Particle Zeta Potential Research Articles

Chitosan-tethered liposomes for sinapic acid delivery

Sinapic acid (SA) is a poorly water-soluble bioactive compound with numerous therapeutic applications. SA-loaded liposomes were prepared by varying soybean phosphatidylcholine (SPC) and sodium deoxycholate (SDC) ratios by the thin-layer hydration process. The formulated SA-loaded liposomes were assessed for size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, entrapment efficiency (EE), and in vitro drug release studies. The optimized formulation SA-loaded liposomes formulation SA-L3 was further coated with chitosan. Further, chitosan coated SA-loaded liposomes (SA-L3-CS1) were estimated for surface morphology, in vitro drug release, antioxidant and cell viability studies. The optimized SA-loaded liposomes formulation exhibited particles size of 166.24 ± 6.69 nm, PDI 0.222 ± 0.020, zeta potential −12.66 ± 2.15 mV, EE of 74.33 ± 4.63 % and in vitro drug release of 87.78 ± 5.04 %. Chitosan coated SA-loaded liposomes demonstrated substantial changes in particles size (223.13 ± 14.94 nm), PDI (0.295 ± 0.021), zeta potential (19.67 ± 3.27 mV), and EE (80.79 ± 2.96 %) and prolonged drug release was observed (67.54 ± 4.40 % at 8 h). Chitosan coated SA-loaded liposomes demonstrated improved antioxidant and cell viability activities in contrast to pure SA; this could be due to the escalated solubility of SA. In conclusion, the current research revealed that chitosan coated liposomes enhance SA's antioxidant and cytotoxicity activity.

Synthesis and characterization of mesoporous silicate as core and low generation polyamidoamine dendrimer as shell for delivery of 5-fluorouracil from their nano complex

Modern nanomedicine delivers drugs to malfunctioning cells. Several synthetic processes can change the shape, particle size, polydispersity index, surface area, and porosity of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs). Polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers are attractive polymers with circular forms, uniform distribution, well-structured branching, internal cavities, and surface terminal groups. The objective of this study is to deliver 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) as passive targeting to carcinogen cells via MSN-PAMAM-G3 nanoparticles. This study involved the direct and adaptable synthesis of MSN as the core vehicle, together with third-generation PAMAM dendrimers as the vehicle shell, with the goal of delivering the 5-FU in a targeted and controllable manner. Tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) are used as templates to make the center nanoparticle. Methyl acrylate (MA) and ethylenediamine (EDA) are monomers that cause the formation of branches in PAMAM. The obtained particles were fully characterized in terms of particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, thermal behavior, morphology, pore diameter, pore volume, and specific surface area. The particle size of MSN-PAMAM-G3s showed around 187.71 ± 3.97 nm, with a polydispersity index of 0.17 ± 0.01 and zeta potential of 32.17 ± 1.30 mV. By reducing the ratio of drug to vehicle from 1 to 0.25, a significant increase in the EE% of 5-FU from 21.36 ± 0.70 to 43.12 ± 0.67 was observed. The release of 5-FU from the vehicle (5-FU@MSN and 5-FU@MSN-PAMAM-G3) was shown to be considerably higher in an acidic medium (pH = 5.5) in comparison to a neutral medium (pH = 7.4) (P-value<0.05). Furthermore, in both acidic and neutral conditions, 5-FU release was sustained from the vehicle rather than the 5-FU solution. Our research revealed that the MSN-PAMAM-G3 nanoparticles effectively regulated the encapsulation and release of 5-FU, providing pH-sensitive and sustained medication delivery. It is asserted that this nanocarrier has the potential to effectively deliver 5-FU to cancer cells.

Convolvulus pluricaulis - Lipid hybrid nanoparticles to enhance in vivo exposure and uptake of rivastigmine for alzheimer disease

This study investigates Rivastigmine Hydrogen Tartrate (RHT)-loaded polymeric lipid hybrid nanoparticles (PLHNs) incorporating Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus Pluricaulis; C. Pluricaulis) extract. C. Pluricaulis was extracted using methanol, and PLHNs were formulated using a modified film hydration method with RHT, oleic acid, soy lecithin, Tween 80, PLA polymer, and Pluronic F-68. Characterization involved particle size, PDI, and zeta potential measurements using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), and morphology assessments via TEM and SEM. Drug-excipient interactions were analyzed using DSC and FTIR. In vitro release was evaluated using dialysis bags, and in vivo efficacy was tested in scopolamine-induced amnesic mice using the Morris Water Maze (MWM) test. The optimized formulation (NF6) demonstrated suitable particle size, PDI, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and drug loading. NF6 significantly improved memory and exhibited antioxidant activity, indicating its potential for neurodegenerative disorder therapy.

Glycyrrhetinic acid-modified redox-sensitive polymeric mixed micelles for tumor-specific intracellular delivery of cantharidin.

Cantharidin (CTD) has been widely used to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in clinical practice. However, the current CTD preparations may induce hepatic and renal damage due to their non-specific distribution. Therefore, redox-sensitive polymer Pluronic F127-disulfide bond-poly(d,l-lactide) (F127-SS-PDLA) and active targeting polymer F127-glycyrrhetinic acid (F127-GA) were synthesized to prepare mixed micelles (GA/F127-SS-PDLA/CTD) for effective delivery of CTD. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopy were used to verify the successful synthesis of F127-SS-PDLA and F127-GA. During the preparation, this study was the first to screen the density of GA by cellular uptake assay. The results indicated that mixed micelles with 10% and 15% F127-GA (weight fraction) exhibited superior cellular uptake in comparison to micelles with 5% and 20% F127-GA. GA/F127-SS-PDLA/CTD micelles prepared by thin film hydration method demonstrated excellent drug loading capacity for CTD (16.12 ± 0.11%). The particle size and zeta potential of GA/F127-SS-PDLA/CTD micelles were 85.17 ± 1.24 nm and -11.71 ± 0.86 mV, respectively. Hemolysis and stability assay showed that the mixed micelles had good blood compatibility and could remain stable for 30 days at 4 °C. The redox-sensitivity of GA/F127-SS-PDLA/CTD micelles in vitro was verified under reducing conditions through dynamic light scattering (DLS) and an in vitro drug release experiment, which showed obvious particle size variation and rapid drug release ability. In cellular experiments, GA/F127-SS-PDLA/CTD micelles could induce superior cytotoxicity, apoptosis and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels compared with free CTD, non-sensitive F127-PDLA/CTD micelles and redox-sensitive F127-SS-PDLA/CTD micelles. The cellular uptake ability of nile red-labeled GA/F127-SS-PDLA micelles, which was evaluated via fluorescent microscope and flow cytometry, indicated that the modification of GA significantly increased micelle uptake in HepG-2 cells. Consequently, GA/F127-SS-PDLA/CTD micelles could be considered as a satisfactory drug administration strategy in the treatment of HCC.

Intranasal transfersomal based in situ gel for augmenting methylphenidate bioavailability and brain delivery: In vitro and in vivo evaluation

Methylphenidate, a CNS stimulant drug, has poor oral bioavailability due to extensive first-pass effect. In this study, Methylphenidate loaded transfersomes based in situ gel (MPH-TFs Gel) was prepared for brain targeting through intranasal (IN) drug delivery. Methylphenidate transfersomes (MPH-TFs) were prepared using the thin film hydration method. Box-Behnken Design expert software was utilized for the optimization by assessing the effect of independent variables phospholipon 90-G, Tween-80, and Methylphenidate (MPH) on particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP), Polydispersity index (PDI), and Entrapment Efficiency (EE). The observed mean particle size of the optimized MPH-TFs was found to be 139.7 ± 3.75 nm, mono dispersion with PDI (0.208 ± 0.002), negatively charged (−27.9 ± 0.287 mV) and had an excellent entrapment efficiency (86 ± 3 %). Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra have depicted the compatibility of the components. X-r Diffraction analysis showed the conversion of crystalline structure methylphenidate to amorphous. The optimized MPH-TFs were then subsequently incorporated into an already optimized MPH-TFs Gel. MPH-TFs Gel was then characterized for its physicochemical properties, in vitro and in vivo studies. In vitro release and ex vivo permeation analysis showed sustained release and improved permeation of the MPH-TFs Gel, respectively. Additionally, histopathological studies of nasal membrane affirmed the safety of MPH-TFs Gel after intranasal application. In vivo pharmacokinetic study demonstrated improved brain bioavailability of MPH-TFs Gel compared to orally administered Methylphenidate solution (MPH-Sol).

LC-MS/MS method for simultaneous Doxorubicin and Baicalein estimation: formulation and pharmacokinetic applications.

Aim & objective: Combinatorial delivery of Doxorubicin (DOX) and Baicalein (BAC) has a potential to improve breast cancer treatment by mitigating the cardiotoxicity induced by DOX. The nanoformulation has been optimized and subjected to pharmacokinetic studies using LC-MS/MS.Materials & methods: Nanoformulation bearing DOX and BAC was optimized using quality by design approach and method validation was done following USFDA guidelines.Results: The particle size, PDI and zeta potential of developed nanoformulation were 162.56±2.21nm, 0.102±0.03 and -16.5±1.21mV, respectively. DOX-BAC-SNEDDs had a higher AUC0-t values of 6128.84±68.71 and 5896.62±99.31ng/mL/h as compared with DOX-BAC suspension.Conclusion: These findings hold promise for advancing breast cancer treatment and facilitating therapeutic drug monitoring.

Quality by design (QbD) based approach for development of itraconazole loaded transferosomes for skin cancer: In vitro, ex vivo and cell line studies

Objective Itraconazole (ITZ), a widely used systemic antifungal drug, has been ingeniously repurposed for its antitumor effects. In the present work, we have prepared and optimized the ITZ-loaded transferosomes by Quality by Design (QbD) approach and repurposed them for skin cancer. Methods The transferosomal formulation was optimized by employing a QbD approach with the design of experiment. A combination of screening and optimization design was used for formulation optimization. The optimized formulation was characterized by particle size, PDI, zeta potential, FTIR, XRD, and surface morphology using TEM. In vitro and ex vivo studies were performed using Franz diffusion cells. An in vitro cell line study was performed on the human melanoma A375 cell line. Results The optimized formulation has a particle size of 192.37 ± 13.19 nm, PDI of 0.41 ± 0.03, zeta potential -47.80 ± 3.66, and an entrapment efficiency of 64.11 ± 3.75%. In vitro release studies showed that ITZ encapsulated transferosomes offer higher and sustained release than pure drugs. Ex vivo drug penetration and retention studies show that the penetration and retention of transferosomes are more visible in the skin than in the drug. The cell viability study confirms that ITZ encapsulated transferosomes have almost 2-fold more potency against the A375 cell line than pure drug. Conclusion ITZ encapsulated transferosomes were successfully prepared and optimized using a combination of screening and optimization designs. Based on ex vivo and cell line studies, we conclude that ITZ-loaded transferosomes could aid melanoma management alongside standard therapies.

Repeated marine heatwaves aggravate the adverse effects of nano-TiO2 on physiological metabolism of the thick-shelled mussel Mytilus coruscus

Global climate change is a major trigger of unexpected temperature fluctuations. The impacts of marine heatwaves (MHWs) and nano-titanium dioxide (nano-TiO2) on marine organisms have been extensively investigated. However, the potential mechanisms underlying their interactive effects on physiological processes and metabolism remain poorly understood, especially regarding periodic MHWs in real-world conditions. In this study, the effects of nano-TiO2 (at concentrations of 0, 25, and 250 μg/L) and periodic MHWs on the condition index (CI) and underlying metabolic mechanisms were investigated in mussels (Mytilus coruscus). The results showed that mussels try to upregulate their respiration rate (RR) to enhance aerobic metabolism (indicated by elevated succinate dehydrogenase) under short-term nano-TiO2 exposure. However, even at ambient concentration (25 μg/L), prolonged nano-TiO2 exposure inhibited ingestion ability (decreased clearance rate) and glycolysis (inhibited pyruvate kinase, hexokinase, and phosphofructokinase activities), which led to an insufficient energy supply (decreased triglyceride, albumin, and ATP contents). Repeated thermal scenarios caused more severe physiological damage, demonstrating that mussels are fragile to periodic MHWs. MHWs decreased the zeta potential of the nano-TiO2 particles but increased the hydrodynamic diameter. Additionally, exposure to nano-TiO2 and periodic MHWs further affected aerobic respiration (inhibited lactate dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase activities), metabolism (decreased RR, activities of respiratory metabolism-related enzymes, and expressions of PEPCK, PPARγ, and ACO), and overall health condition (decreased ATP and CI). These findings indicate that the combined stress of these two stressors exerts more detrimental impact on the physiological performance and energy metabolism of mussels, and periodic MHWs exacerbate the toxicological effects of ambient concentration nano-TiO2. Given the potential worsening of nanoparticle pollution and the increase in extreme heat events in the future, the well-being of mussels in the marine environment may face further threats.

Pharmaceutical Applications and Advances with Zetasizer: An Essential Analytical Tool for Size and Zeta Potential Analysis

: Zetasizer is an advanced device that measures various properties of particles or molecules suspended in a liquid medium. It is extensively used for evaluating the size of nanoparticles, colloids, and biomolecular particles, and for determining particle charge. There are several analytical techniques by which the size, zeta potential, and molecular weight can be determined, like Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) that measures the size of particles in dispersed systems, which can range from sub-nanometers to several micrometers in diameter. Electrophoretic Light Scattering (ELS) analyzes the mobility and charge of particles, also known as the zeta potential. Static Light Scattering (SLS) determines the molecular weight of particles in a solution. The Zetasizer is part of the Zetasizer Advance range of benchtop systems available for laboratory use. The Zetasizer Ultra model offers unique measurement capabilities, such as Multi-angle Dynamic Light Scattering (MADLS) and particle concentration. These features offer a deeper understanding of samples, making the Zetasizer a vital instrument in numerous scientific and industrial applications. In this review, we have discussed Zetasizer’s principles for the determination of particle size, zeta potential, and molecular weight, along with its qualification and applications in different formulations.

Evaluating the operational properties of concrete admixtures containing molecularly modified polycarboxylate superplasticizers

The objective of this study focused on the design and preparation of a molecularly modified polycarboxylate superplasticizer to develop concretes with enhanced engineering features. For this purpose, polyethylene glycol was chemically modified with maleic anhydride to give the mono polyethylene glycol maleate (MPEGM). Then, polycarboxylate superplasticizer comprising of isoprenyl oxy polyethylene glycol (TPEG) and acrylic acid (AA, PCE-1), and the synthesized MPEGM with TPEG and AA (PCE-2) were prepared through solution radical polymerization. Subsequently, concrete mixtures with different dosages (0, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3 wt%) of PCE-1 and PCE-2 were prepared. Chemical structure of the synthesized MPEGM and superplasticizers together with their copolymer composition were identified by FTIR and 1HNMR analyses. The molecular weights (Mw) and molecular weight distributions (PDI) of PCE-1 (8.74 × 104, 1.36) and PCE-2 (8.74 × 104, 2.19) were studied by GPC analysis, respectively. The zeta potential of cement particles (2.8 mV) becomes negative in the presence of 0.6 g/L of PCE-1 (− 7.8) and PCE-2 (− 9.5). This implies that electrostatic and steric hindrance forces of adsorbed superplasticizers synergistically provide a situation for appropriate dispersion of cement particles. The results of water-reducing percentage, fluidity, air content, bleeding water rate, initial and final setting times, wet density, flexural and compressive properties, and ultrasonic pulse velocity analyses exhibit significant enhancement on the features of concrete mixtures made of polycarboxylate superplasticizer. The superiority of PCE-2 to PCE-1 was connected to its adsorption-dispersibility potent induced by stronger electrostatic and steric repulsion forces, which result in quality and continuity enhancement in concretes.

Modified release, enriched biocompatibility, and enhanced oral bioavailability as precious features of nitrofurantoin-loaded polymeric nanoparticles

Nitrofurantoin (NTF) is a first-line therapy for treating urinary tract infections. However, gastric upset, short half-life, and poor bioavailability of NTF are major challenges for clinical use. Hence, the current work incorporated NTF in polymeric nanoparticles (NPs).NTF-loaded NPs (NTF-NPs) were prepared using Eudragit RS100 (RS100), DL-lactide/glycolide copolymer (PLGA), and their mixture at a ratio of 1:1 w/w (RS100/PLGA) as polymers. Pluronic F68, Tween 80, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) were applied as stabilizers. The particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential (ZP), and entrapment efficiency were determined. Three optimized formulations of NPs; F3, F13, and F29 were selected for further coating with Eudragit L100 (L100) and Eudragit S100 (S100). The optimized NPs and the corresponding coated ones were evaluated for solid-state characterization, morphology, and in vitro release. L100-coated F13 (LCF13) was further investigated for biocompatibility with normal oral epithelial cell (OEC) and Vero cell lines. A pharmacokinetic study using a rat model was also conducted.The results revealed that Tween 80 and PVA-stabilized NPs accomplished a nano-sized range with polymer- and stabilizer-dependent PDI and ZP. Optimized formulations: F3, F13, and F29 were selected for further coating where PS and PDI values not exceeding 260 nm and 0.502, respectively. The coated NPs had negative ZP ranging from −11.00 ± 2.70 to −40.20 ± 1.40 mV, attributable to the L100 or S100 coating. The solid-state characterization confirmed a transition of NTF to amorphousness. The spherical shape with the distinctive halo-like appearance of the coated NPs was proved. Additionally, the coating warranted a prolonged release of NTF especially for LCF13 avoiding the burst effect. Allowing enriched biocompatibility, LCF13 showed an IC50 value of 224.00 ± 9.20 μM for the OEC cell line, whereas a greater IC50 exceeding 300 μM was recognized for the LCF13-treated Vero cell line. After a single oral dose, LCF13 could provide a discernible increase in the extent of absorption (Du∞ = 863.31 ± 73.71 μg) with a significant extension of the absorption rate (tmax and t1/2 of 3 and 2.51 ± 0.317 h, respectively).LCF13 could be considered a controlled and safe nanocarrier that delivered significantly higher levels of NTF for a longer duration than NTF dispersion.

Microencapsulation for the delivery of terazosin hydrochloride: design, development, and characterization

The aim of the work. Terazosin HCL, which is a selective alpha-1 antagonist, has been recommended for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia-related medical conditions, including hypertension and urinary tract disorders. The purpose of this research was to create microparticles that would have a prolonged release of terazosin hydrochloride (TZ). However, TZ is a medicine that is readily soluble and has a high capability of dissolving in water. Materials and methods. A validated HPLC method was established to assess TZ. The TZ microparticles were produced using the process of melt dispersion by utilising cetyl palmitate (CP), myristic acid (MA), Glycerol monostearate 4055 (type II) or Kolliwax® GMS II (GMS), polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) as a plasticizer, and tween 80 as a stabilizing agent. Different formulations of TZ microparticles were evaluated with regard to particle size, zeta potential, and release, and morphological scanning was performed. Results. A zeta potential that falls between -22.9 and -29.4 mV is possessed by TZ microparticles. Furthermore, the size of TZ microparticles falls between 2.11 and 5.60 µm, and the polydispersity index (PDI) was between 0.24 to 0.41. In addition, the formula (F4) that included CP, GMS, PEG 400, and Tween 80 in the proportions of 0.8:0.2:1:0.5 had the highest zeta potential (ZP) and dissolved more than 85 % of TZ after 8 hours. Therefore, F4 was chosen for the purpose of conducting morphological research. Conclusion. Employing the use of CP, GMS, PEG 400, and Tween 80 in a ratio of 0.8:0.2:1:0.5 could result in the generation of microparticles of TZ that are the most acceptable

Development of biocompatible lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles for enhanced oral absorption of posaconazole: A mechanistic in vitro and in silico assessment

The current research focuses on the development of lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPHNs) designed to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of posaconazole (PCZ). PCZ, an antifungal drug, faces challenges due to its poor water solubility, resulting in inconsistent absorption and limited bioavailability. LPHNs composed of stearic acid and poly-δ-decalactone (PDL) were successfully fabricated and characterized. The optimized formulation (P-LPHN4) exhibited a particle size of 104.0 nm, negative zeta potential (−38.9 mV), high drug loading (19.5 %), and efficient encapsulation (82.6 %). In vitro release studies demonstrated sustained drug release over 18 h, with P-LPHN4 displaying the highest drug release (92 %). Stability studies revealed good physical stability over 45 days with no significant changes in particle size, zeta potential, and PDI. In silico simulations using GastroPlus® predicted significantly improved intestinal absorption and systemic exposure for P-LPHN4 compared to the pure drug suspension in a simulated rat model. The model predicted a higher peak plasma concentration (Cmax) for P-LPHN4 (∼0.012 μg/mL) compared to the PCZ suspension (∼0.0058 μg/mL). The model identified the duodenum and jejunum as primary absorption sites for both formulations, with P-LPHNs showing significantly higher overall absorption (84.5 %) compared to the suspension (47.5 %). Simulation results revealed a dose-dependent increase in both Cmax and AUC with increasing oral P-LPHN4 dose, while Tmax remained unaffected. In conclusion, the developed posaconazole-loaded lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (P-LPHN4) showed promising results in terms of enhanced drug release, stability, and bioavailability.

Enhancement of oxidative stability of camelina oil via Alyssum homolocarpum seed gum/sodium alginate–based microcapsules loaded with Echinacea purpurea (L.) extract

Alyssum homolocarpum seed gum (AHSG) and sodium alginate (SA) were utilized as wall materials for the microencapsulation of Echinacea purpurea extract via spray drying. Furthermore, effect of microcapsules on the oxidative stability of camelina oil was assessed over a 30-day storage period. The results showed that with an increase in AHSG concentration, the particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential of emulsions decreased, while their viscosity, and stability increased. Microcapsules prepared with AHSG alone exhibited the highest encapsulation efficiency (90.70 %), loading efficiency (40.70 %), and water solubility (88.47 %), but the lowest moisture content (1.45 %), water activity (0.31), wettability (198 s), and hygroscopicity (13.50 g/100 g). Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed a spherical and smooth surface for AHSG alone-based microcapsules. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis indicated that certain chemical interactions occurred between the E. purpurea extract and wall materials. By incorporating AHSG/SA-based microcapsules containing E. purpurea extract into camelina oil, the peroxide value (increasing from 1.79 to 5.12 meq∙O2/kg) and anisidine value (increasing from 1.63 to 7.09) were maintained during the 30-day storage period. In conclusion, the microcapsules prepared with AHSG alone showed significant potential for encapsulating E. purpurea extract and subsequently enhancing oxidative stability of camelina oil, comparable to TBHQ.

Influence of Anions on the Antibacterial Activity and Physicochemical Properties of Different-Sized Silver Nanoparticles.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with different sizes have been extensively adopted in various commercial products, causing ecological concerns because of the inevitable release of AgNPs into the environment. Hence, understanding the interaction of different-sized AgNPs with environmental substances is important for assessing the environmental risk and fate of AgNPs. In this work, we investigated the impact of anions (NO3-, SO42-, HCO3-/CO32-, Cl-) in aquatic environments on the physicochemical properties and antibacterial activity of different-sized AgNPs (20, 40 and 57 nm). The results showed that the anions whose corresponding silver-based products had lower solubility were more likely to decrease the zeta potential (more negative) of particles, inhibit the dissolution of AgNPs and reduce their antibacterial activity. This should be attributed to the easier generation of coating layers on the surface of AgNPs during the incubation process with such anions. Additionally, the generation of coating layers was also found to be particle-size dependent. The anions were more prone to adsorbing onto larger-sized AgNPs, promoting the formation of coating layers, subsequently resulting in more pronounced variations in the physicochemical properties and antibacterial activity of the larger-sized AgNPs. Therefore, larger-sized AgNPs were more prone to experiencing specific effects from the anions.

Localized delivery of Roxadustat via cubosomes-based thermosensitive in-situ hydrogel enhances diabetic wound healing by stabilizing HIF-1α in rats

Chronic non-healing wounds are a major complication among diabetic patients, significantly affecting their quality of life. The dysfunction of HIF-1, a crucial regulator of wound healing, contributes to impaired wound repair in diabetes. Roxadustat (ROX), an HIF-1α stabilizer, has emerged as a promising therapeutic candidate for addressing chronic wounds. Accordingly, a few studies have investigated the systemic administration of ROX for wound healing. However, concerns have arisen about potential side effects. Our study aimed to address these limitations by developing a localized delivery approach using ROX-loaded cubosomes (ROX-CUs) incorporated into a thermosensitive hydrogel. ROX-CUs were prepared and evaluated for particle size (125.6 ± 3.11 nm), zeta potential (−26.60 ± 2.08 mV), and entrapment efficiency (94.23 ± 2.93 %). ROX-CUs were then integrated into a poloxamer-based thermosensitive hydrogel with varying ratios of poloxamers 188 and 407. The selected formulation (F13) showed a phase transition temperature of 36.5 ± 0.4 °C and a drug content of 97.80 ± 1.60 %. In vitro drug release studies demonstrated a biphasic release for F13: an initial burst after 3 h (15.25 %) followed by sustained release up to 48 h (52.13 %), offering sustained release advantages. In vivo studies on diabetic rats revealed that F13 significantly accelerated wound closure (93 % reduction), with enhanced tissue characteristics, including neovascularization and increased collagen deposition. Additionally, F13 upregulated the HIF-1α and other tissue remodeling factors, creating an optimal environment for tissue repair. Consequently, ROX-CUs incorporated into a thermosensitive hydrogel hold significant promise as a novel therapeutic strategy for promoting wound healing in clinical settings.

Development and optimization of thyme-pennyroyal essential oils based active nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) containing saffron extract with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties

The saffron extract-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) was synthesized by the double emulsion (W/O/W) method for application as a preservative to increase the oxidative and microbial stability of French dressing. The optimization of the NLC system was carried out using a combined D-optimal design methodology and effect of thyme (TEOs)/pennyroyal (PEOs) essential oils, and polyglycerol ester (PGE)/polyglycerol polyricinolate (PGPR) surfactants ratios (independent variables) were investigated on the mean particle size, polydispersity, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficacy (dependent variables). The optimal formulation (NLC opt) was obtained as 90/10 thyme/pennyroyal essential oils and 90/10 polyglycerol esters/polyglycerol polyricinoleate ratio, which resulted in the lowest PDI and particle size (0.38 and 66.87 nm respectively), highest zeta potential and encapsulation efficiency (−26.7 mV and %78.88 respectively). Different techniques including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis were used for the characterization of structure and physicochemical properties of the different NLC systems and confirmed successful incorporation of SE into NLC. The DPPH test showed decrement of antioxidant activity during 30 days of storage and IC50 value was lower in the SE-NLC (0.68 mg/ml) than in the free extract. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) tests against S. aureus, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa indicated that the SE did not have antibacterial properties. However, NLC formulations showed antimicrobial effect due to the presence of TEOs and PEOs essential oils. Peroxide value of control sample was the highest (8/35 O2/kg) and it was the lowest (3.75 O2/kg) in French dressing with SE-NLC.

Development of Polyvinyl Alcohol/Chitosan Nanoparticles Mixed-Matrix Membrane

The blend of PVA-CSNP is widely used in many industries and research fields such as packaging in the food industry, medical and pharmaceutical industries, as well as separation industries. Polymer blending can improve the membrane by combining two or more polymers in suitable ratios. CSNP was blended with PVA membrane to improve its properties. In this study, the CSNP polymer and PVA/CSNP membrane were synthesized and characterized. The synthesis of CSNP involved the application of CS at 0.5 wt.% and 1.0 wt.% at 1:1 and 1:2 ratios to STPP. The particle size and zeta potential for the 0.5 wt.% ratios showed significant outcomes for the study. The particle sizes were 892 nm and 975 nm, whereas the zeta potential showed significant cation values of +50.4 and +43.7 mV for the 1:1 and 1:2 ratios, respectively. The PVA membrane was developed using these nanofillers, and the functional group analysis showed molecular bonding throughout the membrane. The developed membrane also exhibited a smooth and dense structure, supporting good dispersion of CSNP within the membrane. To evaluate the physical strength of the membrane, the swelling index was measured, and a low degree of swelling confirmed the forecast that CSNP would reduce the hydrophilicity of the PVA membrane, subsequently providing good membrane strength.

Multivariate analysis of structural and functional properties of soluble dietary fiber from corn bran using different modification methods

This study comprehensively investigated the effects of high-temperature cooking (HT), complex enzyme hydrolysis (CE), and high-temperature cooking combined enzymatic hydrolysis (HE) on the chemical composition, microstructure, and functional attributes of soluble dietary fiber (SDF) extracted from corn bran. The results demonstrated that HE-SDF yielded the highest output at 13.80 ± 0.20 g/100 g, with enhancements in thermal stability, viscosity, hydration properties, adsorption capacity, and antioxidant activity. Cluster analysis revealed three distinct categories of SDF's physicochemical properties. Principal component analysis (PCA) confirmed the superior functional properties of HE-SDF. Correlation analysis showed positive relationships between the monosaccharide composition, purity, and viscosity of SDF and most of its functional attributes, whereas particle size and zeta potential were inversely correlated. Furthermore, a highly significant positive correlation was observed between crystallinity and thermal properties. These findings suggest that the HE method constitutes a viable strategy for enhancing the quality of SDF sourced from corn bran.

Combined pulsed electric field-ultrasound assisted extraction of yarrow phenolic-rich ingredients and their nanoliposomal encapsulation for improving the oxidative stability of sesame oil

In this research, yarrow phenolic-rich extract was produced using pulsed electric field (PEF)-ultrasound assisted technology. The highest extraction efficiency (5.99 %) was obtained at 6.25 kV/cm of PEF and the sonication time of 60 min. As the PEF intensity and sonication time rose, the total phenolic content (TPC) and ferric-reducing power (RP) of the extracts increased. The PEF intensity of 2.70 kV/cm and sonication time of 45.83 min were the optimum extraction conditions resulting in the highest extraction efficiency, TPC, and RP. Then, this optimum extract was loaded into nanoliposomes. At higher extract levels, the encapsulation efficiency lowered, while the particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential of the nanoliposomal samples elevated. The results of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) confirmed the successful encapsulation of yarrow extract into nanoliposomal carriers; the sample containing the extract had the highest enthalpy (3600 J/g) and nanoliposomes loaded with yarrow antioxidant extract (0.11 mL/mg) was the optimum sample. Finally, the sesame oil containing 500 ppm free and nanoliposome extract, as well as the sample with 200 ppm BHT were evaluated for oxidative stability. The highest oxidation stability (14.21 h) belonged to the oil containing nanoliposomal yarrow phenolic extract.