AS1411 aptamer/RGD dual functionalized theranostic chitosan-PLGA nanoparticles for brain cancer treatment and imaging.

Conventional chemotherapy and poor targeted delivery in brain cancer resulting to poor treatment and develop resistance to anticancer drugs. Meanwhile, it is quite challenging to diagnose/detection of brain tumor at early stage of cancer which resulting in severity of the disease. Despite extensive research, effective treatment with real-time imaging still remains completely unavailable, yet. In this study, two brain cancer cell specific moieties i.e., AS1411 aptamer and RGD are decorated on the surface of chitosan-PLGA nanoparticles to improve targeted co-delivery of docetaxel (DTX) and upconversion nanoparticles (UCNP) for effective brain tumor therapy and real-time imaging. The nanoparticles were developed by a slightly modified emulsion/solvent evaporation method. This investigation also translates the successful synthesis of TPGS-chitosan, TPGS-RGD and TPGS-AS1411 aptamer conjugates for making PLGA nanoparticle as a potential tool of the targeted co-delivery of DTX and UCNP to the brain cancer cells. The developed nanoparticles have shown an average particle size <200 nm, spherical in shape, high encapsulation of DTX and UCNP in the core of nanoparticles, and sustained release of DTX up to 72 h in phosphate buffer saline (pH 7.4). AS1411 aptamer and RGD functionalized theranostic chitosan-PLGA nanoparticles containing DTX and UCNP (DUCPN-RGD-AS1411) have achieved greater cellular uptake, 89-fold improved cytotoxicity, enhanced cancer cell arrest even at lower drug conc., improved bioavailability with higher mean residence time of DTX in systemic circulation and brain tissues. Moreover, DUCPN-RGD-AS1411 have greatly facilitated cellular internalization and higher accumulation of UCNP in brain tissues. Additionally, DUCPN-RGD-AS1411 demonstrated a significant suppression in tumor growth in brain-tumor bearing xenograft BALB/c nude mice with no impressive sign of toxicities. DUCPN-RGD-AS1411 has great potential to be utilized as an effective and safe theranostic tool for brain cancer and other life-threatening cancer therapies.

The potential of phosphorylated α-synuclein as a biomarker for the diagnosis and monitoring of multiple system atrophy.

INTRODUCTION: Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the presence of glial cytoplasmic inclusions (GCIs) containing aggregated α-synuclein (α-Syn). Accurate diagnosis and monitoring of MSA present significant challenges, which can lead to potential misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. Biomarkers play a crucial role in improving the accuracy of MSA diagnosis, and phosphorylated α-synuclein (p-syn) has emerged as a promising biomarker for aiding in diagnosis and disease monitoring. METHODS: A literature search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar using specific keywords and MeSH terms without imposing a time limit. Inclusion criteria comprised various study designs including experimental studies, case-control studies, and cohort studies published only in English, while conference abstracts and unpublished sources were excluded. RESULTS: Increased levels of p-syn have been observed in various samples from MSA patients, such as red blood cells, cerebrospinal fluid, oral mucosal cells, skin, and colon biopsies, highlighting their diagnostic potential. The α-Syn RT-QuIC assay has shown sensitivity in diagnosing MSA and tracking its progression. Meta-analyses and multicenter investigations have confirmed the diagnostic value of p-syn in cerebrospinal fluid, demonstrating high specificity and sensitivity in distinguishing MSA from other neurodegenerative diseases. Moreover, combining p-syn with other biomarkers has further improved the diagnostic accuracy of MSA. CONCLUSION: The p-syn stands out as a promising biomarker for MSA. It is found in oligodendrocytes and shows a correlation with disease severity and progression. However, further research and validation studies are necessary to establish p-syn as a reliable biomarker for MSA. If proven, p-syn could significantly contribute to early diagnosis, disease monitoring, and assessing treatment response.

An Updated Review on Nanoemulsion: Factory for Food and Drug Delivery.

BACKGROUND: A nanoemulsion is a colloidal system of small droplets dispersed in another liquid. It has attracted considerable attention due to its unique properties and various applications. Throughout this review, we provide an overview of nanoemulsions and how they can be applied to various applications such as drug delivery, food applications, and pesticide formulations. OBJECTIVE: This updated review aims to comprehensively overview nanoemulsions and their applications as a versatile platform for drug delivery, food applications, and pesticide formulations. METHODS: Research relevant scientific literature across various databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Suitable keywords for this purpose include "nanoemulsion," "drug delivery," and "food applications." Ensure the search criteria include recent publications to ensure current knowledge is included. RESULTS: Several benefits have been demonstrated in the delivery of drugs using nanoemulsions, including improved solubility, increased bioavailability, and controlled delivery. Nanoemulsions have improved some bioactive compounds in food applications, including vitamins and antioxidants. At the same time, pesticide formulations based on nanoemulsions have also improved solubility, shelf life, and effectiveness. CONCLUSION: The versatility of nanoemulsions makes them ideal for drug delivery, food, and pesticide formulation applications. These products are highly soluble, bioavailable, and targeted, providing significant advantages. More research and development are required to implement nanoemulsion-based products on a commercial scale.

Fermented formulation of Silybum marianum seeds: Optimization, heavy metal analysis, and hepatoprotective assessment.

BACKGROUND: Fermented formulations are extensively used in Ayurveda due to several benefits like improved palatability, bioavailability, pharmacological potential, and shelf life. These formulations can also quench the heavy metals from the plant material and thus reduce the toxicity. Seeds of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn. are widely used for the management of many liver diseases. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In the present study, we developed a novel fermented formulation of S. marianum seeds and evaluated parameters like safety (heavy metal analysis) and effectiveness (hepatoprotective). As the developed formulation's validation is crucial, the critical process variables (time, pH, and sugar concentration) are optimized for alcohol and silybin content using the Box-Behnken design (BBD). RESULTS: The response surface methodology coupled with BBD predicted the optimized conditions (fermentation time (28 days), pH 5.6, and sugar concentration (22.04%)) for the development of a fermented formulation of the selected herb. Moreover, the alcohol content (6.5 ± 0.9%) and silybin concentration (26.1 ± 2.1%) were confirmed in optimized formulation by GC-MS and HPTLC analysis. The optimized formulation was also analyzed for heavy metals (Pb, As, Hg, and Cd); their concentration is significantly less than the decoction of herbs. Further, the comparative evaluation of the developed formulation with the marketed formulation also confirmed that the fermented formulation's silybin concentration and percentage release were significantly enhanced. In addition, the developed fermented formulation's percentage recovery of HepG2 cell lines after treatment with CCl4 was significantly improved compared with the marketed formulation. CONCLUSION: It can be summarized that the developed fermented formulation improves safety and effectiveness compared to other market formulations. Finally, it can be concluded that the developed fermented formulation could be further explored as a better alternative for developing Silybum marianum preparation.

Design, Development and In-Vitro Characterization of Insulin Loaded Topical Pluronic-Lecithin Based Organogel Formulation for the Management of Diabetic Wound.

AIM: To develop and characterize the topical insulin-loaded organogel formulation for the management of diabetic wounds. OBJECTIVES: To formulate and evaluate organogel of insulin that can serve as a topical administration for promoting enhanced wound healing in diabetic patients by providing sustained and localized delivery of drug to the wound site. METHODOLOGY: The insulin organogel formulated by the micro-emulsion method involves mixing the "aqueous and oil phases" at high shear. Physical and chemical properties, as well as an in vitro study with a Franz diffusion chamber, were used to evaluate the prepared organogel. RESULTS: All formulations proved to be off-white, homogeneous, washable, and had a pH between 6 and 6.5; moreover, they were non-irritating and skin-compatible. Formulations F1-F6 had viscosity ranging from 2058 to 3168 cps, spreadability ranges of 0.35 to 0.52 g*cm/s, and gel transition ranges of 28.33 to 35.33 °C. In formulations F1-F3, the concentration of lecithin was gradually increased, and in formulations F4-F6, the concentration of PF-127 was increased, resulting in a decrease in gel transition temperature, an increase in viscosity, and a gradual change in spreadability. The higher-viscosity formulations were much more stable and had better drug release. All formulations were fitted to a kinetic model belonging to first-order kinetics. However, after examining the parameter evaluation, it was found that the formulations F2 and F6 were better suited to the kinetic model and were consistent with the first-order and Higuchi models in Korsmeyer-Peppas F2 (r2 = 0.9544 and n = 1.0412); F6 (r2 = 0.9019 and n = 1.0822), which was a confirmation of the sustainability of the release system with matrix diffusion and drug delivery mechanisms that were based on the Super-Case II transport. CONCLUSION: Further research and clinical trials are needed to validate its efficacy, optimize the formulation, and establish its long-term safety. Topical insulin organogel has the potential to revolutionize diabetic wound management by improving healing outcomes, reducing complications, and raising the standard of living for those who have diabetes.

Isolation, characterization, and evaluation of anxiolytic bioactive compounds from the seed of Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek in mice.

Recent therapy for managing anxiety disorders is linked with a wide range of adverse effects. The conventional practice of the use of plant extract may indicate an important and new approach to the anxiolytic agent. Seeds of V. radiata belonging to the family Fabaceae is commonly employed to treat several diseases. However, no data is available to screen its viable neuropharmacological effect regardless of its famous use. Hence, the objective of the present study was to isolate the anxiolytic bioactive compound from seeds of V. radiata. Pure bioactive Compounds SU1 and SU2 were obtained from bioactive fraction F9.3 and fraction F9.5 using the bioactivity-guided fractionation method. The current investigation found that 4 mg/kg (o.p.) of kaempferol and γ-aminobutyric acid exhibit significant anxiolytic action in mice that is statistically comparable to diazepam (2 mg/kg.i.p). This study validates the ethnopharmacological use of V. radiata seeds in the management of anxiety disorders.

An Overview of Current Progress and Challenges in Brain Cancer Therapy Using Advanced Nanoparticles.

Brain tumors pose significant challenges in terms of complete cure and early-stage prognosis. The complexity of brain tumors, including their location, infiltrative nature, and intricate tumor microenvironment (TME), contributes to the difficulties in achieving a complete cure. The primary objective of brain cancer therapy is to effectively treat brain tumors and improve the patient's quality of life. Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as promising tools in this regard. They can be designed to deliver therapeutic drugs to the brain tumor site while also incorporating imaging agents. The NPs with the 10-200 nm range can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and blood-brain tumor barrier (BBTB) and facilitate drug bioavailability. NPs can be designed by several methods to improve the pharmaceutical and pharmacological aspects of encapsulated therapeutic agents. NPs can be developed in various dosage forms to suit different administration routes in brain cancer therapy. The unique properties and versatility of NPs make them essential tools in the fight against brain tumors, offering new opportunities to improve patient outcomes and care. Having the ability to target brain tumors directly, overcome the BBB, and minimize systemic side effects makes NPs valuable tools in improving patient outcomes and care. The review highlights the challenges associated with brain tumor treatment and emphasizes the importance of early detection and diagnosis. The use of NPs for drug delivery and imaging in brain tumors is a promising approach to improving patient outcomes and quality of life. The versatility and unique properties of NPs make them valuable tools in the fight against brain tumors, and NPs have the potential to revolutionize healthcare.

Dual-targeted transferrin and AS1411 aptamer conjugated micelles for improved therapeutic efficacy and imaging of brain cancer.

Brain tumors represent an aggressive form of cancer, posing significant challenges in achieving complete remission. Development of advanced therapies is crucial for improving clinical outcomes in cancer patients. This study aimed to create a novel treatment approach using dual-targeted transferrin (TF) and AS1411 conjugated micelles, designed to enhance therapeutic effectiveness of docetaxel (DTX) and facilitate gadolinium (Gd) based imaging in brain cancer. Micelles were prepared using a slightly modified solvent-casting method, and the dual-targeting ligands were attached to the micelle's surface through a physical adsorption process. Average particle size of micelles ranged from 117.49 ± 3.90-170.38 ± 3.39 nm, with a low polydispersity index. Zeta potential ranged from - 1.5 ± 0.02 to - 18.7 ± 0.04 mV. Encapsulation efficiency of DTX in micelles varied from 92.64 ± 4.22-79.77 ± 4.13 %. Simultaneously, encapsulation of Gd in micelles was found to be 48.27 ± 3.18-58.52 ± 3.17, respectively. In-vitro drug release studies showed a biphasic sustained release profile, with DTX and Gd release continuing up to 72 h with their t50 % at 4.95, 11.29, and 24.14 h for GDTP, GDTP-TF and GDTP-TF-AS1411 micelles, respectively. Cytotoxicity effect of GDTP-TF-AS1411 micelles has shown significant improvement (P < 0.001) and reduced IC50 value up to 0.19 ± 0.14 µg/ml compared to Taxotere® (2.73 ± 0.73 µg/ml). Theranostic study revealed higher accumulation of GDTP-TF and GDTP-TF-AS1411 micelles free GD treated animal brains. The AUC of GDTP-TF-AS1411 micelles exhibited 23.79 ± 17.82 µg.h/ml higher than Taxotere® (14.14 ± 10.59 µg.h/ml). These findings direct enhanced effectiveness in brain cancer therapy leading to improved therapeutics in brain cancer patients. The combined targeted ligands and therapeutic agents strategy can direct advancement in brain cancer therapy and offer improved therapy for patients.

An Overview of Metallic Nanoparticles: Classification, Synthesis, Applications, and their Patents.

BACKGROUND: Nanotechnology has gained enormous attention in pharmaceutical research. Nanotechnology is used in the development of nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 1-100nm, with several extraordinary features. Metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) are used in various areas, such as molecular biology, biosensors, bio imaging, biomedical devices, diagnosis, pharmaceuticals, etc., for their specific applications. METHODOLOGY: For this study, we have performed a systematic search and screening of the literature and identified the articles and patents focusing on various physical, chemical, and biological methods for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles and their pharmaceutical applications. RESULTS: A total of 174 references have been included in this present review, of which 23 references for recent patents were included. Then, 29 papers were shortlisted to describe the advantages, disadvantages, and physical and chemical methods for their synthesis, and 28 articles were selected to provide the data for biological methods for the formulation of metal NPs from bacteria, algae, fungi, and plants with their extensive synthetic procedures. Moreover, 27 articles outlined various clinical applications of metal NPs due to their antimicrobial and anticancer activities and their use in drug delivery. CONCLUSION: Several reviews are available on the synthesis of metal nanoparticles and their pharmaceutical applications. However, this review provides updated research data along with the various methods employed for their development. It also summarizes their various advantages and clinical applications (anticancer, antimicrobial drug delivery, and many others) for various phytoconstituents. The overview of earlier patents by several scientists in the arena of metallic nanoparticle preparation and formulation is also presented. This review will be helpful in increasing the current knowledge and will also inspire to innovation of nanoparticles for the precise and targeted delivery of phytoconstituents for the treatment of several diseases.

Effect of Extraction Methods on the Antioxidant Potential and Cytotoxicity of the Combined Ethanolic Extracts of Daucus carota L., Beta vulgaris L., Phyllanthus emblica L. and Lycopersicon esculentum against Gastric Adenocarcinoma Cells.

Frequent consumption of fruits and vegetables in the daily diet may alleviate the risk of developing chronic diseases. Daucus carota L. (carrot), Beta vulgaris L. (beetroot) Phyllanthus emblica L. (amla), and Lycopersicon esculentum M (tomatoes) are traditionally consumed functional foods that contain a high concentration of antioxidants, ascorbic acid, polyphenols, and numerous phytochemicals. This study assessed how three distinct preparation methods affect the phenolic, flavonoid, carotenoid, and ascorbic acid contents, antioxidant level, and cytotoxicity of the combined fruit extract. The fruit samples were taken in the ratio of carrot (6): beetroot (2): tomato (1.5): amla (0.5) and processed into a lyophilized slurry (LS) extract, lyophilized juice (LJ) extract, and hot-air oven-dried (HAO) extract samples. The sample extracts were assessed for their phytoconstituent concentrations and antioxidant and cytotoxic potential. The total phenolic content in LS, LJ, and HAO extracts was 171.20 ± 0.02, 120.73 ± 0.02, and 72.05 ± 0.01 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 g, respectively and the total flavonoid content was 23.635 ± 0.003, 20.754 ± 0.005, and 18.635 ± 0.005 mg quercetin equivalent/100 g, respectively. Similarly, total ascorbic acid content, carotenoids, and antioxidant potential were higher in the LS and LJ extracts than in HAO. Overall, the LS extract had a substantially higher concentration of phytochemicals and antioxidants, as well as higher cytotoxic potential, compared to the LJ and HAO extracts. The LS extract was tested in the MKN-45 human gastric cancer cell line to demonstrate its effective antioxidant potential and cytotoxicity. Hence, lyophilization (freezing) based techniques are more effective than heat-based techniques in preserving the phytoconstituents and their antioxidant and cytotoxic potential.

Bromelain: a review of its mechanisms, pharmacological effects and potential applications.

The utilization of plant-derived supplements for disease prevention and treatment has long been recognized because of their remarkable potential. Ananas comosus, commonly known as pineapple, produces a group of enzymes called bromelain, which contains sulfhydryl moieties. Recent studies have shown that bromelain exhibits a wide range of activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and anti-rheumatic properties. These properties make bromelain a promising drug candidate for the treatment of various diseases. The anti-inflammatory activity of bromelain has been shown to be useful in treating inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and asthma, whereas the anti-cancer activity of bromelain is via induction of apoptosis, inhibition of angiogenesis, and enhancement of the body's immune response. The anti-diabetic property of bromelain is owing to the improvement in glucose metabolism and reduction in insulin resistance. The therapeutic potential of bromelain has been investigated in numerous preclinical and clinical studies and a number of patents have been granted to date. Various formulations and delivery systems are being developed in order to improve the efficacy and safety of this molecule, including the microencapsulated form to treat oral inflammatory conditions and liposomal formulations to treat cancer. The development of novel drug delivery systems and formulations has further ameliorated the therapeutic potential of bromelain by improving its bioavailability and stability, while reducing the side effects. This review intends to discuss various properties and therapeutic applications of bromelain, along with its possible mechanism of action in treating various diseases. Recent patents and clinical trials concerning bromelain have also been covered.

Regulatory, safety and economic considerations of over-the-counter medicines in the Indian population.

Background and purpose of review: Over-the-counter (OTC) medication has been an integral component of an established health care system but their easy accessibility might pose significant risks. This review has attempted to highlight the present scenario of OTC utilization in India, regarding standard practices followed globally. An attempt has also been made to highlight the lifecycle of a prescription and OTC medicine and the benefits and regulatory process involved in the prescription-to-OTC switch. Findings: A paradigm shift has been observed in self-medication practice with OTC medicines in recent times and has become a widespread practice worldwide. Numerous key drivers, such as increasing consumer awareness, broader consumer access to essential medication, and socio-economic benefits to the public health care system, have advocated this practice. On the other hand, self-medication using OTC is also inextricably linked with inevitable risks such as excessive drug dosage, polypharmacy, drug abuse, and drug interactions. Nevertheless, these issues could be further regulated by employing a defined OTC framework. The government of India has recognized the utmost need to develop a robust policy framework for the effective utilization of OTC drugs. Also, various initiatives toward modifying existing laws or developing new OTC drug policies has been taken. Conclusion: Prioritizing the utmost safety of the consumers and evident need of strong regulatory framework with respect to OTC drugs, the term "OTC" has been recommended as a distinct category of drugs by Government of India. This review has highlighted various factors that can play an essential role in OTC utilization and can be considered during policy reformation.

Vitamins and minerals, education, and self-care need during preconception to 1000 days of life in Southeast Asia: An expert panel opinion.

Addressing maternal malnutrition and its drivers is paramount in Southeast Asia. This article summarizes the key clinical learnings and evidence-based opinions from the experts to understand the need for vitamins and minerals supplementation, education, and self-care from preconception to the first 1000 days of life, which warranted further attention since COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence describing the importance of vitamins and minerals during preconception, pregnancy, and lactation stages was identified using literature databases. A pre-meeting survey was conducted to determine the current practices and challenges in Southeast Asia. Based on the literature review and clinical experience, experts defined the topics, and an online meeting was held on 13th July 2021. During the meeting, nine experts from Southeast Asia provided evidence-based opinion on the vitamins and minerals supplementation, education, and self-care need during preconception, pregnancy, and lactation stages. The expert opinions underpin maternal malnutrition as a prevalent issue and discuss appropriate interventions and prevention strategies for women in Southeast Asia. The recent pandemic further impacted nutrition status, pregnancy, and neonatal health outcomes. The expert panel emphasized a need to improve existing inadequacies in education, self-care, and social support, and discussed the role of policymakers in addressing the barriers to dietary changes. As inadequacies in regular vitamins and minerals supplementation, education, and self-care for women of reproductive age implicate maternal and child health outcomes, there is an urgent need for addressing malnutrition concerns in this population. Thus, a strong partnership between policymakers, healthcare professionals, and other relevant sectors is required.

Therapeutic Application of Pineapple: A Review.

BACKGROUND: Ananas comosus L. (family Bromeliaceae) is a plant innate to South America and has been cultivated in various world regions. The plant parts have traditionally been used to treat various ailments, like cancer, diabetes mellitus, bacterial infection, Covid-19 infection, inflammation, arthritis, asthma, malaria, cardiovascular disease, and burn, as debridement agents. The pineapple contains nutrients, including vitamin C, iron, potassium, and protein. It also contains flavonoids, carotenoids, tannins, polyphenols, and alkaloids. METHODS: An extensive literature search was conducted on Ananas comosus using three scientific databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The keywords in this paper were combined to form a search strategy. Ananas comosus and pineapple were the main criteria for judging abstracts, titles, and keywords. In the full text of the paper, the secondary judgment criteria included mentioning "therapeutic potential" or "pharmacological activities". Among the 250 references in the compiled bibliography, there were original articles, books, and web addresses dating back to 2001 to 2023. A review of articles was conducted after abstracts and titles were screened, and 61 duplicate articles were deleted. In this paper, information is provided on the therapeutic potential and pharmacological actions of Ananas comosus and its bioactive compounds. RESULTS: In this review, the therapeutic potential of A. comosus has been detailed. The current review intends to provide an updated comprehensive overview of the versatile plant's use and its clinical trials. CONCLUSION: The plant has gained enormous attention and increasing consideration for treating various diseases. The therapeutic potential of pineapple, its compound, extracts, and their mode of action are discussed briefly. Also, clinical trials are emphasized, which are in great demand and need further in-depth investigation in the future.

Acacia catechu Willd. and Acacia arabica Willd. decrease the extent of anxiety behavior by reducing oxidative stress and moderating neurochemicals.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Anxiety is a very common psychiatric problem. It affects a large group of people in the world population. Acacia genus is well known for phenolic and flavonoid content. Literature showed its potential for various biological activities and is useful in the treatment of chest pain, asthma, bronchitis, wounds, mouth ulcer, colic, vitiligo, sore throat, inflammation, diarrhoea and also used as tonic. AIM OF THE STUDY: The present study was conducted to assess the antianxiety potential of two plants Acacia catechu Willd. and Acacia arabica Willd. from the common family Fabaceae. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The stems of both plants were used for this purpose. Plants were subjected to complete exhaustive successive extraction using petroleum ether, chloroform, ethanol, and water as solvent. After pharmacognostic and phytochemical investigation, antianxiety activity was conducted on Swiss albino mice at different dose levels (100, 200, 300, & 400 mg/kg body weight p.o.) for all successive extracts of both plants. Two active extracts from each plant were further assessed for anxiolytic potential using the open-field test and mirror chamber test. One extract with the maximum response from each plant was further screened using mCPP-induced anxiety test. RESULTS: The stem of ethanol extract of A. catechu showed comparable antianxiety activity at 400 mg/kg to the standard drug diazepam (2.5 mg/kg). Improved SOD, catalase, and LPO levels were noted after administration of A. catechu ethanolic extract at 400 mg/kg. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, A. catechu ethanolic extract improved anxiety symptoms at dose-dependent levels in mice.

RGD-decorated PLGA nanoparticles improved effectiveness and safety of cisplatin for lung cancer therapy.

Upon extensive pharmaceutical and biomedical research to treat lung cancer indicates that lung cancer remains one of the deadliest diseases and the leading cause of death in men and women worldwide. Lung cancer remains untreated and has a high mortality rate due to the limited potential for effective treatment with existing therapies. This highlights the urgent need to develop an effective, precise and sustainable solutions to treat lung cancer. In this study, we developed RGD receptor-targeted PLGA nanoparticles for the controlled and targeted co-delivery of cisplatin (CDDP) and upconversion nanoparticles (UCNP) in lung cancer therapy. Pluronic F127-RGD conjugate was synthesized by carbodiimide chemistry method and the conjugation was confirmed by FTIR and 1HNMR spectroscopy techniques. PLGA nanoparticles were developed by the double emulsification method, then the surface of the prepared nanoparticles was decorated with Pluronic F127-RGD conjugate. The prepared formulations were characterized for their particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, surface morphology, drug encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro drug release and haemolysis studies. Pharmacokinetic studies and safety parameters in BAL fluid were assessed in rats. Histopathology of rat lung tissue was performed. The obtained results of particle sizes of the nanoparticle formulations were found 100-200 nm, indicating the homogeneity of dispersed colloidal nanoparticles formulations. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) revealed the spherical shape of the prepared nanoparticles. The drug encapsulation efficiency of PLGA nanoparticles was found to range from 60% to 80% with different nanoparticles counterparts. RGD receptor-targeted PLGA nanoparticles showed controlled drug release for up to 72 h. Further, RGD receptor-targeted PLGA nanoparticles achieved higher cytotoxicity in compared to CFT, CFT, and Ciszest-50 (marketed CDDP injection). The pharmacokinetic study revealed that RGD receptor-targeted PLGA nanoparticles were 4.6-fold more effective than Ciszest-50. Furthermore, RGD receptor-targeted PLGA nanoparticles exhibited negligible damage to lung tissue, low systemic toxicity, and high biocompatible and safety in lung tissue. The results of RGD receptor-targeted PLGA nanoparticles indicated that it is a promising anticancer system that could further exploited as a potent therapeutic approach for lung cancer.

Herbal Approaches in the Management of Mental Depression.

BACKGROUND: Human's existence has become more stressful these days, most likely for the sake of improving one's lifestyle and fulfilling one's aspirations and needs. Depression is the most frequent neurological disorder, which affects millions of individuals worldwide. In clinical research, depression is the second most frequent chronic disease. A variety of herbal medications thought to have antidepressant-like effects have been reported in ancient pharmacopoeias from around the world. These provide several prospective chemicals that could be developed into modern mental medications while also causing no noticeable negative effects. OBJECTIVE: The review is written to provide herbal treatment and comprehensive information about depression. METHODS: Plants and plant formulations that were found effective in the treatment of depression are thoroughly reviewed. The antidepressant efficacies of medicinal plants, as well as their dosages, are investigated using experimental models. The review article contains 140 plants possessing antidepressant properties, 11 commercial formulations, and 25 active/isolated ingredients, as well as their chemical structure, which have been thoroughly reviewed with antidepressant activity after studying 283 references. RESULTS: Literature revealed that a variety of medicinal plants are effective for the treatment of depression such as Hypericum perforatum, Catha edulis, Tinospora cordifolia, Curcuma longa, Ferula foetida, Rhodio larosea, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Crocus sativus, Ocimumba silicum and Embelica officinalis. CONCLUSION: Potential compounds isolated from medicinal plants for the treatment of depressive disorders need to be established and herbal plant research could aid in this endeavour.

Empagliflozin containing chitosan-alginate nanoparticles in orodispersible film: preparation, characterization, pharmacokinetic evaluation and its in-vitro anticancer activity.

OBJECTIVE: The main objective of this study was to develop the orodispersity film containing chitosan-alginate nanoparticles to improve dissolution profile, therapeutic effect with improved bioavailability of empagliflozin through oral route noninvasively for further cytotoxicity study. METHODS: The nanoparticles were developed through two-step mechanisms ionotropic pre-gelation and polyelectrolyte complexation methods. The prepared nanoparticles were added to a polymer matrix containing hypromellose, polyvinyl alcohol, and maltodextrin and cast to rapidly dissolving thin film by solvent casting method. RESULTS: The physicochemical characteristics of empagliflozin in the orodispersible film were most favorable for further studies. This formulation has achieved a higher permeability (7.2-fold) as compared to the reference drug product (Jardiance) after 45 min. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies in Wistar rats have revealed that chitosan-alginate empagliflozin nanoparticles in the orodispersible film were 1.18-fold more bioavailable in comparison to free empagliflozin in orodispersible film. The Cmax observed for the empagliflozin-loaded orodispersible film was 15.42 ± 5.13 µg/mL in comparison to 18.21 ± 5.53 µg/mL for empagliflozin nanoparticle-containing orodispersible film and 12.19 ± 6.71 µg/mL for freed rug suspension. The t1/2and AUC0-t values for chitosan-alginate nanoparticles of empagliflozin in the orodispersible film were found1.4-fold more than empagliflozin loaded orodispersible film (without nanoparticles). The cytotoxicity study has shown that chitosan-alginate nanoparticles of empagliflozin in orodispersible film achieved a 2.5-fold higher cytotoxic effect than free empagliflozin in orodispersible film in A549lung cancer cells. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides evidence that chitosan-alginate nanoparticles of empagliflozin in orodispersible film can be an effective drug carrier system to improve sustained effect with better bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drug.

Antacids revisited: review on contemporary facts and relevance for self-management.

Heartburn and acid regurgitation are the typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. Despite the availability of several treatment options, antacids remain the mainstay treatment for gastroesophageal reflux-related symptoms based on their efficacy, safety, and over-the-counter availability. Antacids are generally recommended for adults and children at least 12 years old, and the FDA recommends antacids as the first-line treatment for heartburn in pregnancy. This narrative review summarizes the mechanism, features, and limitations related to different antacid ingredients and techniques available to study the acid neutralization and buffering capacity of antacid formulations. Using supporting clinical evidence for different antacid ingredients, it also discusses the importance of antacids as OTC medicines and first-line therapies for heartburn, particularly in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, in which reliance on self-care has increased. The review will also assist pharmacists and other healthcare professionals in helping individuals with heartburn to make informed self-care decisions and educating them to ensure that antacids are used in an optimal, safe, and effective manner.

Advancement of nanomedicines in chronic inflammatory disorders.

Chronic diseases, as stated by the WHO, are a threat to human health which kill 3 out of every 5 people worldwide. Therapeutics for such illnesses can be developed using traditional medicine. However, it is not an easy path from natural products to Western pharmacological and pharmaceutical methods. For several decades, chronic inflammatory disorders, especially in Westernized countries, have increased incidence and prevalence. Several NSAIDs are used to decrease inflammation and pain; however, there are numerous negative consequences of these anti-inflammatory medications, whereas plant-based natural products have anti-inflammatory therapeutic benefits that have little or no adverse effects. Nanoparticles are a new type of drug delivery device that may be designed to provide excellent target selectivity for certain cells and tissues while also having a high drug loading capacity, resulting in better pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics (PKPD), and therapeutic bioavailability. The size and polarity of phytochemical compounds make it hard to pass the blood-brain barrier (BBB), blood-vessel endothelial lining, gastrointestinal tract and mucosa. In addition, the gastrointestinal system is enzymatically destroyed. Therefore, nanoparticles or nanocrystals might also be used for encapsulation or conjugation of these chemicals as a method to improve their organic effectiveness through their gastrointestinal stability, absorption rate and dispersion. The therapy of numerous inflammatory illnesses, including arthritis, gastritis, Nephritis, Hepatitis (Type A, B &C), ulcerative colitis, Alzheimer's disease, atherosclerosis, allergic responses (asthma, eczema) or autoimmune disorders, is characterised by nanoparticles. This review paper provides information on the numerous nanosystem described with their probable mechanism to treat chronic inflammatory diseases.