Zeta Potential Research Articles

Development of NLC-based Sunscreen Gel of Green Tea Extract and its In vitro Characterization

Background: Green tea extract is a hydrophilic antioxidant. The challenge associated with its cutaneous administration is its poor penetration. A system of solid-liquid lipids formulated in the form of a nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC), can improve the penetration. In addition, Vitamin E oil used as a liquid lipid will aid in skin hydration, reduce particle size, and enhance penetration. Objective: The objective of this study was to formulate the NLC-based sunscreen gel of green tea extract. Methods: Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) were prepared by melt emulsion ultrafiltration technique and were evaluated for particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index (PDI), drug loading (DL), encapsulation efficacy (EE), and in vitro drug release. The optimised formula was incorporated into a suitable gel base and an in-vitro sun protection factor (SPF) was determined. Beeswax and Vitamin E oil were chosen as solid and liquid lipids for NLC formulation. Results: The particle size, PDI, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro drug release of optimised formulation (NLC4) were found to be 139.4 nm, 0.236, -11.0 mV, 84.20%, and 85% respectively. The SPF value of green tea extract-NLC-loaded gel was found to be 20.035. Conclusion: The result of the current investigation depicted that lipid nanoparticles are suitable carriers for green tea extract to be delivered as sunscreen gel.

Combination of Etoposide and Quercetin-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Potentiates Apoptotic Effects on MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells

BackgroundBreast cancer is a major global cancer, for which radiation and chemotherapy are the main treatments. Natural remedies are being studied to reduce the side effects. Etoposide (ETO), a chemo-drug, and quercetin (QC), a phytochemical, are considered potential factors for adaptation to conventional treatments. ObjectivesThe anticancer effect of the synergy between ETO and Quercetin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (QC-SLNs), was investigated in MDA-MB-231 cells. MethodsWe developed QC-SLNs for efficient cellular delivery, characterizing their morphology, particle size, and zeta potential. We assessed the cytotoxicity of QC-SLNs and ETO on breast cancer cells via the MTT assay. Effects on apoptosis intensity in MDA-MB-231 cells have been detected utilizing annexin V-FITC, PI, and caspase activities. Real-time PCR assessed Bax gene and Bcl-2 gene fold change expression, while Western blot analysis determined p53 and p21 protein levels. ResultsSpherical, negatively charged QC-SLNs, when combined with ETO, significantly enhanced inhibition of MDA-MB-231 cell proliferation compared to ETO or QC-SLNs alone. The combined treatment also notably increased the apoptosis pathway. QC-SLNs + ETO increased the Bax/Bcl-2 gene ratio, elevated p53 and p21 proteins, and activated caspase 3 and 9 enzymes. These results indicate the potential for QC-SLNs + ETO as a strategy for breast cancer treatment, potentially overcoming ETO-resistant breast cancer chemoresistance. ConclusionThese results suggest that QC-SLN has the potential to have a substantial impact on the breast cancer cure by improving the efficacy of ETO. This enhancement could potentially help overcome chemoresistance observed in ETO-resistant breast cancer.

Enhancing anti-inflammatory effect of brucine nanohydrogel using rosemary oil: a promising strategy for dermal delivery in arthritic inflammation.

Brucine (BRU), an active constituent of Strychnos nux-vomica L., is one of the potential agents to control subside swelling in arthritis. However, its hydrophobic nature, poor permeation, shorter half-life, narrow therapeutic window, and higher toxicity impede its clinical applications. Hence, this investigation was aimed to develop and evaluate novel BRU loaded β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) nanosponges (BRUNs) hydrogel consisting rosemary essential oil (RO), which have been tailored for delayed release, enhanced skin permeation, and reduced irritation, while retaining anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of this bioactive. Firstly, BRUNs were fabricated by melt technique and characterized appropriately. BRUNs6 demonstrated twofold enhancement in BRU solubility (441.692 ± 38.674) with minimum particle size (322.966 ± 54.456) having good PDI (0.571 ± 0.091) and zeta potential (-14.633 ± 6.357). In vitro release results demonstrated delayed release of BRU from BRUNs6 (67 ± 4.25%) over 24h through molecular diffusion mechanism. Further, preserved anti-inflammatory (53.343 ± 0.191%) and antioxidant potential (60.269 ± 0.073%) of bioactive was observed in BRUNs6. Hence, this Ns batch was engrossed with Carbopol®934 hydrogel with RO and characterized. In vitro (release and anti-inflammatory activity), ex-vivo (skin permeability) and in vivo (carrageenan-induced inflammation) assays along with irritation study were conducted for fabricated hydrogels. Results revealed that in vitro release of BRU was further delayed from Ns hydrogel with RO (56.45 ± 3.01%) following Fickian mechanism. Considerable enhancement in skin permeability (60.221 ± 0.322µg/cm2/h) and preservation of anti-inflammatory activity (94.736 ± 2.002%) was also observed in BRUNs6 hydrogel containing RO. The irritation of BRU was found reduced (half) after its entrapped in Ns. Further, as a proof of concept, BRUNs6 hydrogel with RO effectively reduced (75.757 ± 0.944%) carrageenan-induced inflammation in rat model in comparison to pure BRU (54.914 ± 1.081%). Hence, BRUNs hydrogel with RO can be considered as a promising alternative for dermal delivery of BRU in arthritis.

Encapsulation and characterization of ω-3 medium- and long-chain triacylglycerols microencapsulated with different proteins as wall materials

In this study, ω-3 medium- and long-chain triacylglycerols (MLCTs) microcapsules with excellent performance were obtained using soy protein as the wall component to address the oxidation-related problems of MLCTs. Additionally, the effect of soy, whey, or pea proteins on microcapsules in terms of the changes in their structure and physicochemical properties was investigated. The results showed that the small particle size, low PDI (polydispersity index) and zeta potential, fast adsorption rate, and low interfacial tension of these protein-based samples fabricated through the O/W template method were conducive to maintaining the integrity of microcapsules during spray-drying. The microcapsules, characterized by a spherical shape, exhibited superior encapsulation efficiency of 94.56%, surpassing the findings of previous investigations. Overall, these microcapsules exhibited long-term storage stability and low controllable release rates, which could be utilized as carriers for liposoluble actives.

Insights into how characteristics of dissolved algal organic matter affect the efficiency of modified clay in controlling harmful algal blooms

Dissolved algal organic matter (dAOM) originating from harmful algal blooms (HABs) can deteriorate the quality of municipal water supplies, threaten the health of aquatic environments, and interfere with modified clay (MC)-based HABs control measures. In this study, we explored the composition of dAOM from Prorocentrum donghaiense, a typical HAB organism, and assessed the influence of dAOM on MC flocculation. Our results suggested that dAOM composition was complex and had a wide molecular weight (MW) distribution. MW and electrical properties were important dAOM characteristics affecting flocculation and algal removal efficiency of MC. Negatively charged high-MW components (>50 kDa) critically affected algal removal efficiency, reducing the zeta potential of MC particles and leading to small and weak flocs. However, the effect of dAOM depended on its concentration. When the cell density of P. donghaiense reached HAB levels, the high-MW dAOM strongly decreased the algal removal efficiency of MC.

Purification of graphite from spent carbon cathodes through the reduction of the mechanical entrainment of cryolite using polyaluminium chloride as a flocculant

Spent carbon cathodes (SCCs) generated during electrolytic aluminum production pose significant environmental hazards. To optimize resource utilization, flotation is used as an early process for the clean recovery of valuable graphite from waste cathodes. However, the mechanical entrainment in flotation restricts the further improvement of product purity, resulting in an increase in waste gas and wastewater discharge in the subsequent purification process. In this study, to increase the fixed carbon content of flotation products, flocculant was first applied to the flotation separation of SCCs, and polyaluminum chloride (PAC) was used to flocculate cryolite with high impurity content to reduce mechanical entrainment in the flotation process. Zeta potential measurements, particle size analysis, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy confirmed the agglomeration of cryolite under the action of PAC. Additionally, the DLVO (Derjaguin, Landau, Verwey, and Overbeek) theory was used to estimate the interaction energy to further explain the mechanism underlying cryolite agglomeration. Interaction energy calculation revealed that the attraction energy between particles was dominant at the PAC concentration of 2000 mg/L. Flotation experiments indicated that under a constant pulp pH of 7.8, the absence of sodium silicate, and a stirring speed of 1200rpm, mechanical entrainment decreased from 91.53 ± 1.53g/L to 69.80 ± 1.90g/L, and the carbon grade of the product increased from 83.07 ± 0.28% to 88.94 ± 0.30%. Overall, the proposed purification method provides a new approach for the efficient recovery of graphite in waste cathodes, which is of great significance for the sustainable development of graphite resources.

Exploring mitochondrial DNA copy number in circulating cell-free DNA and extracellular vesicles across cardiovascular health status: A prospective case-control pilot study.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading global cause of mortality, difficult to predict in advance. Evidence indicates that the copy number of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNAcn) in blood is altered in individuals with CVD. MtDNA released into circulation may act as a mediator of inflammation, a recognized factor in the development of CVD, in the long distance. This pilot study aims to test if levels of mtDNAcn in buffy coat DNA (BC-mtDNA), in circulating cellfree DNA (cf-mtDNA), or in DNA extracted from plasma extracellular vesicles (EV-mtDNA) are altered in CVD patients and if they can predict heart attack in advance. A group of 144 people with different CVD statuses (50 that had CVD, 94 healthy) was selected from the LifeLines Biobank according to the incidence of new cardiovascular event monitored in 6 years (50 among controls had heart attack after the basal assessment). MtDNAcn was quantified in total cf-DNA and EV-DNA from plasma as well as in buffy coat. EVs have been characterized by their size, polydispersity index, count rate, and zeta potential, by Dynamic Light Scattering. BC-mtDNAcn and cf-mtDNAcn were not different between CVD patients and healthy subjects. EVs carried higher mtDNAcn in subject with a previous history of CVD than controls, also adjusting the analysis for the EVs derived count rate. Despite mtDNAcn was not able to predict CVD in advance, the detection of increased EV-mtDNAcn in CVD patients in this pilot study suggests the need for further investigations to determine its pathophysiological role in inflammation.

IN SILICO TEST AND CHARACTERIZATION TEST OF THE NANOEMULSION FORMULA OF CATECHIN COMPOUNDS AS ANTI ACNE

Catechin is a polyphenolic compound produced by green tea and gambier plants with catechin activity as an antibacterial. The method that can be used to predict the activity of catechin compounds as anti-acne is by using the in silico method and catechins are unstable because they are difficult to dissolve in water, making transdermal delivery inefficient. As a drug delivery system, nanoemulsions can increase the effectiveness of drug therapy by reducing the particle size to the nanometer range. The aim of this research is to find out how to test in silico protein (1VJY) with catechin compounds as an anti-acne agent and to find out how the evaluation and characterization of the nanoemulsion preparation formula from catechin compounds meets the specified requirements. The results of in silico testing can predict catechin compounds as antibacterials that inhibit protein mechanisms (1VJY) as shown by 2D visualization and docking values and evaluation test results of catechin nanoemulsion preparations such as organoleptic, pH, transmittance, freeze and thaw, viscosity, specific gravity, irritation test has fulfilled the specified requirements. The results of the characterization test for the catechin nanoemulsion preparation showed a particle size of 10.6 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.452, and a zeta potential of -34.5 m, which is in accordance with the requirements.

Rheology and physical properties of sonicated chickpea concentrate with fructans in aqueous media and stable emulsions

Based on the rheological and other physical properties of chickpea concentrate (CPC)/fructan aqueous mixtures containing 0.2% carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and their respective emulsions, the macrostructure of the system was elucidated, and its effect on the stability of the proposed emulsions was evaluated. The zeta potential and particle size of the CPC dispersions subjected to ultrasonic treatment were analyzed. Neither agave (AGF) nor chicory fructans (CHF) affected the rheological behavior (Newtonian) of aqueous systems containing only CPC. A Carreau behavior was observed when CMC was added. A synergistic effect occurred when 6% CHF was mixed with CMC. Furthermore, CHF led to a higher overall viscosity than AGF in the systems studied. Fructans changed the total charge of the protein dispersion and increased the particle size. The viscoelastic properties confirmed the liquid-like behavior of the aqueous mixtures. Emulsions containing CPC/CMC mixtures and fructans exhibited thixotropic behavior; emulsions containing 30% oil followed the Carreau model, while emulsions containing 60% oil were fitted to the Hershel-Bulkley model for upward and downward shear rate curves. The latter behavior corresponded to the formation of a weak gel structure and a flocculated oil droplet network, as confirmed by the mechanical spectra. The droplet size in the emulsions decreased in the presence of fructans, particularly for 3% CHF and 6% AGF. However, 6% CHF led to the formation of the most kinetically stable emulsions. These results confirm the possibility of incorporating CPC and fructans as oil-in-water emulsions stabilized with CMC into healthy plant-based products.

Chitosan Alginate Nanoparticles of Protein Hydrolysate from Acheta domesticus with Enhanced Stability for Skin Delivery

This study aimed to develop chitosan alginate nanoparticles (CANPs) for enhanced stability for dermal delivery of protein hydrolysate from Acheta domesticus (PH). CANPs, developed using ionotropic pre-gelation followed by the polyelectrolyte complex technique, were characterized for particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential. After the incorporation of PH into CANPs, a comprehensive assessment included encapsulation efficiency, loading capacity, morphology, chemical analyses, physical and chemical stability, irritation potential, release profile, skin permeation, and skin retention. The most optimal CANPs, comprising 0.6 mg/mL sodium alginate, 1.8 mg/mL calcium chloride, and 0.1 mg/mL chitosan, exhibited the smallest particle size (309 ± 0 nm), the narrowest PDI (0.39 ± 0.01), and pronounced negative zeta potential (−26.0 ± 0.9 mV), along with an encapsulation efficiency of 56 ± 2%, loading capacity of 2.4 ± 0.1%, release of 40 ± 2% after 48 h, and the highest skin retention of 12 ± 1%. The CANPs induced no irritation and effectively enhanced the stability of PH from 44 ± 5% of PH remaining in a solution to 74 ± 4% after three-month storage. Therefore, the findings revealed the considerable potential of CANPs in improving PH stability and skin delivery, with promising applications in cosmetics and related fields.

Characterizing Macroporous Ion Exchange Membrane Adsorbers for Natural Organic Matter (NOM) Removal—Adsorption and Regeneration Behavior

Addressing the characterization of Natural Organic Matter (NOM) removal by functionalized membranes in water treatment, this study evaluates the effectiveness of two commercial ion-exchange membrane adsorbers: Sartobind® Q (with quaternary amines) and D (with tertiary amines). Using Suwannee River NOM (SRNOM) as a surrogate, Langmuir adsorption isotherms revealed maximum capacities (Qmax) of 2966 ± 153 mg C/m2 and 2888 ± 112 mg C/m2, respectively. Variations in flux from 50 to 500 LMH had a minimal impact on breakthrough times, proving low diffusion limitations. The macroporous (3–5 µm) functionalized cellulose-based membranes exhibited high permeabilities of 10800 L/(h m2 bar). Q maintained positive zeta potential vs. pH, while D’s zeta potential decreased above pH 7 due to amine deprotonation and turning negative above an isoelectric point of 9.1. Regeneration with 0.01 M NaOH achieved over 95% DOC regeneration for Sartobind® D, characterizing reversibility through a pH-swing. Cyclic adsorption showed that Q maintained its capacity with over 99% DOC regeneration, while D required acidic conditioning after the first regeneration cycle to mitigate capacity reduction and re-deprotonate the adsorber. These results have demonstrated the potential suitability of adsorber membranes, designed originally for biotechnological purposes, for the possible removal of disinfection byproduct precursors in drinking water treatment.

Effect ratio of stearic acid and oleic acid on characteristics of diclofenac sodium nanostructured lipid carrier

Background: Osteoarthritis treatment generally involves using a Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID), and the most common is Diclofenac sodium. The oral use of diclofenac sodium presents some adverse effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Trans-dermal diclofenac sodium's biological efficacy can be affected by factors including its log P value of 1.13. Nanostructured Lipid Carrier (NLC) may solve these concerns. Objective: This study examined how stearic and oleic acid concentrations customise diclofenac sodium NLC's physicochemical properties. Method: High shear homogenisation was used to compare stearic acid and oleic acid at 6:4, 7:3, and 8:2. Furthermore, the physicochemical properties of diclofenac sodium NLC were assessed, such as organoleptic, particle size and poly-dispersity index, pH, viscosity, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, profiles of FTIR and DSC. Result: This study found that particle size ranged from 333.60 ± 144.29 to 791.77 ± 85.57, and entrapment efficiency was 89.38 ± 3.69 to 76.96 ± 3.29. Increasing the content of oleic acid as a liquid lipid reduces particle size and improves diclofenac sodium NLC entrapment. According to One-Way ANOVA, the dependent variable was not significantly affected by any independent variables (p-value > 0.05) except for particle size and entrapment efficiency. Conclusion: Stearic acid-oleic acid concentration ratios affect diclofenac sodium NLC's physicochemical properties.

A joint experimental and theoretical investigation of the binding mechanism between zein and folic acid in an ethanol–water solution

ABSTRACT The aim of the present study was to determine the binding mechanisms between zein and folic acid in an ethanol – water solution. Fluorescence spectroscopy demonstrated that folic acid quenched the fluorescence intensity of zein by both dynamic and static fluorescence quenching mechanisms, with static quenching playing a prominent role. The binding constants (Ka) of the zein-folic acid complex at 292, 302, and 312 K were evaluated to be 5.97 × 105, 3.00 × 105 and 1.54 × 105 L/mol, respectively. The process of folic acid binding zein was driven by ∆H0 = –51.24 kJ/mol, ∆S0 = –64.90 J/mol•K. Van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding primarily governed the formation of the zein-folic acid complex. Confirmation of the complex formation was obtained via UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and circular dichroism spectroscopy, which also revealed alterations in the secondary structure of zein upon binding to folic acid. Measurements of particle size and zeta potential demonstrated an enhancement in the stability of the complex system. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy showed the complex to possess a spherical morphology, with significant changes in the zein’s morphology following its binding to folic acid. Additionally, zein increased the photostability of folic acid against UV light radiation. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were used to investigate the binding mechanisms involved further, and the results effectively elucidated the observed experimental phenomena. This research establishes a significant theoretical foundation for the utilization of zein as a system for delivering and safeguarding folic acid.

Saccharification and structural changes in Areca catechu husk fiber

AbstractAreca nut husk (ANH) holds promise as a viable biomass source for xylose production. Xylose is a precursor for various biochemicals. However, the recalcitrant nature of ANH makes saccharification more complex. To address this, lime and acid pretreatments were carried out to enhance the susceptibility of biomass to saccharification. Before this, a compositional analysis was conducted to determine the initial constituents of the feedstock. Saccharification was conducted under the following conditions: 2% (wV−1) substrate loading, 100 rpm agitation, and 30 °C hydrolysis temperature for 12 h hydrolysis time at pH 4.5 to 5.0. However, parameters like xylanase enzyme loading were varied to enhance the saccharification of the ANH. The results demonstrated that acid‐treated husk (ATH), lime‐treated husk (LTH), and raw husk (RH) achieved the highest yield (gg−1) of reducing sugar, approximately 90, 83, and 15%, respectively, at an enzyme loading of 15.0 IUg−1. Various analytical techniques, including Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), zeta potential, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) were used to examine structural changes in the native, pretreated, and saccharified residues of ANH. The analysis revealed that a significant amount of partial crystalline and amorphous cellulose in the ANH biomass was hydrolyzed during the saccharification process. However, saccharification also led to the removal of amorphous substances, disruption of the crystalline structure, and conversion of crystalline regions into amorphous domains.

Effect of Dielectric Constant on the Zeta Potential of Spherical Electric Double Layers

Zeta potential refers to the electrokinetic potential present in colloidal systems, exerting significant influence on the diverse properties of nano-drug delivery systems. The impact of the dielectric constant on the zeta potential and charge inversion of highly charged colloidal particles immersed in a variety of solvents spanning from polar, such as water, to nonpolar solvents and in the presence of multivalent salts was investigated through primitive Monte Carlo (MC) model simulations. Zeta potential, ξ, is decreased with the decreasing dielectric constant of the solvent and upon further increase in the salinity and the valency of the salt. At elevated levels of salt, the colloidal particles become overcharged in all solvents. As a result, their apparent charge becomes opposite in sign to the stoichiometric charge. This reversal of charge intensifies until reaching a saturation point with further increase in salinity.

Thawing of Frozen Hairtail (Trichiurus lepturus) with Graphene Nanoparticles Combined with Radio Frequency: Variations in Protein Aggregation, Structural Characteristics, and Stability

Efficient thawing can preserve the quality of frozen hairtail (Trichiurus lepturus) close to that of fresh hairtail. In contrast to air thawing (AT) and radio-frequency thawing (RT), this study looked at how graphene oxide (GO) and graphene magnetic (GM) nanoparticles paired with RT affect the microstructure and protein conformation of hairtails after thawing. The results suggested that GM-RT can reduce the myofibrillar protein (MP) damage and be more effective than other thawing treatments, like AT, RT, and GO-RT, in maintaining the microstructure of hairtail. The particle size and zeta potential showed that GM-RT could reduce the aggregation of MP during the thawing process compared to other thawing methods. Moreover, the texture of the hairtail after GM-RT exhibited higher hardness (1185.25 g), elasticity (2.25 mm), and chewiness (5.75 mJ) values compared to other thawing treatments. Especially compared with RT, the GM-RT treatment displayed significant improvements in hardness (27.24%), a considerable increase in springiness (92.23%), and an increase in chewiness (57.96%). GO-RT and GM-RT significantly reduced the centrifugal loss. The scanning electron microscopy results demonstrated that the effect of GM-RT was more akin to that of a fresh sample (FS) and characterized by a well-organized microstructure. In conclusion, GM-RT effectively diminished the MP aggregation and improved the texture of thawed fish. It can be regarded as a viable alternative thawing technique to enhance MP stability, which is vital for preserving meat quality.

A critical review on analysis of sand producing and sand-control technologies for oil well in oilfields

Sand production in oil wells seriously affects the production of oil and gas in oilfields. Although conventional sand-control techniques can effectively prevent sand production, it may also limit the productivity of oil wells. Fracturing and packing sand control technology changes the distribution of pressure and flow in the wellbore, while foam polymer resin diversion technology reduces the anisotropy of reservoir permeability and increases the area of oil leakage in the reservoir, both achieving the goal of sand control and increased production. The sand-free production rate is successfully increased thanks to zeta potential sand control technology, which modifies the formation’s sand potential and causes the sand to agglomerate without harming the reservoir. This article first looks into the causes of sand production in oil and gas wells before examining the fundamentals, implementation strategies, and effects of traditional sand control techniques, fracturing and filling sand control technology, foam polymer resin diversion technology, and Zeta potential sand control technology. In this article, the experience of sand control technology in actual oil field applications is summarized, explained in detail, and the future development possibilities of sand control technology are discussed.

Formulation and Characterization of Nanoemulsion Incorporating Chamomilla recutita L. Extract Stabilized with Hyaluronic Acid

Skin lesions are an important health concern, exposing the body to infection risks. Utilizing natural products containing chamomile (Chamomilla recutita L.) holds promise for curative purposes. Additionally, hyaluronic acid (HA), an active ingredient known for its tissue regeneration capacity, can expedite healing. In this study, we prepared and characterized an extract of C. recutita and integrated it into a nanoemulsion system stabilized with HA, aiming at harnessing its healing potential. We assessed the impact of alcoholic strength on flavonoid extraction and chemically characterized the extract using UHPLC/MS while quantifying its antioxidant and antimicrobial capacity. We developed a nanoemulsion loaded with C. recutita extract and evaluated the effect of HA stabilization on pH, droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and viscosity. Results indicated that 70% hydroalcoholic extraction yielded a higher flavonoid content. The extract exhibited antioxidant capacity in vitro, a desirable trait for skin regeneration, and demonstrated efficacy against key microbial strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) associated with skin colonization and infections. Flavonoids spireoside and apiin emerged as the most abundant bioactives. The addition of HA led to increased viscosity while maintaining a suitable pH for topical application. Zeta potential, droplet size, and PDI met acceptable criteria. Moreover, incorporating C. recutita extract into the nanoemulsion enhanced its antimicrobial effect. Hence, the nanoemulsion system loaded with C. recutita and HA stabilization exhibits favorable characteristics for topical application, showing promise in aiding the healing processes.

Research Strategies for Precise Manipulation of Micro/Nanoparticle Drug Delivery Systems Using Microfluidic Technology: A Review

AbstractMicrofluidic technology facilitates precise control over fluid mixing and interactions between the components, including self-assembly and precipitation. It offers new options for accurately manufacturing particles and holds significant potential in advancing micro/nanoparticle drug delivery systems (DDSs). Various microchannel/microfluidic chips have been explored to construct micro/nanoparticle DDSs. The precise manipulation of particle size, morphology, structure, stiffness, surface characteristics, and elasticity through microfluidic technology relies on specific microchannel geometrical designs and the application of exogenous energy, adhering to the principles of fluid motion. Consequently, this enables reproducible control over critical quality attributes (CQAs), such as particle size and distribution, encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, in vitro and in vivo drug delivery profiles, Zeta potential, and targeting capabilities, for micro/nanoparticle DDSs. In this review, we categorize microfluidic techniques and explore recent research developments in novel microchannel structures spanning the past 5 years (2018–2023) and their applications in micro/nanoparticle DDSs. Additionally, we elucidate the latest manipulation strategies of microfluidic techniques that impact foundational structures related to the CQAs of micro/nanoparticle DDSs. Furthermore, we offer insights into the industrial applications and challenges microfluidic techniques face in the context of novel micro/nanoparticle DDSs.

Development of pH-responsive Eudragit S100-functionalized silk fibroin nanoparticles as a prospective drug delivery system.

Silk fibroin nanoparticles (FNP) have been increasingly investigated in biomedical fields due to their biocompatibility and biodegradability properties. To widen the FNP versatility and applications, and to control the drug release from the FNP, this study developed the Eudragit S100-functionalized FNP (ES100-FNP) as a pH-responsive drug delivery system, by two distinct methods of co-condensation and adsorption, employing the zwitterionic furosemide as a model drug. The particles were characterized by sizes and zeta potentials (DLS method), morphology (electron microscopy), drug entrapment efficiency and release profiles (UV-Vis spectroscopy), and chemical structures (FT-IR, XRD, and DSC). The ES100-FNP possessed nano-sizes of ∼200-350 nm, zeta potentials of ∼ -20 mV, silk-II structures, enhanced thermo-stability, non-cytotoxic to the erythrocytes, and drug entrapment efficiencies of 30%-60%, dependent on the formulation processes. Interestingly, the co-condensation method yielded the smooth spherical particles, whereas the adsorption method resulted in durian-shaped ones due to furosemide re-crystallization. The ES100-FNP adsorbed furosemide via physical adsorption, followed Langmuir model and pseudo-second-order kinetics. In the simulated oral condition, the particles could protect the drug in the stomach (pH 1.2), and gradually released the drug in the intestine (pH 6.8). Remarkably, in different pH conditions of 6.8, 9.5, and 12, the ES100-FNP could control the furosemide release rates depending on the formulation methods. The ES100-FNP made by the co-condensation method was mainly controlled by the swelling and corrosion process of ES100, and followed the Korsmeyer-Peppas non-Fickian transport mechanism. Whereas, the ES100-FNP made by the adsorption method showed constant release rates, followed the zero-order kinetics, due to the gradual furosemide dissolution in the media. Conclusively, the ES100-FNP demonstrated high versatility as a pH-responsive drug delivery system for biomedical applications.