Particle Zeta Potential Research Articles

Characterization and Evaluation of Anti-inflammatory Melinjo Seed Extract Nanoparticles

Melinjo seed extract is rich in various active compounds, including trans-resveratrol, commonly known as “melinjo resveratrol,” with antioxidant and antimicrobial pharmacological functions. However, a comprehensive exploration of the anti-inflammatory potential of melinjo seed extract has not been conducted. Converting melinjo seed extract into nanoparticles offers distinct advantages, including the ability to permeate intercellular spaces and higher cell walls through diffusion or opsonification. This flexibility allows for synergies with various technologies, presenting extensive potential for diverse applications and targets. Therefore, this experimental research aimed to obtain an extract from melinjo seed through an extraction process and apply it in nanoparticle dosage forms. Characterization was performed by evaluating the particle size, zeta potential, surface morphology, and anti-inflammatory activity. The results showed that the nanoparticles were successfully prepared using the ionic gelation method, yielding a particle size of 267.5 nm, a stable potential zeta, and well-defined spherical morphology. Additionally, the nanoparticles produced the highest anti-inflammatory activity compared to treatments with conventional melinjo seed extract and sodium diclofenac.

Nano-emulsification of Osmanthus essential oil: Characterizations, stability and molecular interactions explaining antibacterial activity

The practical usage of Osmanthus essential oil (OEO) in foods is limited due to its poor solubility in water, higher volatility, and instability. This research aimed to prepare OEO nano-emulsion (OEO-NE) by high-pressure homogenization technique and characterize its nano-form (particle size, zeta potential, structure, FTIR, and thermodynamic stability). The antibacterial activity of OEO was researched using network pharmacology and molecular docking. Furthermore, the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of OEO-NE and OEO were researched. The OEO-NE exhibited long-term storage stability compared to the OEO, with particle size changing to 40.90 nm ∼ 68.09 nm and zeta potential changing to −38.37 mV ∼ −35 mV over 31 storage days at 4 °C and 25 °C. Dihydro-β-ionone and linalool oxide showed better binding affinity for S. aureus TyrRS than E. coli 24 kDa. In addition, nano-emulsification effectively stabilizes the antibacterial and antioxidant activity of OEO. Therefore, OEO-NE is an effective strategy to enhance stability and bioavailability.

Characterization of hemp seed oil emulsion stabilized by soap nuts (Sapindus mukorossi) extract

In the past years, plant-based surfactants such as plant proteins, hydrocolloids, and extracts have intrigued scientific studies of food formulations for usage in emulsion, nanoemulsion as well as microemulsion systems, mainly due to their functional benefits and low toxicity levels. In this work, a hemp seed oil-containing (HSO) emulsion system was stabilized using soap nuts (SN), also known as Sapindus mukorossi. In order to determine the formulation requirements and the optimal emulsion composition including oil and surfactant content, a Box-Behnken experimental design was applied. The compositions were evaluated in terms of their particle size distribution, stability, visual quality, turbidity, and zeta potential. Moreover, to describe the physicochemical characteristics of the emulsions, rheological tests, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses, and refractive index parameters were also studied. The average particle size of the emulsions (particle distribution by number) was recorded between 51 and 103 nm, and z-ave parameter reached values between 227 nm and 311 nm. The zeta potential increased when the proportion of HSO increased, and reached its highest value (−23.5 mV) when HSO was 5% v/v. Microscopic investigations confirmed the polydispersity of the prepared emulsions. Furthermore, due to further applications of the emulsions i.e. packing and delivery, wetting properties were evaluated. The wetting angle values reached maximum approx. 30° with an HSO content of 1%. However, the wetting angle values were lower with increasing HSO content. Presented results revealed that Sapindus mukorossi is indeed a good stabilizer for hemp seed oil and water emulsions.

Screening, characterization and mechanism of a potential stabiliser for nisin nanoliposomes with high encapsulation efficiency

The encapsulation efficiency (EE%) reflects the amount of bioactive components that can be loaded into nanoliposomes. Obtaining a suitable nanoliposome stabiliser may be the key to improving their EE%. In this study, three polyphenols were screened as stabilisers of nanoliposomes with high nisin EE%, with curcumin nanoliposomes (Cu-NLs) exhibiting the best performance (EE% = 95.94%). Characterizations of particle size, PDI and zeta potential indicate that the Cu-NLs had good uniformity and stability. TEM found that nisin accumulated at the edges of the Cu-NLs' phospholipid layer. DSC and FT-IR revealed that curcumin was involved in the formation of the phospholipid layer and altered its structure. FT-IR and molecular docking simulations indicate that the interactions between curcumin and nisin are mainly hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic. In whole milk, Cu-NLs effectively protected nisin activity. This study provides an effective strategy for improving the EE% of nanoliposomes loaded with nisin and other bacteriocins.

Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Loaded Rhamnolipid Based Solid Lipid Nanoparticle as Skin Lightener Formulation: A Green Production Beside In Vitro/In Vivo Safety Index Evaluation.

In the current investigation, an ultrasonic approach was performed to produce menadione sodium bisulfite-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (MSB-SLNs) with rhamnolipid as bio-surfactant, which aimed to increase the dermal delivery and anti-pigmentation effect. To achieve optimum delivery for MSB, the impact of the ratio of two surfactants (rhamnolipid: Tween) on nanoparticle attributes and the respective functions were evaluated. In vitro diffusion process, in vitro cytotoxicity assay, determination of melanin content of melanoma cells, L-DOPA auto-oxidation inhibitory test, and skin irritation studies carried out to investigate the suitability of MSB formulation in dermal application. The optimized nanoparticles showed an average particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index (PDI), and drug entrapment efficiency of 117.26±1.12 nm, -6.28±0.33 mV, 0.262±0.002, 83.34±0.75% respectively in hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) of 12. The in vitro diffusion process demonstrated that MSB-SLN gel had a prolonged release pattern. The levels of MSB in the cutaneous layers (52.192±2.730% or 961.59±50.313 μg/cm2 ) and the receiver compartment (23.721±1.803 % or 437.049± 33.236 μg/cm2 ) for the MSB-SLN gel was higher than MSB simple and showed no cutaneous irritancy and toxicity in rats. MSB-SLN inhibited melanin formation and was remarkably higher than free MSB. MSB-SLN inhibited L-3,4- dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) auto-oxidation to a greater extent (95.14±1.46%) than MSB solution (72.28±0.83%). This study's observations revealed that the produced MSB-SLN might be used as a potential nano-vehicle for MSB dermal administration, thereby opening up innovative options for the management of hyper-melanogenesis problems.

NO-cGMP-K+ Channels Pathways Participate in the Antihypertensive Effects of Attalea phalerata Martius ex Spreng Oil-Loaded Nanocapsules.

Attalea phalerata Martius ex Spreng is a palm tree that is widely distributed in the Central-West region of Brazil. In this study, we investigated whether the oil-loaded nanocapsules of A. phalerata (APON) have acute and long-lasting antihypertensive effects in male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), as well as explored the underlying molecular mechanisms. APON was prepared using the interfacial polymer deposition method. The particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential were investigated using dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering. The antihypertensive effects of APON (administered at doses of 1, 3, and 10 mg/kg) were evaluated after acute intraduodenal administration and after 7 days of oral treatment. To investigate the molecular pathways involved, we used pharmacological antagonists and inhibitors that target prostaglandin/cyclic adenosine monophosphate, nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine monophosphate, and potassium channels. Both acute and prolonged administration of APON (at doses of 3 and 10 mg/kg) resulted in a significant reduction in systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure. Prior treatment with a non-selective nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester), guanylyl cyclase inhibitor (methylene blue), or non-selective calcium-sensitive K+ channel blocker (tetraethylammonium) abolished the antihypertensive effects of APON. Our study showed that A. phalerata oil-loaded nanocapsules have a significant antihypertensive effect in SHR after both short-term and long-term (7-day) use. This effect seems to rely on the vascular endothelium function and involves the NO-cGMP-K+ channel pathway. This research suggests a new direction for future studies to definitively prove the therapeutic benefits of APON in treating cardiovascular disease.

Antiproliferative activity of syringic acid-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers against MCF-7 human breast carcinoma cells

Syringic acid (SA) is a phenolic herbal compound known to exert antiproliferative properties. However, its poor aqueous solubility and low bioavailability lead to limited therapeutic efficacy in treating breast cancer. Hence, to overcome the above problems, the current study aims to explore the quality by design (QbD) optimized syringic acid loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (SA-NLCs) to treat breast cancer. Here, SA-NLCs were formulated via the hot-melt emulsification method and optimized using the Box-Behnken design. The SA-NLCs exhibited spherical shapes with a particle size and zeta potential of 142.7 ± 4 nm and −14.5 ± 3.6 mV, respectively. The differential scanning calorimetry and powder XRD analyses showed the conversion of crystalline to amorphous form of SA after entrapping into NLCs. Also, the optimized SA-NLCs showed sustained drug release of 75.5 % and 97.6 % in pH 5.5 acetate buffer solution and pH 7.4 phosphate buffer saline respectively. The drug release kinetics study revealed that the optimized SA-NLCs exhibit the Weibull model with the Fickian drug release mechanism. Further, a significantly improved cytotoxicity of the optimized SA-NLCs (IC50: 3.8 ± 0.2 μg/mL) was observed as compared to free SA (IC50: 14.5 ± 1.2 μg/mL) on MCF-7 human breast carcinoma cell lines. Thus, the improved cytotoxicity of SA-NLCs on MCF-7 cell lines can be a suitable strategy for breast cancer treatment.

Development and Optimization of Dipyridamole- and Roflumilast-Loaded Nanoemulsion and Nanoemulgel for Enhanced Skin Permeation: Formulation, Characterization, and In Vitro Assessment.

This study explores developing and optimizing a nanoemulsion (NE) system loaded with dipyridamole and roflumilast, aiming to improve skin penetration and retention. The NE formulation was further transformed into a nanoemulgel to enhance its application as a topical treatment for psoriasis. Solubility studies were conducted to select the oil, surfactant, and co-surfactant. Phase diagrams were constructed using the aqueous phase titration method. All the formulations were in nanoscale, and Formula (F2) (which contains oleic acid oil as the oil phase, a mixture of Surfactant Tween 80 and co-surfactant (ethanol) at a ratio of 1:2 in addition to distilled water as an aqueous phase in a ratio of 1:5:4, respectively) was the selected formula depending on the particle size, PDI, and zeta potential. Formula (F2) has the best ratio because it gives the smallest nanoemulsion globule size (particle size average of 167.1 nm), the best homogenicity (lowest PDI of 0.195), and the highest stability (higher zeta potential of -32.22). The selected formula was converted into a nanoemulgel by the addition of 0.5% (w/w) xanthan gum (average particle size of 172.7 nm) and the best homogenicity (lowest PDI of 0.121%) and highest stability (higher zeta potential of -28.31). In conclusion, the selected formula has accepted physical and chemical properties, which enhanced skin penetration.

Limonene-enriched ultra-structural cubosomes to augment ocular delivery of a poorly water soluble anti-fungal drug: Fabrication, characterization, statistical optimization, in vivo corneal uptake and histopathological evaluation in rabbits

The target of this investigation was to obtain the composition of the optimized Fenticonazole nitrate (FCN)-loaded cubosomal formula that can prolong precorneal retention, increase corneal absorption, enhance corneal permeation, and anti-fungal efficacy of FCN. Cubosomes are bi-continuous structural vesicles fabricated using the hot emulsification technique in accordance with a 23-full factorial design. The selected fabrication factors were the concentration of the Lipid phase (X1), glyceryl monooleate: lipid phase stabilizer ratio (X2), and aqueous phase stabilizer types (X3). Whereas, the encapsulation efficiency percent (EE%), Mean particle size (PS), Polydispersity index (PDI), and Zeta potential (ZP) were chosen as measured responses. The numerical optimization criterion of the design expert software was utilized to select the optimized formula (Op) for extra investigations. The Op formula had EE% of 87.94 ± 0.7 %, PS of 249.75 ± 1.48 nm, and ZP of −34.25 ± 0.64 mV. The in vitro release study of the Op formula in comparison with FCN suspension showed a zero-order and controlled kinetic release behavior. Moreover, the results of the pH, refractive index, surface tension, and mucoadhesion study confirmed the superiority and the safety of the Op formula. Further, the ex vivo permeation study demonstrated a significant enhancement in the transcorneal permeation of the Op formula than FCN suspension by 2.69-fold. Besides, the in vivo corneal uptake confirmed the higher permeation of the Op formula in comparison with FCN suspension. Draize test and histopathological examination ensured the in vivo safety and tolerability of the Op formula. Overall, the previous findings ensured the efficacy of cubosomes in enhancing ocular retention, absorption, permeation, and bioavailability of FCN.

Ceftazidime and Usnic Acid Encapsulated in Chitosan-Coated Liposomes for Oral Administration against Colorectal Cancer-Inducing Escherichia coli.

Escherichia coli has been associated with the induction of colorectal cancer (CRC). Thus, combined therapy incorporating usnic acid (UA) and antibiotics such as ceftazidime (CAZ), co-encapsulated in liposomes, could be an alternative. Coating the liposomes with chitosan (Chi) could facilitate the oral administration of this nanocarrier. Liposomes were prepared using the lipid film hydration method, followed by sonication and chitosan coating via the drip technique. Characterization included particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, pH, encapsulation efficiency, and physicochemical analyses. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration were determined against E. coli ATCC 25922, NCTC 13846, and H10407 using the microdilution method. Antibiofilm assays were conducted using the crystal violet method. The liposomes exhibited sizes ranging from 116.5 ± 5.3 to 240.3 ± 3.5 nm and zeta potentials between +16.4 ± 0.6 and +28 ± 0.8 mV. The encapsulation efficiencies were 51.5 ± 0.2% for CAZ and 99.94 ± 0.1% for UA. Lipo-CAZ-Chi and Lipo-UA-Chi exhibited antibacterial activity, inhibited biofilm formation, and preformed biofilms of E. coli. The Lipo-CAZ-UA-Chi and Lipo-CAZ-Chi + Lipo-UA-Chi formulations showed enhanced activities, potentially due to co-encapsulation or combination effects. These findings suggest potential for in vivo oral administration in future antibacterial and antibiofilm therapies against CRC-inducing bacteria.

Polystyrene nanoplastics distinctly impact cadmium uptake and toxicity in Arabidopsis thaliana

The ubiquitous presence of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) in soil has raised concerns regarding their potential effects on terrestrial plants. The coexistence and interactions between MNPs and heavy metals altering their phytotoxicity deserves further investigation. In this study, we explored the impacts of various concentrations of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) and cadmium (Cd) alone or in combination on the growth and development of Arabidopsis thaliana. Additionally, we examined the effects of combined stress on the uptake and translocation of Cd within Arabidopsis thaliana. Our findings revealed several key insights: PS-NPs exhibited the capability to internalize in the maturation zone of Arabidopsis roots; the presence of Cd changed the particle size and zeta potential of PS-NPs; the presence of PS-NPs heightened Cd accumulation in the underground parts of Arabidopsis seedlings, leading to a stronger oxidative stress response in these regions; the composite stress exerted a more pronounced effect on the growth and development of Arabidopsis compared to individual stresses. Interestingly, while higher PS-NPs concentrations hindered Cd migration from roots to leaves, they also acted as carriers for Cd uptake in Arabidopsis roots. These findings shed light on the combined impacts of MNPs and heavy metals on plant physiology, offering theoretical insights to guide risk assessment strategies for MNPs and heavy metals in terrestrial ecosystems.

Development and characterization of ferulic acid-loaded chitosan nanoparticle embedded- hydrogel for diabetic wound delivery

Diabetic wounds present a significant global health challenge exacerbated by chronic hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress, impeding the natural healing process. Despite various treatment strategies, diabetic foot ulceration lacks standardized therapy. Ferulic acid (FA), known for its potent antidiabetic and antioxidant properties, holds promise for diabetic wound management. However, oral administration of FA faces limitations due to rapid oxidation, stability issues, and low bioavailability. The topical application of FA-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (FA-CSNPs) has emerged as a promising approach to overcome these challenges. Here, we report the development of a sustained-release formulation of FA-CSNPs within a hydrogel matrix composed of Chitosan and gelatin. The FA-CSNPs were synthesized using the ionic gelation method andoptimized through a Central Composite Design (CCD) approach. Characterization of the optimized nanoparticles revealed spherical morphology, a particle size of 56.9 ± 2.5 nm, and an impressive entrapment efficiency of 90.3 ± 2.4 %. Subsequently, an FA-CSNPs-loaded hydrogel was formulated, incorporating chitosan as a gelling agent, gelatin to enhance mechanical properties and cell permeation, and glutaraldehyde as a cross-linker. Comprehensive characterization of the hydrogel included pH, moisture loss, porosity, swelling index, rheology, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), SEM, TEM, invitro drug release studies, antioxidant activity, antibacterial efficacy, cell cytotoxicity, cell migration studies on L929 fibroblast cell line, and stability studies. The stability study demonstrated negligible variations in particle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency over 60 days, ensuring the stable nature of nanoparticles and hydrogel. This innovative delivery approach embedded within a hydrogel matrix holds significant promise for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of FA-CSNPs-hydrogel in diabetic wound healing applications.

Anti-depressant effect of Naringenin-loaded hybridized nanoparticles in diabetic rats via PPARγ/NLRP3 pathway

Naringenin (NAR) has various biological activities but low bioavailability. The current study examines the effect of Naringenin-loaded hybridized nanoparticles (NAR-HNPs) and NAR on depression induced by streptozotocin (STZ) in rats. NAR-HNPs formula with the highest in vitro NAR released profile, lowest polydispersity index value (0.21 ± 0.02), highest entrapment efficiency (98.7 ± 2.01%), as well as an acceptable particle size and zeta potential of 415.2 ± 9.54 nm and 52.8 ± 1.04 mV, respectively, was considered the optimum formulation. It was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, examined using a transmission electron microscope, and a stability study was conducted at different temperatures to monitor its stability efficiency showing that NAR-HNP formulation maintains stability at 4 °C. The selected formulation was subjected to an acute toxicological test, a pharmacokinetic analysis, and a Diabetes mellitus (DM) experimental model. STZ (50 mg/kg) given as a single i.p. rendered rats diabetic. Diabetic rat groups were allocated into 4 groups: one group received no treatment, while the remaining three received oral doses of unloaded HNPs, NAR (50 mg/kg), NAR-HNPs (50 mg/kg) and NAR (50 mg/kg) + peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) antagonist, GW9662 (1mg/kg, i.p.) for three weeks. Additional four non-diabetic rat groups received: distilled water (normal), free NAR, and NAR-HNPs, respectively for three weeks. NAR and NAR-HNPs reduced immobility time in forced swimming test and serum blood glucose while increasing serum insulin level. They also reduced cortical and hippocampal 5-hydroxyindoeacetic acid, 3,4-Dihydroxy-phenylacetic acid, malondialdehyde, NLR family pyrin domain containing-3 (NLRP3) and interleukin-1beta content while raised serotonin, nor-epinephrine, dopamine and glutathione level. PPAR-γ gene expression was elevated too. So, NAR and NAR-HNPs reduced DM-induced depression by influencing brain neurotransmitters and exhibiting anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects through the activation PPAR-γ/ NLRP3 pathway. NAR-HNPs showed the best pharmacokinetic and therapeutic results.

Development of an active biogenic silver nanoparticles composite film based on berry wax and chitosan for rabbit meat preservation

This study aimed to develop an eco-friendly active biogenic nanocomposite film through the complexation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), berry wax (BYW), and chitosan (CT) for maintiaing rabbit functional meat freshness. AgNPs were synthesized using Chinese medicinal paeoniaceae petal extract, and they were loaded at various concentrations (0.5 %, 0.75 %, 1.0 %, 1.25 %, and 1.5 % based on CT w/w) into the CT/BYW complex. The AgNPs exhibited an average size of 55 nm and a zeta potential of −26.3 mV with a spherical shape. The particle size and zeta potential of the film dispersions were 370.5–529.5 nm and 40.17–49.345 mV, respectively. FTIR, SEM, and XRD results showed compatibility among AgNPs and CT/BYW structure. The film water vapor permeability and light transparency decreased from 6.5 to 3.5 and 10 to 0.78 %, respectively, while opacity increased from 1.76 to 9.96 % with increasing concentrations of AgNPs. Among them, the film composite CT/BYW/AgNPs1.5% had better antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which was then applied for rabbit meat preservation at 4 °C for 16 days of storage. CT/BYW/AgNPs1.25%-packed sample had lower values of TVB-N, TBARS, TVC, and pH with greater retention of color properties compared to the control sample, which describes its ability to maintain meat freshness.

Screening of Miscanthus Genotypes for Sustainable Production of Microcrystalline Cellulose and Cellulose Nanocrystals

Miscanthus spp. has been regarded as a promising industrial plant for the sustainable production of bio-based materials. To assess its potential for microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) production, 50 representative clones of M. sinensis and M. floridulus were selected from a nationwide collection showcasing the extensive diversity of germplasm resources. Descriptive analysis indicates that the dry biomass weight of M. floridulus is advantageous whereas M. sinensis demonstrates higher MCC and CNCs yields as well as a smaller CNCs particle size. Correlation analyses indicated that MCC yield is solely influenced by the cellulose content whereas the yield of CNCs is affected by both the cellulose content and CrI. Comparative analyses of the chemical composition, physical features (degree of polymerization, crystalline index, particle size distribution and zeta potential), and scanning electron microscopy indicated that the MCC and CNCs extracted from M. sinensis and M. floridulus exhibited remarkable stability and quality. Additionally, the CNCs derived from M. sinensis and M. floridulus exhibited a distinctive ball-shaped structure. Notably, machine learning has demonstrated its efficacy and effectiveness in the high-throughput screening of large populations of Miscanthus spp. for predicting the yield of MCC and CNCs. Our results have also laid the theoretical foundation for the exploration, cultivation, and genetic breeding of M. sinensis and M. floridulus germplasm resources with the purpose of MCC and CNCs preparation.

Design of N-acetylcysteine vesicles as a potential chemopreventive tool in lung cancer: Characterization, Tc-99 m radiolabeling and in vivo evaluation

Lung cancer is a type of cancer which is characterized by high incidence and elevated mortality rate. In an attempt to counteract the carcinogens’ load and prevent the development of lung cancer especially in heavy smokers, chemoprevention has emerged as a promising strategy in this regard. Among the popular chemopreventive agents is N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), which prevents the progression of lung damage by virtue of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In order to increase the amount of NAC reaching the lung following intravenous administration, the current work explored its formulation in transcutol-containing liposomes. The vesicles prepared using the ethanol injection method were characterized in vitro for their particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity, entrapment efficiency, storage stability, drug release, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, safety and morphology. Their in vivo biodistribution was assessed in body organs after radiolabeling with technetium-99 m. Results showed that the transcutol-containing liposomes exhibited a particle size of 250 ± 17 nm, a zeta potential of −18.90 ± 2.30, entrapment efficiency 41 % ± 3.4, sustained release, and they preserved the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the encapsulated NAC. The biodistribution study delineated that NAC was deposited about three-fold higher in the lung when administered in transcutol-containing liposomes compared to the solution form. Therefore, it can be concluded that transcutol-containing liposomes is a promising lung-targeting modality for delivering NAC, which is worthy of further exploration with other drugs targeting pulmonary diseases.

Synthesis and Characterization of Chitosan Nanoparticles for Lithium Metal Ion

Nanoparticles have enormous potential application in drug delivery system. Chitosan nanoparticles have received plenty of attention due to their non-toxicity, biocompatibility, biodegradability and controlled drug release. The objective of the present work was to evaluate the potential of chitosan-tripolyphosphate (TPP) nanoparticles as a carrier in the preparation of Lithium loaded chitosan nanoparticles. Lithium loaded chitosan-TPP nanoparticles were prepared by using Ionotropic gelation method. The cross linking between TPP and chitosan was determined by FTIR studies. The particle size and zeta potential of nanoparticles were studied by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential analyser. The particle size for chitosan nanoparticles and Lithium loaded chitosan nanoparticles were found to be148.4 nm and 179.0 nm respectively. The zeta potential for chitosan nanoparticles and Lithium loaded chitosan nanoparticles were found to be+35.70mV and +29mV. These nanoparticles have good loading capacity of 11% for Lithium. These studies suggest that chitosan can complex TPP to form Lithium loaded nanoparticles. Key Words: Nanoparticles, Chitosan, Ionotropic Gelation, Lithium

Combined photodynamic therapy and hollow microneedle approach for effective non-invasive delivery of hypericin for the management of imiquimod-induced psoriasis

Background Conventional topical psoriasis treatments suffer from limited delivery to affected areas and skin irritation due to high local drug concentration. Purpose This study aims to prepare hypericin (HYP) loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) and their application in psoriasis treatment through intradermal administration using hollow microneedles assisted by photodynamic therapy. Methods The colloidal characteristics of NLCs, entrapment efficiency and morphology were evaluated. An ex-vivo skin distribution study was conducted along with testing the in vivo antipsoriatic activity in mice with the imiquimod-induced psoriasis model. Results The particle size and zeta potential of HYP-NLCs were 167.70 nm and −18.1, respectively. The ex-vivo skin distribution study demonstrated the superior distribution of HYP-NLCs to a depth of 1480 µm within the skin layers relative to only 750 µm for free HYP. In vivo studies revealed that the levels of NF-KB, IL 6, MMP1, GSH, and catalase in the group treated with HYP-NLCs in the presence of light were comparable to the negative control. Conclusions The histopathological inspection of dissected skin samples reflected the superiority of HYP-NLCs over HYP ointment. This could be ascribed to the effect of nanoencapsulation on improving HYP properties besides the ability of hollow microneedles to ensure effective HYP delivery to the affected psoriatic area.

Effects of Functional Biomaterials on the Attributes of Orally Disintegrating Tablets Loaded with Furosemide Nanoparticles: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluations.

Furosemide (FUR) is a diuretic used to relieve edema, congestive heart failure, cirrhosis, end-stage renal disease, and hypertension. FUR is a class IV according to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System. It is practically insoluble in water. This study aimed to optimize and formulate porous orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) prepared by sublimation and loaded with FUR nanoparticles prepared by using a planetary ball mill. Different functional biomaterials called stabilizers were used to stabilize the nanoparticle formula. Pluronic F-127 was the optimum stabilizer in terms of particle size (354.07 ± 6.44), zeta potential (-25.3 ± 5.65), and dissolution efficiency (56.34%). The impact of the stabilizer concentration was studied as well, and a concentration of 3% showed the smallest particle size (354.07 ± 6.44), best zeta potential value (-25.3 ± 5.65), and percentage of dissolution rate (56.34%). A FUR-loaded nanoparticle formula was successfully prepared. The nanoparticle formula was stabilized by using 3% pluronic F-127, and 3% was chosen for further study of the incorporation into oral disintegration tablets prepared by the sublimation technique. The impact of the matrix sublimating agent and superdisintegrant on the ODTs' attributes (in vitro disintegration, wetting time, and in vitro dissolution efficiency) was studied using 32 full factorial designs. In vivo, the diuretic activity was tested for the optimized FUR ODTs by calculating the Lipschitz value using rats as an animal model. The stability of the ODTs loaded with FUR nanoparticles was assessed under accelerated conditions for 6 months. Finally, the ODT formula loaded with FUR NPs showed a rapid onset of action that was significantly faster than untreated drugs. Nanonization and ODT formulation enhances the dissolution rate and bioavailability of FUR. Many factors can be controlled to achieve optimization results, including the formulation and process parameters.

Characteristic and storage stability of nanostructured lipid carriers containing red palm oil

Red palm oil (RPO) is a potential carotenoid source mostly containing β-carotene. RPO instability requires a delivery system such as nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC). This research aimed to develop an NLC delivery system and study the characteristics of NLCRPO. The melting-emulsification-ultrasonication method was employed to produce the NLC-RPO based on 6% (w/w) lipids, with solid lipid to RPO ratio (SRR) varied 6:4, 7:3, and 8:2. Tween 80 (24% w/w) to lipids ratio of 4:1, and distilled water 70% (w/w). The solid lipids employed in this investigation were palm stearin (PS), and palm kernel stearin (PKS), while the liquid lipid was RPO. The stability of NLC-RPO was evaluated using βcarotene entrapment efficiency (EE), centrifugation, cooling, heating test, color, and pH for 90 days of storage. The NLC-RPO was characterized by particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and viscosity before and after 90 days. Regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationships between the storage and stability parameters. The highest encapsulation efficiency of β-carotene in NLC-RPO as a carrier β-carotene from the RPO was achieved when solid lipid to RPO ratio (SRR) of 6:4 and there was no significant difference in the type of solid lipid (PS and PKS) used. Generally, NLC-RPO stored for 90 days at room temperature showed good stability after centrifugation, cooling and heating tests with greenish-yellow color (-a*;+b*), and pH of 6.38-6.54. The particle size (38-87 nm), PDI (0.01-0.54), and zeta potential (-10.17 to -22.67 mV) did not significantly change over 90 days of storage, while the viscosity (8.36-9.11cP) was significantly different. The NLC-RPO with SRR of 6:4 had the highest β-carotene entrapment efficiency and remained stable after 90 days of storage at room temperature.