Pooja Hurkat

Chondroitin sulphate: a focus on osteoarthritis

Chondroitin sulfate (CS) being a natural glycosaminoglycan is found in the cartilage and extracellular matrix. It shows clinical benefits in symptomatic osteoarthritis (OA) of the finger, knee, hip joints, low back, facial joints and other diseases due to its anti-inflammatory activity. It also helps in OA by providing resistance to compression, maintaining the structural integrity, homeostasis, slows breakdown and reduces pain in sore muscles. It is most often used in combination with glucosamine to treat OA. CS is a key role player in the regulation of cell development, cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. Its commercial applications have been continuously explored in the engineering of biological tissues and its combination with other biopolymers to formulate scaffolds which promote and accelerate the regeneration of damaged structure. It is approved in the USA as a dietary supplement for OA, while it is used as a symptomatic slow-acting drug (SYSADOA) in Europe and some other countries. Any significant side effects or overdoses of CS have not been reported in clinical trials suggesting its long-term safety. This review highlights the potential of CS, either alone or in combination with other drugs, to attract the scientists engaged in OA treatment and management across the world.

Eudragit S100 Coated Citrus Pectin Nanoparticles for Colon Targeting of 5-Fluorouracil

In the present study, Eudragit S100 coated Citrus Pectin Nanoparticles (E-CPNs) were prepared for the colon targeting of 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU). Citrus pectin also acts as a ligand for galectin-3 receptors that are over expressed on colorectal cancer cells. Nanoparticles (CPNs and E-CPNs) were characterized for various physical parameters such as particle size, size distribution, and shape etc. In vitro drug release studies revealed selective drug release in the colonic region in the case of E-CPNs of more than 70% after 24 h. In vitro cytoxicity assay (Sulphorhodamine B assay) was performed against HT-29 cancer cells and exhibited 1.5 fold greater cytotoxicity potential of nanoparticles compared to 5-FU solution. In vivo data clearly depicted that Eudragit S100 successfully guarded nanoparticles to reach the colonic region wherein nanoparticles were taken up and showed drug release for an extended period of time. Therefore, a multifaceted strategy is introduced here in terms of receptor mediated uptake and pH-dependent release using E-CPNs for effective chemotherapy of colorectal cancer with uncompromised safety and efficacy.

Development of surface-functionalised nanoparticles for FGF2 receptor-based solid tumour targeting.

The surface-functionalised gelatin nanoparticles (GNPs) containing cisplatin were developed and characterised for breast cancer targeting using fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) receptors which are overexpressed on breast cancer cells. The GNPs were prepared using two-step desolvation method and then the surface of GNPs was functionalised with activated heparin. They were characterised for surface morphology, particle size and size distribution, surface charge, entrapment efficiency and in vitro drug release. The results revealed that the mean diameter of GNPs was 173 ± 2.2 nm with smooth surface, which was increased to 189 ± 3.4 nm after coupling with heparin (H-GNPs). The targeting effect of H-GNPs and GNPs was investigated by in vitro cell uptake study on human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cell line, which exhibited greater uptake of H-GNPs as compared to GNPs. Therefore, it is suggested that H-GNPs can be used as an effective carrier for solid tumour targeting.

Aceclofenac-loaded chondroitin sulfate conjugated SLNs for effective management of osteoarthritis

Abstract Background: In intra-articular drug delivery, there are number of shortcomings such as lymphatic drainage from the synovial cavity, frequent dosing, adverse side effects and patient discomfort in the management of osteoarthritis (OA). Purpose: This research work reports the development and characterization of aceclofenac-loaded chondroitin sulfate (CS) conjugated (CS-SLN) and unconjugated solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) for the effective management of OA. Methods: The SLNs were prepared using modified solvent injection method and coupled with CS. They were further characterized for size and size distribution, zeta potential, surface morphology, % entrapment efficiency and in vitro drug release profile. Anti-inflammatory activity and in vivo performance was also predicted. Results: The particle size of the SLN and CS-SLN was found to be 143.4 ± 0.9 nm and 154.2 ± 1.1 nm, respectively. SLNs exhibited sustained drug release (SLN, 64.25 ± 0.75%; CS-SLN, 57.82 ± 0.62%) in vitro for more than 24 h. In vivo performance studies revealed the highest uptake of SLNs by the knee joint. Discussion: SLNs enhanced accumulation at the knee joint due to specific interactions with CD44, annexin and leptin receptors attributed to CS coupling. Conclusion: CS-SLN could be potentially effective vector for the treatment or management of OA.

Targeting of AIDS related encephalopathy using phenylalanine anchored lipidic nanocarrier.

Transport of the anti-HIV agents across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a prerequisite to treat acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) related encephalopathy. In the present study, we explored facilitated transport of efavirenz (EFV, a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor) across BBB using phenylalanine anchored solid lipid nanoparticles (PA-SLN). PA (amino acid micro-nutrient) was used as a ligand which facilitated carrier mediated transport (CMT) via l-amino acid transporter i.e. LAT1 to traverse BBB. PA was coupled to SLN via amide linkage using carbodiimide chemistry and coupling was confirmed by comparative infrared spectroscopic analysis. SLNs (SLN and PA-SLN) were nanometric in size (around 150nm) and possessed good entrapment efficiency (around 70%). In vitro drug release revealed controlled release pattern for more than 24h. In vivo studies showed 2-3-folds and 7-8-folds accumulation of PA-SLN in brain as compared to SLN and EFV, respectively. Further, transcytosis studies confirmed capability of PA-SLN to cross BBB i.e. 10-fold higher transcytosis potential as compared to EFV. Fluorescence microscopic imaging reassured enhanced brain localization of PA-SLN. Thus, PA-SLN improved the EFV bioavailability and maintained therapeutic levels in the brain for an extended period of time that can result in significant eradication of the viral load therein. Such nutrient mediated drug targeting could bring forth advances in biocompatible and biodegradable drug delivery systems.

Targeting liver cancer via ASGP receptor using 5-FU-loaded surface-modified PLGA nanoparticles

Abstract Context: Liver cancer is widespread liver malignancy in the world, for an estimated one million deaths annually. Objective: In present work, lactobionic acid conjugated PLGA nanoparticles (LDNPs) bearing 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) were developed for targeted delivery to hepatocellular carcinoma. Materials and methods: Lactobionic acid conjugated PLGA was used to prepare LDNPs using modified emulsion diffusion method. Results: They were characterised for particle morphology, particle size (below 150 nm), zeta potential and polydispersity index (PDI ∼0.35), entrapment efficiency (∼60.23%), and cumulative percent drug release. Discussion: LDNPs in ex-vivo cell line studies on human cancer cell line HepG2 exhibited significantly higher cytotoxicity compared to 5-FU and DNPs (unconjugated PLGA NPs) with growth inhibition 50% (GI50) of 66.7 µg/mL, 50.2 µg/mL and 35.5 µg/mL, respectively. In vivo studies exhibited higher drug concentration about 37.52 ± 0.68% in liver as compared to other organs and plasma. Conclusion: Thus, LDNPs showed high drug loading, specificity, biocompatibility and efficacy in treatment of liver cancer.

Microsponges: A Pioneering Tool for Biomedical Applications.

Microparticulate drug delivery systems have been explored across the globe due to their various advantages. In 1987, Won developed microsponge systems (Micsys), also known as solid-phase porous microspheres, having numerous interconnected voids, which serve as non-collapsible residence for bioactive compounds. A Micsys particle ranges from 5 to 300 μm in size and shows a wide range of entrapment efficiency with desired release rates. This topical drug delivery system bestows a controlled release of bioactive compounds into the skin with reduced systemic side effects. Currently, the application fields of this promising system include oral, ocular, pulmonary, and parenteral delivery of bioactive compounds. In the present review, we summarize the updated biomedical application potential of Micsys as an effective drug-delivery vector, including an in-depth explanation of the drug-release kinetic models and drug-release mechanisms. We also discuss different techniques used to prepare a Micsys, along with their advantages and disadvantages. Moreover, in this review, we report a plethora of Micsys details, such as drug candidates and polymers, exploited in this field, along with marketed formulations, characterization methods, clinical perspectives, and patents received. This assembly of detailed literature summaries will contribute to future advances in the development of porous carriers.

Insulin delivery through nasal route using thiolated microspheres

Abstract The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential of developed thiolated microspheres for insulin delivery through nasal route. In the present study, cysteine was immobilized on carbopol using EDAC. A total of 269.93 µmol free thiol groups per gram polymer were determined. The prepared nonthiolated and thiolated microspheres were studied for particle shape, size, drug content, swellability, mucoadhesion and in vitro insulin release. The thiolated microspheres exhibited higher mucoadhesion due to formation of covalent bonds via disulfide bridges with the mucus gel layer. Drug permeation through goat nasal mucosa of nonthiolated and thiolated microspheres were found as 52.62 ± 2.4% and 78.85 ± 3.1% in 6 h, respectively. Thiolated microspheres bearing insulin showed better reduction in blood glucose level (BGL) in comparison to nonthiolated microspheres as 31.23 ± 2.12% and 75.25 ± 0.93% blood glucose of initial BGL were observed at 6 h after nasal delivery of thiolated and nonthiolated microspheres in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rabbits.

Low Density Lipid Nanoparticles for Solid Tumor Targeting

Abstract One of the most significant characteristics of cancer cells is their rapid dividing ability and overexpression of LDL receptors, which offers an opportunity for the selective targeting of these cells. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)-encapsulated low density lipid nanoparticles (LDLN) were prepared by the emulsion congealing method which mimics the plasma-derived LDL by acquiring the apolipoprotein B-100 from the blood. The average particle size, transmission electron microscope (TEM), and drug content of the prepared LDLN dispersion were found to be 161±3.5 nm, with spherical shape, and 0.370±0.05 mg/mL, respectively. In vitro release studies revealed a sustained profile which decreased with a lapse of time. In vivo studies of 5-FU serum concentration and biodistribution revealed a 5-FU serum concentration of 8.5% in tumor cells and about 2.1% in the liver at the end of 24 hr from LDLN. Tumor growth suppression studies showed 185.42% average tumor growth and 89.76% tumor height as compared to the control exhibiting tumor growth at 1166.47% and tumor height at 176.07%. On the basis of these collective data, it is suggested that a higher accumulation of LDLN, when given as an IV, in solid tumors is attributed to the active uptake of LDLN via LDL receptors via apolipoprotein B-100.

Transfollicular drug delivery: current perspectives

The pilosebaceous unit is the collective form of a hair follicle, hair shaft, and sebaceous gland. Within the skin, this three-dimensional composite shows a distinctive biochemistry, metabolism, and immunology. Presently, most researchers in this area are focused on the hair follicles, as they see these as a potential pathway for both localized and systemic delivery of various chemotherapeutics. Better understanding of the configuration of the hair follicle is mulled over in order to design rational drug formulations to achieve targeted follicular delivery. Targeted drug delivery may enhance the efficacy of current therapeutics to treat diseases of follicular origin. The present review covers follicular drug delivery with the potential to target the pilosebaceous unit.