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The objective of this study was to assess the integrity and intestinal permeability of chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) in simulated gastrointestinal fluids (SGIF). The cell-associated and transported chitosan was quantified and visualized after incubation of the CNPs with Caco-2 cell monolayer with/without SGIF treatment. In order to establish the role of proteins in the SGIF, CNPs were incubated with 4 proteins having different isoelectric points (pI). CNPs incubated with the fluids did not attach to the cell monolayer in contrast to the intact CNPs. Negatively-charged protein formed the complex with CNPs leading to particle size increase, but protected CNPs from disintegration. In contrary, positively-charged protein interacted with cross-linker causing disintegration of CNPs. CNPs incubated with the fluids did not attach to the cell monolayer in contrast to the intact CNPs. The results suggested that the surface charges of CNPs and proteins play a critical role in structural changes of CNPs in biological environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Growth factors are essential in cellular signaling for migration, proliferation, differentiation and maturation. Sustainable delivery of therapeutic as well as functional proteins is largely required in the pharmacological and regenerative medicine. Here we have prepared chitosan nanoparticles (CNP) and incorporated growth factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF), either individually or in combination, which could ultimately be impregnated into engineered tissue construct. CNP was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Zeta sizer and high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM). The particles were in the size range of 50–100nm with round and flat shape. The release kinetics of both EGF and FGF incorporated CNP showed the release of growth factors in a sustained manner. Growth factors incorporated nanoparticles did not show any toxicity against fibroblasts up to 4mg/ml culture medium. Increased proliferation of fibroblasts in vitro evidenced the delivery of growth factors from CNP for cellular signaling. Western blotting results also revealed the poor inflammatory response showing less expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNFα in the macrophage cell line J774 A-1. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present investigation is mainly focused on the systematic preparation of chitosan nanoparticle in the potential range 1–100nm using γ-ray irradiation. The effect of irradiation conditions in terms of physical form of chitosan, i.e. flake, colloidal and acidic solution, and γ-ray dose was studied. The molecular weights of chitosan were 10, 25, and >1000 times reduced when irradiated with the γ-ray dose as high as 100kGy in Chi-flake, Chi-colloid, and Chi-acid, respectively. The particle size reduced to 70nm after being irradiated to only 10kGy γ-rays and it showed a tendency to decrease when the γ-ray doses were increased. The γ-rays effectively induced the reduction of chitosan particle size to <100nm with narrow size distribution. The effective size reduction was particularly observed in Chi-colloid. Heterogeneous chemical conjugation of deoxycholic acid onto 10kGy irradiated Chi-colloid resulted in narrow particle size as small as 50nm. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Candesartan-cilexetil, an angiotensin receptor blocker, exhibits low bioavailability after oral administration due to its low water solubility. Chitosan is considered one of the most promising biopolymers for drug delivery as a vehicle and trimethyl chitosan is a water soluble chitosan derivative. Trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles were prepared by the ionic crosslinking of a trimethyl chitosan solution with tripolyphosphate, at ambient temperatures during stirring. SEM and TEM (scanning and transmission electron microscopy) revealed trimethyl chitosan and trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles between 1,000-3,000 nm and 13-350 nm in size, respectively. Candesartan-cilexetil was loaded on trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles, trimethyl chitosan, gum arabic and commercial water soluble chitosan using an ultrasonic effect, and the potential of the polymers to increase the solubility of candesartan-cilexetil was investigated. Trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles are a superior vehicle for increasing the solubility of candesartan-cilexetil compared to trimethyl chitosan, gum arabic or commercial water soluble chitosan. [Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Theragnostic multifunctional nanoparticles hold great promise in simultaneous diagnosis of disease, targeted drug delivery with minimal toxicity, and monitoring of treatment. One of the current challenges in cancer treatment is enhancing the tumor-specific targeting of both imaging probes and anticancer agents. Herein, we report tumor-homing chitosan-based nanoparticles (CNPs) that simultaneously execute cancer diagnosis and therapy (cancer theragnosis). These CNPs are unique for their three distinctive characteristics, such as stability in serum, deformability, and rapid uptake by tumor cells. These properties are critical in increasing their tumor targeting specificity and reducing their nonspecific uptake by normal tissues. To develop these CNPs into novel theragnostic nanoparticles, we labeled them with Cy5.5, a near-infrared fluorescent (NIRF) dye, for imaging and also loaded them with paclitaxel (PTX-CNPs), an anticancer drug, for cancer treatment. Cy5.5 labeled PTX-CNPs exhibited significantly increased tumor-homing ability with low nonspecific uptake by other tissues in SCC7 tumor-bearing mice. Theragnostic nanoparticles, Cy5.5 labeled PTX-CNPs, are highly useful for simultaneous diagnosis of early-stage cancer and drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Blank chitosan nanoparticles are currently used as reference for the calibration curve, which fails to resolve the supernatant of the nanoparticles in the interference of Coomassie Brilliant Blue G-250 reagent; supernatants are generated at different chitosan nanoparticulate prescriptions, which have different interferences. There are notable errors in the experimental results, and the method is not feasible. Objective: In this study, an improved, rapid, and economic Bradford method was developed and validated. Materials and methods: The pH of the supernatant of blank chitosan nanoparticles was adjusted to 7–9 through adding saturated NaOH. The precipitation (free chitosan) in the solution was separated by centrifuging for about 10 min (4000 r/min). Results: The method eliminated the interference of free chitosan of different prescriptions. The results showed that the method presented a linearity in the range of 50–300 μg/mL ( R2 = 0.9992), and possessed a good inter-day and intra-day precision based on relative standard deviation values (less than 3.10%). Recovery of the supernatant of blank chitosan nanoparticles was between 98.30 and 99.93%, and the recovery of blank chitosan nanoparticles was between 95.57 and 100.27%. Discussion and conclusion: The method was further tested for determination of the association efficiency of insulin to nanoparticulate carriers composed of chitosan. Encapsulant release under simulated gastrointestinal fluids was evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cupric oxide-chitosan nanocomposite was prepared in aqueous solution. Copper ions were adsorbed into the chitosan mainly by chelation to form copper-loaded chitosan. Copper-loaded chitosan was reduced by using sodium hydroxide at specific pH. Copper oxide nanoparticle-loaded chitosan was formed by oxidation of Cu(OH)2-loaded chitosan by using drops of H2O2 (30%). CuO nanoparticles-loaded chitosan molecules were stirred with a high-speed homogenizer at 10,000 rpm for 30 minutes. The corresponding CuO/chitosan nanocomposite formed was characterized by using transmission electron microscope images. The copper oxide/chitosan nanocomposite was applied to cotton fabric by using pad-dry cure technique. Cotton fabric treated with CuO-chitosan nanocomposite was characterized via scanning electron microscope supplied with energy dispersive spectroscopy to verify the elemental composition of deposited materials on the fabric. Antimicrobial activity of the prepared fabric samples treated with chitosan nanoparticles and CuO/chitosan nanocomposites against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aurous) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) were investigated. Durability of treated cotton fabrics with nanocomposites has been evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MiR-155 could act as a key modulator of different aspects of immune system including Th1 responses. In this study, we designed chitosan nanoparticles containing miR-155-expressing plasmid and explored their effects as an adjuvant to enhance Th1 responses for potential future application against intracellular pathogens. Nanoparticles were formulated by complex coacervation method and characterized for physicochemical and functional characteristics. Transfection efficiency in Raw 264.7 cells, effects on miR-155 target genes and NO production were evaluated. The prepared nanoparticles were co-administered as an adjuvant with ovalbumin to immunize mice and finally production of IFN-γ and IL-4 were measured by ELISA in splenocyte recall responses. The prepared nanoparticles had the mean size of 244 nm and zeta potential of +17 mV, respectively. Electrophoresis analysis indicated the high capability of nanoparticles to protect the plasmid from DNaseI degradation. Furthermore, nanoparticles showed an appropriate transfection efficiency in Raw 264.7 cells and could downregulate the expression of miR-155 target genes and also upregulate NO production. In vivo immunization examinations revealed successful shift of T cell responses toward Th1. Our data suggests the high potential of chitosan nanoparticles containing miR-155-expressing plasmid as an adjuvant for significantly enhanced Th1-biased immune responses upon immunization with a given antigen. [Display omitted] • MiR-155 CNPs showed a high transfection efficiency in Raw 264.7 macrophages. • MiR-155 CNPs significantly decreased miR-155 target genes expression. • MiR-155 CNPs induced NO production in the transfected Raw 264.7 macrophages. • MiR-155 CNPs induced a Th1-biased cellular immune response in the immunized mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Long term effect of thymol chitosan nanoparticles (TMO-CSNPs) were evaluated in the preservation of chestnut quality. • TMO-CSNPs reduce the loss of soluble sugar and starch by limiting the chestnut's metabolism. • TMO-CSNPs can significantly inhibit the growth of molds and yeasts during the storage. • TMO-CSNPs prolong the storage time of the chestnuts by inhibiting spoilage. Thymol (TMO) was loaded into chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) to inhibit chestnuts decay during storage. Three chestnut treatments were evaluated, including the CK (uncoated control), CSNPs (coated with chitosan nanoparticles), and TMO-CSNPs (coated with thymol-loaded chitosan nanoparticles). Quality assessments of chestnuts were conducted periodically for up to 180 days, which included starch content, amylase activity, water content, respiration rate, weight loss rate, microbiological indicators, decay rate, and quality evaluation. Results indicated that TMO-CSNPs had significantly less nutrient loss in soluble sugar (10.61%) and starch content (27.72%) compared with CK, which was attributed to low metabolic activities as evident in low amylase activity and respiration rate. Moreover, TMO-CSNPs significantly inhibited the growth of mold and yeast (4.17 log CFU g−1 on day 180) and kept the lowest decay rate (5.33%). This study demonstrates the potential of food nanomaterial as an alternative strategy to promote food security and supply chain resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mixed culture (polymicrobial) biofilm provides a favorable environment for pathogens to persist in the food processing environment and to contaminate food products. Inactivation and eradication of such biofilms from food processing environments are achieved by using harsh disinfectants, but their toxicity and environmentally hostile characteristics are unsustainable. This study aims to use food-grade natural nanoparticulated antimicrobials to control mixed-culture biofilms. Chitosan, a natural broad-spectrum antimicrobial biopolymer (polysaccharide) from crustaceans, was derivatized to produce chitosan nanoparticles (ChNP) as a carrier for another broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, ε-poly-L-lysine (PL), to synthesize ChNP-PL conjugate. The antimicrobial activity of ChNP and ChNP-PL was tested against mixed-culture biofilms. ChNP-PL (~100 nm) exhibited a synergistic antimicrobial and anti-biofilm effect against mono or mixed-culture biofilms of five foodborne pathogens, including Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis, Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. ChNP-PL treatment prevented biofilm formation by mono or mixed cultures of L. monocytogenes, P. aeruginosa, and E. coli O157:H7, and bacterial counts were either below the detection limit or caused 3.5–5 log reduction. ChNP-PL also inactivated preformed biofilms. In monoculture biofilm, ChNP-PL treatment reduced L. monocytogenes counts by 4.5 logs, S. Enteritidis by 2 logs, E. coli by 2 logs, and S. aureus by 0.5 logs, while ChNP-PL had no inhibitory effect on P. aeruginosa. In vitro mammalian cell-based cytotoxicity analysis confirmed ChNP-PL to have no deleterious effect on intestinal HCT-8 cell line. In conclusion, our results show ChNP-PL has strong potential to prevent the formation or inactivation of preformed polymicrobial biofilms of foodborne pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of chitosan (CS)-tripolyphosphate (TPP) nanoparticles (NPs) on the stability, antioxidant activity, and bioavailability of astaxanthin (ASX). ASX-loaded CS-TPP NPs (ACT-NPs) prepared by ionic gelation between CS (0.571 mg/mL) and TPP (0.571 mg/mL) showed 505.2 ± 184.8 nm, 20.4 ± 1.2 mV, 0.348 ± 0.044, and 63.9 ± 3.0% of particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index and encapsulation efficiency, respectively. An in vitro release study confirmed that the release of ASX in simulated gastric (pH 1.2) and intestinal (pH 6.8) fluid was prolonged within ACT-NPs. The in vitro antioxidant activities of ACT-NPs were significantly improved compared with free ASX (FA) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the cellular and in vivo antioxidant analysis verified that ACT-NPs could enhance the cytoprotective effects on the BHK-21 cell line and demonstrate sustained release properties, leading to prolonged residence time in the rat plasma. The results suggest that the stability, antioxidant properties, and bioavailability of ASX can be effectively enhanced through encapsulation within CS-TPP NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To study the expression of human insulin gene wrapped with chitosan nanoparticles in NIH3T3 cells and diabetic rats. Methods: pCMV.Ins, an expression plasmid of the human insulin gene, was constructed. In total, 100 μg pCMV.Ins wrapped with chitosan nanoparticles (chitosan–pCMV.Ins) was transfected to NIH3T3 cells and diabetes rats through lav age and coloclysis, respectively. The transfected cells were grown in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium, containing G418, for 72 h after transfection. The clones were selected and continued to grow in G418 medium for 24 d. The expression of human insulin was detected by immunohistochemistry. Human insulin in the culture medium of transfected cells was measured. Fasting blood glucose and plasma human insulin of diabetic rats were measured for 5 d after transfection. RT–PCR and Western blotting were performed to confirm the expression of the human insulin gene in diabetic rats. Results: Approximately 10% of NIH3T3 cells transfected by chitosan–pCMV.Ins expressed human insulin. Human insulin in the culture medium of NIH3T3 cells transfected by chitosan–pCMV.Ins significantly increased compared with that of the control group ( P<0.01). Fasting blood glucose levels of the lavage group and the coloclysis group decreased significantly in 5 d ( P<0.01) in comparison, while plasma insulin levels were much higher ( P<0.01). The human insulin gene mRNA and human insulin were only detected in the lavage and the coloclysis groups. Conclusion: The human insulin gene can be transfected and expressed successfully by chitosan–pCMV.Ins in NIH3T3 cells and diabetes rats, which indicates that chitosan is a promising, non-viral vector for gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Chitosan nanoparticles fabricated via different preparation protocols have been in recent years widely studied as carriers for therapeutic proteins and genes with varying degree of effectiveness and drawbacks. This work seeks to further explore the polyionic coacervation fabrication process, and associated processing conditions under which protein encapsulation and subsequent release can be systematically and predictably manipulated so as to obtain desired effectiveness. BSA was used as a model protein which was encapsulated by either incorporation or incubation method, using the polyanion tripolyphosphate (TPP) as the coacervation crosslink agent to form chitosan–BSA–TPP nanoparticles. The BSA-loaded chitosan–TPP nanoparticles were characterized for particle size, morphology, zeta potential, BSA encapsulation efficiency, and subsequent release kinetics, which were found predominantly dependent on the factors of chitosan molecular weight, chitosan concentration, BSA loading concentration, and chitosan/TPP mass ratio. The BSA loaded nanoparticles prepared under varying conditions were in the size range of 200–580nm, and exhibit a high positive zeta potential. Detailed sequential time frame TEM imaging of morphological change of the BSA loaded particles showed a swelling and particle degradation process. Initial burst released due to surface protein desorption and diffusion from sublayers did not relate directly to change of particle size and shape, which was eminently apparent only after 6h. It is also notable that later stage particle degradation and disintegration did not yield a substantial follow-on release, as the remaining protein molecules, with adaptable 3-D conformation, could be tightly bound and entangled with the cationic chitosan chains. In general, this study demonstrated that the polyionic coacervation process for fabricating protein loaded chitosan nanoparticles offers simple preparation conditions and a clear processing window for manipulation of physiochemical properties of the nanoparticles (e.g., size and surface charge), which can be conditioned to exert control over protein encapsulation efficiency and subsequent release profile. The weakness of the chitosan nanoparticle system lies typically with difficulties in controlling initial burst effect in releasing large quantities of protein molecules. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is vital to elicit and amplify the cellular and humoral immune responses to foreign antigens, which is extensively utilized in the control of infectious disease and treatment of various cancers. Porcine and murine IL-2 genes were, respectively, subcloned into VR1020, designated as VPIL-2 and VMIL-2, and then encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (CNP) prepared by ionic linkage. The BALB/c mice were intramuscularly co-administrated with chitosan-IL-2 nanoparticles (CNP-IL2) and paratyphoid vaccine to test the adjuvant effect of CNP-IL2. On day 35, the immunized mice were orally challenged with virulent Salmonella. The content of IgG, IgA, IgM, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6 and specific antibody titer as well as the number of immunocompetent cells were systematically analyzed in the vaccinated mice. The results revealed that the levels of immunoglobulins, cytokines, the specific antibodies, together with the numbers of lymphocytes significantly increased in vaccinated mice inoculated with CNP-VPIL2 in contrast with those with naked IL-2 plasmids and blank plasmids. The CNP-VPIL2 immunized mice exhibited higher humoral and cellular immune responses, less severe clinical signs and lesions of disease caused by the bacteria than the other groups after challenge. These findings suggest that CNP-VPIL2 has a significant enhancement effect on immune responses of mice, which results in better immunoprotection against Salmonella infection, indicating that CNP-VPIL2 could be employed as an effective immunoadjuvant to elevate immunity of animals to conventional vaccines. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study was designed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo transfection efficiency of chitosan nanoparticles used as vectors for gene therapy. Three types of chitosan nanoparticles [quaternized chitosan −60% trimethylated chitosan oligomer (TMCO-60%), C(43–45 KDa, 87%), and C(230 KDa, 90%)] were used to encapsulate plasmid DNA (pDNA) encoding green fluorescent protein (GFP) using the complex coacervation technique. The morphology, optimal chitosan-pDNA binding ratio and conditions for maximal in vitro transfection were studied. The in vivo transfection was conducted by feeding the chitosan/pDNA nanoparticles to 12 BALB/C-nu/nu nude mice. Both conventional and TMCO-60% could form stable nanoparticles with pDNA. The in vitro study showed the transfection efficiency to be in the following descending order: TMCO-60%>C(43–45 KDa, 87%)>C(230 KDa, 90%). TMCO-60% proved to be the most efficient and the optimal chitosan/pDNA ratio being 3.2:1. In vivo study showed most prominent GPF expression in the gastric and upper intestinal mucosa. GFP expression in the mucosa of the stomach and duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and large intestine were found, respectively, in 100%, 88.9%, 77.8% and 66.7% of the nude mice examined. TMCO-60%/pDNA nanoparticles had better in vitro and in vivo transfection activity than the other two, and with minimal toxicity, which made it a desirable non-viral vector for gene therapy via oral administration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is considered a serious threat to global poultry production. Despite the availability of vaccines, it remains a major devastating epidemic responsible for great economic losses. The development of novel virus-controlling strategies is therefore an urgent need. The present study investigated for the first time the antiviral efficacy of propolis and chitosan nanoparticles against two NDV isolates, MW881875 and MW881876, recovered from vaccinated commercial broiler farms in KafrEl Sheikh Governorate, Egypt. The polygenetic analysis focused on the F and M genes, with one isolate having a 97% identity with the genotype VII NDV Israeli strain. On the other hand, the identified isolates showed high genetic variation and only 76% identity with the LaSota vaccine (genotype II). More interestingly, the cell cytotoxic concentrations of chitosan, propolis, and a propolis-chitosan mixture against Vero cells were 327.41 ± 12.63, 109.48 ± 8.36, and 231.78 ± 11.46 μg/ml, respectively. The median tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50) assay demonstrated that the nanoparticles have antiviral effects after NDV exposure resulting in significant decrease in viral titer (TCID50) by 2, 2.66, and 2.5 log10 at 62 μg/ml of chitosan, 13 μg/ml of propolis, and 30 μg/ml of the propolis-chitosan mixture, respectively, compared with the control TCID50 value of 4 log10. Taken together, the results provide novel insights into the potentially promising roles of propolis and chitosan as novel, safe, and effective antiviral agents against NDV., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Alkhalefa, Khaliel, Tahoon, Shaban, Magouz, Ghabban, Lokman and Elmahallawy.)

When organic polymer-based drug nanocarriers become concentrated in macrophages, their influence on macrophage polarization has been rarely reported. This study prepared chitosan-based nanoparticles (CNs, 181.5 nm, +14.83 mV) and detected their impacts on macrophage reprogram. RT-PCR results showed in M1-like RAW264.7 cells (Mφ1), CNs decreased CD86 and iNOS expressions by 53.8% and 57.1%, and increased Arg-1 and IL-10 by 642.9% and 102.1%; in M2-like cells (Mφ2), CNs reduced Arg-1 and MR expressions by 70.7% and 93.0%, but increased CD86, iNOS and TNF-α by 290.4%, 86.2% and 728.6%; these results, consistent with cytokine secretions and surface CD86/CD206 expressions, showed CNs polarized Mφ1 and Mφ2 toward opposite type so as to improve the macrophage polarization homeostasis. In CCl 4 -induced mouse liver injury model, CNs reduced the hepatic Mφ1/Mφ2 ratio from 1.1 (model group) to 0.3, and then reduced the serum AST and ALT level by 42.3% and 39.0%; in mouse model of hepatocellular carcinoma, CNs decreased the number of CD163-positive cells and increased CD86-positive ones in tumor, and subsequently inhibited the tumor growth and metastasis. This study suggests CNs can improve the phenotype homeostasis of macrophages and subsequently promote the treatment of certain diseases such as liver injury and tumor. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new system composed of chitosan nanoparticles loaded with methotrexate (MTX-CS-NPs) and functionalized with photocatalytic TiO2 nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) was prepared. This system is expected to initiate polymeric rupture of MTX-CS-NPs and subsequently release MTX, upon illumination with UV light. MTX-CS-NPs were prepared and characterized in terms of particle size, charge, polydispersity and drug release before and after coating with TiO2-NPs. The release of MTX in vitro was studied in dark, light and UV light. Finally, coated and uncoated MTX-CS-NPs were studied in vitro using MCF-7 cell line. The functionalized NPs were larger in size, more polydisperse and carried higher positive charges compared to the unfunctionalized NPs. The entrapment efficacy was high reaching 75% and was not affected by coating with MTX-CS-NPs. Further, less than 5% of methotrexate was released after 80 h from uncoated NPs and the release was not enhanced by UV illumination of the particles. In contrast, the release from functionalized NPs was enhanced, reaching 40% after 80 h, as the particles were stroked with UV light and as the amount of TiO2-NPs used in coating increased. Finally, coating the MTX-CS-NPs with TiO2-NPs significantly enhanced their cytotoxicity on MCF-7 cells. The coated MTX-CS-NPs recorded low cell viabilities compared to the other formulations. In conclusion, the drug release of MTX-CS-NPs could be triggered and controlled remotely by coating with TiO2-NPs, which maybe more effective in cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan is a natural polysaccharide, mainly derived from the shell of marine organisms. At present, chitosan has been widely used in the field of biomedicine due to its special characteristics of low toxicity, biocompatibility, biodegradation and low immunogenicity. Chitosan nanoparticles can be easily prepared. Chitosan nanoparticles with positive charge can enhance the adhesion of antigens in nasal mucosa and promote its absorption, which is expected to be used for intranasal vaccine delivery. In this study, we prepared chitosan nanoparticles by a gelation method, and modified the chitosan nanoparticles with mannose by hybridization. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was used as the model antigen for development of an intranasal vaccine. The preparation technology of the chitosan nanoparticle-based intranasal vaccine delivery system was optimized by design of experiment (DoE). The DoE results showed that mannose-modified chitosan nanoparticles (Man-BSA-CS-NPs) had high modification tolerance and the mean particle size and the surface charge with optimized Man-BSA-CS-NPs were 156 nm and +33.5 mV. FTIR and DSC results confirmed the presence of Man in Man-BSA-CS-NPs. The BSA released from Man-BSA-CS-NPs had no irreversible aggregation or degradation. In addition, the analysis of fluorescence spectroscopy of BSA confirmed an appropriate binding constant between CS and BSA in this study, which could improve the stability of BSA. The cell study in vitro demonstrated the low toxicity and biocompatibility of Man-BSA-CS-NPs. Confocal results showed that the Man-modified BSA-FITC-CS-NPs promote the endocytosis and internalization of BSA-FITC in DC2.4 cells. In vivo studies of mice, Man-BSA-CS-NPs intranasally immunized showed a significantly improvement of BSA-specific serum IgG response and the highest level of BSA-specific IgA expression in nasal lavage fluid. Overall, our study provides a promising method to modify BSA-loaded CS-NPs with mannose, which is worthy of further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work-study the improvement of the loading and release efficiency of sofosbuvir drug (SOF) for anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) by the combination process with β-cyclodextrin (βCD) basket to form a novel self-assembly βCD-SOF which load on the chitosan nanoparticle (Cs NPs) to form a novel hybrid composite (Cs@βCD-SOF). The characterization process performs for confirming the formation of hybrid composite with various methods. The loading efficiency of SOF is performed by UV-Vis spectroscopy, which is reported at 94.54% for Cs@βCD-SOF, while in the reverse case the efficiency is βCD-SOF@Cs 65.2%. The binding constant (K b ) was reported at 1.33 ± 0.02, and 0.1069 ± 0.03 min -1 for Cs@βCD-SOF and βCD-SOF@Cs, respectively. The release process of SOF is reported by UV-Vis spectra at 271 nm with 30 min intervals, at pH 7.4 the release efficiency is 67% after 6 h, and 78% after 21 h, while it gave 61% release efficiency at pH 6.8 after time 6 h, and 63% after 21 h. The cytotoxicity assay of the SOF capsulated hybrid materials (βCD-SOF and Cs@βCD-SOF) has been detected with three different types of cell lines like mouse normal liver cells (BNL), hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2), and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7). SRB method for the quick screening is used for the cytotoxicity assay of the SOF capsulated materials, where the examined composites appear a safety status and high viability against the examined cell line. The FRAP method is used to detect the antioxidant activities of SOF capsulated materials. The recommendation for using a safe alternative SOF drug based on Cs NPs and βCD which give on loading and release efficiency compared to SOF drugs, but the clinical trials are an important step., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The rising prevalence of impaired wound healing and the consequential healthcare burdens have gained increased attention over recent years. This has prompted research into the development of novel wound dressings with augmented wound healing functions. Nanoparticle (NP)-based delivery systems have become attractive candidates in constructing such wound dressings due to their various favourable attributes. The non-toxicity, biocompatibility and bioactivity of chitosan (CS)-based NPs make them ideal candidates for wound applications. This review focusses on the application of CS-based NP systems for use in wound treatment. An overview of the wound healing process was presented, followed by discussion on the properties and suitability of CS and its NPs in wound healing. The wound healing mechanisms exerted by CS-based NPs were then critically analysed and discussed in sections, namely haemostasis, infection prevention, inflammatory response, oxidative stress, angiogenesis, collagen deposition, and wound closure time. The results of the studies were thoroughly reviewed, and contradicting findings were identified and discussed. Based on the literature, the gap in research and future prospects in this research area were identified and highlighted. Current evidence shows that CS-based NPs possess superior wound healing effects either used on their own, or as drug delivery vehicles to encapsulate wound healing agents. It is concluded that great opportunities and potentials exist surrounding the use of CSNPs in wound healing., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article., (© 2022 Shenyang Pharmaceutical University. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Recently, the research and innovation to produce raw materials from microbial processes has gained much attention due to their economic and environmental impacts. Lactic acid is a very important microbial product due to its wide application in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and chemical industries. In the current study, poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA) was produced by the ring opening polymerization (ROP) technique of L-lactic acid recovered from whey fermentation, and was used for the production of nanocomposites films reinforced with chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) (average diameter ca. 100-200 nm). Three different CNPs concentrations, namely 1, 3, and 5% w/w, were tested, and their influence on the physical, mechanical, thermal, antibacterial and structural attributes of PLLA film was assessed. The results showed that the addition of CNPs up to 3% caused a significant improvement in water vapor permeability, appearance, tensile strength and elongation at break. The antibacterial properties of nanocomposites followed a dose-depended pattern as a result of CNPs addition. Therefore, the best inhibitory effects on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus was made by the addition of 5% of CNPs and lower dosages slightly affected the growth of pathogens or didn't cause any inhibitory effects (in 1% of CNPs). It can be concluded that the incorporation of CNPs into the PLLA matrix allows to improve the structural, thermal, physical, mechanical and antibacterial properties of the polymer, generating promising systems for food packaging and biomedical applications., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Garavand, Rouhi, Jafarzadeh, Khodaei, Cacciotti, Zargar and Razavi.)

The loss of fresh produces owing to the microbial infestation is a major challenge to the global food industry. The drastic food loss caused mainly by the fungal attack demands the need for development of active packaging materials with antimicrobial properties. Many studies have already been reported on the applications of polymers like polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) engineered with antimicrobial components as active antifungal packaging materials. In the current study, material properties of PVA alone, PVA incorporated with chitosan nanoparticles (PCS), clove oil (PCO), and their combination (PCSCO) have been studied for its microbial barrier and antifungal properties. All the developed films were characterised by the XRD and FTIR analysis, which confirmed the molecular interactions among the individual components of the nanocomposite. At the same time, the bionanocomposite PCSCO was found to have low moisture content and film solubility indicating its suitability for the modified atmosphere packaging applications. In addition, the presence of chitosan nanoparticles and clove oil was found to provide the microbial barrier properties to the PCS, PCO, and PCSCO films. The PCSCO film was further demonstrated to have superior antifungal activity against the selected Pythium aphanidermatum. The results of the study indicate the potential application of developed nanocomposite film as a promising antifungal packaging material., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

[Display omitted] • Self-assembly of sofosbuvir drug with bio-polymeric nanoparticles. • Spectroscopic study of the loading and release efficiency of sofosbuvir with bio-polymeric. • Improvement of the sofosbuvir drug release suggest a replaced drug for the anti-hepatitis C virus. Self-assembly of Sofosbuvir drug (SOF) anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) with bio-polymeric nanoparticles such as chitosan nanoparticles (Cs NPs) and polyvinyl alcohol nanoparticles (PVA NPs), the novel composites have been characterized successfully by different analysis such as Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV–Visible spectrophotometer (UV–Vis) and Fourier Transmittance Infrared (FT-IR). The improvement of the Sofosbuvir effect as a result of loading drug on the bio-polymer NPs surface has been detected by the UV–Vis, and fluorescence spectroscopy techniques. The improvement of SOF efficiency was revealed via studying the drug release of SOF from biopolymers NPs surface at pH 7.4, UV–Vis spectra used for the releasing process. The binding constant (K b) value was reported at 0.000055 and 0.3613 min−1 for Cs and PVA NPs respectively. Also, the value of K SV was documented at 0.0014 and 7.16 min−1 for Cs@SOF and PVA@SOF hybrid nanocomposite. The incorporation rate (k) of SOF on the surface of biopolymer nano molecules was calculated to be 0.00812 and 0.0165 min−1 for Cs and PVA NPs, respectively. Besides the observed value of (n) was close to the unit 0.74 and 0.86 for Cs and PVA NPs, respectively. The SOF released from Cs NPs surface was documented at 0.09 mg after 24 h, while PVA NPs reported at 0.7 mg at the same time and the release efficiency is 56.5 and 73% for Cs@SOF and PVP@SOF, respectively. From the results, we suggest Cs/SOF and PVA/SOF hybrid nanocomposites have spectroscopic results that make them promising candidate drugs, but need to the clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. Chemotherapy-promoted stemness and enhanced stem cell plasticity in breast cancer is a cause for great concern. The discovery of drugs targeting BCSCs was suggested to be an important advancement in the establishment of therapy that improves the efficacy of chemotherapy. In this work, by using single-cell mass cytometry, we observed that stemness in spheroid-forming cells derived from MDA-MB-231 cells was significantly increased after doxorubicin administration and up-regulated integrin αvβ3 expression was also observed. An RGD-included nanoparticle (CS-V) was designed, and it was found that it could promote doxorubicin's efficacy against MDA-MB-231 spheroid cells. The above observations suggested that the combination of RGD-included nanoparticles (CS-V) with the chemo-drug doxorubicin could be developed as a potential therapy for breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Investigation of interaction between chitosan polymer and bevacizumab Fab. • Application of two independent approaches including molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and spectroscopic techniques. • Application of chitosan in delivery of bevacizumab without damaging the drug structure. Corneal neovascularization and other angiogenic disorders are characterized by dysregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Anti-VEGF therapy, particularly by applying the specific monoclonal antibody Bevacizumab is a widely-used treatment. Chitosan polymer nanoparticles are typically used for Bevacizumab delivery to the corneal tissue. This study aimed to investigate the interaction of chitosan polymer with Bevacizumab from structural, thermodynamic and pharmaceutical viewpoints. Synthesized and characterized chitosan nanoparticles were loaded with Bevacizumab and studied by spectroscopic techniques. 3D structural model of Bevacizumab and chitosan polymer were built and studied through computational modeling by docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Our results demonstrated a spontaneous enthalpy-driven interaction between Bevacizumab and chitosan, mainly involving electrostatic and hydrogen bonds. Docking and simulations confirmed that the ternary structure, secondary structures, and the complementarity-determining regions (CDRs) of Bevacizumab remained stable in the presence of chitosan. In conclusion, the relatively weak interaction between Bevacizumab and chitosan nanoparticles provides the basis for efficient capture and appropriate release of the drug by chitosan as the essential part of the Bevacizumab delivery system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • DEX loaded chitosan nanoparticles (DEX-CSNPs) were prepared. • The encapsulation efficiency of the DEX-CSNPs was calculated 67.6 ± 6.7 %. • Mixing DEX-CSNPs with silk fibroin (SF) solution resulted in extended drug release. • DEX released from the prepared system for over 16 days. • The developed drug delivery system is suitable for drug delivery applications. The application of nanoparticles-loaded hydrogel as a novel formulation has gotten much attention for a potential drug delivery method for desire drug controlling and targeting. This study prepared a sustained release formulation using dexamethasone sodium phosphate-loaded chitosan nanoparticles embedded in silk fibroin hydrogel. Dexamethasone sodium phosphate-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (DEX-CSNPs) was developed using the ionotropic-gelation technique and inserted in the silk fibroin hydrogel (SFH). Mean particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential of DEX-CSNPs were 488.05 ± 38.69 n m , 0.15 ± 0.07 , 32.12 ± 2.42 m V , respectively. The encapsulation efficiency (EE), drug loading capacity (LC), and the cumulative amount of released drug of DEX-loaded CSNPs, which detected in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) solution, were 67.6 ± 6.7 % , 15.7 ± 5.7 % , and 75.84 % , respectively. The DEX-CSNPs were then mixed with silk fibroin (SF) solution and induced gelation by sonication to prepare a drug-releasing system. As a result, the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image shows that the prepared drug delivery system had a properly interconnected porous structure. Smaller pore size, greater porosity, higher water uptake, and swelling ratio were achieved by incorporating CSNPs and DEX-loaded CSNPs. The cytotoxicity study was performed for the L929 fibroblast cell line. The drug release kinetics study was performed on a prepared drug delivery system. Finally, the release test results showed a suitable extended-release of DEX from the carrier over 16 days. Overall, the developed drug-releasing system can be a promising candidate for drug delivery applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyper-inflammation associated with cytokine storm syndrome causes high mortality in patients with COVID-19. Glucocorticoids, such as methylprednisolone sodium succinate (MPSS), effectively inhibit this inflammatory response. However, frequent and chronic administration of glucocorticoids at high doses leads to hormone dependence and serious side effects. The aim of the present study was to combine nanoparticles with erythrocytes for the targeted delivery of MPSS to the lungs. Chitosan nanoparticles loading MPSS (MPSS-CSNPs) were prepared and adsorbed on the surface of red blood cells (RBC-MPSS-CSNPs) by non-covalent interaction. In vivo pharmacokinetic study indicated that RBC-hitchhiking could significantly reduce the plasma concentration of the drug and prolong the circulation time. The mean residence time (MRT) and area under the curve (AUC) of the RBC-MPSS-CSNPs group were significantly higher than those of the MPSS-CSNPs group and the MPSS injection group. Moreover, in vivo imaging and tissue distribution indicated that RBC-hitchhiking facilitated the accumulation of nanoparticles loading fluorescein in the lung, preventing uptake of these nanoparticles by the liver. Furthermore, compared with the MPSS-CSNPs and MPSS treatment groups, treatment with RBC-MPSS-CSNPs considerably inhibited the production of inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6, and consequently attenuated lung injury induced by lipopolysaccharide in rats. Therefore, RBC-hitchhiking is a potentially effective strategy for the delivery of nanoparticles to the lungs for the treatment of acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short-sequence RNAs that regulate gene expression by targeting messenger RNAs (mRNAs). Recent studies reveal that miRNA-324-5p plays an important role in worsening the ovarian cancer prognosis when the expression is very high. This study aimed to develop a miRNA targeted therapy by targeting the miRNA-324-5p function as a miRNA-324-5p inhibitor. Methods: Chitosan nanoparticles were used for antimiRNA-324-5p delivery into SKOV3 cell lines formulated by ionic gelation method. Antiproliferative effect of CS-NPs-antimiRNA was assessed by the MTT Assay. A mechanism study assessed the anticancer effect of the formula. In silico analysis used miRTar.Human and StarmiRDB combined with Genecard to predict the target genes of antimiR. Hawkdock web server was used to analyze protein-protein interactions that were further validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Results: The results of qPCR analysis showed endogenous miRNA-324-5p decreased after 24-hour transfection of antagonist miRNA. Furthermore, the MTT assay results showed that antimiRNA was able to inhibit SKOV3 cell proliferation (80 nM 68.13%, P < 0.05). In silico analysis found miRNA-324-5p can regulate MEN1 and indirectly repress Gli1 mRNA. Validation results confirmed antimiR can decrease GLI1 mRNA expression. Conclusion: Our results showed antimiRNA-324-5p can act as a microRNA-based therapy to inhibit ovarian cancer proliferation by the reduction of GLI1 expression.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the major causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Nowadays, liver-targeting drug delivery system has been proven as a promising strategy for overcoming HCC. Asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) is an ideal receptor for liver targeting, which is mainly expressed on hepatocytes. In this study, we developed several novel liver-targeting chitosan nanoparticles to selectively overcome HCC via ASGPR. Chitosan nanoparticles (Gly-CS-VE, Gal-Gly-CS-VE, Gly-CS-DCA, and Gal-Gly-CS-DCA) were prepared by grafting hydrophilic group (glycidol, Gly), hydrophobic group (deoxycholic acid, DCA or vitamin E succinate, VE), and ASGPR recognizing group (galactose, Gal). Subsequently, their characterizations were measured by 1 H NMR, FT-IR, TEM, and DLS. Doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded in nanoparticles and released out in a pH-dependent manner. Most importantly, the galactosylated Gal-Gly-CS-VE and Gal-Gly-CS-DCA nanoparticles exhibited significantly stronger in vitro cell internalization, cytotoxicity, anti-migration capabilities and in vivo anticancer efficacies than the corresponding Gly-CS-VE and Gly-CS-DCA nanoparticles, as well as free DOX. Finally, the four chitosan nanoparticles exhibited good biocompatibility without causing any obvious histological damage to the major organs. Overall, the galactosylated chitosan nanoparticles were proven to be promising pharmaceutical formulations for selectively overcoming HCC, with great potential for clinical applications.

After an osteosarcoma excision, recurrence and bone defects are significant challenges for clinicians. In this study, the curcumin (Cur) loaded chitosan (CS) nanoparticles (CCNP) encapsulated silk fibroin (SF)/hyaluronic acid esterified by methacrylate (HAMA) (CCNPs-SF/HAMA) hydrogel for the osteosarcoma therapy and bone regeneration was developed by photocuring and ethanol treatment. The micro or nanofibers networks were observed in the CCNPs-SF/HAMA hydrogel. The FTIR results demonstrated that alcohol vapor treatment caused an increase in β-sheets of SF, resulting in the high compression stress and Young's modulus of CCNPs-SF/HAMA hydrogel. According to the water uptake analysis, SF caused a slight decrease in water uptake of CCNPs-SF/HAMA hydrogel while CCNPs could enhance the water uptake of it. The swelling kinetic results showed that both the CCNPs and the SF increased the swelling ratio of CCNPs-SF/HAMA hydrogel. The accumulative release profile of CCNPs-SF/HAMA hydrogel showed that the release of Cur from CCNPs-SF/HAMA hydrogel was accelerated when pH value was decreased from 7.4 to 5.5. Besides, compared with CCNPs, the CCNPs-SF/HAMA hydrogel had a more sustainable drug release, which was beneficial for the long-term treatment of osteosarcoma. In vitro assay results indicated that CCNPs-SF/HAMA hydrogel with equivalent Cur concentration of 150 μg/mL possessed both the effect of anti-cancer and promoting the proliferation of osteoblasts. These results suggest that CCNPs-SF/HAMA hydrogel with superior physical properties and the bifunctional osteosarcoma therapy and bone repair may be an excellent candidate for local cancer therapy and bone regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan nanoparticles (CNP) is a biopolymer with good antioxidant and blood compatibility. However, its haemostatic nature limits its use for blood-contacting applications. This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and anti-thrombogenic properties of complexes composed of CNP and diallyl disulfide (DADS). The formation of intramolecular hydrogen bonds proved possible bonding between CNP and DADS to form complexes. XRD spectra showed the complexes were amorphous. The in-vitro study revealed that CNP/DADS exhibits 29.5% NO and 32.8% HP inhibition which proved its antioxidant properties. APTT and PT test results proved that CNP/DADS's antithrombogenic properties (P < 0.001), making it a promising material for hemodialysis application. [Display omitted] • Complexation of chitosan nanoparticles-diallyl disulfide (CNP/DADS) was confirmed using TEM-EDX, FTIR, NMR, X-ray diffraction, UV-Vis and DSC analysis. • Complexation of CNP/DADS improved antioxidant activity of nanoparticles nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide. • Complexation of CNP/DADS exhibit antithrombogenic and blood compatible properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaginal infections caused by various pathogens such as fungi, viruses and protozoa are frequently seen. Systemic and local treatments can be applied to eliminate these infections. Novel vaginal drug delivery systems can be used to provide local treatment. Vaginal drug delivery systems prevent systemic side effects and can provide long-term drug release in the vaginal area. Nanofibers and nanoparticles have a wide range of applications and can also be preferred as vaginal drug delivery systems. Benzydamine is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and antiseptic drug which is used for treatment of vaginal infections. The aim of this study was to compare the nanofiber and gel formulations containing lyophilized benzydamine nanoparticles with nanofiber and gel formulations containing free benzydamine, and to provide prolonged release for protection from the vaginal infections. Ionic gelation method was used for the preparation of benzydamine loaded nanoparticles. To produce benzydamine nanoparticles loaded nanofiber formulations, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) solutions were prepared at 10% concentrations and mixed with nanoparticles. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) was used as a gelling agent at the concentration of 1% for the vaginal gel formulation. Nanoparticles were characterized in terms of zeta potential, polydispersity index and particle size. Viscosity, surface tension and conductivity values of the polymer solutions were measured for the electrospinning. Mechanical properties, contact angle and drug loading capacity of the fibers were determined. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, mucoadhesion, ex vivo permeability studies and in vitro release studies were performed for the selected formulations. Ex vivo permeability studies were performed using Franz diffusion cell method. SEM and TEM images showed that fiber diameters increased with loading of nanoparticles. DSC studies showed no interaction between excipients used in the formulation. Tensile strength and elongation at break values of the fibers increased with the loading of nanoparticles, and the contact angle values of the fibers were found to be 0°. Addition of benzydamine nanoparticles to gel and nanofiber formulations increased mucoadhesion compared to free benzydamine loading formulations. Benzydamine nanoparticle loaded gel and nanofiber formulations penetrated slower than that of free benzydamine gel and fiber formulations. The results demonstrated that benzydamine and benzydamine nanoparticle loaded fibers and gels could be a potential drug delivery system for the treatment of vaginal infections. Chitosan nanoparticle loaded nanofiber formulations are offered as an alternative controlled release vaginal formulations for vaginal infections. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a complex inflammatory condition arising due to interactions of environmental and genetic factors that lead to dysregulated immune response and inflammation in intestine. Complementary and alternative medicine approaches have been utilized to treat IBD. However, chronic inflammatory diseases are not medically curable. Hence, potent anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents are urgently warranted. Melatonin has emerged as a potent anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective candidate. Although, it's therapeutic efficacy is compromised due to less solubility and rapid clearance. Hence, we have synthesized melatonin loaded chitosan nanoparticle (Mel-CSNPs) to improve drug release profile and evaluate its in-vitro and in-vivo therapeutic efficacy. Mel-CSNPs exhibited better anti-inflammatory response in an in-vitro and in-vivo IBD model. Significant anti-inflammatory activity of Mel-CSNPs is attributed to nitric oxide (NO) reduction, inhibited nuclear translocation of NF-kB p65 and reduced IL-1β and IL-6 expression. In-vivo biodistribution study has shown a good distribution profile. Effective in-vivo therapeutic efficiency of Mel-CSNPs has been confirmed with reduced disease activity index parameters and inhibited neutrophilic infiltration. Histological evaluation has further proved the protective effect of Mel-CSNPs by preventing crypt damage and immune cells infiltration against Dextran Sodium Sulphate induced insults. Immuno-histochemical analysis has confirmed anti-inflammatory action of Mel-CSNPs with reduction of inflammatory markers, Nitric Oxide Synthase-2 (NOS2) and Nitro-tyrosine. Indeed, this study divulges anti-inflammatory activity of Mel-CSNPs by improving the therapeutic potential of melatonin. [Display omitted] • Melatonin loaded chitosan nanoparticle for Inflammatory Bowel Disease treatment. • Nanoformulation ameliorates gross pathological parameters in colitic mice. • Anti-inflammatory action of melatonin is improved by nanoformulation. • Protective mechanism attributed by enhanced inhibition of NFκB-p65 nuclear translocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Foliar application of chitosan nanoparticle enhanced growth in finger millet. • Significant increase in yield, mineral content observed in treated plants. • Chitosan nanoparticle triggered the defense enzymes in leaves of finger millet. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the potential of chitosan and chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs) in enhancing the growth and yield of finger millet under greenhouse condition. Foliar application of ChNPs significantly enhanced the growth, yield and mineral content (Fe, Zn, Mn, P, Ca, Mg) when compared to the chitosan and untreated control. ChNPs also induced several defense related enzymes (chitinase, β-1,3 glucanase, chitosanase, protease inhibitors, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase) in leaves of finger millet plants their by enhancing the innate immune response. This quantitative difference in defense enzymes was also detected qualitatively on polyacrylamide gels. Our results suggest that ChNPs application can be used as an ecofriendly approach to enhance yield and mineral content in finger millet for sustainable production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]