ABSTRACT
The regulation of energy production characterizes mitochondrial respiration. A major cycle conquers inside the mitochondria, which regulates this process. This cycle is called the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Citrate synthase is an essential marker of mitochondria. Moreover, it works as a key enzyme in many processes inside the mitochondria. It utilizes the acetyl-CoA and oxaloacetate that participate in energy production inside the mitochondria. Mitochondria known as the powerhouse of the cell. However, their function is extending beyond the energy production. They are very well known for cellular, enzymatic and metabolism pathway. Moreover, mitochondria play a vital role in the function of skeletal muscle and metabolism. Insulin resistance is somehow considered related to an imbalance in mitochondria oxidative capacity. The coordination between citrate synthase and mitochondria has been studies in many labs and research were done but still the exact mechanisms is still unclear. This mini-review elucidates the vital information about mitochondria, citrate synthase, and their relation to obesity and insulin resistance.
ABSTRACT
Zein has been used in several pharmaceutical applications because of its unique composition. It is an amphiphilic molecule that is biodegradable, biocompatible, and has adhesive, matrix-forming, and film-coating properties, making it a promising pharmaceutical excipient. Zein-based formulations have been investigated in tablet-coating, nanoparticulate delivery systems, and controlled-release formulations. However, to date, very few studies have been performed on the inclusion of zein in solid dispersion formulations to enhance drug dissolution. This study aimed to improve the dissolution of the weakly basic and poorly soluble oral dasatinib (used as a model) using zein–hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) solid dispersion to achieve rapid disintegration and dissolution in the gastric pH. Using the spray-drying technique, four solid dispersions were prepared with different zein, HPMC, and dasatinib ratios. Subsequently, five different tablets were directly compressed using the previously prepared solid dispersions along with basic excipients. Various in vitro characterization analyses were performed to predict their behavior in vivo. Particle size measurement, tablet weight variation and content assay, disintegration, and dissolution studies were also performed. The results indicated that zein solid dispersion improved the disintegration and dissolution of dasatinib in the gastric media by reducing the drug particle size and the formation of the dasatinib amorphous state. Moreover, the tablets exhibited desirable properties in terms of high drug content, friability, and tensile strength. In conclusion, tablets comprising zein–HPMC solid dispersion showed improved properties; however, including a higher ratio of zein in the solid dispersion adversely affected the disintegration and release properties of formulations.