Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics Pharmaceutical Science

Advanced Drug Delivery Systems

Description

This cluster of papers focuses on the development and application of mucosal drug delivery systems, with a particular emphasis on chitosan-based nanoparticles, polymeric microspheres, mucoadhesive formulations, and targeted delivery to ocular and nasal tissues. The research covers various aspects of drug release mechanisms, biodegradability, immune responses, and the potential for delivering peptides and proteins via mucosal routes.

Keywords

Chitosan; Nanoparticles; Mucosal; Drug Delivery; Polymeric; Microspheres; Mucoadhesive; Ocular; Nasal; Protein

Drug delivery is the method or process of administering a pharmaceutical compound to achieve a therapeutic effect in humans or animals. For the treatment of human diseases, nasal and pulmonary … Drug delivery is the method or process of administering a pharmaceutical compound to achieve a therapeutic effect in humans or animals. For the treatment of human diseases, nasal and pulmonary routes of drug delivery are gaining increasing importance. These routes provide promising alternatives to parenteral drug delivery particularly for peptide and protein therapeutics. For this purpose, several drug delivery systems have been formulated and are being investigated for nasal and pulmonary delivery. These include liposomes, proliposomes, microspheres, gels, prodrugs, cyclodextrins, among others. Nanoparticles composed of biodegradable polymers show assurance in fulfilling the stringent requirements placed on these delivery systems, such as ability to be transferred into an aerosol, stability against forces generated during aerosolization, biocompatibility, targeting of specific sites or cell populations in the lung, release of the drug in a predetermined manner, and degradation within an acceptable period of time.
An MCM-41 type mesoporous silica nanosphere-based (MSN) controlled-release delivery system has been synthesized and characterized using surface-derivatized cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanocrystals as chemically removable caps to encapsulate several pharmaceutical drug … An MCM-41 type mesoporous silica nanosphere-based (MSN) controlled-release delivery system has been synthesized and characterized using surface-derivatized cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanocrystals as chemically removable caps to encapsulate several pharmaceutical drug molecules and neurotransmitters inside the organically functionalized MSN mesoporous framework. We studied the stimuli-responsive release profiles of vancomycin- and adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-loaded MSN delivery systems by using disulfide bond-reducing molecules, such as dithiothreitol (DTT) and mercaptoethanol (ME), as release triggers. The biocompatibility and delivery efficiency of the MSN system with neuroglial cells (astrocytes) in vitro were demonstrated. In contrast to many current delivery systems, the molecules of interest were encapsulated inside the porous framework of the MSN not by adsorption or sol−gel types of entrapment but by capping the openings of the mesoporous channels with size-defined CdS nanoparticles to physically block the drugs/neurotransmitters of certain sizes from leaching out. We envision that this new MSN system could play a significant role in developing new generations of site-selective, controlled-release delivery nanodevices.
Alginates are established among the most versatile biopolymers, used in a wide range of applications. The conventional use of alginate as an excipient in drug products generally depends on the … Alginates are established among the most versatile biopolymers, used in a wide range of applications. The conventional use of alginate as an excipient in drug products generally depends on the thickening, gel-forming, and stabilizing properties. A need for prolonged and better control of drug administration has increased the demand for tailor-made polymers. Hydrocolloids like alginate can play a significant role in the design of a controlled-release product. At low pH hydration of alginic acid leads to the formation of a high-viscosity "acid gel." Alginate is also easily gelled in the presence of a divalent cation as the calcium ion. Dried sodium alginate beads reswell, creating a diffusion barrier decreasing the migration of small molecules (e.g., drugs). The ability of alginate to form two types of gel dependent on pH, i.e., an acid gel and an ionotropic gel, gives the polymer unique properties compared to neutral macromolecules. The molecule can be tailor-made for a number of applications. So far more than 200 different alginate grades and a number of alginate salts are manufactured. The potential use of the various qualities as pharmaceutical excipients has not been evaluated fully, but alginate is likely to make an important contribution in the development of polymeric delivery systems. This natural polymer is adopted by Ph.Eur. It can be obtained in an ultrapure form suitable for implants. This review discusses the present use and future possibilities of alginate as a tool in drug formulation.
Nanosuspensions have emerged as a promising strategy for the efficient delivery of hydrophobic drugs because of their versatile features and unique advantages. Techniques such as media milling and high-pressure homogenization … Nanosuspensions have emerged as a promising strategy for the efficient delivery of hydrophobic drugs because of their versatile features and unique advantages. Techniques such as media milling and high-pressure homogenization have been used commercially for producing nanosuspensions. Recently, the engineering of nanosuspensions employing emulsions and microemulsions as templates has been addressed in the literature. The unique features of nanosuspensions have enabled their use in various dosage forms, including specialized delivery systems such as mucoadhesive hydrogels. Rapid strides have been made in the delivery of nanosuspensions by parenteral, peroral, ocular and pulmonary routes. Currently, efforts are being directed to extending their applications in site-specific drug delivery.
ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleNEXTChitosan Chemistry and Pharmaceutical PerspectivesM. N. V. Ravi Kumar, R. A. A. Muzzarelli, C. Muzzarelli, H. Sashiwa, and A. J. DombView Author Information Department of Pharmaceutics, National … ADVERTISEMENT RETURN TO ISSUEPREVArticleNEXTChitosan Chemistry and Pharmaceutical PerspectivesM. N. V. Ravi Kumar, R. A. A. Muzzarelli, C. Muzzarelli, H. Sashiwa, and A. J. DombView Author Information Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S. A. S. Nagar, Mohali, Punjab-160 062, India, Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Polytechnic University, Via Ranieri 67, IT-60100 Ancona, Italy, Green Biotechnology Research Group, The Special Division for Human Life Technology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, 1-8-31 Midorigaoka, Ikeda, Osaka-563-8577, Japan, and Department of Medicinal Chemistry & Natural Products, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, School of Pharmacy-Faculty of Medicine, Jerusalem 91120, Israel Cite this: Chem. Rev. 2004, 104, 12, 6017–6084Publication Date (Web):December 8, 2004Publication History Received2 March 2004Published online8 December 2004Published inissue 1 December 2004https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/cr030441bhttps://doi.org/10.1021/cr030441bresearch-articleACS PublicationsCopyright © 2004 American Chemical SocietyRequest reuse permissionsArticle Views24587Altmetric-Citations2304LEARN ABOUT THESE METRICSArticle Views are the COUNTER-compliant sum of full text article downloads since November 2008 (both PDF and HTML) across all institutions and individuals. These metrics are regularly updated to reflect usage leading up to the last few days.Citations are the number of other articles citing this article, calculated by Crossref and updated daily. Find more information about Crossref citation counts.The Altmetric Attention Score is a quantitative measure of the attention that a research article has received online. Clicking on the donut icon will load a page at altmetric.com with additional details about the score and the social media presence for the given article. Find more information on the Altmetric Attention Score and how the score is calculated. Share Add toView InAdd Full Text with ReferenceAdd Description ExportRISCitationCitation and abstractCitation and referencesMore Options Share onFacebookTwitterWechatLinked InRedditEmail Other access optionsGet e-Alertsclose SUBJECTS:Anatomy,Biopolymers,Nanoparticles,Peptides and proteins,Pharmaceuticals Get e-Alerts
Nanoparticles larger than the reported mesh-pore size range (10-200 nm) in mucus have been thought to be much too large to undergo rapid diffusional transport through mucus barriers. However, large … Nanoparticles larger than the reported mesh-pore size range (10-200 nm) in mucus have been thought to be much too large to undergo rapid diffusional transport through mucus barriers. However, large nanoparticles are preferred for higher drug encapsulation efficiency and the ability to provide sustained delivery of a wider array of drugs. We used high-speed multiple-particle tracking to quantify transport rates of individual polymeric particles of various sizes and surface chemistries in samples of fresh human cervicovaginal mucus. Both the mucin concentration and viscoelastic properties of these cervicovaginal samples are similar to those in many other human mucus secretions. Unexpectedly, we found that large nanoparticles, 500 and 200 nm in diameter, if coated with polyethylene glycol, diffused through mucus with an effective diffusion coefficient (D(eff)) only 4- and 6-fold lower than that for the same particles in water (at time scale tau = 1 s). In contrast, for smaller but otherwise identical 100-nm coated particles, D(eff) was 200-fold lower in mucus than in water. For uncoated particles 100-500 nm in diameter, D(eff) was 2,400- to 40,000-fold lower in mucus than in water. Much larger fractions of the 100-nm particles were immobilized or otherwise hindered by mucus than the large 200- to 500-nm particles. Thus, in contrast to the prevailing belief, these results demonstrate that large nanoparticles, if properly coated, can rapidly penetrate physiological human mucus, and they offer the prospect that large nanoparticles can be used for mucosal drug delivery.
This review focuses on the development of nanoparticle systems for antimicrobial drug delivery. Numerous antimicrobial drugs have been prescribed to kill or inhibit the growth of microbes such as bacteria, … This review focuses on the development of nanoparticle systems for antimicrobial drug delivery. Numerous antimicrobial drugs have been prescribed to kill or inhibit the growth of microbes such as bacteria, fungi and viruses. Even though the therapeutic efficacy of these drugs has been well established, inefficient delivery could result in inadequate therapeutic index and local and systemic side effects including cutaneous irritation, peeling, scaling and gut flora reduction. Nanostructured biomaterials, nanoparticles in particular, have unique physicochemical properties such as ultra small and controllable size, large surface area to mass ratio, high reactivity, and functionalizable structure. These properties can be applied to facilitate the administration of antimicrobial drugs, thereby overcoming some of the limitations in traditional antimicrobial therapeutics. In recent years, encapsulation of antimicrobial drugs in nanoparticle systems has emerged as an innovative and promising alternative that enhances therapeutic effectiveness and minimizes undesirable side effects of the drugs. Here the current progress and challenges in synthesizing nanoparticle platforms for delivering various antimicrobial drugs are reviewed. We also call attention to the need to unite the shared interest between nanoengineers and microbiologists in developing nanotechnology for the treatment of microbial diseases.
Co-polymer poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanotechnology has been developed for many years and has been approved by the US FDA for the use of drug delivery, diagnostics and other applications of … Co-polymer poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanotechnology has been developed for many years and has been approved by the US FDA for the use of drug delivery, diagnostics and other applications of clinical and basic science research, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, vaccine and tissue engineering. This article presents the more recent successes of applying PLGA-based nanotechnologies and tools in these medicine-related applications. It focuses on the possible mechanisms, diagnosis and treatment effects of PLGA preparations and devices. This updated information will benefit to both new and established research scientists and clinical physicians who are interested in the development and application of PLGA nanotechnology as new therapeutic and diagnostic strategies for many diseases.
This literature review is a compilation of the composition and, in most cases, the preparation instructions for simulated biological fluids that may be used as dissolution media in the evaluation … This literature review is a compilation of the composition and, in most cases, the preparation instructions for simulated biological fluids that may be used as dissolution media in the evaluation of dissolution profiles and amount of drug released from pharmaceutical dosage forms.The use of simulated biological fluids can give a better understanding of the release mechanisms and possible in vivo behavior of a product and enhance the predictive capability of the dissolution testing.A summary of the major characteristics of the most used routes of administration that may affect dissolution and absorption of drug substances is presented.The routes and simulated biological fluids covered by this review are:• Parenteral: simulated body fluid and simulated synovial fluid.• Oral: fasted-state simulated gastric fluid, fed-state simulated gastric fluid, fasted-state simulated intestinal fluid, fed-state simulated intestinal fluid, simulated colonic fluid, fasted-state simulated colonic fluid, and fed-state simulated colonic fluid.• Buccal and sublingual: simulated saliva.• Pulmonary:
The focus of this review is to provide an overview of the chitosan based nanoparticles for various non-parenteral applications and also to put a spotlight on current research including sustained … The focus of this review is to provide an overview of the chitosan based nanoparticles for various non-parenteral applications and also to put a spotlight on current research including sustained release and mucoadhesive chitosan dosage forms. Chitosan is a biodegradable, biocompatible polymer regarded as safe for human dietary use and approved for wound dressing applications. Chitosan has been used as a carrier in polymeric nanoparticles for drug delivery through various routes of administration. Chitosan has chemical functional groups that can be modified to achieve specific goals, making it a polymer with a tremendous range of potential applications. Nanoparticles (NP) prepared with chitosan and chitosan derivatives typically possess a positive surface charge and mucoadhesive properties such that can adhere to mucus membranes and release the drug payload in a sustained release manner. Chitosan-based NP have various applications in non-parenteral drug delivery for the treatment of cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, pulmonary diseases, drug delivery to the brain and ocular infections which will be exemplified in this review. Chitosan shows low toxicity both in vitro and some in vivo models. This review explores recent research on chitosan based NP for non-parenteral drug delivery, chitosan properties, modification, toxicity, pharmacokinetics and preclinical studies.
The drug delivery system enables the release of the active pharmaceutical ingredient to achieve a desired therapeutic response. Conventional drug delivery systems (tablets, capsules, syrups, ointments, etc.) suffer from poor … The drug delivery system enables the release of the active pharmaceutical ingredient to achieve a desired therapeutic response. Conventional drug delivery systems (tablets, capsules, syrups, ointments, etc.) suffer from poor bioavailability and fluctuations in plasma drug level and are unable to achieve sustained release. Without an efficient delivery mechanism, the whole therapeutic process can be rendered useless. Moreover, the drug has to be delivered at a specified controlled rate and at the target site as precisely as possible to achieve maximum efficacy and safety. Controlled drug delivery systems are developed to combat the problems associated with conventional drug delivery. There has been a tremendous evolution in controlled drug delivery systems from the past two decades ranging from macro scale and nano scale to intelligent targeted delivery. The initial part of this review provides a basic understanding of drug delivery systems with an emphasis on the pharmacokinetics of the drug. It also discusses the conventional drug delivery systems and their limitations. Further, controlled drug delivery systems are discussed in detail with the design considerations, classifications and drawings. In addition, nano-drug delivery, targeted and smart drug delivery using stimuli-responsive and intelligent biomaterials is discussed with recent key findings. The paper concludes with the challenges faced and future directions in controlled drug delivery.
Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) decorated with sulfhydryl-modified surfactants have recently gained attention for delivering BCS Class IV drugs. However, the impact of the chain-length of these surfactants on the permeation … Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) decorated with sulfhydryl-modified surfactants have recently gained attention for delivering BCS Class IV drugs. However, the impact of the chain-length of these surfactants on the permeation and bioavailability properties of NLCs is still unknown. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of surfactant chain-length on the mucoadhesive, permeation, and bioavailability properties of NLCs. For this purpose, short- and long-chain sulfhydryl-modified polyethoxylated surfactants were generated to develop mucoadhesive NLCs and loaded with the model drug aprepitant (APT). NLCs were characterized and assessed for comprehensive physicochemical and biological evaluations. Moreover, in-vivo studies were performed for proof-of-concept to show enhanced oral drug bioavailability. NLCs showed particle size under 200 nm with 6.9 and 6.7% drug loading and 85 and 84% drug entrapment for short- and long-chain surfactants, respectively. The drug-loaded NLCs were safe and stable, and short- and long-chain surfactants containing NLCs exhibited 11.6- and 9.6-fold enhanced mucoadhesion, respectively. Moreover, in comparison to long-chain sulfhydryl-modified surfactant, short-chain surfactant is transported into deeper segments of mucus due to less interaction with the mucus. Similarly, short-chain sulfhydryl-modified surfactants showed significantly enhanced cellular permeation across Caco-2 cell lines. Furthermore, the long-chain sulfhydryl-modified surfactants showed 4.38-fold enhanced Cmax, whereas due to better diffusion and mucoadhesion properties, the short-chain surfactants exhibited 5.38-fold enhanced Cmax. Similarly, 34.8% relative bioavailability was attained for short-chain surfactants and 24.8% for long-chain surfactants. These results suggest short-chain sulfhydryl surfactants are promising candidates for improving the oral delivery of poorly soluble drugs and warrant further investigation for clinical translation.
Background: Olanzapine (Ola) is a second-generation antipsychotic with clinical utility limited by poor brain bioavailability due to blood–brain barrier restriction, hepatic first-pass metabolism, and systemic side effects. This study aimed … Background: Olanzapine (Ola) is a second-generation antipsychotic with clinical utility limited by poor brain bioavailability due to blood–brain barrier restriction, hepatic first-pass metabolism, and systemic side effects. This study aimed to develop and optimize a novel intranasal polymersome-based nanocarrier (PolyOla) to enhance brain targeting, therapeutic efficacy, and safety of Ola. Methods: PolyOla was prepared using poloxamer 401 and optimized through a Box–Behnken Design to minimize particle size and maximize entrapment (EE%) and loading efficiency (LE%). The formulation was characterized by size, morphology, drug release, and serum stability. In vivo studies in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats assessed pharmacokinetics (plasma and brain concentrations), pharmacodynamic efficacy in a ketamine-induced schizophrenia model, and systemic safety markers including metabolic, hepatic, and testicular oxidative stress indicators. Results: Optimized PolyOla exhibited a particle size of 78.3 ± 4.5 nm, high EE% (91.36 ± 3.55%), and sustained in vitro drug release. It remained stable in serum for 24 h. Intranasal administration significantly improved brain delivery of Ola, achieving a 2.7-fold increase in Cmax and a 5.7-fold increase in AUC compared to oral dosing. The brain Tmax was 15 min, with high drug-targeting efficiency (DTE% = 365.38%), confirming efficient nose-to-brain transport. PolyOla-treated rats showed superior antipsychotic performance, reduced extrapyramidal symptoms, and improved systemic safety evidenced by mitigated weight gain, glycemic control, normalized liver enzymes, and reduced oxidative stress. Conclusions: PolyOla offers a safe and effective intranasal delivery platform for Ola, enabling targeted brain delivery and improved management of schizophrenia with reduced peripheral toxicity.
Abstract 5‐Aminosalicylic acid (5‐ASA) is the first‐line drug for ulcerative colitis (UC), which encounters therapeutic constraints due to the poor water solubility and absorption by the upper gastrointestinal. Here, a … Abstract 5‐Aminosalicylic acid (5‐ASA) is the first‐line drug for ulcerative colitis (UC), which encounters therapeutic constraints due to the poor water solubility and absorption by the upper gastrointestinal. Here, a cyclodextrin‐based metal‐organic framework (CD‐MOF) is used as a carrier for 5‐ASA (ASA@CM) to enhance its solubility. To improve the targeted release 5‐ASA, ASA@CM is incorporated into sodium alginate/ L ‐arginine complex (SA‐LA) to obtain the desired microspheres (ASA@CM/SL) by electrospray. ASA@CM/SL safeguards 5‐ASA against the harsh gastrointestinal environment and provides favorable delivery to the colon. The anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidant activity is studied by measuring inflammatory factors and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The therapeutic effect of ASA@CM/SL on UC mice induced with dextran sulfate sodium is assessed. The biosafety by evaluating cytotoxicity and organ toxicity is studied. ASA@CM/SL shows excellent therapeutic effects for UC, as evidenced by its alleviation of inflammatory response and restoration of disrupted intestinal barriers. ASA@CM/SL features low cytotoxicity and low organ toxicity. This study provides a potential strategy for improving 5‐ASA solubility and delivery efficiency, which may also be applied to broadly tackle various small hydrophobic molecules to treat UC and other intestinal diseases.
Schizophrenia, a complex neuropsychiatric disorder originating in the central nervous system, poses significant therapeutic challenges primarily due to the restrictive nature of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In this study, a … Schizophrenia, a complex neuropsychiatric disorder originating in the central nervous system, poses significant therapeutic challenges primarily due to the restrictive nature of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In this study, a fisetin-loaded mucoadhesive microemulsion (fisetin-MME) was successfully developed and optimized via Box-Behnken Design (BBD) to enhance the solubility and brain-targeting potential of fisetin following intranasal administration. The optimized formulation exhibited a mean droplet size of 64.0 nm ± 0.05, a polydispersity index (PDI) of <0.5, and high entrapment efficiency (94.9%), alongside favorable thermodynamic stability, rheological characteristics, and mucoadhesive strength (3.24 ± 0.95 g). Physicochemical characterization by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the structural integrity and compatibility of the formulation. A validated reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method consistently quantified fisetin with a retention time of 6.01 ± 0.23 min. The fisetin-MME demonstrated enhanced in vitro release (85.2 ± 2.345%) and ex vivo nasal mucosal permeation (87.6 ± 0.25%), with significantly improved flux (40.23 ± 0.06 μg/cm2/h) and permeability coefficient (81.23 × 10-6 cm/s), indicating efficient transmucosal transport. Pharmacokinetic evaluation revealed a marked improvement in both systemic and brain bioavailability following intranasal administration, with a brain C_max of 261.53 ± 0.14 ng/g and AUC0-t of 2564.0 ± 232.0 h·ng/g, surpassing the reference standard (C_max of 228.50 ± 0.36 ng/g; AUC0-t of 2257.6 ± 245.9 h·ng/g). Behavioral assessments, including the Forced Swim Test and Balance Beam Test, demonstrated significant amelioration of schizophrenia-like symptoms, including hyperlocomotion, catalepsy, and impaired motor coordination, with fisetin-MME showing superior neuroprotective and antidepressant effects compared to the standard drug by Day 14 (p < 0.001). Histopathological analysis further supported these findings, demonstrating marked neuroprotective effects in the cortical and hippocampal regions, as evidenced by reduced neuronal degeneration and attenuation of neuroinflammatory markers. These results highlight the potential of intranasally delivered fisetin-MME as a promising nanotherapeutic strategy for the management of schizophrenia.
Neurodegenerative diseases have always posed a significant therapeutic challenge due to the restrictive nature of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Intranasal drug delivery has emerged as a noninvasive approach to bypass … Neurodegenerative diseases have always posed a significant therapeutic challenge due to the restrictive nature of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Intranasal drug delivery has emerged as a noninvasive approach to bypass the BBB, enabling targeted brain drug delivery while improving drug retention and transport. This review explores the physiological basis of the nose-to-brain pathway and various formulation strategies including mucoadhesive systems, permeation enhancers, and magnetophoretic approaches. Additionally, strategies to enhance intranasal delivery, such as P-glycoprotein inhibitors, cell-penetrating peptides, and enzyme inhibitors, are discussed alongside nanotechnology-based carriers, including surface-modified and bioconjugated systems. The role of specialized intranasal drug delivery devices (e.g., ViaNase, Optimist, and SipNose) in enhancing precision dosing is also highlighted. Despite its promise, intranasal delivery faces challenges such as limited therapeutic windows, scalability issues, and the constraint of the nasal cavity volume, which can accommodate only 200 μL of liquid per nostril. Optimizing drug stability, achieving accurate dosing, and enhancing bioavailability without nasal irritation remain key hurdles. Future research should focus on the development of commercially feasible nanoformulations and innovative medical devices to improve drug targeting and treatment efficacy for patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
As excipients, mucoadhesive polymers increase the resident times of drugs in the mucin/epithelial surface, which is significant for drugs with short half-lives. Native (ETG) and acetylated Eucalyptus tereticornis gum (AETG) … As excipients, mucoadhesive polymers increase the resident times of drugs in the mucin/epithelial surface, which is significant for drugs with short half-lives. Native (ETG) and acetylated Eucalyptus tereticornis gum (AETG) were incorporated as excipients in directly compressed uncoated and matrix chlorpheniramine maleate tablets, and evaluated for their physicochemical, compressional, release functionalities and mucoadhesive properties. The gums were characterized using photo micrography, rheology, density and compression measurements, swelling capacity (27±0.50C and 80±0.50C) and FTIR spectroscopy as criteria, and incorporated as excipients (2.5-10.0%w/w) in chlorpheniramine maleate tablets for their compression and release properties, while the mucoadhesive properties of tablet matrix (10-80% w/w gum) were evaluated using pig and cow ilea in 0.1MHCL (pH 1.2). ETG and AETG were spherical to angular in shape. AETGhad higher breakdown (907±0.02cP), peak (930±0.01cP) and final (24±1.06cP) viscosities, but lower set back viscosity (3.50±0.03cP), with higher angle of repose, bulk and tapped desities, but lower Carr’s index and Hausner’s ratio. The ETG had lower deformation characteristics as evidenced by the higher Pk values and lower swelling capacities at both temperatures. FTIR spectra indicated significant presence of more functional groups at 757.13cm-1 and 427.66cm-1 in AETG due to strong aromatic N-H bond and C-S stretching of aliphatic halogenated compounds. Formulations containing AETG disintegrated and dissolved faster and showed better mucoadhesive profiles in pig ileum. Acetylation of Eucalyptus tereticornis gum exhibited better functional properties and generally showed better compressional, release and mucoadhesive properties when compared to the unmodified gum.
The design of efficacious nanotherapeutics for neurodegenerative disorders necessitates the development of precisely targeted delivery systems capable of transversing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) while sustaining therapeutic efficacy. Here, we introduce … The design of efficacious nanotherapeutics for neurodegenerative disorders necessitates the development of precisely targeted delivery systems capable of transversing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) while sustaining therapeutic efficacy. Here, we introduce a novel brain-targeted nanocomposite system comprising carboxymethylated pullulan-magnesium oxide (CMP-MgO) matrix encapsulating trans-ferulic acid (TFA) and last surface-functionalized with lactoferrin (Lf) to facilitate receptor-mediated transcytosis. Comprehensive physicochemical characterization, including dynamic light scattering (DLS), proton-nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), high resolution-transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, confirmed the structural integrity functionalization, and stability of the nanocomposites. DLS studies exhibited a hydrodynamic diameter of 386 ± 5.06 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.087 ± 0.008, and a zeta potential of -20.5 ± 0.19 mV of the Lf-TFA-CMP-MgO. Morphological analysis confirmed spherical particles with a smooth surface, and CD spectroscopy confirmed the perpetuation of the native structure of Lf after conjugation with the nanocomposite. The antioxidant assay highlighted significant free radical scavenging activity, reflecting the antioxidant potential of TFA and TFA-loaded nanocomposites. In vitro studies demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and enhanced cellular internalization due to Lf functionalization. Notably, the nanocomposite inhibited amyloid fibril formation by interacting with hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL). Furthermore, intranasal delivery achieved efficient nose-to-brain transport, with permeability of 415.45 μg/cm2 at 6 h, highlighting its mucoadhesive properties and noninvasive therapeutic capability for Alzheimer's disease (AD).
Enoxolon is widely recognized for its pharmacological potential, exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiviral properties. Objectives: This study aimed to develop an enhanced formulation of enoxolone-loaded microsponges as a novel … Enoxolon is widely recognized for its pharmacological potential, exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiviral properties. Objectives: This study aimed to develop an enhanced formulation of enoxolone-loaded microsponges as a novel drug delivery system. A design of experiments (DoE) approach was employed for the optimization process. Methods: The microsponges were produced using the quasi-emulsion technique. The selected formulation was evaluated for yield, particle size, and entrapment efficiency. Furthermore, the microsponges were incorporated into a 1% MC solution matrix, and in vitro release studies were performed to assess their drug delivery performance. Results: The optimal formulation was determined through the DoE methodology, which involved varying the concentrations of methylcellulose (MC) (0.55–1.87%, w/w), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (0.5–1%, w/w), and Tween 80 (TW80) (1.5–2.5%, w/w). The results showed a particle size of 142.8 ± 10.02 µm and an entrapment efficiency of 80.3 ± 1.99%. When comparing the optimized microsponge formulation to pure enoxolon, a 1.29 times higher release rate was observed (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: Following optimizationand physicochemical characterization studies were conducted to further assess the formulation. These findings suggest that microsponge-based delivery systems hold considerable potential as an alternative platform for the topical treatment of chronic periodontitis.
Simhadri Dasari , Raj Kumar K , Babu Rao Chandu | International Journal of Indigenous Herbs and Drugs
The development of targeted drug delivery systems has faced challenges due to the complex chemical reactions involved. However, nano-sponges, a newly developed colloidal system, show promise in overcoming issues such … The development of targeted drug delivery systems has faced challenges due to the complex chemical reactions involved. However, nano-sponges, a newly developed colloidal system, show promise in overcoming issues such as drug toxicity, poor bioavailability, and inconsistent drug release. These nano-sponges are small, porous structures that can be tailored to carry both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. They are easily prepared by crosslinking cyclodextrins with various compounds, benefiting from cyclodextrin’s excellent biocompatibility, stability, and safety. Nano-sponges have a wide range of applications, including in the treatment of cancer, autoimmune diseases, and improving drug stability and bioavailability. They offer controlled and predictable drug release by adhering to target sites in the body, preventing drugs from circulating throughout. Additionally, they can be used for oral, topical, and parenteral drug delivery, as well as for delivering enzymes, proteins, vaccines, and antibodies. Nano-sponges are especially valuable for drugs with poor solubility, as their aqueous solubility enhances drug effectiveness. The preparation, characterization, and potential applications of nano-sponges have been extensively explored. These systems can be formulated to deliver drugs in a controlled fashion, addressing challenges such as drug degradation and poor site specificity. Their ability to carry both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs makes them a versatile option in drug delivery. This review highlights the development, benefits, and challenges of nano-sponges, focusing on their potential in enhancing drug delivery systems and solving long-standing pharmaceutical issues.
Effective drug delivery is critical for the management of chronic diseases such as glaucoma, where sustained therapeutic levels can significantly enhance treatment outcomes. In this study, we present a Particles-on-a-Gel … Effective drug delivery is critical for the management of chronic diseases such as glaucoma, where sustained therapeutic levels can significantly enhance treatment outcomes. In this study, we present a Particles-on-a-Gel (PoG) system that leverages differential nanocarrier affinities to modulate drug release kinetics. By integrating poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) nanogels (pNIPAM) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), the PoG platform enables both controlled initial release and prolonged drug delivery. Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) was employed to quantitatively characterize the thermodynamic interactions between timolol maleate and the nanocarriers, revealing distinct binding modalities─hydrophobic interactions with pNIPAM and chemically driven binding with AgNPs. These findings underscore the role of thermodynamic tuning in optimizing drug-carrier interactions to enhance release profiles and retention. Furthermore, incorporation of the PoG system into a contact lens-based drug delivery platform demonstrated its translational potential, maintaining optical transparency while enabling sustained drug release. Overall, this work highlights the promise of thermodynamically guided nanocarrier design in developing patient-centric drug delivery systems for chronic disease management.
<title>Abstract</title> The current study focuses on the development and assessment of an albendazole (ABZ) emulgel to enhance the efficacy and patient compliance of topical medicine distribution. Albendazole, a broad-spectrum anthelmintic/antifungal … <title>Abstract</title> The current study focuses on the development and assessment of an albendazole (ABZ) emulgel to enhance the efficacy and patient compliance of topical medicine distribution. Albendazole, a broad-spectrum anthelmintic/antifungal drug, has historically had a variety of issues with oral administration, such as poor absorption and systemic side effects. To overcome these limitations, an emulgel formulation was developed that provides a controlled and extended release of albendazole via the skin. The emulgel was made by adding albendazole to a suitable oil-in-water emulsion, then gelling chemicals were added to give it a semi-solid form. The produced emulgel's physical properties, pH, rheological behavior, drug content, and in vitro drug release profile were evaluated. Stability tests were also performed on the emulgel to ascertain its longevity. In vitro drug release tests revealed a sustained release profile, indicating that the albendazole emulgel formulation can provide the medication for an extended period of time. The emulgel proved to be highly stable across a variety of storage conditions, ensuring its appropriateness for usage in therapeutic settings. The emulgel's enhanced skin penetration further demonstrated how well it works to facilitate the absorption of transdermal medications.
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (Hypromellose, HPMC) is a well-known excipient used in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical fields due to its versatile physicochemical properties. HPMC (derived from cellulose and obtained through etherification) varies … Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (Hypromellose, HPMC) is a well-known excipient used in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical fields due to its versatile physicochemical properties. HPMC (derived from cellulose and obtained through etherification) varies in polymerization degree and viscosity, factors that both influence its functional applications. Usually, an increased polymerization degree implies a higher viscosity, depending also on the amount of polymer used. Hypromellose plays a crucial role in solid dosage forms, serving as a binder in the case of controlled-release tablets, a film-forming agent in the case of orodispersible films and mucoadhesive films, and a release modifier due to its presence in different polymerization degrees in the case of extended or modified release tablets. However, its compatibility with other excipients and the active ingredient must be carefully evaluated to prevent formulation challenges via several analytical methods such as differential scanned calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transformed Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-Ray Particle Diffraction (XRPD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). This review explores the physicochemical characteristics, and diverse applications of HPMC, emphasizing its significance in modern drug delivery systems.
Abstract Oral drug delivery is highly desirable for medical intervention due to its convenience, patient adherence, and non‐invasiveness. Despite significant efforts, the successful oral delivery of therapeutics and prophylactics has … Abstract Oral drug delivery is highly desirable for medical intervention due to its convenience, patient adherence, and non‐invasiveness. Despite significant efforts, the successful oral delivery of therapeutics and prophylactics has been largely hindered by biological barriers that limit bioavailability. Researchers have since turned to nanoparticles as promising delivery vehicles that offer tunable properties to protect therapeutic payloads and enhance transport across these barriers. In addition to material optimization and delivery strategies, biomimetic designs—particularly those inspired by viruses—have significantly advanced the field, leveraging natural mechanisms to penetrate mucosal layers through size, charge, and enzymatic functions. This review examines the key physiological challenges limiting oral drug absorption, including the harsh gastric environment, the mucosal layer, and the polarized epithelial barrier. Recent preclinical advancements are then highlighted in nanoparticle engineering aimed at overcoming these barriers and improving bioavailability. Continued innovation in oral nanomedicine holds immense potential to revolutionize treatment paradigms, enhancing both therapeutic efficacy and patient outcomes worldwide.
Intranasal (IN) drug delivery is a promising noninvasive route for targeting the central nervous system (CNS) bypassing the blood-brain-barrier (BBB). This review critically examines the underlying mechanisms, challenges in predicting … Intranasal (IN) drug delivery is a promising noninvasive route for targeting the central nervous system (CNS) bypassing the blood-brain-barrier (BBB). This review critically examines the underlying mechanisms, challenges in predicting nasal drug delivery outcomes, and future directions for applying physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling to support such predictions. The nasal cavity comprises distinct anatomical and physiological features in the olfactory region (upper posterior part of the nasal cavity) and the respiratory region (middle part and lateral walls of the nasal cavity), both of which play essential roles in drug deposition, systemic absorption, and general passage. However, since the biological composition of the olfactory and trigeminal nerves in the nasal area is not well-known, the prediction of drug absorption to systemic circulation from nasal mucosa or direct transport from nose to brain are fraught with many challenges. Thus, addressing the impacts of drug permeability, mucociliary clearance, enzymatic degradation, and nasomucosal toxicity are still essential challenges when developing nasal formulations for drugs. PBPK models have the capability of integrating complex anatomical, physiological, and biological aspects of the systems when such data are available. Nevertheless, translation from in vitro experiments or animal studies into humans requires addressing knowledge gaps in systems parameters. Future investigations should focus on generating the necessary missing information as well as refining the models. Application of advanced modeling methods for simulation of drug deposition, in conjunction with refined nasal PBPK models, is envisaged to improve the prediction of clinical outcomes for CNS targeted IN drug delivery.
Ocular drug delivery poses significant challenges due to the unique anatomy and physiology of the eye. Conventional dosage forms, such as eye drops, often suffer from poor bioavailability, short residence … Ocular drug delivery poses significant challenges due to the unique anatomy and physiology of the eye. Conventional dosage forms, such as eye drops, often suffer from poor bioavailability, short residence time, and frequent dosing. To overcome these limitations, ocular inserts have emerged as a promising solution. These inserts provide sustained and controlled drug release, increasing the contact time with the ocular surface and enhancing bioavailability. This review discusses the advantages and disadvantages of ocular inserts, their classification, mechanism of drug release, formulation methods, and evaluation parameters. Ocular inserts offer several benefits, including improved patient compliance, reduced dosing frequency, and increased therapeutic efficacy. Keywords: Eye, Ocuserts, Controlled release, Corneal contact, Bioavailability
Latroeggtoxin-VI (LETX-VI) is an active peptide found from the eggs of the spider Latrodectus tredecimguttatus. Previous studies demonstrated that LETX-VI can penetrate the plasma membrane of secretory PC12 cells and … Latroeggtoxin-VI (LETX-VI) is an active peptide found from the eggs of the spider Latrodectus tredecimguttatus. Previous studies demonstrated that LETX-VI can penetrate the plasma membrane of secretory PC12 cells and its 17-residue C-terminal sequence is the functional peptide segment (FPS), suggesting that the FPS may act as a vector for drug transmembrane delivery. In the present proof-of-concept study, the ability and efficiency of FPS to transmembrane delivery of antidiabetic therapeuticals were preliminarily evaluated. The FPS was covalently fused with a glucagon-like peptide-1 analogue (FPS-GLP) or insulin (FPS-Ins) using solid phase chemical synthesis or heterologous expression, respectively. Western blot analysis indicated that, compared with GLP-1 analogue that itself could hardly enter the cultured A549 cells, FPS-GLP efficiently entered the cells in a concentration-dependent manner, confirming the vector role of FPS in transmembrane delivery of drugs. When intranasally administrated to mice, FPS-GLP showed the hypoglycemic effect significantly superior to that of GLP-1 analogue, and the hypoglycemic effect of intranasally administrated FPS-Ins was approximately comparable to that of the intramuscularly injected FPS-Ins. These observations demonstrated that FPS can act as a vector to efficiently enhance the intranasal absorption of proteinaceous drugs, showing application prospect in combating diabetes mellitus and related CNS disorders.
As population aging becomes an increasingly critical global issue, the incidence of central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and stroke, has risen sharply. However, … As population aging becomes an increasingly critical global issue, the incidence of central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and stroke, has risen sharply. However, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) presents a significant obstacle to the effective treatment of these CNS disorders, limiting the ability of therapeutic agents to reach the brain. In this context, intranasal drug delivery, which bypasses the BBB, has attracted considerable attention in recent years. By utilizing pathways such as the olfactory and trigeminal nerves, intranasal drug delivery facilitates the rapid transport of drugs to the brain, thereby enhancing both the bioavailability and targeting efficiency of the drugs. This review provides an overview of the molecular mechanisms underlying intranasal drug delivery, its advancements in the treatment of CNS diseases, strategies to improve delivery efficiency, and a discussion of the challenges and potential future directions in this field. The aim of this paper is to offer valuable insights and guidance for researchers and clinicians working in the area of CNS disease treatment.
Objectives: Ex vivo nasal mucosa models provide physiologically relevant platforms for evaluating nasal drug permeability; however, their application is often limited by high experimental variability and the absence of standardized … Objectives: Ex vivo nasal mucosa models provide physiologically relevant platforms for evaluating nasal drug permeability; however, their application is often limited by high experimental variability and the absence of standardized methodologies. This study aimed to improve experimental design by addressing two major limitations: the confounding effects of mucosal thickness and the questionable reliability of fluorescein sodium (Flu-Na) as an integrity marker for chemically induced mucosal injury. Methods: Permeability experiments were conducted using porcine nasal tissues mounted in Franz diffusion cells, with melatonin and Flu-Na as model compounds. Tissues of varying thickness were collected from both intra- and inter-individual sources, and a numerical simulation-based method was employed to normalize apparent permeability coefficients (Papp) to a standardized mucosal thickness of 0.80 mm. The effects of thickness normalization and chemically induced damage were systematically evaluated. Results: Thickness normalization substantially reduced variability in melatonin Papp, particularly within same-animal comparisons, thereby improving statistical power and data reliability. In contrast, Flu-Na exhibited inconsistent correlations across different pigs and failed to reflect the expected increase in permeability following isopropyl alcohol (IPA)-induced epithelial damage. These results suggest that the relationship between epithelial injury and paracellular transport may be non-linear and not universally applicable under ex vivo conditions, limiting the suitability of Flu-Na as a standalone marker of mucosal integrity. Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of integrating mucosal thickness correction into standardized experimental protocols and call for a critical reassessment of Flu-Na in nasal drug delivery research.
Autoimmune diseases are a result of the immune system being misdirected toward its host and have major and increasing unmet clinical needs. In general, present therapies are broadly acting and … Autoimmune diseases are a result of the immune system being misdirected toward its host and have major and increasing unmet clinical needs. In general, present therapies are broadly acting and non-disease specific; consequently, they are associated with numerous side effects. Precise and early intervention strategies are urgently needed. In conclusion, the new discipline of biomaterials for immunoengineering offers the opportunity to apply key engineering strategies, such as regulated operation of complex systems, to immunomodulation, thereby enabling development of transformative therapies for autoimmunity.
Nanoparticles have emerged as a highly advanced and promising drug delivery system (DDS) for the treatment of hematological disorders, including anemia, leukemia, and hemophilia. Traditional therapeutic approaches often involve systemic … Nanoparticles have emerged as a highly advanced and promising drug delivery system (DDS) for the treatment of hematological disorders, including anemia, leukemia, and hemophilia. Traditional therapeutic approaches often involve systemic drug administration, which can lead to suboptimal drug distribution and adverse side effects. In contrast, nanoparticle-based drug delivery offers targeted and controlled release, enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity. This review highlights the design and application of various nanoparticles, including polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, liposomes, and metallic nanoparticles, in delivering therapeutic agents directly to diseased blood cells, such as red blood cells, leukocytes, and platelets. The phospholipid bilayer-based nanocarriers are particularly effective in encapsulating and transporting both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. We also discuss recent advancements in nanoparticle engineering, biocompatibility, and functionalization strategies that allow selective targeting of pathological sites. Preclinical and clinical studies demonstrate the significant potential of nanomedicine in revolutionizing treatment paradigms for blood-related disorders. Moreover, ongoing innovations in nanoscale drug delivery technologies hold promise for improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden of chronic hematological conditions.
Aim: The increasing prevalence of fungal infections and the rise of antifungal resistance necessitate innovative drug delivery strategies to enhance therapeutic efficacy and minimize toxicity. This review aims to provide … Aim: The increasing prevalence of fungal infections and the rise of antifungal resistance necessitate innovative drug delivery strategies to enhance therapeutic efficacy and minimize toxicity. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of emerging lipid-based delivery systems—such as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), liposomes, and lipid-drug conjugates—developed for efficient antifungal drug delivery. Methodology: A systematic literature search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect, focusing on studies published between 2005 and 2025. The selected articles were screened for relevance to lipid-based antifungal drug delivery, formulation strategies, physicochemical characteristics, in vitro/in vivo efficacy, and toxicity profiles. Comparative evaluation was performed to assess the advantages and limitations of each system. Results: Lipid-based formulations demonstrated superior drug encapsulation, improved solubility of poorly water-soluble antifungal agents (e.g., itraconazole, amphotericin B), sustained release profiles, and enhanced skin/mucosal penetration. Among these, NLCs and liposomes showed significant promise in reducing systemic toxicity and improving site-specific delivery. Novel hybrid and surface-functionalized lipid systems further enhanced antifungal selectivity and bioavailability, especially in dermal and mucosal applications. Conclusion: Emerging lipid-based delivery systems represent a transformative approach in antifungal therapy, overcoming the limitations of conventional formulations. Their ability to enhance pharmacokinetic profiles, target infected tissues, and reduce drug resistance makes them promising candidates for future clinical applications. However, further translational studies and regulatory validations are warranted to ensure large-scale applicability and patient safety.