Innovative Delivery Research Articles

Revealing the pH-dependent conformational changes in sol g 2.1 protein and potential ligands binding

Sol g 2, a major protein found in the venom of the tropical fire ant (Solenopsis geminata), is well-known for its ability to bind various hydrophobic molecules. In this study, we investigate the binding activity of recombinant Sol g 2.1 protein (rSol g 2.1) with potential molecules, including (E)-β-Farnesene, α-Caryophyllene, and 1-Octen-3-ol at different pH levels (pH 7.4 and 5.5) using fluorescence competitive binding assays (FCBA). Our results revealed that Sol g 2.1 protein has higher affinity binding with these ligands at neutral pH. Relevance to molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were utilized to provide insights into the stability and conformational dynamics of Sol g 2.1 and its ligand complexes. After simulation, we found that Sol g 2.1 protein has higher affinity binding with these ligands as well as high structural stability at pH 7.4 than at an acidic pH level, indicating by RMSD, RMSF, Rg, SASA, and principal component analysis (PCA). Additionally, the Sol g 2.1 protein complexes at pH 7.4 showed significantly lower binding free energy (∆Gbind) and higher total residue contributions, particularly from key non-polar amino acids such as Trp36, Met40, Cys62, and Ile104, compared to the lower pH environment. These explain why they exhibited higher binding affinity than the lower pH. Therefore, we suggested that Sol g 2.1 protein is a pH-responsive carrier protein. These findings also expand our understanding of protein–ligand interactions and offer potential avenues for the development of innovative drug delivery strategies targeting Sol g 2.1 protein.

SynD: Australian synthetic health data community of practice

ObjectivesThe current workflow for health data research in Australia is inefficient. After funding is secured, researchers often face delays of months or years to access the necessary data. Synthetic data could significantly improve the pace and impact of health data research but lacks foundational infrastructure. We aim to develop this infrastructure and support the use of synthetic data to improve data access and research quality across Australia. ApproachWe held two workshops with Australian groups working on synthetic data. The format included participant updates and invited talks on international approaches to synthetic data and health data research. Workshops collected use cases and stimulated discussion on national collaboration. A facilitator then led thematic analysis to draft a consensus roadmap and terms of reference towards national synthetic data infrastructure. ResultsWe recruited 18 participants. Participants were cross sectoral: universities (9), research funding bodies (5), state health departments (4). Represented six states and territories: Queensland (6), New South Wales (3), Victoria (3), Western Australia (3), Australian Capital Territory (2), South Australia (1). Gender: women (11), men (7). The roadmap includes stakeholder engagement, a governance framework, and training events. ConclusionSynD is an Australian community of practice for synthetic health data. Our mission is to unlock the value of health information through synthetic data to advance research, education, innovation and service delivery within the health and care sector. This collaborative effort should ensure a harmonised approach to the safe and effective utilisation of synthetic data to enhance health outcomes across Australia.

Lyotropic liquid crystal emulsions of LAVR-289: Influence of internal mesophase structure on cytotoxicity and in-vitro antiviral activity

Emerging and reemerging viruses pose significant public health threats, underscoring the urgent need for new antiviral drugs. Recently, a novel family of antiviral acyclic nucleoside phosphonates (ANP) composed of a 4-(2,4-diaminopyrimidin-6-yl)oxy-but-2-enyl phosphonic acid skeleton (O-DAPy nucleobase) has shown promise. Among these, LAVR-289 stands out for its potent inhibitory effects against various DNA viruses. Despite its efficacy, LAVR-289s poor water solubility hampers effective drug delivery. To address this, innovative delivery systems utilizing lipidic derivatives have been explored for various administration routes. Submicron lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs) are particularly promising drug carriers for the encapsulation, protection, and delivery of lipophilic drugs like LAVR-289.This study focuses on developing submicron-sized lipid mesophase dispersions, including emulsified L2 phase, cubosomes, and hexosomes, by adjusting lipidic compounds such as Dimodan® U/J, Lecithins E80, and Miglyol® 812 N. These formulations aim to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of LAVR-289. In vitro evaluations demonstrated that LAVR-289-loaded LLCs at a concentration of 1 µM efficiently inhibited vaccinia virus in infected human cells, with no observed cytotoxicity. Notably, hexosomes exhibited the most favorable antiviral outcomes, suggesting that the internal mesophase structure plays a critical role in optimizing the therapeutic efficacy of this drug class.

A Spironolactone-Based Prototype of an Innovative Biomedical Patch for Wound Dressing Applications.

The electrospinning process is an effective technique for creating micro- and nanofibers from synthetic and natural polymers, with significant potential for biomedical applications and drug delivery systems due to their high drug-loading capacity, large surface area, and tunable release times. Poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) stands out for its excellent thermo-mechanical properties, biodegradability, and bioabsorbability. Electrospun PLLA nanofibrous structures have been extensively investigated as wound dressings, sutures, drug delivery carriers, and tissue engineering scaffolds. This study aims to create and characterize electrospun PLLA membranes loaded with spironolactone (SP), mimicking active compounds of Ganoderma lucidum (GL), to develop a biodegradable patch for topical wound-healing applications. GL, a medicinal mushroom, enhances dermal wound healing with its bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides and ganoderic acids. Focusing on GL extracts-obtained through green extraction methods-and innovative drug delivery, we created new fibers for wound-healing potential applications. To integrate complex mixtures of bioactive compounds into the fibers, we developed a prototype using a single pure substance representing the extract mixture. This painstaking work presents the results of the fabricating, wetting, moisture properties, material resilience, and full characterization of the product, providing a robust rationale for the fabrication of fibers imbued with more complex extracts.

Nanotechnology advancements in groundwater remediation: A comprehensive analysis of current research and future prospects

Groundwater contamination is a critical environmental issue with vital health implications. This review evaluates the advancements in nanotechnology for groundwater remediation, highlighting major findings and their relevance to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Key findings include the superior adsorption capabilities of multi-walled carbon nanotubes functionalized with various groups for removing heavy metals and aromatic pollutants, outperforming traditional sorbents. The review also discusses the potential of nanomaterials like zero-valent iron nanoparticles for effective contaminant degradation. Despite promising results in the studies, challenges such as the movement and dispersion of engineered nanomaterials in porous media and the need for innovative delivery methods are identified. Furthermore, this review explores the environmental and health risks associated with the use of nanomaterials, emphasizing the need for risk assessments to ensure safe application. The novel delivery methods assessed, such as the use of groundwater circulation wells and the combination of nanoremediation with other techniques like bioremediation, demonstrate potential to enhance remediation efficiency. The integration of nanotechnology in groundwater remediation directly contributes to Clean Water and Sanitation by providing innovative solutions for the purification of water resources. Advanced nanomaterials not only improve contaminant removal efficiency but also promote sustainable water management practices. Additionally, the environmental benefits align with Life on Land, as the reduction of hazardous substances in groundwater protects terrestrial ecosystems and promotes biodiversity conservation. This review study aims to enhance understanding and identify future opportunities for nanotechnology in groundwater remediation. By addressing current challenges and proposing innovative solutions, this review underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration in advancing sustainable development.

Bladder sparing options for muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

This review critically evaluates the current state of bladder-sparing options in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and provides an overview of future directions in the field. Bladder-sparing treatments have emerged as viable alternatives to radical cystectomy (RC) for selected patients with MIBC, especially in those who are unfit for RC or elect bladder preservation. Numerous studies have assessed the efficacy of trimodal therapy (TMT), with outcomes comparable to RC in a subgroup of well selected patients. Combining immunotherapy with conventional treatments in bladder-sparing approaches can yield promising outcomes. Current research is making significant progress in optimizing treatment protocols by exploring new combinations of systemic therapy agents, innovative drug delivery methods, and biomarker-based approaches. Furthermore, clinical markers of response are being tested to ensure adequate response assessment. Bladder preservation promise to offer a viable alternative to RC for selected patients with MIBC with the potential to improve patient quality of life. Careful patient selection and ongoing research are essential to optimize patient selection, response assessment, and salvage strategies. As evidence continues to evolve, the role of bladder preservation in MIBC is likely to expand, providing patients with more treatment options tailored to their needs and preferences.

Targeted Drug Delivery for Precision Mitochondrial Therapy in Osteoporosis: Therapeutic Strategies and Advances

Osteoporosis (OP) remains a significant global health challenge, marked by high prevalence and considerable economic burden, yet effective therapeutic options remain limited. Central to the pathogenesis of OP is mitochondrial dysfunction, which adversely impacts bone formation and resorption. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the complex relationship between mitochondrial function and OP, elucidating critical molecular mechanisms and identifying promising therapeutic agents. Among these, zoledronic acid and resveratrol stand out, demonstrating significant efficacy in enhancing mitochondrial functions and enhancing bone density in both preclinical models and clinical trials. Moreover, innovative drug delivery systems, such as mitochondrial-targeted nanodelivery systems and localized delivery methods, have been developed to ensure precise targeting and reduce systemic side effects, thereby enhancing bioavailability and therapeutic outcomes. By delving into these advancements, this review seeks to facilitate the translation of mitochondrial-targeted therapies from preclinical research to clinical application, ultimately advancing OP management and improving patient outcomes.

Transformative Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Pharmaceutical Sector

Background: The pharmaceutical sector is a critical component of healthcare, driving innovation in drug discovery, development, and delivery. With the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI), digital health technologies, and biotechnology, the industry is transforming rapidly. This review examines the key areas of the pharmaceutical industry and highlights the growing impact of AI in enhancing various processes, from drug discovery to clinical trials. To explore the applications of AI in drug discovery, development, manufacturing, clinical trials, personalized medicine, and regulatory compliance. This review also addresses the challenges, such as data privacy and interoperability, that accompany the adoption of AI in the pharmaceutical sector. Methods: A comprehensive review of existing literature and case studies on the application of AI in pharmaceutical research and operations was conducted. Key areas of focus include AI's role in predictive analytics, target identification, manufacturing, supply chain management, clinical trial optimization, and pharmacovigilance. Results: AI significantly enhances drug discovery by improving target identification, predictive modeling, and high-throughput screening. It optimizes manufacturing through real-time quality control and process automation. In clinical trials, AI facilitates patient recruitment and adaptive trial designs, while in personalized medicine, it enables biomarker discovery and treatment optimization. AI also supports regulatory compliance through automated monitoring and risk assessment. Conclusion: AI is transforming the pharmaceutical sector, making processes more efficient, precise, and tailored to individual patients. However, challenges such as data privacy, ethical considerations, and interoperability must be addressed to fully harness AI's potential. Standardization and collaboration will be essential in driving the next phase of innovation in pharmaceutical development and healthcare delivery.

Senior-Focused Primary Care Organizations Increase Access For Medicare Advantage Members, Especially Underserved Groups.

Population-based payment in Medicare Advantage (MA) can foster innovation in care delivery by giving risk-bearing providers flexibility and strong incentives to enhance care and engage patients. This may particularly benefit historically underserved groups for whom payments often exceed costs. In this study, using data from Humana MA plans, we examined "senior-focused" primary care organizations that are supported predominantly by population-based payments in contracts with MA plans. We explored whether such organizations supported by such payment are associated with better care and improved equity compared with other primary care organizations receiving other forms of payment in MA. Analyses of data from 462,872 MA beneficiaries in 2021 showed that senior-focused primary care organizations served more Black and dually eligible beneficiaries than other primary care organizations serving MA beneficiaries, and regression-adjusted analysis showed that senior-focused primary care patients received 17percent more primary care visits. Differences were largest among Black and dual-eligible beneficiaries. These findings suggest that risk-bearing organizations in MA are responding to current payment dynamics and providing enhanced care and access to patients, particularly historically underserved populations.

Unlocking the Potential of Drug Delivery Systems: A Comprehensive Review of Formulation Strategies and Technologies in the Field of Pharmaceutics

: The creation of innovative drug delivery systems to enhance therapeutic effectiveness, safety, and patient compliance has resulted in considerable developments in pharmaceutics in recent years. The most recent formulation techniques and technologies are reviewed in this article to improve medication distribution and accomplish specific therapeutic goals. : This article thoroughly summarizes the most recent formulation techniques and technologies used to enhance medication delivery and provide specific therapeutic effects. It discusses the variety of medication delivery methods, including nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, and dendrimers, and explores the application of nanotechnology and biotechnology in drug delivery. Additionally, the paper emphasizes the significance of targeted drug delivery systems and their capacity to cross biological barriers including the blood-brain barrier and tumor microenvironment. : The review also addresses the challenges faced in developing and commercializing drug delivery systems and suggests potential solutions to overcome them. Furthermore, the article emphasizes the role of computational modeling and simulation in designing and optimizing drug delivery systems. : Overall, this review paper offers insightful information for pharmaceutics researchers, scientists, and practitioners that will help in the creation of novel drug delivery systems that improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Nanotechnology: Current Developments, Applications and Patents for Non-invasive Topical Cosmetics and Dermatological Therapeutic Delivery

: Nanotechnology exhibits the advancement in the field of invention, by improving the potency of the formulation through the delivery of inventive solutions. To resolve several limita-tions related to conventional formulations, nanotechnology applications are increasing in the cosmetics and dermatological area. Cosmetic and dermatological preparations are considered a thriving branch of the body care arena and their usage has increased dramatically through the past years. Scientists are designing innovative delivery mechanisms and emerging innovations that are presently being utilized in the development of cosmetics. Inventive nanocarriers such as nio-somes, liposomes, microemulsions, nanoemulsions, solid-lipid nanoparticles, nanospheres, and nanostructured (lipid) carriers have substituted the use of traditional drug delivery. These innova-tive nanocarriers have the convenience of better skin permeation, sustained and controlled drug delivery, precise location, higher stability, and greater incorporated capability. Since the usage of cosmetics has increased, the usual delivery system has been substituted by modern delivery ap-proaches. The introduction of newer advancements and novel drug delivery systems make cos-metics and cosmeceuticals more popular with increased market share. This review article on nan-otechnology employed in cosmetics and dermatology emphasizes the numerous innovative nanocarriers designed for cosmetic and dermatologic drug delivery, their negative and positive aspects, and their toxicity.

In vitro dissolution of encapsulated or dispersed vitamin E and cholesterol is correlated with preservation of refrigerated ovine sperm

BACKGROUND: Vitamin E (α‐tocopherol) and cholesterol are crucial components in cellular protection and physiological processes. Their uses in biological media face challenges due to their poor solubility and stability. OBJECTIVE: The study investigated the complex interactions of these bioactive compounds in various encapsulation systems of cyclodextrin and liposome, as well as dispersion in PEG-6000, in an attempt to improve the viability, motility, and preservation of ovine sperm cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The work explored the in vitro dissolution kinetics of vitamin E (α‐tocopherol) and cholesterol using semi-empirical models. RESULTS: The release profiles of VitE and Chl varied considerably, depending on the specific carrier systems. For liposome-loaded VitE and Chl, the Korsmeyer-Peppas model gave the best fit; for CD/VitE and CD/Chl, the Higuchi model provided the best fit, whereas for PEG-6000 dispersions (VitE and Chl) both the Higuchi and Korsmeyer-Peppas models demonstrated the excellent fit. All systems indicated a Fickian diffusion mechanism dictated by the concentration gradient. The delivery of VitE and Chl with CD, liposome and PEG dispersion significantly increased sperm mobility and motility. The effect on the VCL parameter was the greatest by liposome-loaded VitE and Chl, followed by CD encapsulation and PEG-6000 dispersion. CONCLUSION: The dynamics of vitamin E and cholesterol within innovative delivery systems offers valuable insights into the development of advanced solutions in reproductive health, particularly on improving the viability, motility of refrigerated ovine sperm cells.

Synthesis and in vitro study of biodegradable and thermoresponsive polymer based on polysuccinimide for drug delivery

Hydrogels, defined as polymer networks with a high water content and insoluble in water, have emerged as pivotal materials in biomedical research due to their resemblance to the natural extracellular matrix. The aim of this study is to develop an injectable, thermoresponsive, and biodegradable hydrogel. The hydrogel (PSI-t) was derived from poly (aspartic acid) (PSI) by grafting hydrophobic dodecylamine (DA) and hydrophilic ethanolamine (EA) groups onto its backbone. PSI-t was found to exhibit a unique sol state at room temperature, which facilitates facile injection, and undergoes rapid gelation at physiological temperatures, highlighting its potential as an injectable thermosensitive hydrogel for targeted drug delivery. In vitro tests confirmed the biocompatibility of the thermosensitive hydrogel, and sustained drug release studies using the model drug, acetaminophen (AP), underscored the efficacy of the hydrogel as a controlled release vehicle. Furthermore, the hydrogel was found to be easily eliminated through bio-hydrolysis, thus enabling prolonged drug effects while mitigating any potential toxicity. These findings suggest that PSI-t is a promising candidate for an innovative and injectable drug delivery system in biomedical applications.

The Antitumour Mechanisms of Carotenoids: A Comprehensive Review.

Carotenoids, known for their antioxidant properties, have garnered significant attention for their potential antitumour activities. This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the diverse mechanisms by which carotenoids exert antitumour effects, focusing on both well-established and novel findings. We explore their role in inducing apoptosis, inhibiting cell cycle progression and preventing metastasis by affecting oncogenic and tumour suppressor proteins. The review also explores the pro-oxidant function of carotenoids within cancer cells. In fact, although their overall contribution to cellular antioxidant defences is well known and significant, some carotenoids can exhibit pro-oxidant effects under certain conditions and are able to elevate reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in tumoural cells, triggering mitochondrial pathways that would lead to cell death. The final balance between their antioxidant and pro-oxidant activities depends on several factors, including the specific carotenoid, its concentration and the redox environment of the cell. Clinical trials are discussed, highlighting the conflicting results of carotenoids in cancer treatment and the importance of personalized approaches. Emerging research on rare carotenoids like bacterioruberin showcases their superior antioxidant capacity and selective cytotoxicity against aggressive cancer subtypes, such as triple-negative breast cancer. Future directions include innovative delivery systems, novel combinations and personalized treatments, aiming to enhance the therapeutic potential of carotenoids. This review highlights the promising yet complex landscape of carotenoid-based cancer therapies, calling for continued research and clinical exploration.

Next-generation pediatric care: nanotechnology-based and AI-driven solutions for cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal disorders.

Global pediatric healthcare reveals significant morbidity and mortality rates linked to respiratory, cardiac, and gastrointestinal disorders in children and newborns, mostly due to the complexity of therapeutic management in pediatrics and neonatology, owing to the lack of suitable dosage forms for these patients, often rendering them "therapeutic orphans". The development and application of pediatric drug formulations encounter numerous challenges, including physiological heterogeneity within age groups, limited profitability for the pharmaceutical industry, and ethical and clinical constraints. Many drugs are used unlicensed or off-label, posing a high risk of toxicity and reduced efficacy. Despite these circumstances, some regulatory changes are being performed, thus thrusting research innovation in this field. Up-to-date peer-reviewed journal articles, books, government and institutional reports, data repositories and databases were used as main data sources. Among the main strategies proposed to address the current pediatric care situation, nanotechnology is specially promising for pediatric respiratory diseases since they offer a non-invasive, versatile, tunable, site-specific drug release. Tissue engineering is in the spotlight as strategy to address pediatric cardiac diseases, together with theragnostic systems. The integration of nanotechnology and theragnostic stands poised to refine and propel nanomedicine approaches, ushering in an era of innovative and personalized drug delivery for pediatric patients. Finally, the intersection of drug repurposing and artificial intelligence tools in pediatric healthcare holds great potential. This promises not only to enhance efficiency in drug development in general, but also in the pediatric field, hopefully boosting clinical trials for this population. Despite the long road ahead, the deepening of nanotechnology, the evolution of tissue engineering, and the combination of traditional techniques with artificial intelligence are the most recently reported strategies in the specific field of pediatric therapeutics.

Ferrocene-functionalized magnetic core-shell nanoparticles based on hydrosilylation reaction for pH-responsive doxorubicin delivery system

This study describes the development of an innovative pH-sensitive drug delivery system (DDS) utilizing ferrocene (Fc) and magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for cancer therapy. One potential method for generating a diverse range of functional NPs involves attaching functional substances to MNPs. In this investigation, we display the successful modification of Fe3O4 NPs by an Fc derivative (4-Ferrocenylbutyl)dimethylsilane through a hydrosilylation reaction toward the synthesis of the Fe3O4@SiO2@VTES@Fc nanocarrier (NC). The doxorubicin (DOX) drug was loaded onto Fe3O4@SiO2@VTES@Fc NC with a drug loading capacity of about 80 % via π-π stacking interactions. Also, the prepared materials were thoroughly characterized using FT-IR, XRD, FE-SEM, EDX-MAP, VSM, DAPI, MTT, antioxidants, and CV techniques. In vitro studies on the release of DOX from Fe3O4@SiO2@VTES@Fc NC indicated a pH-responsive behavior with a lower release rate (< 10 %) at pH 7.4 compared to pH 5 (approximately 70 %) over a period of 96 h. Moreover, cytotoxicity assessments demonstrated notable cytotoxic effects of DOX-loaded Fe3O4@SiO2@VTES@Fc on MCF-7 cells (IC50 value: ∼8 µg/mL). The study findings suggest that the fabricated magnetic core-shell NC (Fe3O4@SiO2@VTES@Fc/DOX) exhibits stimulus-responsive behavior and holds promise as a sophisticated approach to specifically transport therapeutic agents into tumor sites while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.

Review of The Innovative Medication Delivery System: The Cubosome

Cubosomes, also known as bicontinuous cubic phase liquid crystals, are nanoparticles with a specific ratio of amphiphilic lipids as their major constituents. Cubosomes are typically created by hydrating a surfactant or polar lipid that produces a cubic phase and then dispersing it into smaller particles. They operate with solids similar to rheology peculiarities of practical use. They have carvenous (honeycomb) structures that are tightly packed and twisted into three-dimensional bilayers, and they are thermodynamically stable. They can load more drugs because of this type of sophisticated structure. Cubosomes are capable of encapsulating hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and amphiphilic materials. Cubosomes can make drugs that aren't very soluble more soluble. Biocompatible and bioadhesive cubosomes dispersions are available. Due to their characteristics, cubosomes are adaptable systems that can be managed by several ways, including parenterally, percutaneously, and orally. Few researchers have looked into the possibility of cubosomes as delivery methods despite the fact that cubosomes structure has been studied using electron microscopy, light scattering, x-ray, and NMR.

Innovative Therapeutic Delivery of Metastasis-Associated in Colon Cancer 1-Suppressing miRNA Using High Transmembrane 4 L6 Family Member 5-Targeting Exosomes in Colorectal Cancer Mouse Models.

Elevated metastasis-associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) expression in colorectal cancer patients, and high transmembrane 4 L6 family member 5 (TM4SF5) protein expressed on various solid tumors' surface, are linked to aggressive cancer behavior and progression. In this study, adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) were engineered to produce exosomes (Ex) that target the TM4SF5 protein on tumors. Moreover, MACC1-targeting microRNA was encapsulated within the Ex, resulting in TM4SF5-targeting Ex (MACC1-suppressing miRNA; miR-143). The anticancer effects of these Ex were investigated in vitro using the human colorectal cell line HCT116 and in vivo using colorectal cancer mouse xenograft models. In the in vivo assessment, administration of TM4SF5-targeting Ex[miR-143], referred to as tEx[miR-143] herein, resulted in the smallest tumor size, the lowest tumor growth rate, and the lightest excised tumors compared to other treatments (p < 0.05). It also led to the decreased expression of MACC-1 and anti-apoptotic markers MCL-1 and Bcl-xL while inducing the highest expression of pro-apoptotic markers BAX and BIM. These results were consistent with in vitro findings, where t Ex[miR-143] demonstrated the highest inhibition of HCT116 cell migration and invasion. These findings highlight the potential of tEx[miR-143] as an effective therapeutic strategy for colorectal cancer, demonstrating promising results in both targetability and anti-tumor effects in vitro and in vivo, warranting further investigation in clinical settings.

Message from the Editor-in-Chief

Higher education institutions continue to negotiate effective ways to embrace creative and engaging on-line learning pedagogies, so students can enjoy academic success. We continue to report many of the findings from on-going research into the effectiveness and impact these changes have made to student learning. Recognising the strength of academia and the challenges that plague access to a range of reliable resources, we need to ensure that policy-makers and educators alike continue to review best practices in order to provide the innovative delivery of pedagogical excellence. Higher education institutions are at the very nexus of career-focussed education as students seek qualifications to contribute positively to their community. We are proud to present this issue with contributions and perspectives from the Netherlands, the USA, Nepal, Uganda, Belgium and Slovakia. This issue has a strong focus on learner pedagogy, technology to enhance student engagement, and digital leadership adaptations. Research in these areas provide interesting and informative reading on how global educators continue with their core business of delivering relevant and meaningful education to their students.

Evaluating the role of amino acids and isothermal dry particle coating in modulating buccal permeation of large molecule drug vancomycin

The formulation and delivery of macromolecules through the oral route pose considerable challenges due to factors such as large molecular weight, pH sensitivity, and limited formulation approaches. This challenge is compounded if the drug is poorly permeable, necessitating innovative drug delivery strategies. Vancomycin, a widely prescribed glycopeptide antibiotic, has an oral bioavailability of less than 10%, leading to predominantly intravenous administration and potential patient discomfort. This study explores the potential of the buccal route as a non-invasive, highly vascularised alternative route of administration, offering a rapid onset of action while bypassing the first-pass metabolism. In this study, vancomycin was coated with L-glutamic acid using an isothermal dry particle coater to modulate permeation through the buccal cell line, TR146. Results confirm significant impact of both amino acid concentration and dry particle coating on the rate and extent of drug permeability. With the introduction of L-glutamic acid and utilisation of the isothermal dry particle coater, vancomycin’s permeation profile increased six-fold compared to the control due to the formation of drug ion-pair complex. Imaging studies showed the presence of layered micronized glutamic acid particles on the surface of dry coated vancomycin particles which confirms the role of dry coating and amino acid concentration in modulating drug permeation. Microbiology experiments in Staphylococcus aureus, minimum inhibitory concentration and biofilm disruption studies, provided confirmatory evidence of antimicrobial activity of dry coated glutamic acid-vancomycin ion pair particulate structure. This study demonstrates, for the first-time, buccal delivery of dry coated large molecule drug, vancomycin, through controlled deposition of amino acid using innovative particle coating strategy.