Pharmaceutical nanotechnology最新文献

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have emerged as extremely promising nanocarriers for drug delivery due to their superior structural, mechanical, and electrical capabilities. This study digs into recent advances in CNT-based drug delivery systems, focusing on novel functionalization strategies, hybrid nanostructures, and customized nanocarrier designs. Functionalization using polymers, peptides, and other bioactive compounds has dramatically improved CNT solubility, biocompatibility, and precise targeting. Furthermore, hybrid nanostructures that combine CNTs with nanoparticles, liposomes, or metallic components have higher drug-loading capacities, multifunctional therapeutic effectiveness, and controlled drug-release features. CNTs may be customized in size, shape, and surface chemistry, allowing for the development of precise delivery systems that are particularly useful in cancer and complicated disease therapy. However, despite these advances, cytotoxicity, regulatory limits, and difficulty with large-scale manufacturing impede clinical translation. Sustainable methods, thorough safety assessments, and advanced technology like artificial intelligence to maximize functionality and design are all necessary to overcome these obstacles. Future research should focus on overcoming these hurdles to fully realize CNTs' potential as flexible, effective, and safe nanocarriers in drug delivery applications.

Background: Vernonia amygdalina belongs to the family Asteraceae. Its leaf extract has been used ethnobotanically in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, malaria, diabetes mellitus, and hiccups.

Objective: This study aimed to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles using Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract and evaluate their antioxidant, photocatalytic, and antibacterial activities.

Methodology: The synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, energydispersive X-ray analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated through the degradation of methylene blue dye. At the same time, the antimicrobial properties of Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract and zinc oxide nanoparticles were assessed using the minimum inhibitory concentration assay. Antioxidant activity was determined by measuring the inhibition of 2,2- diphenylpicrylhydrazyl radicals, with ascorbic acid serving as the positive control.

Results: The successful synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles was confirmed by a UV-Vis absorption peak at 390 nm. The nanoparticles exhibited a smooth, spherical morphology with an average size of 78.25 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy identified key functional groups responsible for nanoparticle stabilization. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed three characteristic peaks at 2θ angles of 24°, 27°, and 34°, which confirmed the crystalline nature of the synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles. The antioxidant assay demonstrated that zinc oxide nanoparticles had a significantly higher free radical scavenging effect than Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract (P < 0.05). Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis confirmed the elemental composition of the synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles, with 44.4% oxygen and 55.6% zinc. The photocatalytic study demonstrated that the synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles achieved a 75% degradation rate of methylene blue dye after 120 minutes of UV light exposure. Antimicrobial testing revealed mean inhibition zones of 7.88 mm and 6.30 mm for the synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles and Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract, respectively, indicating significant antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (P < 0.05). The 2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl scavenging effects of Vernonia amygdalina leaf extract and the synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles were also statistically significant when compared to ascorbic acid (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: The biosynthesized Vernonia amygdalina-derived zinc oxide nanoparticles exhibited remarkable photocatalytic, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.

Background: Fungal keratitis (FK) is a major cause of eye morbidity and monocular blindness, particularly in humid climates. Ocular drug delivery is challenging due to anatomical barriers, tear flow, and nasal drainage, which reduce corneal penetration and decrease bioavailability. Conventional antifungal treatments often lack efficacy for deep keratitis. In order to address these limitations, this study explores encapsulating econazole into nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs).

Objective: To optimize, develop, and characterize econazole-loaded NLCs for ocular drug delivery.

Methods: NLCs were prepared using a modified pre-emulsification and probe sonication technique with stearic acid as the solid lipid and oleic acid as the liquid lipid. The resulting nano-emulsion was homogenized, cooled, and incorporated into a Carbopol 940-based gel. Optimization was performed using JMP software.

Results: Optimised NLCs exhibited a particle size of 192.3 nm, a PDI of 0.207, and a zeta potential of -44.8, indicating stability. Drug content was 85.18% in NLCs and 83.8% in the gel, with an entrapment efficiency of 66.9%. Ex vivo studies showed 84.51% drug permeation from the gel over 17 hours compared to 89.37% in 12 hours from conventional formulations. Permeation data obtained from the ex vivo study revealed the steady-state flux (Jss) to be 88.53 μg/cm²/hr, the permeability coefficient 0.0216 cm/hr, and the diffusion coefficient 0.00325 cm²/hr. Drug release followed zeroorder kinetics with anomalous transport. Stability testing confirmed the gel's stability for three months.

Conclusion: The econazole-loaded NLC gel enhanced ocular retention, bioavailability, and sustained release, offering a promising treatment for FK.

Introduction: This review examines the green synthesis of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using plant extracts, highlighting eco-friendly, cost-effective, and biocompatible alternatives to traditional chemical and physical methods for sustainable nanotechnology applications.

Methods: Studies on green synthesis using plant extracts, comparative analyses with traditional methods, and applications of CuNPs in agriculture, medicine, and wastewater treatment were prioritized [1]. Characterization data, including UV-Vis, XRD, SEM, TEM, FTIR, and EDX, along with particle size and quantitative metrics (e.g., MICs, inhibition zones), were compiled [1].

Results: Green-synthesized CuNPs (1.8-37 nm) exhibit spherical morphology observed by SEM/TEM, surface functionalities identified by FTIR, and elemental composition determined by EDX [2]. Compared to traditional methods such as laser ablation (12 nm) and chemical reduction (10-30 nm), green synthesis reduces toxicity and energy consumption but faces scalability challenges [2]. CuNPs outperform AgNPs, AuNPs, and SeNPs, with MICs of 6.25-25 μg/mL and inhibition zones of 14-18 mm against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli [2]. In agriculture, CuNPs reduce the severity of Fusarium infection by 88% [2].

Discussion: Green CuNPs are effective germicides and catalysts due to the release of Cu²⁺ ions and generation of reactive oxygen species [3]. However, variable particle sizes and concentrationdependent toxicity, such as 100 mg/L in wheat, limit scalability and environmental safety [3].

Conclusion: Green synthesis offers a sustainable approach to producing CuNPs for applications in agriculture, medicine, and wastewater treatment [4]. Standardized protocols are needed to ensure reproducibility and scalability while minimizing environmental risks [4].

Introduction: Multiple Drug Resistance (MDR) is one of the prime concerns globally in the health sector. The emergence and proliferation of ESKAPE pathogens, along with drug resistance in cancer cells, represent a significant challenge to public health, emphasizing the need for novel therapeutics, improved infection control practices, and ongoing research to understand and combat antibiotic resistance. Addressing multiple drug resistance involves several modern therapeutic strategies, such as phage therapy, immunotherapy, combinatorial therapy, and more. Advanced diagnostic tools, effective control measures, and stringent regulatory and policy initiatives raising public awareness are also crucial.

Methods: This study scouted computational approaches, focusing on their application in nanotechnology and nano-drug systems in clinical settings. A systematic approach was employed to gather, screen, and critically analyze the relevant literature for this review.

Results: This study found that various tools and databases are evolving for reconnaissance in the field of nano-informatics, which will lead to research and development.

Discussion: This study highlights the rapid advancement of nano-informatics tools and databases, which are crucial for advancing computational approaches in nanomedicine and therapeutic research. These emerging resources support predictive analysis and integration with biological datasets, though challenges remain in data standardization, accessibility, and interoperability across platforms.

Conclusion: To mitigate multiple drug resistance, researchers are exploring various approaches, and nano-informatics can provide new insight into dealing with it. This approach will advance the development of medical devices, drug design, and delivery systems.

Aim: The study employed Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD) model to optimise the formulations of Levomilnacipran nanostructured lipid carriers (LEV-NLC).

Methods: This study utilised a CCRD (Central Composite Rotatable Design) with a three-factor factorial design and three levels. It examined the particle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency of LEV-NLC in relation to three independent variables: the ratio of aqueous to organic phase (X1), the ratio of drug to lipid (X2), and the concentration of surfactant (X3).

Results: The results demonstrated that the most favourable composition could be achieved using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The most effective composition for LEV-NLC consisted of a 1:1 ratio of aqueous to organic phase (X1), a 1:7 ratio of drug to lipid (X2), and a surfactant concentration (X3) of 0.5%. Under the optimised conditions, the LEV-NLC formulation resulted in a particle size of 148 nm, a zeta potential of 36 mV, and an entrapment efficiency of 88%. The optimised LEV-NLC was examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), which revealed the presence of spherical particles. The total percentage of Levomilnacipran released from the NLC was 77% at pH 7.4 and 76% at pH 6.0 over 24 hours, exhibiting a sustained release profile that could enhance the therapeutic benefits of the drug.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the effective application of RSM-CCRD for modelling LEVNLC.

Herbal medicine has been a cornerstone of traditional healthcare for centuries, offering a wide array of bioactive compounds derived from plants. However, its efficacy is often limited by poor bioavailability, instability, and non-targeted delivery. Recent advancements in nanotechnology have provided innovative solutions to these challenges through developing nanoemulsion delivery systems. These systems enhance the solubility and stability of herbal extracts, ensuring targeted delivery to specific tissues or cells. Nanocarriers such as liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, and polymeric nanoparticles can encapsulate bioactive compounds, protecting them from degradation and facilitating controlled release. This approach not only improves therapeutic outcomes but also reduces side effects by minimizing exposure to non-targeted areas. Furthermore, nanotechnology allows for personalized medicine by tailoring nanocarriers to individual patient needs, enhancing treatment efficacy and compliance. The integration of nanotechnology with herbal medicine holds significant potential for revolutionizing healthcare by providing more effective and targeted treatments for various diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.

Background: This study aimed to develop and optimize a cilostazol-loaded nanomicelle transdermal patch to enhance solubility, stability, and controlled drug release.

Objective: To improve cilostazol bioavailability by formulating a stable, nanomicelle-loaded transdermal patch.

Methods: Nanomicelles were prepared using the thin-film hydration method with Soluplus and Poloxamer 188 as the polymer and surfactant. The transdermal patch was fabricated using the solvent casting method and evaluated for tensile strength, folding endurance, and in vitro drug diffusion.

Results: The optimized formulation showed 97.71% entrapment efficiency, 48.86% drug loading, a particle size of 129.07 nm, and a zeta potential of -21.5 mV. The patch exhibited a tensile strength of 141.83 MPa, folding endurance of over 300 folds, and sustained in vitro drug diffusion.

Conclusion: The developed transdermal patch offers a promising strategy to enhance cilostazol bioavailability by bypassing first-pass metabolism, promoting better penetration, and ensuring improved patient compliance.

In this comprehensive exploration of advanced nanocarriers for atopic dermatitis (AD) therapy, we explored a spectrum of innovative delivery systems, each with unique attributes poised to revolutionize topical drug administration. Lipid nanoparticles, including solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), have emerged as stalwarts offering controlled drug release and enhanced skin penetration. Vesicular systems such as liposomes, ethosomes, transfersomes, and niosomes are versatile in their ability to encapsulate hydrophilic and lipophilic agents and overcome barriers to drug permeation. Microemulsions and nanoemulsions exhibit good stability and effective drug permeation, whereas the addition of polymeric nanoparticles allows for efficient targeting with less toxicity. AuNPs and AgNPs allow for targeted delivery and immune modulation, whereas skin lipids restore this barrier. siRNA-silenced genes are involved in inflammation, whereas immunobiologics reset immune responses. These nanocarriers offer tremendous opportunities for the personalized treatment of AD, reduction in systemic exposure, and enhancement of therapeutic efficacy. Overcoming formulation hurdles and instability concerns, in addition to an indepth understanding of the possibility of achieving game-changing improvements in the management of AD, has placed nanocarriers at the forefront of new and personalized therapeutic approaches that would redefine the care of patients affected by this devastating disease.

This review article examines functionalized nanofibers and their potential to revolutionize drug delivery systems and enhance their biomedical applications. By leveraging the high surface- area-to-volume ratio and tunable physicochemical properties of nanofibers, the limitations of conventional drug delivery methods can be addressed. These nanofibers can be engineered for the controlled and sustained release of drugs, growth factors, and bioactive agents to improve treatment efficacy and mitigate side effects. Furthermore, the versatility of functionalized nanofibers in various biomedical fields has been investigated. In tissue engineering, nanofibers serve as scaffolds that emulate the extracellular matrix and facilitate cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, thus demonstrating the potential for regenerating tissues and organs, including bone, cartilage, and nerve repair. This review also explores their application in wound healing, where nanofiber dressings incorporating antimicrobial agents and growth factors can expedite healing, prevent infections, and minimize scarring, benefiting patients with chronic wounds, burns, and other complex skin injuries. Additionally, this article discusses the potential of functionalized nanofibers for developing innovative medical devices with therapeutic and diagnostic functions. The integration of sensing elements and drug-releasing components into nanofiber platforms has resulted in multifunctional devices capable of monitoring physiological parameters, detecting biomarkers, and delivering targeted therapies based on biological cues. The versatility of these nanofibers may enable the development of combination products that can incorporate multiple therapeutic modalities into a single platform, potentially enhancing the management of complex diseases and improving patient outcomes. The article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state and future trajectory of electrospinning technology.