Development of a label-free, sensitive gold nanoparticles-poly(adenine) aptasensing platform for colorimetric determination of aflatoxin B1 in corn.

In this work, a sensitive colorimetric bioassay method based on a poly(adenine) aptamer (polyA apt) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) was developed for the determination of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). The polyA apt, adsorbed on the AuNPs, especially can bind to the analyte while deterring non-specific interactions. This nano aptasensor uses cationic polymer poly(diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride) (PDDA), as an aggregating agent, to aggregate gold nanoparticles. PolyA apt-decorated gold nanoparticles (AuNPs/polyA apt) show resistance to PDDA-induced aggregation and maintains their dispersed state (red color) with the optical absorbance signal at λ = 520 nm. However, in the presence of AFB1 in the assay solution, the specific aptamer reacts with high affinity and folds into its three-dimensional form. Aggregation of AuNPs induced by PDDA caused their optical signal shift to λ = 620 nm (blue color). AFB1 concentration in the bioassay solution determines the amount of optical signal shift. Therefore, optical density ratio in two wavelengths (A620/520) can be used as a sturdy colorimetric signal to detect the concentration of aflatoxin B1. AFB1 was linearly detected between 0.5 and 20 ng mL-1, with a detection limit of 0.09 ng mL-1 (S/N = 3). The fabricated aptasensor was applied to the detection of AFB1 in real corn samples.

Preparation and characterisation of self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) for enhancing oral bioavailability of metformin hydrochloride using hydrophobic ion pairing complexation.

AIM: The aim of this study was preparation of a self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEEDS) containing metformin hydrochloride. METHODS: Hydrophobic ion paired complexes were prepared by electrostatic interaction between metformin and sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS). The nanodroplets were optimised using two-level full factorial methodology and their morphology were examined. In vitro release of metformin from SEDDS was evaluated in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids. Finally, the ex-vivo efficacy of the optimised formulation in enhancing the intestinal permeability of metformin was evaluated using non-everted intestinal sac. RESULTS: The data revealed that in weight ratio 1:4(metformin: SLS), the highest recovery was achieved. The physico-chemical properties of the optimised nano-droplets including size, polydispersity index (PdI), zeta potential, and loading efficiency (%) were 192.33 ± 9.9 nm, 0.275 ± 0.051; -1.52 mV, and 93.75 ± 0.77% (w/w), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The data obtained from the intestinal transport study demonstrated that SEDDS can significantly enhance the oral permeability of the compound.

Budesonide-Loaded Hyaluronic Acid Nanoparticles for Targeted Delivery to the Inflamed Intestinal Mucosa in a Rodent Model of Colitis.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of budesonide- (BDS-) loaded hyaluronic acid nanoparticles (HANPs) for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) using an acute model of colitis in rats. The therapeutic efficacy of BDS-loaded HANPs in comparison with an aqueous suspension of the drug with the same dose (30 µg/kg) was investigated 48 h following induction of colitis by intrarectal administration of acetic acid 4% in rats. Microscopic and histopathologic examinations were conducted in inflamed colonic tissue. Tissue concentration of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α was assessed by ELISA assay kit, while the activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) was measured spectrophotometrically. Results from in vivo evaluations demonstrated that administrations of BDS-HANPs ameliorated the general endoscopic appearance, quite close to the healthy animals with no signs of inflammation and reduced the cellular infiltration, as well as the TNF-α level, and the MPO activity. It was found that delivery by BDS-loaded HANPSs alleviated the induced colitis significantly better than the same dose of the free drug. These data further suggest the potential of HANPs as a targeted drug delivery system to the inflamed colon mucosa.

Anti-CD44 and EGFR Dual-Targeted Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Delivery of Doxorubicin to Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cell Line: Preparation, Statistical Optimization, and In Vitro Characterization.

Background: Despite being more aggressive than other types of breast cancer, there is no suitable treatment for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Here, we designed doxorubicin-containing solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) decorated with anti-EGFR/CD44 dual-RNA aptamers, which are overexpressed in TNBC. For more efficiency in the nuclear delivery of doxorubicin, dexamethasone (Dexa) was chemically attached to the surface of nanoparticles. Methods: To prepare the cationic SLNs, 6-lauroxyhexyl BOC-ornithine (LHON) was synthesized and was chemically attached to dexamethasone to form Dexa-LHON complexes. The doxorubicin-containing SLNs were prepared via double emulsification (w/o/w) and the solvent evaporation technique. The preparation of SLNs was statistically optimized using the central composite response surface methodology. Independent factors were the GMS/lecithin concentration ratio and the amount of Tween 80, while responses considered were particle size, polydispersity index, and entrapment efficiency of the nanoparticles. The optimized nanoparticles were studied morphologically using transmission electron microscopy, and in vitro release of doxorubicin from nanoparticles was studied in phosphate-buffered saline. Then, the designated aptamers were attached to the surface of nanoparticles using electrostatic interactions, and their cytotoxicity was assessed in vitro. Results: The size, PDI, zeta potential, EE%, and LE% of the prepared nanoparticles were 101 ± 12.6 nm, 0.341 ± 0.005, +13.6 ± 1.83 mV, 69.98 ± 7.54%, and 10.2 ± 1.06%, respectively. TEM images revealed spherical nanoparticles with no sign of aggregation. In vitro release study exhibited that 96.1 ± 1.97% of doxorubicin was released within 48 h of incubation. The electrostatic attachment of the designated aptamers to the nanoparticles' surface was confirmed by reducing the zeta potential to -15.6 ± 2.07 mV. The in vitro experiments revealed that the SLNs/DOX/Dexa/CD44 or EGFR aptamers were substantially more successful than SLNs/DOX/Dexa at inhibiting cell proliferation. Using the MDA-MB-468 cell line, we discovered that SLN/DOX/Dexa/CD44/EGFR aptamers were more effective than other constructs in inhibiting cell proliferation (p < 0.001). The reduction of cell viability using this construct suggests that targeting numerous proliferation pathways is effective. Conclusion: Overall, the finding of this investigation suggested that SLNs/DOX/Dexa/CD44/EGFR could be a promising new enhanced anticancer delivery system and deserved further preclinical consideration.

The assessment of microencapsulated Lactobacillus plantarum survivability in rose petal jam and the changes in physicochemical, textural and sensorial characteristics of the product during storage.

The present study aimed to develop a probiotic rose petal jam containing microencapsulated L. plantarum. The attributes of L. plantarum microcapsules and bacteria viability in simulated gastrointestinal conditions and jam were assessed. In addition, L. plantarum effects on physicochemical, textural and sensorial properties of jam were studied. The microencapsulation yield, diameter, and zeta potential value of the microcapsules ranged from 90.23 to 92.75%, 14.80-35.02 µm, and - 16.83 to - 14.71 mV, respectively. The microencapsulation process significantly increases the survival of L. plantarum in simulated gastrointestinal tract and jam. In jam samples containing L. plantarum microencapsulated with 2% sodium alginate and 3.5% or 5% Arabic gum and stored for 90 days, the bacterial count was higher than the acceptable level (106 CFU/g). While there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between physicochemical characteristics of non-probiotic and probiotic jams, taste and overall acceptance scores of microencapsulated probiotic jams were higher. The microencapsulation of L. plantarum in sodium alginate (2%) and Arabic gum (5%) and its inoculation into rose petal jam could yield a new probiotic product with increased health benefits.

A novel label-free colorimetric polyA aptasensing approach based on cationic polymer and silver nanoparticles for detection of tobramycin in milk.

In this study, a novel colorimetric bioassay method was developed for the sensitive determination of tobramycin (TOB). To detect TOB, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were decorated with TOB-specific aptamers (apt), and positively charged poly diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (PDDA) was used. As long as tobramycin is not present in the assay system, PDDA can coalesce with the aptamer, and AgNPs would remain stable (λmax = 400 nm) in the dispersed system against PDDA-induced aggregation. When TOB is added, aptamer can bind to the compound, which leads to release of PDDA and subsequent aggregation of AgNPs (λmax = 540 nm). This remarkable change, as a colorimetric analytics signal, can be used for quantitative analysis of TOB. TOB can be detected by this highly sensitive colorimetric aptasensor with a limit of detection (LOD) of 70 pM. Furthermore, TOB can be detected with the naked eye at concentrations above 1 nM.

Design and Optimization of Cationic Nanocapsules for Topical Delivery of Tretinoin: Application of the Box-Behnken Design, In Vitro Evaluation, and Ex Vivo Skin Deposition Study.

Cationic nanocapsules represent a promising approach for topical delivery purposes. We elaborated on a novel formulation based on the cationic nanocapsules to enhance the pharmacodynamic efficacy, user compliance, and photostability of tretinoin (TTN). To achieve this goal, TTN nanocapsules were prepared by the nanoprecipitation method. In order to statistically optimize formulation variables, a Box-Behnken design, using Design-Expert software, was employed. Three independent variables were evaluated: total weight of the cationic acrylic polymer (X 1), oil volume (X 2), and TTN amount (X 3). The particle size and encapsulation efficiency percent (EE%) were selected as dependent variables. The optimal formulation demonstrated spherical morphology under scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optimum particle size of 116.3 nm, and high EE% of 83.2%. TTN-loaded nanocapsules improved photostability compared to its methanolic solution. The in vitro release study data showed that tretinoin was released in a sustained manner compared to the free drug. The ex vivo skin permeation study demonstrated that greater drug deposition into the epidermal region rather than the deep skin was observed with a gel containing TTN-loaded nanocapsules than that of drug solution, respectively. The skin irritation test revealed that the nanoencapsulation of the drug decreased its irritancy compared to the free drug. These results revealed the promising potential of cationic nanocapsules for topical delivery of tretinoin.

Nano optical and electrochemical sensors and biosensors for detection of narrow therapeutic index drugs.

For the first time, a comprehensive review is presented on the quantitative determination of narrow therapeutic index drugs (NTIDs) by nano optical and electrochemical sensors and biosensors. NTIDs have a narrow index between their effective doses and those at which they produce adverse toxic effects. Therefore, accurate determination of these drugs is very important for clinicians to provide a clear judgment about drug therapy for patients. Routine analytical techniques have limitations such as being expensive, laborious, and time-consuming, and need a skilled user and therefore  the nano/(bio)sensing technology leads to high interest.

Effect of whey protein- and xanthan-based coating on the viability of microencapsulated Lactobacillus acidophilus and physiochemical, textural, and sensorial properties of yogurt.

The goal of this study was to investigate the viability of microencapsulated and coated Lactobacillus acidophilus in yogurt during storage in a refrigerator for 28 days and in simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Furthermore, the effect of the microencapsulated and coated L. acidophilus on the physicochemical, textural, and sensory properties of yogurt was assessed. Lactobacillus acidophilus was microencapsulated in sodium alginate and coated with xanthan and/or whey protein. The coating led to the increase in the microcapsule diameter and the microencapsulation yield, while it led to the decreased moisture and water activity (aw) of the microcapsule. The survival of L. acidophilus microcapsule coated with whey protein and xanthan in yogurt during storage and exposure to simulated gastrointestinal conditions was significantly increased. Compared with free bacteria, the L. acidophilus microcapsule coated with whey protein and xanthan had the increased viability in yogurt until 2.16 log CFU/g during storage and 3.52 log CFU/g in simulated gastrointestinal conditions. After the 28th day of storage, a significant difference between the acidity and pH of yogurt containing coated and microencapsulated L. acidophilus and control yogurt was not observed. However, yogurt containing free L. acidophilus had lower pH and higher acidity and showed a significant difference (p < .05) with other samples. Although the coating of L. acidophilus microcapsule did not affect the sensory properties and gumminess of yogurt, it increased the firmness, adhesiveness, and viscosity of this product and caused a significant decrease in syneresis and cohesiveness. In general, the application of whey protein and xanthan coating on L. acidophilus microcapsule surface could increase the viability of this probiotic in yogurt during storage and in simulated gastrointestinal conditions and improve the texture attributes of yogurt.

Development of Perphenazine-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Statistical Optimization and Cytotoxicity Studies.

OBJECTIVE: Perphenazine (PPZ), as a typical antipsychotic medical substance, has the same effectiveness compared to atypical antipsychotic medications for the treatment of schizophrenia. Despite the lipophilic essence, PPZ encounters limited bioavailability caused by the first-pass metabolism following oral administration. In the present study, PPZ-containing solid lipid nanoparticles (PPZ-SLNs) were prepared and optimized based on different factors, including lipid and surfactant amount, to develop appropriate and safe novel oral dosage forms of PPZ. METHODS: The solvent emulsification-evaporation method was utilized to form SLNs by using soybean lecithin, glycerol monostearate (GMS), and Tween 80. Statistical optimization was done by the Box-Behnken design method to achieve formulation with optimized particle size, entrapment efficiency, and zeta potential. Also, transmission electron microscopy, in vitro release behavior, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and powder X-ray diffractometry (P-XRD) studies and cytotoxicity studies were assessed. RESULTS: Optimization exhibited the significant effect of various excipients on SLN characteristics. Our finding indicated that the mean particle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency of optimized PPZ-SLN were, respectively, 104 ± 3.92 nm, -28 ± 2.28 mV, and 83% ± 1.29. Drug release of PPZ-SLN was observed to be greater than 90% for 48 h that emphasized a sustained-release pattern. The DSC and P-XRD studies revealed the amorphous state of PPZ-SLN. FTIR spectra showed no incompatibility between the drug and the lipid. Performing cytotoxicity studies indicated no significant cytotoxicity on HT-29 cell culture. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that PPZ-SLNs can make a promising vehicle for a suitable therapy of schizophrenia for the oral drug delivery system.

Hydrophobic ion pairing with cationic derivatives of α-, ß-, and γ-cyclodextrin as a novel approach for development of a self-nano-emulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) for oral delivery of heparin.

To enhance the oral bioavailability of heparin, a self-nano-emulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) was developed using hydrophobic ion-pairing with cationic polymers of α-, ß-, and γ-cyclodextrins (CPCDs). Hydrophobic ion paired complexes were formed, and the recovery of heparin was determined in n-hexane and isopropyl myristate (IPM). The SNEDDSs were prepared and were optimized using D-optimal response surface methodology (RSM). The determination of the recovery of complexes in IPM revealed that in cationic α-cyclodextrin, the highest recovery was achieved at the heparin: CPCD weight ratio of 1:0.5. However, in cationic ß-cyclodextrin the highest recovery was obtained at the weight ratio of 1:4. Similar to CPßCD, for ealed that in c the highest recovery was obtained at 1:4 weight ratio. The size of optimized nano-droplets was found to be 127.00 ± 4.1, 184.00 ± 6.43, and 216.00 ± 5.43 nm; polydispersity index (PdI) values were reported as 0.372 ± 0.005, 0.163 ± 0.008, 0.236 ± 0.003; and calculated loading efficiency (LE%) were 84.60 ± 3.62, 91.06 ± 2.49, and 92.81 ± 0.70% for SNEDDS preparations incorporating cationic derivatives of α-, ß-, and γ-cyclodextrin, respectively. The in vitro release study revealed that SNEDDS preparations containing cationic γ-cyclodextrin posed the slowest release rate. Data achieved from cellular uptake study showed that the SNEDDS containing α-cyclodextrin had the highest cumulative uptake percentage after 6 h post-exposure; same results were obtained in the intestinal transport study demonstrating SNEDDS containing α-cyclodextrin posed the highest transport efficiency with Papp of 24.85 × 10-r ± 1.06 × 10-± cm.s-m.

Pharmacokinetics and brain distribution studies of perphenazine-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles.

BACKGROUND: Perphenazine (PPZ) is a typical antipsychotic that is mainly administrated for the treatment of schizophrenia. Due to its highly lipophilic nature and extensive hepatic first-pass metabolism, its oral bioavailability is low (40%). OBJECTIVE: The novel nanocarriers like solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) have been reported to be highly effective for improving the therapeutic effect of drugs. Therefore the main scope of the present investigation was the evaluation of in vivo characteristics of PPZ-SLN in terms of pharmacokinetic parameters and brain distribution. METHODS: The PPZ-SLN was prepared by the solvent-emulsification and evaporation method. The storage stability of PPZ-SLN and empty SLN powders was studied for 3 months. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies and brain distribution evaluations were performed following a single oral dose administration of PPZ and PPZ-SLN suspensions on male Wistar rats. An HPLC method was established and validated for the quantitative determination of PPZ in plasma and brain samples. RESULTS: The storage stability studies revealed the good storage stability of the both PPZ-SLN and empty SLN at 4 °C. Compared to PPZ suspension, the relative bioavailability and the brain distribution of PPZ-SLN were increased up to 2-fold and 16-fold, respectively. Mean residence time (MRT) and half-life (t1/2) of PPZ-SLN were significantly (p value < 0.01) increased in both plasma and brain homogenate compared to PPZ suspension. CONCLUSION: The significant improvement in the pharmacokinetic properties of PPZ following one oral dose indicates that SLN is a promising drug delivery system for PPZ and shows a high potential for successful brain delivery of this antipsychotic.

Eudragit L-100 Capsules Aromatize and Quaternerize Chitosan for Insulin Nanoparticle Oral Delivery During Toxic Oxidative Stress in Rat Liver and Kidney.

BACKGROUND: Insulin, like most peptides, is classified as a hydrophilic and macromolecular drug that is considered as a low permeable and unstable compound in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The acidic condition of the stomach can degrade insulin molecules. Moreover, the presence of proteolytic activities of some enzymes such as trypsin and chymotrypsin can hydrolyze amide-bonds between various amino-acids in the structures of peptides and proteins. However, due to its simplicity and high patient compliance, oral administration is the most preferred route of systemic drug delivery, and for the development of an oral delivery system, some obstacles in oral administration of peptides and proteins including low permeability and low stability of the proteins in GI should be overcome. OBJECTIVE: In this study, the effects of orally insulin nanoparticles (INPs) prepared from quaternerized N-aryl derivatives of chitosan on the biochemical factors of the liver in diabetic rats were studied. METHODS: INPs composed of methylated (amino benzyl) chitosan were prepared by the PEC method. Lyophilized INPs were filled in pre-clinical capsules, and the capsules were enteric-coated with Eudragit L100. Twenty Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: group1: normal control rats, group 2: diabetic rats, group 3: diabetic rats received capsules INPs(30 U/kg/day, orally), group 4: the diabetic rats received regular insulin (5 U/kg/day, subcutaneously). At the end of the treatment, serum, liver and kidney tissues were collected. Biochemical parameters in serum were measured using spectrophotometric methods. Also, oxidative stress was measured in plasma, liver and kidney. Histological studies were performed using H and E staining . RESULTS: Biochemical parameters, and liver and kidney injury markers in serum of the diabetic rats that received INPs improved significantly compared with the diabetic group. INPs reduced oxidative toxic stress biomarkers in serum, liver and kidney of the diabetic treated group. Furthermore, a histopathological change was developed in the treated groups. CONCLUSION: Capsulated INPs can prevent diabetic liver and oxidative kidney damages (similar regular insulin). Therefore oral administration of INPs appears to be safe. Lay Summary: Although oral route is the most preferred route of administration, but oral delivery of peptides and proteins is still a challenging issue. Diabetes Mellitus may lead to severe complications, which most of them are life-threatening. In this study, we are testing the toxicity of oral insulin nanoparticles in kidney and liver of rats. For this investigation, we will prepare insulin nanoparticles composed of a quaternized derivative of chitosan. The nanoparticles will be administered orally to rats and the level of oxidative stress in their liver and kidney will be determined. The data will be compared to the subcutaneous injection of insulin.

Preparation, statistical optimization, in vitro characterization, and in vivo pharmacological evaluation of solid lipid nanoparticles encapsulating propolis flavonoids: a novel treatment for skin edema.

Propolis is a natural resinous product and exerts anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study is formulation and characterization of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) encapsulating propolis flavonoids (PFs), intended for topical treatment of skin edema. The nanoparticles were prepared and statistically optimized using Box-Behnken response surface methodology. The in vitro release profile of the optimized nanoparticles was investigated. Cytotoxicity of nanoparticles on HSF-PI 18 cell line was determined. Permeation and penetration of nanoparticles across the incised skin were measured. Finally, the nanoparticles were incorporated into a pharmaceutical hydrogel formulation and the in vivo efficacy in reduction of skin edema was determined. The size, PdI, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency (EE%) and loading efficiency (LE %) of the optimized nanoparticles were 111.3 ± 19.35 nm, 0.34 ± 0.005, -24.17 ± 3.3 mV, 73.5 ± 0.86%, and 3.2 ± 0.27%, respectively. Data obtained through in vitro release study suggested a burst release followed by a prolonged release behavior up to 24 h post incubation time interval. The prepared SLNs exhibited no cytotoxicity on HSF-PI 18 cell line. Ex vivo permeation and penetration study of nanoparticles across the incised skin showed approximately a 2.5-fold and a 3-fold increase in cumulative amount of transport and cumulative amount of skin penetration, respectively. Finally, in vivo studies in rat models, showed a threefold reduction in volume of the edema in animals treated with SLNs. The obtained data revealed that the prepared SNs entrapping PFs, exert high skin targeting effects, prolonged anti-inflammatory properties and therefore high efficiency in treatment of skin edema.

Preparation, Statistical Optimization and In-vitro Characterization of a Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI) Containing Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Encapsulating Amphotericin B: Ion Paired Complexes with Distearoyl Phosphatidylglycerol.

The aim of this study was to prepare dry powder inhalers (DPIs) containing amphotericin B-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (AMB-SLNs) as an alternative approach for prevention of pulmonary aspergillosis. For solubilizing AMB in small amounts of organic solvents ion paired complexes were firstly formed by establishing electrostatic interaction between AMB and distearoyl phosphatidylglycerol (DSPG). The SLN formulations containing AMB-DSPG complexes were prepared using glycerol monostearate (GMS) as the lipid matrix and soybean lecithin and tween 80 as the surfactants by solvent emulsification-evaporation technique. The nanoparticles were optimized through a fractional factorial design. DPIs were prepared by lyophilization technique using lactose as the inhalational carrier and then after, the formulations were evaluated in terms of aerodynamic particle size distribution using an Andersen cascade impactor. The morphology of the particles was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and in-vitro drug release profiles were evaluated. Following the statistical results, the particle size, Poly dispersity index (PdI), zeta potential, entrapment efficiency (EE%), and drug loading (DL%) of the optimized SLNs were 187.04 ± 11.97 nm, 0.188 ± 0.028, -30.16 ± 1.6 mV, 89.3 ± 3.47 % and 2.76 ± 0.32 %, respectively. Formulation containing 10% w/v of lactose with the calculated fine particle fraction value as 72.57 ± 4.33% exhibited the appropriate aerodynamic characteristics for pulmonary drug delivery. SEM images revealed de-agglomerated particles. In-vitro release studies showed sustained release of AMB from the carriers and the release kinetics were best fitted to the first order kinetic model.

Effect of insulin-loaded trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles on genes expression in the hippocampus of diabetic rats.

Background Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that undesirably affects both central and peripheral nervous systems through the apoptosis of neurons. Insulin and insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) inhibit apoptosis of oligodendrocytes. The objective of this study was to determine whether oral insulin in the form of nanoparticles may have similar effects to injectable insulin in increasing the gene expression of IGF1 and IGF2. Methods Insulin-loaded trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles were prepared using the polyelectrolyte complex method and characterized for size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, drug loading, and entrapment efficiency. An in vivo study was performed in different groups of male Wistar rats with diabetes mellitus type 1 treated with insulin-loaded trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles and subcutaneous injection of trade insulin (neutral protamine Hagedorn). The hippocampus of rats were studied for the expression of IGF1 and IGF2 genes by using real-time PCR, and the fold changes in gene expression were evaluated using the 2-ΔΔCt method. Results The expression of IGF1 and IGF2 genes in the groups treated with nano-insulin and injected insulin were significantly higher than that in the diabetic control group (p<0.001) and meaningfully lower than that in the healthy control group. However, there was no significant difference to the treated groups. Conclusion Our findings suggest that future research might provide a new formulation of drugs for treating type 1 diabetes, in the form of oral insulin.

Potential microRNA-related targets in clearance pathways of amyloid-ß: novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Imbalance between amyloid-beta (Aß) peptide synthesis and clearance results in Aß deregulation. Failure to clear these peptides appears to cause the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In recent years, microRNAs have become established key regulators of biological processes that relate among others to the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, such as AD. This review article gives an overview on microRNAs that are involved in the Aß cascade and discusses their inhibitory impact on their target mRNAs whose products participate in Aß clearance. Understanding of the mechanism of microRNA in the associated signal pathways could identify novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of AD.

Correlation between measured and calculated free phenytoin serum concentration in neurointensive care patients with hypoalbuminemia.

PURPOSE: In critically ill patients, monitoring free phenytoin concentration is a valuable method for phenytoin-dosage adjustment. However, due to technical difficulties and the high cost of these methods, the Sheiner-Tozer equation is routinely used for estimating free phenytoin concentration in clinical practice. There have been conflicting results concerning accuracy and precision of the Sheiner-Tozer equation for prediction of free phenytoin concentration in various patient populations. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy and correlation of measured and calculated free phenytoin concentrations in neurointensive care patients with hypoalbuminemia. METHODS: A total of 65 adult neurointensive care patients with hypoalbuminemia who were receiving phenytoin for prevention or treatment of seizures were recruited in this study. In addition to measuring free phenytoin concentration by HPLC, free phenytoin concentration was calculated using both conventional and revised Sheiner-Tozer equations. Eventually, the correlation and level of agreement between measured and calculated free phenytoin concentrations were evaluated. RESULTS: The mean albumin concentration of studied patients was 2.63±0.57 g/dL. There was a significant but weak-moderate correlation between measured and calculated free phenytoin concentration using conventional and revised Sheiner-Tozer equations (r=0.45 and r=0.43, respectively). Conventional and revised Sheiner-Tozer equations were not able to predict free phenytoin concentrations accurately in 33.85% and 35.4% of patients, respectively. Although the sex of patients did not have a significant impact on the level of agreement, younger patients had a higher level of agreement. CONCLUSION: Although there was a moderate correlation between calculated and measured free phenytoin concentration, the Sheiner-Tozer equation was not able to predict free phenytoin concentration accurately in all patients, especially in older patients. Therefore, monitoring free phenytoin serum concentration besides clinical outcomes should be considered for phenytoin-dose adjustment in critically ill patients.

Recent advances in applying nanotechnologies for cancer immunotherapy.

Cancer immunotherapy aimed at boosting cancer-specific immunoresponses to eradicate tumor cells has evolved as a new treatment modality. Nanoparticles incorporating antigens and immunomodulatory agents can activate immune cells and modulate the tumor microenvironment to enhance anti-tumor immunity. The nanotechnology approach has been demonstrated to be superior to standard formulations in in-vivo settings. In this article, we focus on recent advances made within the last 5 years in nanoparticle-based cancer immunotherapy, including peptide- and nucleic acid-based nanovaccines, nanomedicines containing an immunoadjuvant to activate anti-tumor immunity, nanoparticle delivery of immune checkpoint inhibitors and the combination of the above approaches. Encouraging results and new emerging nanotechnologies in drug delivery promise the continuous growth of this field and ultimately clinical translation of enhanced immunotherapy of cancer.

Evaluating the Effects of Oral and Topical Simvastatin in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is a common dermatologic disorder which results in psychological consequences. Inflammatory responses play an important role in the development of inflammatory acne lesions. Recently, many studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects of statins; thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of oral and topical Simvastatin as adjunct therapy in the treatment of acne vulgaris. METHODS: A total of 76 patients with moderate to very severe acne vulgaris, all receiving oral azithromycin (250 mg, 3 times a week, orally) and topical benzoyl peroxide gel (5%, once daily) were assigned to three groups: 1) Oral group received 20mg/day of oral simvastatin and blank solution, 2) Topical group received simvastatin 1% topical solution and oral placebo, 3) Placebo group received oral placebo and blank solution. The severity of acne was determined by global acne grading system (GAGS) at baseline and after 8 weeks of treatment. RESULTS: Comparing the three groups showed that topical simvastatin was associated with greater decrease in acne severity as compared with those of oral and placebo groups. Moreover, the oral simvastatin appeared to be more efficacious as compared with placebo group (P value<0.001). Oral and topical simvastatin were well tolerated in almost all patients. CONCLUSION: Although preliminary, the results of this study showed that oral and topical statins, drugs with anti-inflammatory properties, can be considered as effective treatment for acne vulgaris as an adjunct to standard treatment. However, further studies with larger sample size, using improved formulations of topical simvastatin are needed to confirm these results.