated PM-LPs@Dex, aimed at treating ALI. This system leverages the inherent affinity of platelets for sites of inflammation, alongside the advantageous drug encapsulation properties of liposomes (LPs). By harnessing the suitable physicochemical characteristics of LPs and the distinctive biological functions of platelet membranes (PM), PM-LPs@Dex is capable of stable and sustained drug release in vitro. Experimental results regarding cellular uptake and biodistribution reveal that PM-LPs@Dex is preferentially internalized by inflammatory cells and exhibits enhanced accumulation in inflamed lung tissue compared to LPs@Dex. Pharmacokinetic studies displayed that PM-LPs@Dex showed prolonged circulation time in blood. Additionally, pharmacodynamic assessments demonstrate that PM-LPs@Dex significantly mitigates the severity of ALI, as evidenced by reductions in pulmonary edema, tissue pathology, bronchoalveolar lavage cell counts, protein concentration, and levels of inflammatory cytokines. Notably, PM-LPs@Dex also exhibits favorable biocompatibility. This research is anticipated to contribute novel strategies for the safe and effective targeted management of inflammatory diseases.

Innovative Applications of Bacteria and Their Derivatives in Targeted Tumor Therapy.

Despite significant progress in cancer treatment, traditional therapies still face considerable challenges, including poor targeting, severe toxic side effects, and the development of resistance. Recent advances in biotechnology have revealed the potential of bacteria and their derivatives as drug delivery systems for tumor therapy by leveraging their biological properties. Engineered bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes, along with their derivatives─outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), bacterial ghosts (BGs), and bacterial spores (BSPs)─can be loaded with a variety of antitumor agents, enabling precise targeting and sustained drug release within the tumor microenvironment (TME). These bacteria and their derivatives possess intrinsic properties that stimulate the immune system, enhancing both innate and adaptive immune responses to further amplify therapeutic effects. The ability of bacteria to naturally accumulate in hypoxic tumor regions and their versatility in genetic modifications allow for tailored drug delivery strategies that synergistically enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. This review comprehensively examines the fundamental principles of bacterial therapy, focusing on the strategies employed for bacterial engineering, drug loading, and the use of bacteria and their derivatives in targeted tumor therapy. It also discusses the challenges faced in optimizing bacterial delivery systems, such as safety concerns, unintended immune responses, and scalability for clinical applications. By exploring these aspects, this review provides a theoretical framework for improving bacterial-based drug delivery systems, contributing to the development of more effective and personalized cancer treatments.

Enhanced Anticancer Efficiency of Curcumin Co-Loaded Lawsone Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Against MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cell Lines: Optimization by Statistical JMP Software-Based Experimental Approach.

The present study highlighted enhancing the therapeutic effectiveness of curcumin (CUR) co-loaded lawsone (LS) through a solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs)-based delivery system. The cetyl palmitate (CP), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG), and probe sonication time (PS) were considered as independent variables whereas particle size and % entrapment efficiency (EE) were selected as dependent variables. The CUR-LS-SLN was developed by hot emulsification followed by probe sonication. A 23 factorial design was utilized in formulation development using JMP software version 17. Notably, the particle size and %EE of all the formulations were about 500 nm and greater than 75%, respectively. The zeta potential value was found to be -46.8 mV. From leverage plots significant and sensitive factors on particle size and %EE were identified. Contour plots led to the identification of an optimized formula whereby maintaining CP at 100 mg, PEG 400 at 6 mL, and PS at 10 min the desired particle size and %EE was achieved. TEM studies indicated the spherical shape of the particles. MTT assays of Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) cells showed enhanced efficacy and greater cell inhibition of CUR-LS-SLN and combining both drugs using nanocarriers gave superior inhibition as compared with using either of the drugs evident from IC50 values of 3.7, 9.4, and 2.5 μM, respectively, for CUR, LS, and CUR-LS-SLN. The cells in the combination mostly had irregular cell walls and cell shrinkage was noted and greater cell reduction was also seen. It was found that the enhanced cytotoxicity effect of MCF-7 cells on the developed formulation was attributed to the drug's synergistic actions, more efficient nanocarrier internalizations, and sustained drug release from the formulation. Stability studies indicated that the optimized SLN was stable for 6 months.

Emulgel Containing Metronidazole and Clindamycin for the Treatment of Rosacea

Rosacea is a common skin condition with quite a relevance. It currently affects at least 10% of the European population at some point after the age of 30. It is a chronic disorder that mainly affects the skin on the face and is characterized by outbreaks and remissions. Under normal circumstances, the skin face presents a wide range of commensal organisms, such as Staphylococcus epidermidis or Demodex folliculorum, but dysbiosis of the skin flora plays a relevant role in inflammatory processes and the development of the disease. Metronidazole (MD) is one of the main treatments indicated to reduce redness on the cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead and also to treat flushing, erythema, pimples, and other symptoms due in part to its anti-inflammatory action. On the other hand, clindamycin (CM) is another antibiotic used for rosacea, especially for its action against anaerobic and Gram-positive bacteria. Background/Objectives: This study aimed to develop an emulgel formulation that includes MD and CM, using excipients with non-comedogenic and non-irritating properties. Methods: The formulation was characterised physiochemically, rheological measurements were made, and short-term stability studies were carried out. In vitro release, permeation studies, toxicity an in vitro inflammation model were evaluated in a HaCaT cell model. To determine the interaction between the antibiotics, the minimum inhibitory concentration was determined separately and together using the broth microdilution method. To determine the formulation’s antimicrobial activity, an agar diffusion method was used. Results: The MD-CM-gel droplet size was measured by laser diffraction and the diameter obtained was less than 2.68 ± 0.18 µm in 50% of the particles. Suitable results was observed for the short-term stability. Release and permeation data revealed sustained drug release and adequate permeation through human skin. Non-toxicity was detected and the MD showed an anti-inflammatory effect with non-interference of CM. Also, there is no antagonism between the two antibiotics and the MD-CM-gel shows better results when compared to the formulations with the antibiotics separately and to commercial formulations. Conclusions: It is suggested that, following detailed preclinical and clinical studies, MD-CM-gel could be considered as an alternative for treating rosacea.

Development, Characterization, and Evaluation of Chi-Tn mAb-Functionalized DOTAP-PLGA Hybrid Nanoparticles Loaded with Docetaxel for Lung Cancer Therapy

Background/Objectives: The focus of this study was to prepare and characterize docetaxel (DCX)-loaded lipid/polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPHNps) functionalized with the monoclonal antibody (mAb) Chi-Tn for a potential active targeting approach in lung cancer treatment. Methods: We synthesized DOTAP-PLGA hybrid nanoparticles loaded with DCX and functionalized them with Chi-Tn mAb through a biotin–avidin approach. The physicochemical characterization involved dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The in vitro and in vivo evaluations encompassed uptake studies, cell viability tests, and the assessment of tumor growth control in a lung cancer model. Results: The nanoparticles featured a hydrophobic PLGA core with 99.9% DCX encapsulation efficiency, surrounded by a DOTAP lipid shell ensuring colloidal stability with a high positive surface charge. The incorporation of PEGylated lipids on their surface helps evade the immune system and facilitate Chi-Tn mAb attachment. The resulting nanoparticles exhibit a spherical shape with monodisperse particle sizes averaging 250 nm, and demonstrate sustained drug release. In vitro uptake studies and viability assays conducted in A549 cancer cells show that the Chi-Tn mAb enhances nanoparticle internalization and significantly reduces cell viability. In vivo studies demonstrate a notable reduction in tumor volume and an increased survival rate in the A549 tumor xenograft mice model when DCX was encapsulated in nanoparticles and targeted with Chi-Tn mAb in comparison to the free drug. Conclusions: Therefore, Chi-Tn-functionalized LPHNps hold promise as carriers for actively targeting DCX to Tn-expressing carcinomas.

An overview of uses and effectiveness of intracanal medicaments in endodontics

Intracanal medicaments play a crucial role in endodontics by addressing microbial infections and facilitating the healing of periapical tissues. Their effectiveness lies in their ability to disinfect the root canal system, eliminate biofilms, neutralize bacterial endotoxins, and promote tissue repair. Calcium hydroxide, a widely used traditional medicament, demonstrates strong antimicrobial properties and creates an alkaline environment unfavorable for bacterial survival. However, its limitations against certain resistant pathogens and restricted penetration into dentinal tubules have driven the development of advanced alternatives. Emerging medicaments such as nanoparticle-based formulations and bioglass offer promising solutions by overcoming these limitations. Nanoparticles, with their ability to penetrate complex canal systems, deliver potent antimicrobial effects and enhance disinfection efficiency. Bioglass not only disrupts bacterial activity but also facilitates dentinal remineralization, making it particularly valuable in regenerative procedures. Hydrogels, designed for controlled and sustained drug release, improve the delivery of medicaments into anatomical complexities, enhancing their overall efficacy. Natural products like neem, propolis, and aloe vera are gaining attention for their biocompatibility and antimicrobial capabilities, providing effective alternatives for patients’ sensitive to synthetic agents. These formulations also address concerns about resistance and toxicity associated with conventional options. Advances in delivery systems, including sonic and ultrasonic activation, further amplify the efficacy of both traditional and emerging medicaments. Comparative analyses of these approaches highlight the advantages of integrating innovative technologies with proven methods, enabling clinicians to address complex infections and improve long-term treatment outcomes. The evolving landscape of intracanal medicaments continues to push the boundaries of what can be achieved in endodontics, promising enhanced patient care through effective disinfection and tissue healing.

Progress in the role of nanoparticles in the diagnosis and treatment of bone and joint tuberculosis

Bone and joint tuberculosis (BJTB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), is a prevalent form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis that poses significant challenges to global public health due to difficulties in early diagnosis, prolonged treatment cycles, and drug resistance. Recent advancements in nanotechnology have introduced novel solutions for the early detection and precise treatment of BJTB, leveraging unique physicochemical properties such as high specific surface area, targeted delivery capabilities, sustained drug release, and excellent biocompatibility. In diagnostic applications, nanomaterials markedly enhance the sensitivity and accuracy of detection methods while reducing testing time. These technologies are adaptable to resource-limited settings, enabling earlier patient intervention and mitigating disease progression risk. In therapeutic applications, nanomaterials prolong drug retention in bone tissue through targeted delivery, thereby decreasing medication frequency and minimizing toxic side effects, which significantly improves treatment efficacy. Despite substantial progress, further research is required to address long-term safety concerns, broaden clinical applicability, and evaluate performance under complex pathological conditions. This review summarizes recent advancements in nanomaterials for diagnosing and treating BJTB and identifies key areas for future research, laying the groundwork for advancing precision medicine and personalized treatments.

Chitosan and ibuprofen grafted electrospun polylactic acid/gelatin membrane mitigates inflammatory response.

Electrospun membranes with biomimetic fibrous structures and high specific surfaces benefit cell proliferation and tissue regeneration but are prone to cause chronic inflammation and foreign body response (FBR). To solve these problems, we herein report an approach to functionalize electrospun membranes with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory components to modulate inflammatory responses and improve implantation outcomes. Specifically, electrospun polylactic acid (PLA)/gelatin (Gel) fibers were grafted with chitosan (CS) and ibuprofen (IBU) via carbodiimide chemistry. Our results show that the surface modification strategy endows electrospun membranes with moderate antibacterial activities and sustained release of anti-inflammatory drugs. The electrospun PLA/Gel-CS-IBU membrane showed good antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity as evidenced by suppressing M1 polarization and promoting M2 polarization of macrophages in vitro. Similarly, it induced significantly milder chronic inflammatory responses in vivo than unmodified electrospun membranes. Given the good anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, this strategy might improve the biological performance of electrospun membranes as implants in clinics.

Investigation on the Interaction of Dendritic Core Multi-Shell Nanoparticles with Human Red Blood Cells

The use of nanoparticles is becoming increasingly apparent in a growing number of medical fields. To exploit the full potential of these particles, it is essential to examine their behavior in the blood and their possible interactions with blood cells. Dendritic core multi-shell DendroSol™ nanoparticles (DS-NPs) are able to penetrate into viable layers of human skin, but nothing is known about their interaction with blood cells. In the present study, we analyze the effect of DS-NPs on red blood cells (RBCs) using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), flow cytometry, sedimentation rate analysis, spectrophotometry, and hemolysis assays. DS-NPs labeled with Nile red (NR) were added to RBC suspensions and their accumulation in the area of the RBC membranes was demonstrated by CLSM as well as by flow cytometry. In the presence of DS-NPs, the RBCs show an increased sedimentation rate, which also confirms the binding of the NPs to the cells. Interestingly, in the presence of DS-NPs, the RBCs are stabilized against hypotonic hemolysis as well as against the hemolytic action of Triton X-100. This proven anti-hemolytic effect could be utilized to enhance the circulation time of RBCs loaded with drugs for prolonged sustained release and drug delivery with enhanced bioavailability.