Search

Background and Aim: Recently, nanostructured drug delivery systems have been investigated as delivery systems for chemotherapeutic agents in cancer treatment. The aim of this study was to review nanostructured carriers for targeted drug delivery of chemotherapeutic agents. Materials and Methods: Data of this review article were collected by searching PubMed and WOS (Web of Science) using the keywords of cancer, nanomedicine, nanoparticles, liposome and solubility. Results: Among the various nanostructured drug delivery systems, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), polymeric nanoparticles, micelles, albumin nanoparticles and drug-polymer conjugates have been used to develop the efficient delivery systems of chemotherapeutics for cancer treatment. Many chemotherapeutic drugs are highly hydrophobic with low aqueous solubility. Furthermore, non-specificity, toxicity and drug resistance are the main drawbacks of cancer treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs. Use of nanostructured delivery systems is the main approach to overcome drug resistance, reduce side effects and improve treatment efficacy. Additionally nanostructures containing two or more drugs for combination therapy of cancer are challenging issues that can increase the treatment efficiency by synergistic effects and decreasing drug resistance. Conclusion: Although the development of various nanostructured drug delivery systems for chemotherapeutics are under investigation, few number of these systems have been used in clinical studies and entered the pharmaceutical market as approved nanomedicines

Introduction: The use of plants to treat diseases has a long history. Today, due to the side effects of common drugs, turning to these natural resources is more mandatory than before. This study aimed to construct and characterize nanoliposomes containing Glycyrrhiza glabra extract and to evaluate its toxicity on healthy HFF cell lines and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. Methods: Initially, licorice extract was obtained using a succulent extraction method. Subsequently, a liposomal system was prepared from SPC and cholesterol using the thin film method, and Glycyrrhiza glabra extract was loaded into the liposomes. Their physicochemical parameters were investigated using zeta-sizer and SEM devices, and the release pattern of the extract was calculated at 37ºC and 42 ºC. Finally, the toxicity of this nanosystem containing the extract on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line and HFF skin was investigated by the MTT method. Results: Encapsulation, particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential are 64.16±3.45%, 131 nm, 0.131, and -19.1 mV, respectively. Release of the extract was slow at similar temperatures to healthy and cancer cells. Also, liposome extract was more toxic to the MCF-7 cell line than free extract, and both were less toxic to the HFF cell line. Conclusion: The findings showed that the liposomal system incorporating the extract had advantageous physical and chemical characteristics. It also displayed high toxicity on the MCF-7 cell line but low toxicity on the HFF cell line. This indicates that the liposomal system may be a promising method for delivering plant compounds to specific cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, liposome coatings based on phosphatidylethanolamine (by Bingham method) and hydrogel based on salep were produced and loaded with the aim of allicin shelf life study. The structure and morphology of Liposome and hydrogel were studied by FT-IR and SEM. Considering design variables of phosphatidylethanolamine to cholesterol ratio, organic phase solvent to aqueous solvent ratio and liposome formation time, a model was proposed to predict the allicin encapsulation efficiency in liposomes. The optimum condition was achieved by Response Surface Method and software of Design-Expert v.12 where the amount of phosphatidylethanolamine-to-cholesterol 8:1, organic phase to water phase ratio of 4.8:1 and formation time of 158 minutes lead to a yield of 98.99%. For salep-based hydrogel coatings, the maximum encapsulation value was 74.98% at 140 min formation time, while the amount of acrylic acid was 3 ml and the amount of N, N '- methylenebisacrylamide was 0.01 gr. The release behavior of allicin from the liposome coating and the hydrogel coating showed both of them are suitable for drug delivery in the media with pH of 7.4. Investigation of allicin release kinetics from liposomes and hydrogels based on first-order reaction models, Higuchi model and Hixson-crowell equation and Weibull model indicated that Weibull can better fit the experimental data.

Introduction Curcumin, as a natural polyphenolic nutraceutical has been shown many health-promoting effects, mainly associated with its chemical structure. In various studies, different properties of this compound, including anti-tumor and anti-cancer activity, reduction of blood and liver cholesterol levels, increase of immune function, prevention of cardiovascular diseases, prevention of damage to biological membranes against peroxidation and anti-inflammatory properties have been reported. Despite possessing a potential health benefits to humans, the susceptibility of this polyphenol towards environmental conditions and low chemical stability has restricted the direct usage of curcumin into aqueous-based food formulations. The encapsulation of curcumin in liposomes is a potentially effective way to protect them from degradation during passing the digestive system.Materials and MethodsCurcumin (powder, purity greater than 99%, 368.38 g/mol), lecithin, cholesterol (C3045-25G), pancreacin (extracted from porcine pancreas, P7545-25G), bile salts (B8756-10G) and calcium chloride (CaCl2) was obtained from Sigma Aldrich (USA). Consumable ethanol was purchased from Pars Ethanol Company (96%, Iran). Lipase enzyme (extracted from pig pancreas, L8070) and pepsin (activity 3500-3000 NFU/g, P8390) were obtained from Solarabio (China). Potassium chloride, dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) and alpha-amylase enzyme with a purity of at least 99% were obtained from Merck, Germany, sodium chloride (NaCl), sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) and calcium chloride were obtained from Sigma. The effect of lecithin content (0.02- 0.08 g), lecithin cholesterol ratio (0.5- 4), curcumin level (1.5- 6mg) and ultrasound treatment time (1-5 minutes) on production of liposomes containing curcumin was evaluated. The particle size, particle size distribution, zeta potential and efficiency were determined by response surface methodology. Furthermore, physical nature, molecular structure, physical stability at 4ºC and 25ºC and release behavior of curcumin loaded-liposome in mouth, stomach and intestines were explored.Results and Discussion The results showed that all independent variables had a significant effect on liposome particle size and increasing the ratio of lecithin: cholesterol caused more uniform particle size. Lecithin was determined to be the only component affecting the zeta potential of liposome particles, and increasing the ultrasound time increased the efficiency of curcumin encapsulation in liposomes. The optimal point of liposome preparation conditions in the amount of 0.08 g lecithin, 4: 1 the ratio of lecithin: cholesterol, 4.16 mg curcumin and 5 minutes the ultrasound treatment was introduced by Design Expert software. In addition, curcumin was amorphous in optimal liposome spherical particles. Furthermore, the results of TEM showed that the liposomes are in the form of single-layer particles, spherical and without membrane rupture. This makes the bilayered nature of the vesicles clearly visible in this micrograph. The size of the particles obtained from this method was consistent with the data obtained from the dynamic light scattering method. From the results of infrared spectroscopy, it can be seen that curcumin is trapped in the liposome through hydrogen bonding in the double-layered vesicle of the liposome, the phenolic ring of curcumin with the phospholipid head group, as well as the hydrophobic interactions of the aromatic rings with the acyl phospholipid chains. Liposomes were more stable at refrigeration temperature. A very small amount of curcumin was released in the simulated oral phase, which is probably due to the short time and lack of specific enzymes to disrupt the phospholipid bilayers of the liposome. Although the pepsin enzyme is unable to penetrate the liposome membrane, acidic conditions change the angle of the head and tail groups of the lipids and lead to a change in the surface charge of the liposomes. The release of curcumin from liposome vesicles was greatly increased in the intestine. This sudden increase is due to the presence of bile salts as an emulsifying agent that can disrupt the phospholipid membrane and make the membrane more fluid. In addition, pancreatic lipase is adsorbed on the surface of lipids and then hydrolyzes the phospholipid into 2-acyl and 1-acyl lysophospholipids and free fatty acids. The release behavior of curcumin under gastrointestinal conditions was based on the Fick mechanism.

Several challenges, including rapid drug release from the carrier, repeated drug administration, fluctuations in plasma drug concentration, and reduced patient compliance have been reported for conventional drug delivery systems. Liposomes were first developed by a scientist, A.D. Bangham, in 1961. The word liposome is a combination of the two Greek words "lipos" meaning fat and "soma" meaning body. A liposome is a system, which its membrane is made up of fatty compounds such as lipids. The lipid membrane and its entrapped space are suitable for the loading of lipophilic and hydrophilic drug molecules, respectively. Liposomes, as optimal drug delivery systems, could be an appropriate solution to many of the challenges of conventional drug delivery systems. Liposomes, which are made from phospholipid and cholesterol, have many benefits as optimal drug delivery systems. A wide range of therapeutics could be incorporated within liposomal carriers. They are biodegradable and biocompatible. They do not stimulate the immune system and are used as a synthetic membrane model. These systems increase the stability of drugs in the body by protecting the drug compounds within them and also reduce the toxic effects of drugs by minimizing drug exposure to sensitive tissues. Liposomes can also control drug release. The particle size of liposomes varies from nanometers to micrometers depending on the preparation method. Liposomes can be classified on the basis of their size and bilayers number, into: giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) 0.5 - 10 µm; multilamellar vesicles (MLV) 1 - 5 µm; large unilamellar vesicles (LUV) around 100 - 500 nm; small unilamellar vesicles (SUV) 20 - 100 nm; and multivesicular liposomes (MVL). MVL are characterized by their structure of multiple non-concentric aqueous chambers surrounded by a network of lipoidal membranes. The particle size of monolayer and multilayer liposomes is about a few hundred nanometers, while the average particle size of MVLs is 1 to 100 µm. Methods of liposomes preparation include thin layer hydration, reverse phase evaporation, solvent injection, dehydration-rehydration, and ultrasonic. The MVL system is a water in oil in water emulsion (W / O / W) that organic phase contains hydrophobic material and liquid phase contains hydrophilic material. The double emulsification method is the most common method of MVL preparation. Small drugs as well as large molecules such as peptides and proteins can be loaded in the unique structure of MVL. So far, several peptides or protein compounds have been successfully loaded in MVL and their therapeutic effects investigated in various diseases. In vitro and in vivo studies show that MVLs well control the drug release rate. There are some examples for MVL applications regarding these compounds.; MVL containing insulin or liraglutide in diabetes mellitus treatment, bevacizumab in laser-induced choroidal neovascularization, thymopentin in immune disorders, LXT-101 in the treatment of prostate cancer, angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptide in the treatment of hypertension, alfa interferon in hepatitis C, and leridistim in chemotherapy-induced bone marrow suppression are some of the studies in this field. MVL consists of four compounds: phospholipids, cholesterol, neutral triglycerides, and negatively charged lipids. Phospholipid chains form the bilayer membrane of the liposome, and the cholesterol in the system is located between these chains. The cholesterol to phospholipids ratio, lipid to drug ratio, and lipidic composition affect the stability of the system and the rate of drug release. Neutral triglycerides such as triolein, tricaprylene, trilaureine and tributyrine allow the formation of this unique multivesicular structure, stabilize the membranes of internal vesicles at the point of contact with each other, preventing them from merging and controlling the drug release rate. Negatively charged lipids such as dicetyl phosphate (DCP) also control particle accumulation by inducing a negative charge on the surface of liposomes. Observation and determination of MVL structure are usually performed by optical and electron microscopes. The sysyems should also be characterized regarding drug encapsulation, drug release profile and kinetics, storage stability, and drug-vesicle interaction. Most studies on the MVL drug delivery system have been performed on drug-loaded MVLs. To date, application of MVLs containing tramadol in pain management, various compounds (include rose bengal, oxaliplatin, oleanolic acid, and cytarabine) in cancer, dexamethasone sodium phosphate in hearing impairment, acyclovir sodium in infectious diseases of herpes simplex virus (HSV), desferrioxamine mesylate in iron toxicity, celecoxib as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent, breviscapine in cardiovascular disease and cerebrovascular ischemia, flucinolone acetonide in ocular inflammatory diseases, naltrexone hydrochloride in opioid abuse and alcohol dependence and ropivacaine hydrochloride in local anesthesia has been investigated. In some treatment protocols, the simultaneous administration of two-drug combinations is required to achieve the desired result. The large aqueous space in the MVL and the division of this space into intravesicular and extra-vesicular parts, allows multiple drug combinations to be loaded in it and enter the body during an administration. The efficacy of co-delivery of mitoxantrone hydrochloride with horseradish peroxidase and insulin with metformin in a system was investigated in the treatment of cancer and diabetes mellitus, respectively, and showed satisfactory effects. Another class of drugs that have been successfully loaded in MVL is antibiotics. Antibiotics should have the least fluctuations in plasma concentrations in order to be more effective on microorganisms, so they should be prescribed according to a regular schedule. In MVL studies, researchers found satisfactory results from the study of the two antibiotics vancomycin and gentamicin. Many liposomal systems are used clinically to control drug release. These systems include daunorubicin, desferrioxamine mesylate, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), doxorubicin, vincristine sulfate, and irinotecan respectively under the brand names DaunoXome®, DepoDFO®, DepoIGF-I®, Doxil®, Marqibo®, and Onivyde®. Depofoam is a type of MVL system with a particle size of 10 to 20 µm that could be a good depot in the body and releases the drug in a controlled manner. Depofoams are good choices for drug delivery to tumor areas and sensitive areas of the body such as the eyes, spinal cord, and epidural, and can reduce drug toxicity and side effects by minimizing drug exposure to healthy parts of the body. There are several Depofoam systems which three of these systems have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). DepoCyt® is a Depofoam system of the anticancer drug cytarabine by intrathecal injection. This system releases the drug in the body for two weeks and makes an optimum concentration of it in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). DepoDur® is the second product, which contains morphine. It relieves post-surgery pain after epidural administration and reduces the use of other injectable analgesics. Exparel® is a new formulation of bupivacaine with an analgesic effect that is injected near the surgical site. Numerous animal and human studies showed that after intrathecal, epidural, intraocular, intramuscular, intravenous, intra-arterial, and subcutaneous administration of Depofoam. This review article provides an overview of recent studies on the MVL system and its effect on optimizing rate of drug release. Successful loading of large molecules such as proteins and the possibility of loading multiple drug combinations into one system shows a hopeful view for the future of MVL in the pharmaceutical industry. It seems that this new technology, by overcoming the problems caused by frequent drug administration, has created an additional incentive for researchers to advance in this field. However, problems such as the high cost of these liposomes are some of the challenges that they face. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of bay laurel and rosemary leaf extracts in two forms, free and nanoliposome, on the chemical indices of spoilage (TVB-N) and (TBA) in minced Silver carp fish was investigated. Extracts were evaluated for phenolic and flavonoid compounds. The treatments studied in minced Silver carp fish included control treatment, treatments containing 1 and 1.5% of free extract of Laurus nobilis leaves and Rosemary and treatments containing 1 and 1.5%. It is one of the liposome-coated extracts that was tested at refrigerator temperature at 0, 4, 8 and 12 days with 3 replications. The results showed that the amount of phenolic and flavonoid compounds in rosemary extract was more favorable than fragrant leaves. The aqueous extract of rosemary had higher levels of phenolic (344.66 mg gallic acid / g extract) and flavonoid (245.33 mg Rutin / g extract) compounds compared to the bay laurel extract (257.66 mg gallic acid / g extract) and (151.26 mg Rutin / g extract) respectively. The results of chemical changes in minced Silver carp showed that with increasing the storage time of fish at refrigerator temperature, the mentioned parameters increased, but nevertheless, in the treatment containing the finely coated form of two plants, Laurus nobilis leaves and rosemary (concentration 1.5%), The changes were significantly slower than other treatments, and according to the results, it can be concluded that in general, the addition of extracts Odor of Laurus nobilis and rosemary leaves in a concentration of 1.5%, maintains the quality of Silver carp fish in terms of chemical quality indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate crocin encapsulation in liposome and niosome systems and their characteristics such as particle size, stability, encapsulation efficiency, viscosity, antioxidant properties, gastrointestinal release, resistance to acidic conditions and resistance to high temperatures. The results showed that the samples encapsulated in the noisome (76.45 nm) had smaller particle size and better dispersion than the liposome (103.35 nm). Also, the encapsulation efficiency of the noisome (88.08 %) was higher than that of the liposome (80.59 %). No significant difference was observed between the antioxidant properties of liposome and niosome samples. But gastrointestinal release was higher for niosomic samples. Examination of the results of resistance to acidic conditions and high temperature showed that the samples covered in the niosome showed better resistance. In general, it can be concluded that niosome system is a more suitable system for crocin encapsulation and its use in increasing the efficiency of food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olanzapine (2-methyl-4-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)-10H-thieno [2, 3-b][1, 5]benzodiazepine) is an antipsychotic drug with poor water-solubility that has a suitable affinity to some receptors. This benzodiazepine derivative is a new (atypical) antipsychotic drug and has a wide range of efficacy, especially in treatment of patients with negative psychiatric symptoms of schizophrenia. Olanzapine is used in psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and acute restlessness in bipolar patients. Its oral absorption is low and about 40% of the drug is metabolized in first-pass hepatic metabolism. This drug has low permeability into the brain related to remove by p-glycoprotein efflux and blood-brain-barrier (BBB) existence. Emerging nanotechnology during recent years demonstrated the tremendous ability of nanoparticles as versatile nanocarrier systems. This emerging technology has raised promising attempts to address the significant impact on decreasing side effects of drugs and their associated defects. Olanzapine can be administrated by different routes. Intranasal delivery of olanzapine to the brain due to lack of blood-brain-barrier in the olfactory system has facilitated its delivery. In this review article, several olanzapine nano-drug delivery systems are listed by reviewing their results, including nanosuspensions, nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), niosomes, transfersomes, nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), polymeric nanoparticles (PNP), etc.

Global prevalence of neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis is steadily increasing, but, there is still no effective delivery system to deliver therapeutic amounts of drug into the central nervous system (CNS). The blood-brain barrier ​​is the major component to control the entrance of drugs into the brain. Recent studies introduced intranasal drug delivery as a suitable method of drug delivery for bypassing blood-brain barrier and treatment of neurological diseases. The nasal route has been repeatedly examined in several preclinical models to investigate the delivery of drug to the brain via nanoparticles. Among various carriers utilized for drug delivery via nasal route, chitosan is widely used due to being effective in modulating drug charge. Key features of drug delivery systems through nasal route include easy drug delivery, higher stability in nasal cavity, increased penetration ability of drugs through nasal epithelium, and decreased drug metabolism. The present review investigated novel nano-formulations for drug delivery via nose to brain in treatment of major neurological disorders. In preclinical studies, intransaal nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems are found to be more promising, effective, and targeted. However, more preclinical studies are needed to confirm their non-toxicity and beneficial effects.

Olanzapine (2-methyl-4-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)-10H-thieno [2, 3-b][1, 5]benzodiazepine) is an antipsychotic drug with poor water-solubility that has a suitable affinity to some receptors. This benzodiazepine derivative is a new (atypical) antipsychotic drug and has a wide range of efficacy, especially in treatment of patients with negative psychiatric symptoms of schizophrenia. Olanzapine is used in psychotic disorders, mood disorders, and acute restlessness in bipolar patients. Its oral absorption is low and about 40% of the drug is metabolized in first-pass hepatic metabolism. This drug has low permeability into the brain related to remove by p-glycoprotein efflux and blood-brain-barrier (BBB) existence. Emerging nanotechnology during recent years demonstrated the tremendous ability of nanoparticles as versatile nanocarrier systems. This emerging technology has raised promising attempts to address the significant impact on decreasing side effects of drugs and their associated defects. Olanzapine can be administrated by different routes. Intranasal delivery of olanzapine to the brain due to lack of blood-brain-barrier in the olfactory system has facilitated its delivery. In this review article, several olanzapine nano-drug delivery systems are listed by reviewing their results, including nanosuspensions, nanoemulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), niosomes, transfersomes, nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), polymeric nanoparticles (PNP), etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The use of The use of nanoparticles containing antioxidant and cytotoxic plant compounds can have a special place in the treatment of melanoma. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant and cytotoxic effects of pineapple fruit extract on skin cancer. Methods: In the present experimental study, liposomal vesicles were prepared using cholesterol, soy phosphatidylcholine, and polyethylene glycol, and pineapple fruit extract was loaded in liposomes. Physicochemical characteristics were evaluated using zeta sizer, FTIR and AFM. Finally, the toxicity of different concentrations of extract and liposome-containing extract was evaluated in A-375 melanoma cell line using MTT assay. DPPH test was used to evaluate the antioxidant properties of the extract and liposomes containing extract. Statistical analysis was performed using Excel and SPSS (Ver 22) software and Duncan and Student's T-tests were used for statistical conclusion. Results: According to this study showed the encapsulation efficiency of pineapple extract containing liposome, liposome size and its surface charge were 40%, 89.9 nm and -8.8 mV, respectively. FTIR analysis and AFM micrographs also confirm that there is no interaction of the extract with its nanosystem, the spherical morphology of the liposomes and its appropriate distribution and dispersion. The toxicity level of pineapple extract is higher when had been encapsulated rather than the non-encapsulated extract on the A-375 cell line. Conclusion: Pineapple fruit extract has cytotoxic effects on A-375 cell line and the present liposomal nanocarrier can be a suitable carrier for the delivery of the extract and inhibit the growth and proliferation of these cells.

Global prevalence of neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis is steadily increasing, but, there is still no effective delivery system to deliver therapeutic amounts of drug into the central nervous system (CNS). The blood-brain barrier is the major component to control the entrance of drugs into the brain. Recent studies introduced intranasal drug delivery as a suitable method of drug delivery for bypassing blood-brain barrier and treatment of neurological diseases. The nasal route has been repeatedly examined in several preclinical models to investigate the delivery of drug to the brain via nanoparticles. Among various carriers utilized for drug delivery via nasal route, chitosan is widely used due to being effective in modulating drug charge. Key features of drug delivery systems through nasal route include easy drug delivery, higher stability in nasal cavity, increased penetration ability of drugs through nasal epithelium, and decreased drug metabolism. The present review investigated novel nano-formulations for drug delivery via nose to brain in treatment of major neurological disorders. In preclinical studies, intransaal nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems are found to be more promising, effective, and targeted. However, more preclinical studies are needed to confirm their non-toxicity and beneficial effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introdution: Nanotechnology introduced new methods to chemotherapy drugs delivery into cancer cells to reduce the side effect of drugs it increases the quality of cancer treatment and reduces the side effects of chemotherapy. . In this study, different lipid formulations of nucliposomes containing curcumin was prepared by thin-layer method and evaluated for chemical-physical evaluation on MCF-7 cell line. Methods: This study was a descriptive-analytic. Various formulations of liposomes prepared from Span 60, SPC and cholesterol. Curcumin was loaded in the liposomes. Final liposome formulation selected and PEGylated. The Optimal formulation characterized by DLS, FT-IRT, Fe-SEM and SEM. Statistical analysis was performed with Prism6 software. Results: The average size of liposomes, encapsulation efficacy of liposomal loaded curcumin and Zeta potential was about 63.9 nm, -41mV and %95.58, respectively. Liposomes exhibited the slowest release rate in normal and turmeric cell culture condition. To compare the function of free curcumin in similar concentrations, liposomal curcumin formulation was %63 toxic to MCF7 Cell line. Conclusion: The present study shows that an optimally optimized nanoliposome with curcumin having appropriate physicochemical properties, improving drug toxicity in cancerous cell lines and increasing drug stability can be a good vector for drug delivery to breast cancer cells. Conclusion: The present study shows that an optimally optimized nanoliposome with curcumin having appropriate physicochemical properties, improving drug toxicity in cancerous cell lines and increasing drug stability can be a good vector for drug delivery to breast cancer cells.

Background and Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the applied characteristics of wound covers containing nanoliposomic essential oil of ajwain, with suitable antimicrobial properties and lack of cytotoxicity. Materials and Methods: Liposomal formulations of the ajwain essential oil containing DSPE-PEG, cholesterol, span60 and SPC80 were prepared using a thin layer method. The rooting and spray methods on a cellulose fabric were used to produce skin wound cover. In addition to in vitro intracellular penetration and measurement of minimum inhibitory concentration of the product, textile characteristics, antimicrobial activity and 96 hours release of the essence in the wound cover were studied. Ethical Considerations: In this study, all principles of research ethics were considered. Findings: The loading efficiency of the liposomal formulation was more than 85%. The small particle dispersion index (PDI = 0.02) in the form of the PEGylated formulation indicates optimal dispersion of the particles which reduces the buildup of the drug in the cutaneous application. The standard AATCC microbial test showed inhibitory effect of the wound cover on bacteria, especially E. coli. Textile tests indicated acceptable properties of the produced wound cover, too. Conclusion: Altogether, this wound cover showed acceptable features in combating the two selected bacteria responsible for infectious skin ulcers.

Introdution: Common cancer treatment methods have many side effects. Therefore, the use of new methods for drug delivery to cancer cells is necessary. In the present study, nano formulations of lipid carriers containing doxorubicin have been synthesized and its physicochemical properties have been investigated. Methods: The present study was an experimental study. The liposomal systems were synthesized by the method of thin-film hydration and using Tween-20, cholesterol and soybean phosphatidylcholine. After loading Doxorubicin drug into the liposomes, physiochemical properties of nano-carriers were determined from the perspective of encapsulation efficiency, drug release profile under healthy and cancerous cells condition, hydrodynamic diameter, zeta potential, morphology and IR spectra. Results: The liposomal system had 132.9 nm in diameter, the encapsulation 93.74% and -38.73±0.18mV zeta potential. The maximum release of drug from the nano-carrier under conditions 37°C, pH=7.4 and 42°C, pH=5.4 and 37°C, pH=5.4 after 72 hours was 36.54% and 74.18% and 55.9% respectively. SEM and IR assessments revealed spherical morphology and the absence of chemical interaction between nano-carrier and drug. Conclusion: The result of this research indicates that the liposomal system, having the appropriate physiochemical properties, has not changed the chemical nature of drug and thus can be a suitable and semi-targeted carrier for doxorubicin.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to fabricate nanoliposomes containing Silybum marianum extract and evaluating effect of its toxicity on SAOS-2 cancer cell line and evaluating effect of the toxicity of free extract and empty liposomes on HFF cell line. Methods: Three liposomal systems containing extract with different molar percentages of soybean phosphatidylcholine(60% and 80%) with cholesterol were prepared by thin film. Then the most suitable formulation was selected according to the loading percentage and release rate. The release pattern of the extract from the selected formulation was evaluated and the size, and surface charge of the particles were investigated. Finally, the toxicity of the selected system containing the extract, and the free extract and the system without the extract on the SAOS-2 cell line, and the toxicity of the free extract and the essential oil-free system on the HFF cell line were measured. Results: amount of extract loading in the selected formulation, particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential for the selected formulation were 84.16 ± 0.15, 98nm, 0.286 and -17.2mV, respectively. The release of the extract is slow at temperatures similar to those of healthy and cancer cells. Also, liposome extract had more toxicity on SAOS-2 cell line than free extract, and liposome-free extract and free extract had less toxicity on HFF cell line. Conclusion: Based on the results, the liposomal system containing the extract, with its physicochemical properties and appropriate toxicity on the SAOS-2 cell line, can be a suitable carrier for the delivery of plant compounds to target cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progressive development of nanotechnology during the last decades and its increasing involvement in new fields represents its great importance in science and technology. One of its major parts is nanomedicine that is focused in this review. First general principles of medicinal nanotechnology, its history, application and classification are explained. Then Abraxane (a protein conjugated nano drug) design will be addressed. Liposomes as one of the best nano drug delivery systems with a platform for passive targeting are discussed next. Two examples of approved liposomal nanomedicines are described from the state-of-the-art design emphasizing physiologic barriers and formulation strategies to overcome these imposed limitations. Passive targeting to tumors is provided by "Enhanced Permeation and Retention" effect (EPR). Liposomes can be removed from circulation by the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) clearance in no time. This effect is also used to passively target liposomes in MPS to treat localized infections for example. Pegylation of liposomes which means attachment of polyethylene glycol chains to the surface of liposomes is one of the methods used to enhance liposome residence time in blood circulation in order to give the vesicles more chance to accumulate at the target site by EPR effect. Liposomal medicines have shown significant decrease in toxicity in comparison with free drugs. Their accumulation in target tissue by passive targeting is the main reason for reduction in drug toxicity. Liposomes are being used for treating different diseases such as infection, hepatitis, cardiovascular diseases and immune system disorders. However, the vast majority of investigational liposomes are anticancer drugs.

Background and Objective: Thyme essential oil is strong antifungal, anti-parasitic and antibacterial due to presence phenolic thymol and carvacrol. Encapsulation is used in order to increase the solubility, protection against oxidation and evaporation and also to improve the effectiveness of essential oils. This study was performed in order to loading Thymus essential oil (Thymus daenensis Celak and Zataria multiflora species) into liposomal vesicles and evaluation of antifungal activity of Zataria multiflora specie encapsulated with nano-systems. Methods: In this descriptive – laboratory study, liposomes containing Thymus essential oil- were prepared using thin film hydration method. After size reduction, nano-particle was characterized in term of morphology, size, zeta potential and chemical interactions. Effect of phospholipids types, cholesterol content and species of Thymus were investigated on encapsulation efficiency. Finally, the antifungal activity of essential oil of Zataria multiflora specie loaded liposome was evaluated the minimum fungicidal concentration, minimum inhibitory concentration and zone of inhibition against Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Results: Thymus essential oil loaded into liposome with over 80% efficiency. Optimal formulation contained of 10% cholesterol, 90% soybean phosphatidylcholine phospholipid with 3% of polyethylene glycol and also Thymus essential oil with concentration of 0.5 mg/ml. Nanoparticles were anionic with spherical shape and size less than 100 nm. There was no chemical interaction between liposomes and essential oil. Prepared formulation was chemically stable and the essential oil had not retained during encapsulation. Medicinal-nano system of Zataria multiflora specie was effective in inhibition of the growth of Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Conclusion: The preparation of optimal liposomal formulation containing Thymus essential oil is affected by the type and amount of phospholipid, and it was completely independent of the species of Thymus. Also, Encapsulation increases the anti-fungal activity of essential oil of Zataria multiflora.

Introduction: Herbal Compound and their essential oils possess high antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties, but conventional prescribing of them faces serious challenges. Liposomal nano-carrier is one of the common pharmaceutical strategies to overcome these challenges. In this study, slow-released liposomal system containing Mentha piperita’s essential oil was prepared in order to improve its antimicrobial, antioxidant and antitumor properties. Methods: Liposomal vesicles were prepared using phosphatidylcholine (80%) and cholesterol (20%) by thin-film method. Mentha piperita’s essential oil were loaded into the liposomes using inactive loading method. Their physico-chemical features were assayed using Zeta-Sizer, FTIR and SEM, and at the end, the essential oil release amount was calculated at 37° C. Results: Liposomal vesicles containing Mentha piperita’s essential oil showed the size of 247 13.39 nm, 61.38% ± 2.7 essential oil encapsulation efficiency, -34.54 0.74 mV of zeta potential and polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.32 .01. The prepared liposomal system presented essential oil controlled release and FTIR and SEM investigation showed no interaction between nanocarrier and the essential oil and the carriers have spherical structures. Conclusion: In the present study, Mentha piperita’s essential oil encapsulated in liposomal carriers and its physicochemical properties investigated. The results confrimed the slow-releasing ability of system and also showed that the anionic nanosystem increased the essential oil’s stability without any change in its chemical nature. Taken together, liposomal nanocarrier could be a potent and suitable carrier for the essential oil.

Introduction: Chemotherapy is one of the most common methods in cancer therapy that has always faced challenges. The aim of the present study was to develop nano-carriers containing paclitaxel chemotherapy drug and to investigate its toxicity on MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. Materials and Methods: Three formulations of liposomal nano-carriers containing paclitaxel with different concentrations of phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol were fabricated using the thin film method. Then according to the loading rate of drug, one of the formulations was selected and pegylated. Percentage of drug loading into pegylated nano-liposomes, drug release pattern in healthy and cancerous cell conditions, size and surface charge of nanoparticles (using DLS) and morphology of nanoparticles (using SEM) was evaluated. At the end, the toxicity of liposomal system containing drug and non-liposome drug on MCF7 cell line was evaluated by MTT assay. Result: The results showed that drug loading percentage, size, zeta potential of pegylated nano-carriers containing the drug were 90/6±2/35%, 49/4nm and -46/74±5/55mV, respectively. Release of the drug from the liposomal system is slow within 72 hours in normal and cancerous cell conditions. The morphology of the nanoparticles was smooth and spherical, and no chemical interaction was observed between the drug and the nano-carrier. Paclitaxel liposomal also had more toxicity to MCF-7 cell line breast cancer than non-liposomal drug. Conclusion: Based on the results, the liposomal formulation of this study can be recommended for further research in breast cancer with respect to its physicochemical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In the present study, various formulations of cationic liposomes were designed and prepared using different cationic lipids. It was performed to assess the physicochemical properties, miRNA loading ability and cellular toxicity rates of liposomes in order to use in gene therapy. Methods: Different cationic liposome formulations (F1-F4) containing various cationic lipids, DOTAP, DOTMA, DOAB and DDAB with DPPC, cholesterol and phospholipid DSPE-mPEG were synthesized. Prepared nanoparticles were evaluated in term of particle size, polydisparity index, surface charge and cytotoxicity for 48 and 72 h in two cell lines. By using gel electrophoresis, the ability of synthesized cationic liposomes to entrap miRNA was also compared. Results: All formulations were mono-dispersed. The particle size in F1, which contained DOTAP was lower than others (F2-F4) and its surface charge was more than them. Cationic liposomes based on DOTAP had no significant cytotoxicity as compared to other formulations. Also, F1 formulation was more capable to entrap miRNA than other formulas. Conclusion: DOTAP-based cationic liposomes can be used efficiently in the gene therapy process, especially for the transfer of miRNA as a new therapeutic agent in cancer therapy

Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease caused by the protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania. Leishmaniasis annually affects the socioeconomic status of some societies. Evidence show that vaccination could prevent Leishmania and many studies are done on this, particularly nanovacines. So, this article aimed at reviewing recent developments in this field. In current narrative review article, five English databases including Ebsco, Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus and four Persian databases including Magiran, Elm Net, Barakat Knowledge Network System, and the Scientific Information Database (SID) were searched for articles published between 2005 and 2016. Current treatment of leishmaniasis is based on chemical drugs but their application is limited due to high cost, toxicity, side effects, and low efficacy. In addition, vaccines can modulate the immune response in removing Leishmania in favor of the hosts. We attempted to review different types of Leishmania vaccine and their development trends, carriers, vaccine candidates, and strategies and delivery systems in last decade. It was found that nanovaccines consisting of multiple antigens and adjuvant are well developed in conjunction with IL-12 as Leish-111f and MPL-SE, therefore, they could be more successful. Current researches on vaccination clearly indicate the need for more research and investment in developing Leishmania vaccine.

ABSTRACT Article history Received: 28 May 2018 Accepted: 29 August 2018 Published online: 20 April 2019 Background and Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the applied characteristics of wound covers containing nanoliposomic essential oil of ajwain, with suitable antimicrobial properties and lack of cytotoxicity. Materials and Methods: Liposomal formulations of the ajwain essential oil containing DSPE-PEG, cholesterol, span60 and SPC80 were prepared using a thin layer method. The rooting and spray methods on a cellulose fabric were used to produce skin wound cover. In addition to in vitro intracellular penetration and measurement of minimum inhibitory concentration of the product, textile characteristics, antimicrobial activity and 96 hours release of the essence in the wound cover were studied. Ethical Considerations: In this study, all principles of research ethics were considered. Findings: The loading efficiency of the liposomal formulation was more than 85%. The small particle dispersion index (PDI = 0.02) in the form of the PEGylated formulation indicates optimal dispersion of the particles which reduces the buildup of the drug in the cutaneous application. The standard AATCC microbial test showed inhibitory effect of the wound cover on bacteria, especially E. coli. Textile tests indicated acceptable properties of the produced wound cover, too. Conclusion: Altogether, this wound cover showed acceptable features in combating the two selected bacteria responsible for infectious skin ulcers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Liposomes are spherical vesicles composed of concentric phospholipid bilayers that can entrap hydrophilic, hydrophobic drugs. Liposomes can be prepared from natural phospholipids, synthetic lipids or bacterial lipids. The aim of this study was to formulate liposome from bacterial lipids and evaluate physicochemical properties. Materials and methods: This study was performed experimentally on E.coli. The lipids were extracted from E.coli. using chloroform and methanol. Film method was used for preparing nano-systems and methylene blue was used as a drug model. Then their particle sizes were determined using particle sizer. The release methylene blue was carried out using dialysis membrane. Also, trailing them in cancer cells was evaluated by using carboxyfluorescein. Results: The average particle size of E.coli. liposomal was 338 nm. Encapsulation efficiency was 53.33 ± 2.88% and the value of release after 24 h was 97.54% ± 0.00. Liposomes could deliver the carboxyfluorescein to cancer cells. Discussion and conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that bacterial liposome has probably a suitable nano-particle such as particle size and desirable loading and it is possible to use them as drug delivery system.

Background and Aim: Curcumin possesses diverse pharmacologic effects including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiproliferative and antiangiogenic activities. The aim of this study was to develop liposomal formulation of curcumin and evaluate the leishmanial effects of its topical use against L. major in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Nanoliposomes containing 1, 2 or 3% curumin were prepared by fusion method and characterized for their size, morphology and stability. The in vitro efficacy of liposomal form of Curcumin against promastigotes and amastigotes form of L. major was also evaluated. Moreover, the leishmanial effect of formulations was evaluated in infected BALB/c mice. The lesions were treated topically by different formulations twice a day, for 4 weeks. During this time and 4 weeks after treatment, lesions size was measured every week. The level of splenic parasite burdens was investigated in week 4 after parasite inoculation. Results: Curcumin showed no leishmanicidal effect against live promasigotes and amastigotes in culture media. There was no significant difference between treated and control animals regarding lesion size and splenic parasite burden. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that nanoliposomes containing curcumin in topical form has no significant leishmanicidal effect in vitro and in vivo against L. major. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease caused by the protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania. Leishmaniasis annually affects the socioeconomic status of some societies. Evidence show that vaccination could prevent Leishmania and many studies are done on this, particularly nanovacines. So, this article aimed at reviewing recent developments in this field. In current narrative review article, five English databases including Ebsco, Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus and four Persian databases including Magiran, Elm Net, Barakat Knowledge Network System, and the Scientific Information Database (SID) were searched for articles published between 2005 and 2016. Current treatment of leishmaniasis is based on chemical drugs but their application is limited due to high cost, toxicity, side effects, and low efficacy. In addition, vaccines can modulate the immune response in removing Leishmania in favor of the hosts. We attempted to review different types of Leishmania vaccine and their development trends, carriers, vaccine candidates, and strategies and delivery systems in last decade. It was found that nanovaccines consisting of multiple antigens and adjuvant are well developed in conjunction with IL-12 as Leish-111f and MPL-SE, therefore, they could be more successful. Current researches on vaccination clearly indicate the need for more research and investment in developing Leishmania vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Nanotechnology is the ability to control the properties of matter at the atomic and molecular scales. Modern medicine and pharmacy have been affected by this technology. Most researches in this area focused on the encapsulation of active pharmaceutical ingredients especially cytotoxic drugs. Essential oils are compounds that have therapeutic, hygienic and cosmetic applications. These are complex mixture of volatile aromatic and aliphatic molecules. The use of essential oils, as antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-parasitic and anti-insect agents has a history as old as human history. Nowadays, nanotechnology helps eliminate defects and improve the solubility and reduce the volatility of essential oils. The aim of the current study was to investigate encapsulation of essential oils by various types of nanotechnology and nanoparticles to improve their efficacy and stability. Methods: In the present study, data collection (with different keywords of known nanoparticles including solid lipid nanoparticles, liposome, emulsion, cyclodextrin, magnetic nanoparticles) was undertaken on electronic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Magiran, Irandoc, IranMedex and Scientific Information Database. Results: Due to the physical nature of essential oils, two types of nanocarriers are more applicable. The first group is lipid carriers such as liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, lipid nano-emulsions and microemulsions. The second category includes polymeric nanoparticles that have improved the antimicrobial activity of essential oils. Cyclodextrin and magnetic nanoparticles are mentioned in the end. Conclusion: Nanotechnology and use of nanoparticles, increased chemical stability of essential oils. In addition, reduced toxicity and adverse effects have been achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Liposomes are spherical vesicles composed of concentric phospholipid bilayers that can entrap hydrophilic, hydrophobic drugs. Liposomes can be prepared from natural phospholipids, synthetic lipids or bacterial lipids. The aim of this study was to formulate liposome from bacterial lipids and evaluate physicochemical properties. Materials and methods: This study was performed experimentally on E.coli. The lipids were extracted from E.coli. using chloroform and methanol. Film method was used for preparing nano-systems and methylene blue was used as a drug model. Then their particle sizes were determined using particle sizer. The release methylene blue was carried out using dialysis membrane. Also, trailing them in cancer cells was evaluated by using carboxyfluorescein. Results: The average particle size of E.coli. liposomal was 338 nm. Encapsulation efficiency was 53.33 ± 2.88% and the value of release after 24 h was 97.54% ± 0.00. Liposomes could deliver the carboxyfluorescein to cancer cells. Discussion and conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that bacterial liposome has probably a suitable nano-particle such as particle size and desirable loading and it is possible to use them as drug delivery system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Vitamin D is a group of sterol compounds and a liposoluble vitamin that has major role in the matrix of cartilage and bones. Food fortification with liposoluble vitamin is not straightforward, because of this vitamins is poorly dispersible in aqueous systems such as beverages. The encapsulation of nutraceutical compounds in lipid-based carrier systems, like nanoliposomes, is effective in the preservation of their native properties during storage. The objective of the present study was to prepare vitamin D3 nanoliposomes, characterization, and stability studies of prepared formulation. Materials & Methods: In this experimental study, the nanoliposomes containing vitamin D3 were prepared from various quantities of lecithin and cholesterol (60-0), (50-10), (40-20), (30-30) by thin-film hydration-sonication method. Various testes such as zeta-potential, turbidity and rheology were carried out to determine physicochemical properties of liposomes. The physical stability of the prepared formulations, evaluated by measuring the average particle size and the remaining vitamin D3 in nanoliposomes during storage, over 30 days at 4°C. Results: Zeta-potential results showed that inclusion of cholesterol in liposome caused to increase of negative zeta-potential from -29 to -42.9 mv. The samples containing cholesterol showed no significant changes in mean diameter volume and the amount of vitamin loaded liposome, during this period. The incorporation of cholesterol into the phospholipid bilayer increased the turbidity. All liposome samples showed Newtonian behavior at all concentration of lecithin- cholesterol. Conclusions: The applied method in this study has been efficient method for encapsulation of vitamin D3, reduction of size in the nonometric range, a narrow size distribution, physical stability and else properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]