Delivery Strategies Research Articles

Preparation of photo-crosslinked microalgae-carboxymethyl chitosan composite hydrogels for enhanced wound healing

Integrating microalgae into wound dressings has proven effective in promoting chronic wound healing through photosynthesis-induced oxygen release. However, challenges such as high crosslinking temperatures and prolonged gel molding processes limit microalgae growth and reduce the overall therapeutic impact. In this work, inspired by cell-symbiotic photo-crosslinked hydrogels, we present a novel photo-crosslinked microalgae carboxymethyl chitosan composite hydrogel. This hydrogel completes crosslinking at room temperature within 30 s, enhancing chronic wound healing. The composite gel incorporates photosynthesizing unicellular microalgae (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii) and the antimicrobial agent ciprofloxacin during preparation. In light, the gel continues to photosynthesize, releasing oxygen while simultaneously acting as an antibacterial agent. This dual action results in the upregulation of CD31 and VEGFA levels and the downregulation of HIF-1α levels in diabetic wounds. The wound closure rate reached approximately 96.70 % on day 12 in the composite gel group, compared to only 78.98 % in the control group. Therefore, the composite gel promotes healing by reducing local hypoxia, encouraging angiogenesis, and lowering infection risk. These results suggest that photo-crosslinked microalgae composite gels provide an effective strategy for localized oxygen delivery to promote wound healing and offer a viable method for rapidly preparing living biomaterials under suitable conditions.

Revolutionizing Dermatology with Precision Delivery of Tazarotene via Nanogel Systems.

The field of dermatology is being revolutionized with the introduction of precision delivery strategies, especially nanogels, which are improving the therapeutic potential of dermatological interventions. The present review has been compiled to elaborate on the remarkable potential of nanogel systems in targeting tazarotene, a retinoid that is deeply and widely utilized for treating several skin ailments such as acne, psoriasis, and photoaging. Given their outstanding priority, nano gels have attracted significant attention due to their distinct extent characteristics, including high biocompatibility, governed discharge properties as well and fast skin penetration contributed to improving formulation contrast of the traditional method. In this review, we summarize the various mechanisms of how nanogels enhance tazarotene solubility, stability and bioavailability, finally achieving better therapeutic effects with lower side effects. The article also delves into the latest nanogel manufacturing methods and what they mean for potential dermatologic treatments of the future. Leveraging the power of nanogel-based delivery routes ensures more efficient, targeted treatments; these innovative nano-delivery vehicles will enable a revolution in dermatological practice.

Two Different Responsive Organosilica Nanocarriers to Combine Chemo- and Immunotherapy against Cancer.

The combination of chemo- and immunotherapy was recently demonstrated to improve a patient's response to therapy, giving rise to an emerging cancer treatment known as chemoimmunotherapy (CIT). Despite the promising benefits of CIT, the most important challenges are (i) the simultaneous or time-controlled delivery of two drugs and (ii) the selective uptake into different cells for each of the drugs: cancer cells for the chemotherapeutic and macrophages for the immunostimulation actives. Herein, a delivery strategy based on morphologically different stimuli-responsive breakable organosilica nanocarriers is exploited to transport two distinct drugs in the different cells using different times of delivery. We employ stimulus-sensitive, PEGylated organosilica nanocages to encapsulate the chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin, which is preferentially taken up by tumor cells vs macrophages. On the other hand, similar size mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles, preferentially internalized by macrophages, are filled with the immunostimulator resiquimod. The administration in a sequential manner of the two different nanocarriers allowed us to assess the integrated effect of the combined therapy versus treatment with a single drug. In vitro work clearly shows an important reduction of tumor cell viability when both chemo- and immunotherapeutic agents are delivered.

Recent Advancements in Drug Delivery System in Lung Cancer

Eliminating the fact that the use of free pharmaceuticals in conventional dosage forms usually involves difficulties in hitting the target site at the appropriate dose after or during a correct time period, medication targeting specific organs and tissues became one of the century's most important initiatives. Thus, finding new drug delivery strategies and modes of action are lines of battle. Difficulties are still encountered with radiation therapy to accurately track the movements of lung tumors while treatments are being admitted. The development of MRI-linac hybrid system prototypes offers the possibility of real-time, ionization-free tumor imaging. This study assesses how well lung tumor tracking algorithms function on five healthy participants' cine-MRI sagittal images. The targets were vascular structures that could be seen. Lung cancer is the leading cause of mortality in the world. This is one of the heterogeneous diseases that include, at the basic level, two main subtypes: small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Less than 20% of patients with LC survive for 5 years on average despite recent improvements in treatment. The effectiveness of existing therapeutic techniques is impaired because of severe off-target effects and innate or acquired medication resistance. The two major types of lung cancers are SCLC and NSCLC; among these, the former is the most frequently diagnosed. Lung cancers account for the highest mortality rate due to cancer. The application of nanomedicines can partially overcome the failures that are associated with the anticancer therapies against NSCLC. One of the nanoparticle subfields that hold out much promise for better delivery while ensuring stability and sufficient bioavailability of administered anticancer medications is nanomedicine.

Novel targeting liposomes with enhanced endosomal escape for co-delivery of doxorubicin and curcumin

Effective endosomal escape is crucial for enhancing the efficiency of nanodrug delivery systems. In this study, we developed a novel liposomal system utilizing acid-sensitive N-(3-amino-propyl) imidazole cholesterol (IM-Chol), specifically designed for the targeted co-delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) and curcumin (CUR) to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Designated as GA-IM-LIP@DOX/CUR, this liposomal system incorporates glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) to improve target specificity toward HCC cells. Notably, both drugs exhibited pH-sensitive release profiles, facilitating precise drug release within acidic environments. Our investigation into cellular uptake demonstrated that modified liposomes, GA-IM-LIP@FITC and IM-LIP@FITC, achieved progressively enhanced intracellular accumulation of FITC compared to unmodified liposomes. Competitive inhibition assays utilizing free GA further validated the targeting efficacy of GA. Moreover, the GA-IM-LIP@FITC and IM-LIP@FITC groups exhibited rapid endosomal escape of FITC within the first two hours, in contrast to delayed escape observed in the LIP@FITC group, confirming that the protonation of IM-Chol promotes drug release into the cytosol. In vivo studies substantiated that GA-IM-LIP@DOX/CUR effectively inhibited tumor growth. This research provides significant insights into the design and functionality of the GA-IM-LIP@DOX/CUR liposomal system, underscoring its potential to enhance drug delivery strategies in the treatment of HCC.

Igniting tumour microenvironment in triple-negative breast cancer using a mannose/hyaluronic acid dual-coated Ganoderma polysaccharide-superparamagnetic iron oxide nanocomplex for combinational therapies

Eliciting tumour microenvironment (TME) activation in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is crucial for effective anti-tumour therapies. The aim of this study is to employ pharmaceutical approaches to precisely deliver Ganoderma polysaccharide (GPS) to tumour sites, thereby enhancing TME activation. We first established a direct link between the accumulation of GPS within tumours and its efficacy in the TME activation. Building upon this insight, we then engineered a mannose/hyaluronic acid dual-coated GPS-loaded superparamagnetic iron oxide nanocomplex (Man/HA/GPS-SPIONs) with a particle size of 33.8 ± 1.6 nm and a zeta potential of −22.4 ± 3.5 mV, capable of precise tumour accumulation through magnet-assisted targeting and internalisation by tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) and tumour cells, facilitated by dual ligand modification. In vitro, Man/HA/GPS-SPIONs effectively induced M1 polarisation of macrophages (CD86+ cells: 38.6 ± 2.8%), curbed 4T1 cell proliferation (viability: 47.3 ± 2.9%) and heightened Th1 cytokine release. Significantly, in vivo, Man/HA/GPS-SPIONs notably suppressed tumour growth (tumour index: 0.048 ± 0.005), fostered M1 polarisation of TAMs (CD45+F4/80+CD86+ cells: 26.1 ± 7.2%), consequently bolstering intratumoural T cytotoxic cells. This enhancement was intricately tied to the efficient co-delivery of GPS and iron ions to the tumours, made possible by the Man/HA/GPS-SPIONs delivery system. The synergistic effects with paclitaxel (PTX, inhibition rate: 61.2 ± 4.3%) and PD-1 inhibitors (inhibition rate: 69.8 ± 7.6%) underscored the translational potential of this approach. By harnessing a well-conceived iron-based drug delivery strategy, this study amplifies the tumour immune modulatory potential of natural polysaccharides, offering insightful guidance for interventions in the TME and synergistic therapies.

Abstract B064: Community-informed interventions to address cervical cancer disparities among people experiencing homelessness

Abstract Background: Cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates are up to four-fold higher among people experiencing homelessness (PEH) compared to the housed US population. Even beyond typical social and structural barriers to healthcare, homeless women experience high rates of sexual violence and trauma, often leading to discomfort with cervical cancer screening and delays/refusals of Pap tests. Despite these issues, strategies for appropriate cervical cancer screening in homeless communities are scarce, and no frameworks exist for routine screening in shelters. Methods: Leveraging an established multisectoral community-academic partnership addressing homelessness and health disparities in Indiana, USA, ongoing community-engaged research is examining barriers to cervical cancer screening among PEH and co-designing strategies to address them. Rapid assessment surveys were conducted with PEH at two large homeless service agencies in Indianapolis and Lafayette to document cervical cancer screening coverage and characteristics of individuals who are unscreened/overdue. In-depth interviews explored knowledge of cervical cancer, key barriers and facilitators to screening, and acceptability of shelter-based HPV self-sampling delivered by trusted community health workers (CHW). Results: Of n=167 survey respondents, 48% were white, 38% Black, 7% Hispanic, 7% other. Mean age was 43.18 years, and mean lifetime years of homelessness was 3.18. Nearly half of participants (49%) were unsheltered, 44% stayed at a shelter, the remainder couch-surfed. One third (32%) were unscreened or overdue for screening, far above state and national averages (24% and 22% respectively). The majority (84%) reported wanting to be screened and believing it is important for their health. Provider mistrust and competing priorities surrounding their homelessness were main reported barriers to screening. Qualitative findings identified key benefits, concerns, and preferences for HPV self-sampling, with many participants expressing interest and willingness to adopt this screening method. Conclusion: Despite a vast majority of PEH reporting a desire and willingness to be screened for cervical cancer, key identified barriers limit access for this uniquely vulnerable population. Ongoing qualitative analysis is directly informing community context-specific CHW-delivered cervical cancer education and HPV self- sampling interventions. This work will ultimately lead to broadly implementable strategies for shelter-based routine cancer screening and preventive healthcare delivery for PEH. Citation Format: Natalia M. Rodriguez, Lara Balian, Rebecca Ziolkowski, Xue Case, Kalesia Smith, Janelle Tipton. Community-informed interventions to address cervical cancer disparities among people experiencing homelessness [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B064.

Mesalamine-Loaded Microsponges As A Potential Strategy For Colon-Specific Drug Delivery

Mesalamine-Loaded Microsponges As A Potential Strategy For Colon-Specific Drug Delivery

Ferulic Acid-Loaded Nanostructure Maintains Brain Levels of ACh, Glutamate, and GABA and Ameliorates Anxiety and Memory Impairments Induced by the D-Galactose Aging Process in Rats.

Population aging is a global reality driven by increased life expectancy. This demographic phenomenon is intrinsically linked to the epidemic of cognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease, posing challenges for elderly and their families. In this context, the search for new therapeutic strategies to prevent or minimize cognitive impairments becomes urgent, as these deficits are primarily associated with oxidative damage and increased neuroinflammation. Ferulic acid (FA), a natural and potent antioxidant compound, is proposed to be nanoencapsulated to target the central nervous system effectively with lower doses and an extended duration of action. Here, we evaluated the effects of the nanoencapsulated FA on d-galactose (d-Gal)- induced memory impairments. Male Wistar adult rats were treated with ferulic acid-loaded nanocapsules (FA-Nc) or non-encapsulated ferulic acid (D-FA) for 8weeks concurrently with d-Gal (150mg/kg s.c.) injection. As expected, our findings showed that d-Gal injection impaired memory processes and increased anxiety behavior, whereas FA-Nc treatment ameliorated these behavioral impairments associated with the aging process induced by d-Gal. At the molecular level, nanoencapsulated ferulic acid (FA-Nc) ameliorated the decrease in ACh and glutamate induced by d-galactose (d-Gal), and also increased GABA levels in the dorsal hippocampus, indicating its therapeutic superiority. Additional studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying our current promising outcomes. Nanoscience applied to pharmacology can reduce drug dosage, thereby minimizing adverse effects while enhancing therapeutic response, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging. Therefore, the strategy of brain-targeted drug delivery through nanoencapsulation can be effective in mitigating aging-related factors that may lead to cognitive deficits.

Hyaluronic Acid in Nanopharmaceuticals: An Overview.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring, long, unbranched polysaccharide that plays a critical role in maintaining skin structure and hydration. Its unique properties make it a valuable component in the field of nanopharmaceuticals. The combination of HA into nanopharmaceuticals enhances its ability to interact with various therapeutic agents, improving the delivery and efficacy of drugs. HA-based nanoparticles, including solid lipid nanoparticles, and polymeric nanogels, offer controlled release, enhanced stability, and targeted delivery of therapeutic agents. These innovations significantly improve therapeutic outcomes and reduce side effects, making HA an essential tool in modern medicine. In general, HA-modified liposomes enhance drug encapsulation and targeting, while HA-modified solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) provide a solid lipid core for drug encapsulation, offering controlled release and stability. This article provides an overview of the potential applications and recent advancements of HA in nanopharmaceuticals, emphasizing its significant impact on the evolving field of targeted drug delivery and advanced therapeutic strategies. By delving into the unique properties of HA and its compatibility with various therapeutic agents, this review underscores the promising potential of HA in revolutionizing nanopharmaceuticals.

Tumor-Targeted CO Nanodelivery System Design and Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

In recent years, carbon monoxide (CO) has garnered increased attention as a novel green therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment. However, the CO donor is still limited in clinical application due to its lack of targeted ability and unstable release rate. Here, self-assembled amphiphilic nanomicelles glucose-polyethylene glycol (PEG)-lipoic acid (LA)-Fe2(CO)6 (Glu-Fe2(CO)6) are first designed as a CO donor and synthesized via a chemical method, combining glucose with Fe2(CO)6 through PEG-LA. Some advantages of this tumor-targeted Glu-Fe2(CO)6 delivery system include (I) good water-solubility, (II) the glutathione responsive CO slow release, (III) the active tumor-targeted ability of glucose as targeted ligands, and (IV) outstanding efficacy of antitumor and safety of CO therapy of HCC both in vitro and in vivo. These findings suggest that Glu-Fe2(CO)6 nanomicelles hold promise for enhancing antitumor therapeutic capabilities, presenting a novel tumor-targeted delivery strategy in gas therapy for HCC treatment.

Functional Ginger-Derived Extracellular Vesicles-Coated ZIF-8 Containing TNF-α siRNA for Ulcerative Colitis Therapy by Modulating Gut Microbiota.

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) plays a causal role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC), and anti-TNF-α siRNA shows great promise in UC therapy. However, delivering siRNA with site-targeted stability and therapeutic efficacy is still challenging due to the complex and dynamic intestinal microenvironment. Here, based on the functional plant-derived ginger extracellular vesicles (EVs) and porous ZIF-8 nanoparticles, we propose a novel TNF-α siRNA delivery strategy (EVs@ZIF-8@siRNA) for UC targeted therapy. Ginger EVs show strong colon and macrophage targeting, as well as robust resistance to acidic degradation in the stomach. Moreover, 6-shogaol in ginger-derived EVs displays anti-inflammatory effects, which enhance the treatment efficiency by cooperation with TNF-α siRNA. In vitro experiments reveal that ZIF-8 nanoparticles have high TNF-α siRNA loading capacity and promote siRNA escape from cellular lysosomes. In vivo experiments show that the TNF-α level is reduced more significantly in colonic tissue than other nontargeted inflammation related factors, showing a good targeting of this composite nanoparticle. Furthermore, gut microbiota sequencing results demonstrate that the nanoparticles can promote intestinal barrier repair by regulating the intestinal microbial balance and restoring the intestinal health of UC mice. Therefore, the developed EVs@ZIF-8@siRNA nanoparticles may represent a novel colon-targeted oral drug, providing a promising therapeutic strategy for UC therapy.

An overview of the role of nanoherbicides in tackling challenges of weed management in wheat: A novel approach

Abstract One of the most significant biotic constraints that wheat production faces is weed infestation. Wheat is infested with different weeds that cause yield losses (up to 100%) that vary based on the type of weed, their density, and the environmental conditions. Chemical weed control is the most common method to control weeds in wheat. However, widespread herbicide resistance (>365 cases worldwide) has challenged the sustainability of this method. Use of nanoherbicides is a promising strategy to cope with the issue of herbicide resistance. To achieve weed control conditions during the whole growing season, nanoformulations of herbicides are a delivery strategy that involves covering an active component with various materials that vary in size from nano to nanoscale and then releasing the substance in a controlled manner. Nanoherbicides prevent leaching and volatilization of active components and premature degradation through photolysis, hydrolysis, and biodegradation. According to studies, nanoencapsulation of herbicides produces more targeted and less hazardous agricultural formulations. Using nanoherbicides in lower concentrations is beneficial. It lessens the long-term impacts of herbicide residues in wheat fields and the toxicity of these herbicides to the environment. It is also beneficial in eliminating the weeds without ever interacting with the crop plants, which eventually results in a greater wheat yield. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the emerging field of utilizing nanoparticles (NPs) in herbicides for effective weed management in wheat crops. This article explores the novel approach of integrating NPs with herbicidal agents, highlighting their potential benefits and challenges. The review also addresses the current state of research, recent advancements, and potential future directions in this evolving area of agricultural science.

Recent developments in intranasal drug delivery of nanomedicines for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders.

Neuropsychiatric disorders are multifaceted syndromes with confounding neurological explanations. It includes anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, Tourette's syndrome, delirium, dementia, vascular cognitive impairment, and apathy etc. Globally, these disorders occupy 15% of all diseases. As per the WHO, India has one of the largest populations of people with mental illnesses worldwide. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) makes it extremely difficult to distribute medicine to target cells in the brain tissues. However, it is possible through novel advancements in nanotechnology, molecular biology, and neurosciences. One such cutting-edge delivery method, nose-to-brain (N2B) drug delivery using nanoformulation (NF), overcomes traditional drug formulation and delivery limitations. Later offers more controlled drug release, better bioavailability, improved patient acceptance, reduced biological interference, and circumvention of BBB. When medicines are delivered via the intranasal (IN) route, they enter the nasal cavity and go to the brain via connections between the olfactory and trigeminal nerves and the nasal mucosa in N2B. Delivering phytochemical, bioactive and synthetic NF is being investigated with the N2B delivery strategy. The mucociliary clearance, enzyme degradation, and drug translocations by efflux mechanisms are significant issues associated with N2B delivery. This review article discusses the types of neuropsychiatric disorders and their treatment with plant-derived as well as synthetic drug-loaded NFs administered via the IN-delivery system. In conclusion, this review provided a comprehensive and critical overview of the IN applicability of plant-derived NFs for psychiatric disorders.

Molecular farming expression of recombinant fusion proteins applied to skincare strategies.

This review discusses the current research progress in molecular farming technology in the field of skincare, with an emphasis on molecular farming expression strategies. The strategies of transdermal drug delivery and their advantages are also highlighted. The expression of cosmetically relevant fused proteins has become an important way to enhance the efficacy of the proteins. Therefore, we also discuss the feasibility and strategies for expressing fusion proteins in A. thaliana, specifically the fusion of Epidermal growth factor (EGF) to a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP), in which the production can be greatly enhanced via plant expression systems since these systems offer higher biosecurity, flexibility, and expansibility than prokaryotic, animal and mammalian expression systems. While the fusion of EGF to CCP can enhance its transdermal ability, the effects of the fusion protein on skin repair, melasma, whitening, and anti-aging are poorly explored. Beyond this, fusing proteins with transdermal peptides presents multiple possibilities for the development of tissue repair and regeneration therapeutics, as well as cosmetics and beauty products. As certain plant extracts are known to contain proteins beneficial for skin health, the expression of these proteins in plant systems will better maintain their integrity and biological activities, thereby facilitating the development of more effective skincare products.

Adaptation of the socioecological model to address disparities in engagement of Black men in prostate cancer genetic testing

BackgroundBlack men consistently have higher rates of prostate cancer (PCA)- related mortality. Advances in PCA treatment, screening, and hereditary cancer assessment center around germline testing (GT). Of concern is the significant under-engagement of Black males in PCA GT, limiting the benefit of precision therapy and tailored cancer screening despite longstanding awareness of these disparities. To address these critical disparities, the Socioecological Model (SEM) was employed to develop comprehensive recommendations to overcome barriers and implement equitable strategies to engage Black males in PCA GT.MethodsClinical/research experts, national organization leaders, and community stakeholders spanning multiple regions in US and Africa participated in developing a framework for equity in PCA GT grounded in the SEM. A novel mixed-methods approach was employed to generate key areas to be addressed and informed statements for consensus consideration utilizing the modified Delphi model. Statements achieving strong consensus (> =75% agreement) were included in final equity frameworks addressing clinical/community engagement and research engagement.ResultsAll societal levels of the SEM (interpersonal, institutional, community, and policy/advocacy) must deliver information about PCA GT to Black males that address benefits/limitations, clinical impact, hereditary cancer implications, with acknowledgment of mistrust (mean scores [MS] 4.57-5.00). Interpersonal strategies for information delivery included engagement of family/friends/peers/Black role models to improve education/awareness and overcome mistrust (MS 4.65-5.00). Institutional strategies included diversifying clinical, research, and educational programs and integrating community liaisons into healthcare institutions (MS 4.57-5.00). Community strategies included partnerships with healthcare institutions and visibility of healthcare providers/researchers at community events (MS 4.65–4.91). Policy/advocacy included improving partnerships between advocacy and healthcare/community organizations while protecting patient benefits (MS 4.57-5.00). Media strategies were endorsed for the first time at every level (MS 4.56-5.00).ConclusionThe SEM-based equity frameworks proposed provide the first multidisciplinary strategies dedicated to increase engagement of Black males in PCA GT, which are critical to reduce disparities in PCA-mortality through informing tailored screening, targeted therapy, and cascade testing in families.

Anti-solvent precipitation for encapsulation of oyster protein hydrolysate nanoparticles: Effect on off-flavor elimination and bioaccessibility

In this study, to investigate the potential for delivering bioactive substances, various cereal proteoglycan nanoparticles were prepared using anti-solvent precipitation for the delivery of oyster protein hydrolysate (OPH). The hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interaction were the driving forces for OPH embedding. OPH-Loaded Zein/NaCas/Gum Arabic composite nanoparticles could self-assemble into spherical (191 nm) particles with strong stability, uniform distribution (about PDI = 0.2), and high negative charge (about −28 mV). The secondary structure of OPH-Loaded zein was converted from α-helix to random coil with heat treatment. The off-flavor, including (E, E)-2,4-heptadienal, octadecane, and 1-octanol in OPH-Loaded Zein nanoparticles significantly decreased. Furthermore, these nanoparticles containing OPH had excellent oxidation resistance, in vitro digestibility, and non-toxicity in Caco-2 and HT-29 cells. Overall, this work provides an efficient strategy for OPH delivery, suggesting that OPH could be ingested as a nutraceutical in powder form while also promoting the development of high-flavor-quality oyster products.

NANOMEDICINE BREAKTHROUGH: REVOLUTIONIZING CERVICAL CANCER TREATMENT WITH PRECISION DRUG DELIVERY

Cervical cancer, a global health issue, is a major concern, particularly in regions with limited healthcare resources. To address this, targeted drug delivery strategies have emerged as promising solutions. These involve delivering therapeutic agents directly to cancerous cells, minimizing systemic side effects, and enhancing treatment efficacy. Delivery systems like nanoparticles, liposomes, polymeric micelles, hydrogels, and local drug delivery devices have been developed to overcome barriers like drug resistance and limited penetration. Emerging targeting strategies like tumor-specific ligands, immunotherapy, virotherapy, and gene therapy are also promising for improving treatment specificity and efficacy in cervical cancer. These approaches address the intricate cellular pathways involved in the disease progression, paving the way for more personalized and effective treatments. The synergy between advancements in drug delivery technologies and targeting strategies offers hope for a future where cervical cancer can be effectively managed and potentially eradicated. KEYWORDS: Targeted drug delivery, Nanoparticles, Immunotherapy, Gene therapy, Personalized treatments, Cervical cancer

Facile fabrication of cedrol nanoemulsions with deep transdermal delivery ability and high safety for effective androgenic alopecia treatment

The successful treatment of androgenic alopecia (AGA) hinges on an effective transdermal drug delivery strategy, a challenge that requires urgent attention. In this study, we introduce a novel approach utilizing cedrol nanoemulsions (CD-NEs) for AGA treatment. Our findings demonstrate that cedrol (CD) effectively inhibits the expression of 5α-reductase 2 (5αR2), akin to the FDA-approved drug finasteride, while also surpassing it in terms of promoting cell proliferation. Through formulation optimization, we have developed stable CD-NEs suitable for large-scale production. Experimental and molecular dynamics simulations further reveal that CD-NEs enhance transdermal penetration by altering lipid organization, facilitating CD delivery to deeper skin layers via a trans-epidermal pathway. In vivo studies conducted on AGA model C57BL/6 mice demonstrate that CD-NEs significantly promote hair follicle regeneration, accelerating the transition of hair follicles from the telogen phase to the anagen phase. Moreover, CD-NEs treatment leads to a significant reduction in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels in the skin while maintaining stasis levels in serum, underscoring its efficacy in targeting androgenetic pathways with high safety. This comprehensive analysis sheds light on the efficacy and mechanism of action of CD-NEs in hair regeneration, offering valuable insights for future clinical applications in AGA treatment.

Dual-layer probiotic encapsulation using metal phenolic network with gellan gum-tamarind gum coating for colitis treatment

Probiotic oral therapy has been recognised as an effective treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the efficacy of probiotics is often diminished due to their limited resistance to harsh gastrointestinal conditions. Therefore, the importance of designing innovative strategies for oral probiotic delivery for the effective treatment of IBD is increasingly recognised. In this study, we present a novel encapsulation strategy of Lactobacillus plantarum (L.P) using the dual-layer system consisting of a tannic acid‑calcium network and polysaccharide coating (gellan gum-tamarind gum) named L.P-C/T-G/T. This double-layer encapsulation system not only does not affect the normal proliferation of probiotics and provide protection, but also endows probiotics with more functions. More specifically, the acid resistance ability of the encapsulated probiotics is increased by 10 times, the free radical scavenging rate is enhanced by 5 times, and the intestinal retention time can be prolonged by 6–12 h. In the DSS-induced murine colitis model, it significantly alleviated colon shortening, inhibited ROS overexpression, and promoted the repair and regeneration of the mucus layer. This dual-layer encapsulation approach for a single probiotic demonstrates a significant advancement in probiotic delivery technology, offering hope for a comprehensive approach to the treatment of colitis and potentially other gastrointestinal disorders.