Search Results (339)

Intracranial aneurysms, characterized by abnormal dilations of cerebral arteries, pose significant health risks due to their potential to rupture, leading to subarachnoid hemorrhage with high mortality and morbidity rates. This paper aim is to explore the innovative application of nanoparticles in treating intracranial aneurysms, offering a promising avenue for enhancing current therapeutic strategies. We took into consideration the pathophysiology of cerebral aneurysms, focusing on the role of hemodynamic stress, endothelial dysfunction, and inflammation in their development and progression. By comparing cerebral aneurysms with other types, such as aortic aneurysms, we identify pathophysiological similarities and differences that could guide the adaptation of treatment approaches. The review highlights the potential of nanoparticles to improve drug delivery, targeting, and efficacy while minimizing side effects. We discuss various nanocarriers, including liposomes and polymeric nanoparticles, and their roles in overcoming biological barriers and enhancing therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, we discuss the potential of specific compounds, such as Edaravone and Tanshinone IIA, when used in conjunction with nanocarriers, to provide neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits. By extrapolating insights from studies on aortic aneurysms, new research directions and therapeutic strategies for cerebral aneurysms are proposed. This interdisciplinary approach underscores the potential of nanoparticles to positively influence the management of intracranial aneurysms, paving the way for personalized treatment options that could significantly improve patient outcomes. Full article

Dermatoses are among the most prevalent non-fatal conditions worldwide. Given this context, it is imperative to introduce safe and effective dermatological treatments to address the diverse needs and concerns of individuals. Transdermal delivery technology offers a promising alternative compared to traditional administration methods such as oral or injection routes. Therefore, this review focuses on the recent achievements of nanocarrier-based transdermal delivery technology for dermatological therapy, which summarizes diverse delivery strategies to enhance skin penetration using various nanocarriers including vesicular nanocarriers, lipid-based nanocarriers, emulsion-based nanocarriers, and polymeric nanocarrier according to the pathogenesis of common dermatoses. The fundamentals of transdermal delivery including skin physiology structure and routes of penetration are introduced. Moreover, mechanisms to enhance skin penetration due to the utilization of nanocarriers such as skin hydration, system deformability, disruption of the stratum corneum, surface charge, and tunable particle size are outlined as well. Full article

Through this study, the synergistic behavior of small-molecular-weight, amphiphilic surfactant molecules and the triblock copolymer Pluronic 188 was extensively evaluated based on their ability to formulate nanocarriers with novel properties for the delivery of class II and IV (biopharmaceutical classification system) chemotherapeutic compounds. The combination of four different surfactants at multiple weight ratios and twelve initially formulated nanosystems resulted in four hybrid delivery platforms, which were further studied in terms of multiple physicochemical characteristics, as well as their stability in protein-rich media (fetal bovine serum/phosphate-buffer saline). Finally, we obtained a single final nanoformulation that exhibited a high loading capacity (%EE ≥ 75%) and a sustained drug release profile under physiological conditions (model drug methotrexate), without altering the original physicochemical characteristics of the carrier. With a mean hydrodynamic radius (Rh) of less than 70 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.219, and no protein complexation, the system is a suitable candidate for in vivo, intravenous, and/or intramuscular administration. The cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of both loaded and unloaded carriers were evaluated through the examination of the upregulation or downregulation of apoptosis-related pathways. Multiple conventional 2D and 3D spheroidal conformations were used for these assessments, including HEK293, HCT-116, and MCF-7 cell lines, the results of which stressed the safety and biocompatibility of the empty nanocarrier. Additionally, experiments on Caenorhabditis elegans were conducted to evaluate the system’s in vivo toxicity, focusing on developmental stages, egg-laying behavior, and locomotion. Nanosystems studied in terms of chemotherapeutic encapsulation have mostly focused on the physiochemical aspect of the development of such novel delivery platforms, with only few exceptions proceeding step-by-step from cellular 2D to 3D to in vivo experimentation. The present study offers a holistic view of the behavior of such a novel system, advancing our understanding of the capabilities of polymeric/surfactant-based nanodelivery platforms. Full article

Drug delivery systems (DDS) have improved therapeutic agent administration by enhancing efficacy and patient compliance while minimizing side effects. They enable targeted delivery, controlled release, and improved bioavailability. Transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS) offer non-invasive medication administration and have evolved to include methods such as chemical enhancers, iontophoresis, microneedles (MN), and nanocarriers. MN technology provides innovative solutions for chronic metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity using various MN types. For diabetes management, MNs enable continuous glucose monitoring, diabetic wound healing, and painless insulin delivery. For obesity treatment, MNs provide sustained transdermal delivery of anti-obesity drugs or nanoparticles (NPs). Hybrid systems integrating wearable sensors and smart materials enhance treatment effectiveness and patient management. Nanotechnology has advanced drug delivery by integrating nano-scaled materials like liposomes and polymeric NPs with MNs. In diabetes management, glucose-responsive NPs facilitate smart insulin delivery. At the same time, lipid nanocarriers in dissolving MNs enable extended release for obesity treatment, enhancing drug stability and absorption for improved metabolic disorder therapies. DDS for obesity and diabetes are advancing toward personalized treatments using smart MN enhanced with nanomaterials. These innovative approaches can enhance patient outcomes through precise drug administration and real-time monitoring. However, widespread implementation faces challenges in ensuring biocompatibility, improving technologies, scaling production, and obtaining regulatory approval. This review will present recent advances in developing and applying nanomaterial-enhanced MNs for diabetes and obesity management while also discussing the challenges, limitations, and future perspectives of these innovative DDS. Full article

Aggregation-induced emission dyes (AIEs) have gained significant interest due to their unique optical properties. Upon aggregation, AIEs can exhibit remarkable fluorescence enhancement. These systems are ideal candidates for applications in bioimaging, such as image-guided drug delivery or surgery. Encapsulation of AIEs in polymeric nanocarriers can result in biocompatible and efficient nanosystems. Herein, we report the fabrication of novel nanoaggregates formulated by amino terpolymer and tetraphenylethylene (TPE) AIE in aqueous media. Poly(di(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate-co-2-(dimethylamino)ethylmethacrylate-co-oligoethylene glycol methyl ether methacrylate), P(DEGMA-co-DMAEMA-co-OEGMA) hydrophilic terpolymer was utilized for the complexation of the sodium tetraphenylethylene 4,4′,4″,4‴-tetrasulfonate AIE dye. Fluorescence spectroscopy, physicochemical studies, and self-assembly in aqueous and fetal bovine serum media were carried out. The finely dispersed nanoparticles exhibited enhanced fluorescence compared to the pure dye. To investigate the role of tertiary amino groups in the aggregation phenomenon, the polymer was quaternized, and quaternized polymer nanocarriers were fabricated. The increase in fluorescence intensity indicated stronger interaction between the cationic polymer analog and the dye. A stronger interaction between the nanoparticles and fetal bovine serum was observed in the case of the quaternized polymer. Thus, P(DEGMA-co-DMAEMA-co-OEGMA) formulations are better candidates for bioimaging applications than the quaternized ones, presenting both aggregation-induced emission and less interaction with fetal bovine serum. Full article

The most prevalent reason for vision impairment in aging inhabitants is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a posterior ocular disease with a poor understanding of the anatomic, genetic, and pathophysiological progression of the disease. Recently, new insights exploring the role of atrophic changes in the retinal pigment epithelium, extracellular drusen deposits, lysosomal lipofuscin, and various genes have been investigated in the progression of AMD. Hence, this review explores the incidence and risk factors for AMD, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, the complement system, and the involvement of bioactive lipids and their role in angiogenesis. In addition to intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy and other therapeutic interventions such as oral kinase inhibitors, photodynamic, gene, and antioxidant therapy, as well as their benefits and drawbacks as AMD treatment options, strategic drug delivery methods, including drug delivery routes with a focus on intravitreal pharmacokinetics, are investigated. Further, the recent advancements in nanoformulations such as polymeric and lipid nanocarriers, liposomes, etc., intended for ocular drug delivery with pros and cons are too summarized. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to give new researchers an understanding of AMD pathophysiology, with an emphasis on angiogenesis, inflammation, the function of bioactive lipids, and therapy options. Additionally, drug delivery options that focus on the development of drug delivery system(s) via several routes of delivery can aid in the advancement of therapeutic choices. Full article

The current research is focused on the discovery and optimization of an effective cosmetic carrier of alpha-bisabolol as a first step in the development of a cosmetic product with cleansing and antimicrobial action for facial skin hygiene. A micellar solution of Poloxamer 407 was selected as a cosmetic base because of the good washing ability, easy application, and high tolerability of this polymeric surfactant. The solubilization capacity of a 5% micellar solution with respect to α-bisabolol was investigated by applying varying solubilization techniques and increasing concentrations of the oily active substance. The test samples were subjected to an accelerated physical stability test, viscosimetry, dynamic light scattering (DLS), electrophoretic light scattering (ELS), foamability test, and antimicrobial screening. Over the course of this research, the advantage of the film-hydration method over direct solubilization was demonstrated by the narrower size distribution and smaller hydrodynamic size of the micellar nano-carriers (ranging from 29.02 to 116.5 nm) and the respective higher physical stability of the dispersions. The optimized composition was found to be suitable for application on large skin areas in terms of viscosity in the temperature range from 20 °C to 40 °C (3.4–2.3 mPa.s). Preservation of the washing capacity of the micellar solution in the presence of solubilized α-bisabolol was established. The active composition demonstrated inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli and fungicidal activity against Candida albicans. This study concludes that the optimal concentration of α-bisabolol to be solubilized in a 5% Poloxamer 407 micellar solution by the film-hydration technique is 1%, considering the desirable physical endurance and antimicrobial activity. Full article

Poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), two biodegradable and biocompatible polymers that are commonly used for biomedical applications, are, respectively, the result of the ring-opening polymerization of LA and ε-CL, cyclic esters, which can be produced according to several mechanisms (cationic, monomer-activated cationic, anionic, and coordination-insertion), except for L-lactide, which is polymerized only by anionic, cationic, or coordination-insertion polymerization. A series of well-defined PLLA-b-PCL block copolymers have been obtained starting from the same PLLA homopolymer, having a molar mass of 2500 g·mol⁻¹, and being synthesized by coordination-insertion in the presence of tin octoate. PCL blocks were obtained via a cationic-activated monomer mechanism to limit transesterification reactions, and their molar masses varied from 1800 to 18,500 g·mol⁻¹. The physicochemical properties of the copolymers were determined by ¹H NMR, SEC, and DSC. Moreover, a series of nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared starting from these polyester-based copolymers by an emulsification/evaporation method. The sizes of the obtained NPs varied between 140 and 150 nm, as a function of the molar mass of the copolymers. Monomodal distribution curves with PDI values under 0.1 were obtained by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and their spherical shape was confirmed by TEM. The increase in the temperature from 25 to 37 °C induced only a very slight decrease in the NP sizes. The results obtained in this preliminary study indicate that NPs have a temperature stability, allowing us to consider their use as drug-loaded nanocarriers for biomedical applications. Full article

Gallic acid (GA) is a well-known herbal bioactive compound found in many herbs and foods like tea, wine, cashew nuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, plums, grapes, mangoes, blackberries, blueberries, and strawberries. GA has been reported for several pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, inflammatory, antineoplastic, antimicrobial, etc. Apart from its incredible therapeutic benefits, it has been associated with low permeability and bioavailability issues, limiting their efficacy. GA belongs to BCS (Biopharmaceutics classification system) class III (high solubility and low probability). In this context, novel drug delivery approaches played a vital role in resolving these GA issues. Nanocarrier systems help improve drug moiety’s physical and chemical stability by encapsulating them into a lipidic or polymeric matrix or core system. In this regard, researchers have developed a wide range of nanocarrier systems for GA, including liposomes, transfersomes, niosomes, dendrimers, phytosomes, micelles, nanoemulsions, metallic nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, polymer conjugates, etc. In the present review, different search engines like Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar have been referred to for acquiring recent information on the theme of the work. Therefore, this review paper aims to emphasize several novel drug delivery systems, patents, and clinical updates of GA. Full article

Nanocomposites prepared with a terpolymer of poly(L–lactide) (PLLA)–poly(ε–caprolactone) (PCL)–poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and partially oxidized carbon nanotubes (CNTs_po) were synthesized and characterized to evaluate their ability to act as an effective nanocarrier of the anticancer drug methotrexate. The homopolymers of PLLA and PCL were synthesized through ring-opening polymerization (ROP) and characterized through gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The PLLA–PCL–PEG terpolymers were synthesized through a four-step chemical route using oxalyl chloride as a linker agent and analyzed with ¹H–NMR, ¹³C–NMR, and FTIR spectroscopies. Additionally, the nanocomposites were characterized through FTIR, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), as well as the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) technique. XPS analysis revealed that PLLA–PCL–PEG terpolymer chains are grafted onto CNTs_po. Moreover, evaluations through FTIR and DSC strongly suggest that the PCL-rich domains are preferentially oriented toward CNTs_po. The release tests exhibited a “burst effect” profile, which was more evident in the terpolymers than in the nanocomposites. Five models were used to assess methotrexate’s in vitro release. For the nanocomposites, the best fit to the experimental data was obtained using the first-order model, whereas the results obtained from the Korsmeyer–Peppas model indicated that Fickian diffusion drives methotrexate’s release. Full article

In the last few decades, there has been a growing interest in the use of biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles (BPNPs) as the carriers for various therapeutic agents in drug delivery systems. BPNPs have the potential to improve the efficacy of numerous active agents by facilitating targeted delivery to a desired site in the body. Biodegradable polymers are especially promising nanocarriers for therapeutic substances characterized by poor solubility, instability, rapid metabolism, and rapid system elimination. Such molecules can be efficiently encapsulated and subsequently released from nanoparticles, which greatly improves their stability and bioavailability. Biopolymers seem to be the most suitable candidates to be used as the nanocarriers in various delivery platforms, especially due to their biocompatibility and biodegradability. Other unique properties of the polymeric nanocarriers include low cost, flexibility, stability, minimal side effects, low toxicity, good entrapment potential, and long-term and controlled drug release. An overview summarizing the research results from the last years in the field of the successful fabrication of BPNPs loaded with various therapeutic agents is provided. The possible challenges involving nanoparticle stability under physiological conditions and the possibility of scaling up production while maintaining quality, as well as the future possibilities of employing BPNPs, are also reviewed. Full article

Flavonoids are secondary metabolites that exhibit remarkable biological activities, including antimicrobial properties against Klebsiella pneumoniae, a pathogen responsible for several serious nosocomial infections. However, oral administration of these compounds faces considerable challenges, such as low bioavailability and chemical instability. Thus, the encapsulation of flavonoids in nanosystems emerges as a promising strategy to mitigate these limitations, offering protection against degradation; greater solubility; and, in some cases, controlled and targeted release. Different types of nanocarriers, such as polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, and polymeric micelles, among others, have shown potential to increase the antimicrobial efficacy of flavonoids by reducing the therapeutic dose required and minimizing side effects. In addition, advances in nanotechnology enable co-encapsulation with other therapeutic agents and the development of systems responsive to more specific stimuli, optimizing treatment. In this context, the present article provides an updated review of the literature on flavonoids and the main nanocarriers used for delivering flavonoids with antibacterial properties against Klebsiella pneumoniae. Full article

Many therapies require the transport of therapeutic compounds or substances encapsulated in carriers that reduce or, if possible, eliminate their direct contact with healthy tissue and components of the immune system, which may react to them as something foreign and dangerous to the patient’s body. To date, inorganic nanoparticles, solid lipids, micelles and micellar aggregates, liposomes, polymeric micelles, and other polymer assemblies were tested as drug carriers. Specifically, using polymers creates a variety of options to prepare nanocarriers tailored to the chosen needs. Among polymers, aliphatic polyesters are a particularly important group. The review discusses controlled synthesis of poly(β-butyrolactone)s, polylactides, polyglycolide, poly(ε-caprolactone), and copolymers containing polymacrolactone units with double bonds suitable for preparation of functionalized nanoparticles. Discussed are syntheses of aliphatic polymers with controlled molar masses ranging from a few thousand to 10⁶ and, in the case of polyesters with chiral centers in the chains, with controlled microstructure. The review presents also a collection of methods useful for the preparation of the drug-loaded nanocarriers: classical, developed and mastered more recently (e.g., nanoprecipitation), and forgotten but still with great potential (by the direct synthesis of the drug-loaded nanoparticles in the process comprising monomer and drug). The article describes also in-vitro and model in-vivo studies for the brain-targeted drugs based on polyester-containing nanocarriers and presents a brief update on the clinical studies and the polyester nanocarrier formulation approved for application in the clinics in South Korea for the treatment of breast, lung, and ovarian cancers. Full article

The pH- and thermo-responsive behavior of polymeric hydrogels MC−co−MA have been studied in detail using dynamic light scattering DLS, scanning electron microscopySEM, nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) and rheology to evaluate the conformational changes, swelling–shrinkage, stability, the ability to flow and the diffusion process of nanoparticles at several temperatures. Furthermore, polymeric systems functionalized with acrylic acid MC and acrylamide MA were subjected to a titration process with a calcium chloride CaCl2 solution to analyze its effect on the average particle diameterDz, polymer structure and the intra- and intermolecular interactions in order to provide a responsive polymer network that can be used as a possible nanocarrier for drug delivery with several benefits. The results confirmed that the structural changes in the sensitive hydrogels are highly dependent on the corresponding critical solution temperature CST of the carboxylic (–COOH) and amide (–CONH₂) functional groups and the influence of calcium ions Ca2+ on the formation or breaking of hydrogen bonds, as well as the decrease in electrostatic repulsions generated between the polymer chains contributing to a particle agglomeration phenomenon. The temperature leads to a re-arrangement of the polymer chains, affecting the viscoelastic properties of the hydrogels. In addition, the diffusion coefficients D of nanoparticles were evaluated, showing a closeness among with the morphology, shape, size and temperature, resulting in slower diffusions for larger particles size and, conversely, the diffusion in the medium increasing as the polymer size is reduced. Therefore, the hydrogels exhibited a remarkable response to pH and temperature variations in the environment. During this research, the functionality and behavior of the polymeric nanoparticles were observed under different analysis conditions, which revealed notable structural changes and further demonstrated the nanoparticles promising high potential for drug delivery applications. Hence, these results have sparked significant interest in various scientific, industrial and technological fields. Full article

Liquid crystals have been extensively used in various applications, such as optoelectronic devices, biomedical applications, sensors and biosensors, and packaging, among others. Liquid crystal polymers are one type of liquid crystal material, combining their intrinsic properties with polymeric flexibility for advanced applications in displays and smart materials. For instance, liquid crystal polymers can serve as drug nanocarriers, forming cubic or hexagonal mesophases, which can be tailored for controlled drug release. Further applications of liquid crystals and liquid crystal polymers include the preparation of membranes for separation processes, such as wastewater treatment. Furthermore, these materials can be used as ion-conducting membranes for fuel cells or lithium batteries due to their broad types of mesophases. This review aims to provide an overall explanation and classification of liquid crystals and liquid crystal polymers. Furthermore, the great potential of these materials relies on their broad range of applications, which are determined by their unique properties. Moreover, this study provides the latest advances in liquid crystal polymer-based membranes and their applications, focusing especially on fuel cells. Moreover, future directions in the applications of various liquid crystals are highlighted. Full article