Search

The main bioactive components of agarwood, derived from Aquilaria sinensis, include sesquiterpenes, 2-(2-phenethyl) chromone derivatives, aromatic compounds, and fatty acids, which typically exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immune-modulating, hypoglycemic, and antitumor pharmacological effects in the form of essential oils. Agarwood tree leaves, rich in flavonoids, 2-(2-phenethyl) chromone compounds, and flavonoid compounds, also exhibit significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-modulating effects. These properties are particularly relevant to the treatment of periodontitis, given that inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and immune dysregulation are key pathological mechanisms of the disease, highlighting the substantial potential of agarwood and agarwood tree leaves in this therapeutic area. However, the low solubility and poor bioavailability of essential oils present challenges that necessitate the development of improved active formulations. In this review, we will introduce the bioactive components, extraction methods, pharmacological actions, and clinical applications of agarwood and agarwood tree leaves, analyzing its prospects for the treatment of periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae) are among the most damaging pests for crops, due to the direct damage they cause and their ability to transmit viral diseases. Direct control of viral diseases is not possible, and hence, it is necessary to avoid the arrival of vectors to the crop. The objective of this study is to test whether spraying nanoemulsions of botanical products repel winged individuals of Myzus persicae (Sulzer) in a bioassay in culture chambers. Some of the bioactive volatiles tested, such as farnesol (similar to the aphid alarm pheromone), (E)-anethole (the major compound in anise and fennel essential oils) and a compound derived from coconut oil, have shown repellent effects both individually and in blends. This is valuable information for further research. Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is one of the most important aphid crop pests, due to its direct damage and its ability to transmit viral diseases in crops. The objective is to test whether spraying nanoemulsions of botanical products repels winged individuals of M. persicae in a bioassay in culture chambers. The bioactive volatiles were applied on pepper plants at a dose of 0.2% alone or at 0.1% of each component in blends. A treated plant and a control plant were placed at each side of an entomological cage inside a growth chamber. The winged individuals were released between the plants, in a black-painted Petri dish suspended by wires in the upper half of the cage. The most repellent products were farnesol (repellency index, RI = 40.24%), (E)-anethole (RI = 30.85%) and coconut fatty acid methyl ester (coconut FAME) (RI = 28.93%), alone or in the following blends: farnesol + (E)-anethole + distilled lemon oil (RI = 36.55%) or (E)-anethole + distilled lemon oil + coconut FAME (RI = 30.63%). The observed effect of coconut FAME on aphids is the first report of this product having a repellent effect on a crop pest. Repellent substances for viral disease vectors should be further investigated to develop new strategies for plant protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Theranostics is a growing field that matches diagnostics and therapeutics. In this approach, drugs and techniques are uniquely coupled to diagnose and treat medical conditions synergically or sequentially. By integrating diagnostic and treatment functions in a single platform, the aim of theranostics is to improve precision medicine by tailoring treatments based on real-time information. In this context, lipid-based nanocarriers have attracted great scientific attention due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and targeting capabilities. The present review highlights the latest research advances in the field of lipid-based nanocarriers for cancer theranostics, exploring several ways of improving in vivo performance and addressing associated challenges. These nanocarriers have significant potential to create new perspectives in the field of nanomedicine and offer promise for a significant step towards more personalized and precise medicine, reducing side effects and improving clinical outcomes for patients. This review also presents the actual barriers to and the possible challenges in the use of nanoparticles in the theranostic field, such as regulatory hurdles, high costs, and technological integration. Addressing these issues through a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach among institutions could be essential for advancing lipid nanocarriers in the theranostic field. Such collaborations can leverage diverse expertise and resources, fostering innovation and overcoming the complex challenges associated with clinical translation. This approach will be crucial for realizing the full potential of lipid-based nanocarriers in precision medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food nanoemulsions are known as very effective and excellent carriers for both lipophilic and hydrophilic bioactive compounds (BCs) and have been successfully used for controlled delivery and protection of BCs during gastrointestinal digestion (GID). However, due to sensitive and fragile morphology, BCs-loaded nanoemulsions have different digestion pathways depending on their properties, food matrix properties, and applied models for testing their digestibility and BCs bioaccessibility. Thus, this review gives a critical review of the behavior of encapsulated BCs into food nanoemulsions during each phase of GID in different static and dynamic in vitro digestion models, as well as of the influence of nanoemulsion and food matrix properties on BCs bioaccessibility. In the last section, the toxicity and safety of BCs-loaded nanoemulsions evaluated on in vitro and in vivo GID models have also been discussed. Better knowledge of food nanoemulsions' behavior in different models of simulated GI conditions and within different nanoemulsion and food matrix types can help to standardize the protocol for their testing aiming for researchers to compare results and design BCs-loaded nanoemulsions with better performance and higher targeted BCs bioaccessibility. HIGHLIGHTS: Food nanoemulsions are effective and excellent carriers for bioactive compounds (BCs). Nanoemulsions are often subject to morphological and structural changes during digestion. BC-s loaded nanoemulsions have different digestion pathways in different digestion models. BC-s have different bioaccessibility in different nanoemulsion models. Food matrix can affect the bioaccessibility of BCs entrapped in nanoemulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stabilisation of road materials that do not meet specified requirements is a common practice in road construction. Cement and lime are among the most commonly used products for stabilisation. However, these products pose challenges in particular conditions, including rigidity and proneness to cracking, incompatibility with certain materials types and susceptibility to particular environmental conditions. In this regard, alternatives have been considered and nanotechnology-based materials have emerged as a viable option. For this study, the efficacy of Nano-Modified Emulsion (NME) for stabilisation of gravel material was investigated. The gravel material, stabilised with up to 1.5% NME was evaluated in the laboratory for mechanical strength characteristics and resistance to moisture damage. Results obtained for Static Triaxial Tests (STT) show that the NME improves the cohesion of the material by up to 54% but has no significant effect on the friction angle. Significant improvements are also noted in the results for California Bearing Ratio (CBR), Unconfined Compression Strength (UCS) and Indirect Tensile Strength (ITS) tests. The results also show that NME stabilisation improves the gravel material's resistance to moisture damage. Further investigations are recommended for repeated load triaxial tests, field trials, environmental risks and life cycle costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New strategies for enhancing drug delivery to the blood–brain barrier (BBB) represent a major challenge in treating cerebral diseases. Nanoemulsion-based nanocarriers represent an ideal candidate to improve drug delivery thanks to their versatility in functionalization and cargo protection. In this work, a paclitaxel-loaded nano-emulsion has been firstly functionalized and stabilized with two layers constituted of chitosan and hyaluronic acid, and, secondly, the latter has been conjugated to the CRT peptide. CRT is a bioactive peptide that selectively recognizes bEnd.3 cells, a model of the BBB, thanks to its interactions with transferrin (Tf) and its receptor (TfR). Cytotoxic results showed a 41.5% higher uptake of CRT functionalized nano-emulsion than the negative control, demonstrating the ability of this novel tool to be accumulated in brain endothelium tissue. Based upon these results, our approach can be fully generalizable to the design of multifunctional nanocarriers for delivery of therapeutic agents to the central nervous systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yurou Shi,1,2,* Yingjie Zhang,1,* Yaxuan Zhang,2 Jiali Yao,2 Junping Guo,3 Xiaoling Xu,2 Lijun Wang1 1Geriatric Medicine Center, Department of Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital (Affiliated People’s Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, People’s Republic of China; 2Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, 310015, People’s Republic of China; 3Rainbowfish Rehabilitation and Nursing School, Hangzhou Vocational & Technical College, Hangzhou, 310018, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Xiaoling Xu, Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, 8 Shuren Street, Hangzhou, 310015, People’s Republic of China, Email ziyao1988@zju.edu.cn Lijun Wang, Geriatric Medicine Center, Department of Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, No. 158 Shangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, People’s Republic of China, Email wanglijun@hmc.edu.cnAbstract: Aging is an inevitable process in the human body, and cellular senescence refers to irreversible cell cycle arrest caused by external aging-promoting mechanisms. Moreover, as age increases, the accumulation of senescent cells limits both the health of the body and lifespan and even accelerates the occurrence and progression of age-related diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to delay the periodic irreversible arrest and continuous accumulation of senescent cells to address the issue of aging. The fundamental solution is targeted therapy focused on eliminating senescent cells or reducing the senescence-associated secretory phenotype. Over the past few decades, the remarkable development of nanomaterials has revolutionized clinical drug delivery pathways. Their unique optical, magnetic, and electrical properties effectively compensate for the shortcomings of traditional drugs, such as low stability and short half-life, thereby maximizing the bioavailability and minimizing the toxicity of drug delivery. This article provides an overview of how nanomedicine systems control drug release and achieve effective diagnosis. By presenting and analyzing recent advances in nanotherapy for targeting senescent cells, the underlying mechanisms of nanomedicine for senolytic and senomorphic therapy are clarified, providing great potential for targeting senescent cells. Keywords: senescent cells, calcium carbonate nanoparticles, liposomes, nanoemulsions, mesoporous silica nanoparticles

AbstractCalotropis gigantea essential oil is utilized in outmoded medicine, therapeutics, and the cosmetic industries. However, the extreme volatility, oxidation susceptibility, and instability of this oil restricts its application. Thus, encapsulation is a more effective method of shielding this oil from unfavorable circumstances. The creation of oil/water (O/W) nanoemulsions based on Calotropis gigantea essential oil (CEO), known as CNE (Calotropis gigantea essential oil nanoemulsions), and an assessment of its biological potential were the goals of this work. UV, fluorescence, and FT-IR methods were used for physiological characterization. Biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer effects. Studies on the pharmacokinetics of CNE were conducted. CNEs encapsulation efficiency was found to be 92%. The CNE nanoemulsions had a spherical shape with polydispersity index of 0.531, size of 200 nm, and a zeta potential of −35.9 mV. Even after being stored at various temperatures for 50 days, CNE nanoemulsions remained stable. Numerous tests were used to determine the antioxidant capacity of CNE, and the following IC50 values (µl/mL) were found: iron chelating assay: 18, hydroxyl radical scavenging: 37, and nitric oxide radical scavenging activity: 58. The percentage of HeLa cells that remained viable after being treated with CNE was 41% at a higher dose of 1 µl. CNE inhibited α-amylase in a dose-dependent manner, with 72% inhibition at its higher dose of 250 µL. Research on the kinetics of drugs showed that nanoemulsions showed Higuchi pattern. This research showed potential use of Calotropis gigantea oil-based nanoemulsions in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myrtaceae is one of the most important plants families, being regarded as the eighth largest flowering plant family. It includes many genera of utmost ecological and economical importance distributed all over the world. This review aimed to report the latest studies on this family focusing on certain widely used plants including Eucalyptus sp., Eugenia sp. (Eugenia uniflora, Eugenia sulcata), Syzygium sp. (Syzygium aromaticum and Syzygium cumini), Psidium sp., Pimenta dioica, Myrtus sp. (Myrtus communis), Myrciaria sp. and Melaleuca alternifolia. The extraction of bioactive compounds has been evolving through the optimization of conventional methods and the use of emerging technologies. Supercritical CO2 was applied for essential oils and ultrasound for polyphenols leading to extracts and essential oils rich in bioactive compounds. Advances in the field of encapsulation and delivery systems showed promising results in the production of stable essential oils nanoemulsions and liposomes and the production of plant extracts in the form of nanoparticles. Moreover, a significant increase in the number of patents was noticed especially the application of Myrtaceae extracts in the pharrmacuetucal field. The applications of ceratin plants (Pimenta dioica, Melaleuca alternifolia, Syzygium aromaticum essential oils or Myrciaria cauliflora peel extract) in food area (either as a free or encapsulated form) also showed interesting results in limiting microbial spoilage of fresh meat and fish, slowing oxidative degradation in meat products, and inhibiting aflatoxin production in maize. Despite the massive literature on Myrtaceae plants, advances are still necessary to optimize the extraction with environmentally friendly technologies and carry out risk assessment studies should be accomplished to harness the full potential in food, industrial and pharmaceutical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leishmaniasis is a neglected parasitic disease. Numerous studies suggested that nanoemulsions could improve drug delivery in the treatment of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis. This study aims to determine the effect of chitosan-coated nanoemulsions of ozonated olive oil on Leishmania major promastigote/amastigote in vitro. Nanoemulsions (NEs) were prepared using a sonicator bath at 37 °C for one hour at 1000 W, followed by 24 hours of stirring at pH 5.5. The NE was then supplemented with chitosan and stirred all night long at a low speed. Droplet size, zeta potential, in vitro drug release, and cytotoxicity were examined to optimize the chitosan nanoemulsions (CNE) and chitosan ozonated nanoemulsions (CONE). CONE and CNE were found to have droplet sizes and zeta potentials of 16.86 nm, 19.03 nm, 19.7 mV, and 19.3 mV, respectively. Additionally, the final CONE's drug loading and encapsulation efficiency were determined to be 100% and 3.21%, respectively. The lower doses of CONE had no cytotoxic effects on macrophages. Additionally, it has the ability to inhibit L. major promastigote/amastigote growth. Therefore, the lower doses of the CONE formulation can inhibit the growth of promastigote and amastigote of L. major in vitro while not being toxic to macrophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: What are the main findings? The use of essential oils in food is still limited. Emulsification reduces impact on sensory properties of essential oils. Essential oils are characterized by numerous health-promoting, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. What is the implication of the main finding? Essential oil nanoemulsions as promising ingredient for extending the shelf life of smoothies. Over the years, consumer awareness of proper, healthy eating has increased significantly, but the consumption of fruits and vegetables remains too low. Smoothie drinks offer a convenient way to supplement daily diets with servings of fruits and vegetables. These ready-to-eat beverages retain the nutritional benefits of the raw ingredients from which they are made. Furthermore, they cater to the growing demand for quick and nutritious meal options. To meet consumer expectations, current trends in the food market are shifting towards natural, high-quality products with minimal processing and extended shelf life. Food manufacturers are increasingly aiming to reduce or eliminate synthetic preservatives, replacing them with plant-based alternatives. Plant-based preservatives are particularly appealing to consumers, who often view them as natural and organic substitutes for conventional preservatives. Essential oils, known for their antibacterial and antifungal properties, are effective against the microorganisms and fungi present in fruit and vegetable smoothies. However, the strong taste and aroma of essential oils can be a significant drawback, as the concentrations needed for microbiological stability are often unpalatable to consumers. Encapsulation of essential oils in nanoemulsions offers a promising and effective solution to these challenges, allowing for their use in food production without compromising sensory qualities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonellosis has a high power of dissemination and dispersion of strains resistant to conventional antimicrobials, which constitutes a public health problem. Nanoemulsions can enhance the efficacy of antimicrobials compared to conventional drug administration, with reduced side effects and prolonged release. The aim of this study is to produce nanoemulsions by high-energy method using alginate and gum arabic matrices to evaluate the effect of three types of chalcone on the inhibition of S. minnesota and to propose an alternative candidate to overcome antibiotic resistance in pathogenic bacteria. Nanoemulsions with nanosized spherical particles obtained with gum arabic are more stable over time than those with alginate by the lower sedimentation values and the smaller size of the droplets. The antibacterial inhibition test against S. minnesota revealed that the chalcone 1,5-di(thiophen-2-yl)penta-1,4-dien-3-one (TIOF) and 1,5-bis(4-ethoxyphenyl)penta-1,4-dien-3-one (ETOX) and their nanoemulsions presented an equivalent effect compared to the positive control (sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim). On the other hand, although the chalcone 1,9-diphenylnone-1,3,6,8-tetraen-5-one (CNM) presented low inhibitory capacity, they presented an increasing in the inhibitory activity of 164%, when they were in the nanoemulsion form in comparison with the free form, and equivalent activity to the positive control. Nanoemulsions of gum arabic with 1,9-diphenylnone-1,3,6,8-tetraen-5-one (CNM) also presented lower cytotoxic effects, being a promising inhibitor against S. minnesota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cuscuta chinensis (C. chinensis) presents many pharmacological activities, including antidiabetic effects, and antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties. However, the wound care properties of this plant have not yet been reported. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities of ethanol and ethyl acetate C. chinensis extracts. The phytochemical markers in the extracts were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Then, the selected C. chinensis extract was developed into a nanoemulsion-based gel for wound care testing in rats. The results showed that both of the C. chinensis extracts exhibited antioxidant activity when tested using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and lipid peroxidation inhibition assays. They reduced the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in RAW264.7 cells induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The ethyl acetate extract also had antibacterial properties. Kaempferol was found in both extracts, whereas hyperoside was found only in the ethanol extract. These compounds were found to be related to the biological activities of the extracts, confirmed via molecular docking. The C. chinensis extract-loaded nanoemulsions had a small particle size, a narrow polydispersity index (PDI), and good stability. Furthermore, the C. chinensis extract-loaded nanoemulsion-based gel had a positive effect on wound healing, presenting a better percentage wound contraction Fucidin cream. In conclusion, this formulation has the potential for use as an alternative wound treatment and warrants further study in clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we developed a green and multifunctional bioactive nanoemulsion (BBG-NEs) of Blumea balsamifera oil using Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP) and glycyrrhizic acid (GA) as natural emulsifiers. The process parameters were optimized using particle size, PDI, and zeta potential as evaluation parameters. The physicochemical properties, stability, transdermal properties, and bioactivities of the BBG-NEs under optimal operating conditions were investigated. Finally, network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to elucidate the potential molecular mechanism underlying its wound-healing properties. After parameter optimization, BBG-NEs exhibited excellent stability and demonstrated favorable in vitro transdermal properties. Furthermore, it displayed enhanced antioxidant and wound-healing effects. SD rats wound-healing experiments demonstrated improved scab formation and accelerated healing in the BBG-NE treatment relative to BBO and emulsifier groups. Pharmacological network analyses showed that AKT1, CXCL8, and EGFR may be key targets of BBG-NEs in wound repair. The results of a scratch assay and Western blotting assay also demonstrated that BBG-NEs could effectively promote cell migration and inhibit inflammatory responses. These results indicate the potential of the developed BBG-NEs for antioxidant and skin wound applications, expanding the utility of natural emulsifiers. Meanwhile, this study provided a preliminary explanation of the potential mechanism of BBG-NEs to promote wound healing through network pharmacology and molecular docking, which provided a basis for the mechanistic study of green multifunctional nanoemulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodegradable polymers can be utilized for coating plant derivations and help to preserve their medicinal properties, such as carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). This study was conducted to investigate the wound healing activity of nanoemulsions (NEs) of Lavender officinalis essential oil (LOEO)/CMC in an infected mice model. Physicochemical properties of the NEs of LOEO and LOEO-NES/CMC-ONT were investigated. The NEs were blended with base formulations and administrated on infected wounds. Wound contraction, histopathological parameters, the expressions of CD31 and VEGF (Vascular endothelial growth factor), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), smooth muscle alpha-actin (αSMA), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) were investigated. The results confirmed the successful synthesis and safety of the NEs. In addition, CMC helped to slow release and in a longer time of LOEO. Antibacterial activity of NEs and their ointment was confirmed. The results also showed that the administration of ointments prepared from LOEO-NEs/CMC and LOEO-NEs could increase the expression of CD31, VEGF, αSMA, TGF-β, FGF-2, and decrease TNF-α and IL-6 compared with mice treated with base formulations (p = 0.0001). Ointments prepared from LOEO-NEs/CMC and LOEO-NEs accelerate wound healing via promoting the proliferative phase and especially via factors involved in angiogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food & Machinery is the property of Food & Machinery Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Resveratrol (R) is an antioxidant that helps several aspects of aging skin. However, it is slightly soluble in water and unstable under light exposure, necessitating the use of suitable formulations for improved clinical efficacy. Therefore, this study aimed to prepare R-loaded lipid-based nanocarriers for topical delivery, i.e., nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) and nanoemulsions (NEs). R-loaded nanocarrier gels were further prepared to increase R loading. The comparative physical properties and antioxidant activity of nanocarriers were performed in terms of particle size, zeta potential, morphology, rheology, R content, in vitro release, antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity and stability. The results revealed that R was successfully loaded into NLCs and NE gels (NEGs), having different physical properties and antioxidant activity depending on the composition of lipid-based nanocarriers. R could be incorporated into NEs and the aqueous gelling phase, resulting in higher R loading. Furthermore, the gelling network was responsible for pseudoplastic flow behavior. The cumulative amount of R released from NEGs was significantly higher than that from NLCs due to the co-surfactant-like properties of NEGs, which resulted in smaller particle sizes. However, NLCs exhibited significantly more antioxidant activity and less cytotoxicity compared to NEGs. The stability of both nanosystems showed no significant change when stored at refrigerator temperature for over 3 months. In conclusion, the various compositions of lipid-based nanocarriers produced a range of physical properties and antioxidant activity. Nonetheless, these NLCs and NEGs have the potential to be nanocarriers for R, which has antioxidant properties for topical application.

Abstract Traditional eye drops are administered via topical instillation. However, frequent dosing is needed due to their relatively rapid precorneal removal and low ocular bioavailability. To address these issues, stearoyl L-carnitine-modified nanoemulsions (SC-NEs) were fabricated. The physicochemical properties of SC-NEs in terms of size, morphology, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro drug release behavior were characterized. The cellular uptake and mechanisms of SC-NEs were comprehensively studied in human corneal epithelial cells and the stearoyl L-carnitine ratio in SC-NEs was optimized. The optimized SC-NEs could target the novel organic cation/carnitine transporter 2 (OCTN2) and amino acid transporter B (0 +) (ATB0,+) on the corneal epithelium, which led to superior corneal permeation, ocular surface retention ability, ocular bioavailability. Furthermore, SC-NEs showed excellent in vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy in a rabbit model of endotoxin-induced uveitis. The ocular safety test indicated that the SC-NEs were biocompatible. In general, the current study demonstrated that OCTN2 and ATB0,+-targeted nanoemulsions were promising ophthalmologic drug delivery systems that can improve ocular drug bioavailability and boost the therapeutic effects of drugs for eye diseases. Graphical Abstract

A stable neem oil-based oil-in-water nanoemulsion (o/w NE) is obtained by using a series of combinations of low and high-energy methods using optimized emulsifier composition. The application of the ultrasonication (high-energy) along with the dilution (low-energy) methods was used to intensify the process. Azadirachtin (indigenous neem oil) is used as an oil phase along with a mixture of two nonionic surfactants, namely Span80 and Tween80. The o/w NE is synthesized at an optimized HLB value of 8.5. Process parameters of ultrasonication are optimized and resulted in a 25% amplitude ratio, a 0.5 pulse mode factor, and a 30 minutes of ultrasonication time. The effects of optimized parameters are studied on droplet size distribution and the stability of o/w NE. For the oil concentration of 2.5%, the droplet diameter changed from 159 to 160.9 nm for a period of 45 days. Rheological properties of NEs are also evaluated by studying the relationship between shear rate with shear stress and viscosity at different temperatures, ranging from 20 to 50 °C. All the synthesized o/w NEs showed Newtonian behavior. Hence, the o/w NEs exhibited excellent stability for 45 days in terms of its droplet size, appearance, and rheology. The proposed o/w NE could be a potential pesticide for safeguarding the crops, without affecting the useful microorganisms, in the agriculture fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The targeted delivery of a hydrophilic Tripeptide-3 to the skin using microemulsions or nanoemulsions for facial oil reduction was the focus of this study. The impact factors affecting oil/water transparent dispersion formation, such as the surfactant system, HLB value, and co-solvent, were identified through the water titration method and pseudoternary phase diagram plots. The interfacial tension between caprylic/capric triglyceride (CCT oil) and water was significantly reduced by the surfactant/co-surfactant combination (Smix) of Cremophore® RH40 and a double-tails co-surfactant, polyglycerol-3-diisostearate, at an HLB of 13 together with a water-to-co-solvent (PG) ratio of 1:1. A two-level full factorial design of experiment (FFD-DoE) emphasized the independent variables of the HLB value, co-solvent, and CCT oil contents affecting the optimal compositions for micro- or nanoemulsion formation. The low-energy spontaneous emulsification of the optimized combination at a low Smix content (10%) yielded the translucent oil-in-water Tripeptide-3 nanoemulsions with an internal droplet size of 25.7 ± 1.20 nm, a narrow polydispersity index of 0.237 ± 0.129, and 70.6 ± 0.58% transmittance. The in vitro skin permeation study revealed a significantly higher skin penetration and retention of the Tripeptide-3 nanoemulsions compared to the high surfactant microemulsions and coarse emulsions. Skin irritation and oil control efficacy were evaluated in healthy volunteers before and after product application for 28 days. The obtained nanoemulsions not only decreased sebum production but also enhanced skin moisture levels. In conclusion, the meticulously designed nanoemulsions, incorporating suitable excipients, show a promising delivery system for hydrophilic peptides to control sebum overproduction in oily facial skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor prognosis in high-grade gliomas is mainly due to fatal relapse after surgical resection in the absence of efficient chemotherapy, which is severely hampered by the blood–brain barrier. However, the leaky blood–brain–tumour barrier forms upon tumour growth and vascularization, allowing targeted nanocarrier-mediated drug delivery. The homotypic targeting ability of cell-membrane fragments obtained from cancer cells means that these fragments can be exploited to this aim. In this experimental work, injectable nanoemulsions, which have a long history of safe clinic usage, have been wrapped in glioma-cell membrane fragments via co-extrusion to give targeted, homogeneously sized, sterile formulations. These systems were then loaded with three different chemotherapeutics, in the form of hydrophobic ion pairs that can be released into the target site thanks to interactions with physiological components. The numerous assays performed in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cell models demonstrate that the proposed approach is a versatile drug-delivery platform with chemo-tactic properties towards glioma cells, with adhesive interactions between the target cell and the cell membrane fragments most likely being responsible for the effect. This approach's promising translational perspectives towards personalized nanomedicine mean that further in vivo studies are foreseen for the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst the ongoing evolution of microorganisms and subsequent public health crises, it is imperative to explore innovative approaches to reduce their pathogenicity. Recent epidemics such as the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus and monkeypox have further emphasized the urgent need to address this global challenge. Thanks to scientific advancements, various alternatives to allopathic medicines have gained prominence. Essential oils (E.O.s), known for their broad bioactivities derived from their rich composition of terpenes and phenylpropanoids, hold potential in neutralizing pathogen proliferation. Using data mining and machine learning techniques, this study initially aims to address the following questions through data collection from the Scopus database using seven keyword combinations: "Can essential oils be effective in combating pandemics?" and "How are nanotechnology and oils being employed?" Finally, "Are chitosan‐stabilized nanoparticles and nanoemulsions of these oils antimicrobial agents?" Bibliographic data is extracted in RIS format to answer these questions and subsequently analyzed using bibliometric networks with VOSviewer software. These findings underscore that predominant research focuses on the production of chitosan‐stabilized nanoparticles of E.O.s as potential tools against various pathogens. The meta‐analysis reveals a diamond range of 2.03–2.08, demonstrating that despite the observed heterogeneity, the study results generally lean toward the weighted average. This indicates the promise of chitosan‐stabilized nanoparticles and nanoemulsions based on E.O.s as antimicrobial agents. By highlighting the antimicrobial potential of E.O.s, particularly when incorporated into chitosan‐stabilized nanoparticles and nanoemulsions, this study elucidates a promising path for a more resilient future against pathogenic threats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Chinese Institute of Food Science & Technology is the property of Journal of Chinese Institute of Food Science & Technology Periodical Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: This review investigates the synthesis of nanoemulsions utilizing prepared essential oils and evaluates their antimicrobial effects. Nanoemulsions, characterized by their small droplet size and enhanced stability, offer promising applications in various industries, including pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, due to their potent antimicrobial properties. Methods: The synthesis process involves the preparation of essential oils through extraction methods, followed by their incorporation into nanoemulsion formulations using appropriate surfactants and homogenization techniques. The resulting nanoemulsions are then subjected to rigorous antimicrobial testing against a spectrum of microorganisms, employing standardized assays to assess their efficacy. Results: The findings highlight the significant antimicrobial potential of these essential oilbased nanoemulsions, demonstrating their effectiveness against a variety of bacterial and fungal strains. Furthermore, the elucidation of the underlying mechanisms governing their antimicrobial activity is explored, providing valuable insights into their mode of action. Conclusion: This study contributes to advancing the understanding of nanoemulsion synthesis using prepared essential oils and underscores their promising role as effective antimicrobial agents in diverse applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the anti-collagenase, anti-elastase, and anti-hyaluronidase activities of Passiflora quadrangularis fruit extracts (epicarp, mesocarp, endocarp, and seed), develop stable nanoemulsions, and evaluate the efficacy of the nanoemulsions containing extracts in human volunteers. The results indicated that the epicarp and seed extracts exhibited collagenase, elastase, and hyaluronidase inhibition effects. Gallic acid was identified in the extracts, with the highest concentration found in the endocarp extract (1449.35 mg gallic acid/g extract) followed by the seed extract (839.63 mg gallic acid/g extract). The endocarp and seed extracts demonstrated good stability at different temperatures. Consequently, these extracts were selected for incorporation into nanoemulsions due to their high yield, excellent anti-tyrosinase and anti-aging activity, and good stability, making them suitable for cosmetic products. The nanoemulsions were prepared using the ultrasonication method, resulting in a particle size of 133.1 ± 0.8 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.33 ± 0.03, and a zeta potential of −61.8 ± 0.6 mV, indicating good stability. The nano-serum containing extracts was non-irritating and safe for the skin. Skin evaluation among human volunteers after 60 days of application revealed improvements in skin hydration and reduction in wrinkles. In conclusion, nanoemulsions containing P. quadrangularis fruit extracts have the potential to be effective cosmetic products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional eye drops are administered via topical instillation. However, frequent dosing is needed due to their relatively rapid precorneal removal and low ocular bioavailability. To address these issues, stearoyl L-carnitine-modified nanoemulsions (SC-NEs) were fabricated. The physicochemical properties of SC-NEs in terms of size, morphology, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro drug release behavior were characterized. The cellular uptake and mechanisms of SC-NEs were comprehensively studied in human corneal epithelial cells and the stearoyl L-carnitine ratio in SC-NEs was optimized. The optimized SC-NEs could target the novel organic cation/carnitine transporter 2 (OCTN2) and amino acid transporter B (0 +) (ATB0,+) on the corneal epithelium, which led to superior corneal permeation, ocular surface retention ability, ocular bioavailability. Furthermore, SC-NEs showed excellent in vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy in a rabbit model of endotoxin-induced uveitis. The ocular safety test indicated that the SC-NEs were biocompatible. In general, the current study demonstrated that OCTN2 and ATB0,+-targeted nanoemulsions were promising ophthalmologic drug delivery systems that can improve ocular drug bioavailability and boost the therapeutic effects of drugs for eye diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last few decades, cancer has been considered a clinical challenge, being among the leading causes of mortality all over the world. Although many treatment approaches have been developed for cancer, chemotherapy is still the most utilized in the clinical setting. However, the available chemotherapeutics-based treatments have several caveats including their lack of specificity, adverse effects as well as cancer relapse and metastasis which mainly explains the low survival rate of patients. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have been utilized as promising nanocarrier systems for chemotherapeutics to overcome the challenges of the currently applied therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment. Loading chemotherapeutic agent(s) into LNPs improves drug delivery at different aspects including specific targeting of tumours, and enhancing the bioavailability of drugs at the tumour site through selective release of their payload, thus reducing their undesired side effects on healthy cells. This review article delineates an overview of the clinical challenges in many cancer treatments as well as depicts the role of LNPs in achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes. Moreover, the review contains a comprehensive description of the many LNPs categories used as nanocarriers in cancer treatment to date, as well as the potential of LNPs for future applications in other areas of medicine and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on the findings from a study that aimed to identify and characterize the constituents of Ocimum basilicum extract using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis, as well as assess the physicochemical properties and stability of nanoemulsions formulated with O. basilicum extract. The GC–MS analysis revealed that the O. basilicum extract contained 22 components, with Caryophyllene and Naringenin identified as the primary active constituents. The nanoemulsion formulation demonstrated excellent potential for use in the biomedical field, with a small and uniform particle size distribution, a negative zeta potential, and high encapsulation efficiency for the O. basilicum extract. The nanoemulsions exhibited spherical morphology and remained physically stable for up to 6 months. In vitro release studies indicated sustained release of the extract from the nanoemulsion formulation compared to the free extract solution. Furthermore, the developed nanoformulation exhibited enhanced anticancer properties against K562 cells while demonstrating low toxicity in normal cells (HEK293). The O. basilicum extract demonstrated antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, and Staphylococcus epidermidis, with a potential synergistic effect observed when combined with the nanoemulsion. These findings contribute to the understanding of the constituents and potential applications of O. basilicum extract and its nanoemulsion formulation in various fields, including healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. Further optimization and research are necessary to maximize the efficacy and antimicrobial activity of the extract and its nanoformulation. Research Highlights: This study characterized the constituents of O. basilicum extract and assessed the physicochemical properties and stability of its nanoemulsion formulation.The O. basilicum extract contained 22 components, with Caryophyllene and Naringenin identified as the primary active constituents.The nanoemulsion formulation demonstrated excellent potential for biomedical applications, with sustained release of the extract, low toxicity, and enhanced anticancer and antimicrobial properties.The findings contribute to the understanding of the potential applications of O. basilicum extract and its nanoemulsion formulation in healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, highlighting the need for further optimization and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reducing the use of stabilizers is one of the main challenges in food emulsions, especially for beverages. This work aimed to produce oleogel-structured nanoemulsions (NEs) without additional surfactants. Lecithin-stearic acid (LSa) and lecithin-sorbitan tristearate (LSt) oleogels formed stable NEs under optimized sonication conditions. Microscopy and rheometry revealed that the presence of self-assembled fibrous networks (SAFiNs) in both dispersed and continuous phases provided steric stabilization to NEs. Lecithin acted as crystal habit modifier of SAFiNs and facilitated their phase partitioning. Notably, the short fibers of LSt showed better emulsifying efficiency than the long fibers of LSa. Curcumin release studies under simulated gastrointestinal conditions demonstrated that SAFiNs affect the release capabilities of NEs. Polydispersity index, zeta potential and oil syneresis data showed that the emulsions are stable for six months. Moreover, NEs showed thermal stability upon curcumin release at 25 and 50 °C. These results suggest that the developed oleogel-based NEs are suitable for the delivery of bioactive agents for beverages and other food applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver fibrosis is a condition characterized by the excessive buildup of scar tissue in the liver. This scarring occurs as a result of chronic liver damage, often caused by conditions such as hepatitis, alcohol abuse, certain metabolic disorders, genetic abnormalities, autoimmunity, and noninfectious diseases such as fatty liver which leads to liver fibrosis. Nanoparticles have gained attention in recent years as potential therapeutic agents for liver fibrosis. They offer unique advantages due to their small size, large surface area, and ability to carry drugs or target specific cells or tissues. Studies have suggested that nanoemulsions may enhance drug delivery systems, enabling targeted drug delivery to specific sites in the liver and improving therapeutic outcomes. In this study, we explore the protective and therapeutic values with phytochemical profiling of the used agro-wastes decaffeinated palm date seeds (Phoenix dactylifera L., PSC) coffee and caffeinated Arabic coffee seeds (Coffea arabica L.; ACS). Both ACS and PSC extracts were converted into nanoemulsion (NE) forms using the oleic acid/Tween 80 system, which was recruited for the purpose of treating a rat model with liver fibrosis. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) were used to record the sizes, morphologies, hydrodynamic diameters, and ζ-potentials of the prepared NE-ACSE and NE-PSCE. Accordingly, the NE-ACSE and NE-PSCE imaged via TEM and their ζ-potentials were recorded at 20.7, 23.3 nm and −41.4, −28.0 mV, respectively. The antioxidant properties were determined with a DPPH scavenging assay. The synthesized NE-PSCE and NE-ACSE were employed to treat a rat model with CCl4-induced liver fibrosis, to estimate the role of each emulsion-based extract in the treatment of liver fibrosis through recording inflammatory parameters, liver functions, antioxidant enzymes, and histopathological analysis results. The nanoemulsion forms of both ACSE and PSCE provided significant increases in antioxidant enzymes, reducing inflammatory parameters, compared to other groups, where liver functions were decreased with values close to those of the control group. In conclusion, both nanoemulsions, ACSE and PSCE, provided a new avenue as therapeutic approaches for liver diseases, and further studies are encouraged to obtain maximum efficiency of treatment via the combination of both extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Essential oil-based nanoemulsions (NEs) are the subjects of extensive investigation due to their potential to address a variety of oral health issues. NEs are delivery systems that improve lipid medicine solubility and distribution to intended sites. The goal of the current study was to create and enhance a self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery paradigm based on calendula oil (CO) and decorated with chitosan (CS) that could deliver posaconazole (PSZ) for the treatment of gingivitis. Method: Employing a response-surface Box-Behnken design, PSZ-CO-CS NEs were created with varying amounts of PSZ (10, 15, and 20 mg), percentages of CO (6%, 12%, and 18%), and percentages of CS (0.5%, 1.5%, and 2.5%). Results and conclusion: The optimized formulation resulted in a 22-mm bacterial growth suppression zone, 25-mm fungal growth inhibition zone, droplet sizes of 110 nm, and a viscosity of 750 centipoise (cP). Using the appropriate design, the ideal formulation was produced; it contained 20 mg of PSZ, 18% of CO, and 1.35% of CS. Furthermore, the optimal formulation had a more controlled drug release, larger inhibition zones of bacterial and fungal growth, and desirable rheologic properties. Additionally, the optimized formulation substantially lowered the ulcer index in rats when tested against other formulations. Thus, this investigation showed that PSZ-CO-CS NEs could provide efficient protection against microbially induced gingivitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To develop nanoemulsions (NEs) loading amphotericin B (AmB) and to evaluate the influence of different excipients on the stability and the supramolecular organization, retention and toxicity of AmB. Materials & methods: The NEs were developed from different oils, surfactants, external media and anionic lipids (disteaoryl phosphatidylglycerol [DSPG] and dioleoyl phosphatidylglycerol [DOPG]). Their impact on the size, pH, zeta potential, AmB encapsulation efficiency, AmB retention and hemolytic potential of the NEs was evaluated. Results & conclusion: The use of soybean oil (lipid matrix), Span 80 (surfactant), phosphate buffer (external phase) and DSPG or DOPG (hydrophobic ion pair) provided better NE stability, higher AmB retention within the NEs and a safer formulation profile in hemolysis tests. Disteaoryl phosphatidylglycerol and dioleoyl phosphatidylglycerol form a hydrophobic ion pair with amphotericin B in nanoemulsions, enhancing drug retention after dispersion and decreasing its toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractCymbopogon martinii essential oil (Palmarosa essential oil, PRO) has a wide range of applications in food, medicine, and cosmetics. Because of its hydrophobicity, instability, and volatility, the best option to safeguard this oil is to encapsulate it using nanoemulsion technology. In this work, we synthesize O/W (oil/water) nanoemulsions from C. martini essential oil and analyze their biological activity. The study uses co-surfactants like ethanol and surfactants like tween 80 and sodium dodecyl sulfate to create O/W nanoemulsions. The nanoemulsions were investigated using UV, fluorescence, and FT-IR fingerprinting techniques in addition to parameters such as pH and conductivity. Additionally, the study explored the biological effects of the nanoemulsions, including their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and anti-diabetic capabilities. The pharmacokinetics of drug release was also examined. By using GC-FID analysis, it has been determined that geraniol is the primary component of PRO. The concentrations of total phenolic, total flavonoid, and total condensed tannin were found to be 2.91 mg/g GAE, 9.29 mg/g RE, and 3.78 mg/g VAE, respectively. Palmarosa essential oil nanoemulsions (PNE) were discovered to have 93.24% encapsulation efficiency. The nanoemulsions remained stable and spherical even after 50 days of storage. PNE was synthesized with a mean diameter of 460.55 ± 98.65 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) value of 0.45 ± 0.04, and a zeta potential measurement of 0.1711 ± 0.05 mV. According to a drug kinetic analysis, PNE displayed a first-order model with an R2 value of 0.930. PNE revealed a dose-dependent 92% inhibition of α-amylase. Additionally, PNE demonstrated potent anti-bacterial activity against the investigated pathogens that varied from 38% to 94%. In the same way, PNE demonstrated potent anti-fungal efficacy against the studied fungal infections, with a range of 50–95%. Anticancer research showed that the PNE-containing cells had a percent viability of 21.29% after 24 hours and 14.92% after 48 hours, respectively. The article explores the possible applications of nanoemulsions made from palmarosa essential oil in the cosmetic, food, and medicinal sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: Previously, lipid nanoparticles (LDE) injected in women with endometriosis were shown to concentrate in the lesions. Here, the safety and feasibility of LDE carrying methotrexate (MTX) to treat deep infiltrating endometriosis was tested. Design: Prospective pilot study. Setting: Perola Byington Hospital Reference for Women's Health. Subjects: Eleven volunteers (aged 30–47 years, BMI 26.15 ± 6.50 kg/m2) with endometriosis with visual analog scale pelvic pain scores (VAS) > 7 and rectosigmoid lesions were enrolled in the study. Intervention: Three patients were treated with LDE–MTX at single intravenous 25 mg/m2 dose of MTX and eight patients with two 25 mg/m2 doses with 1-week interval. Main outcome measures: Clinical complaints, blood count, and biochemistry were analyzed before treatment and on days 90, 120, and 180 after LDE–MTX administration. Endometriotic lesions were evaluated by pelvic and transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) before treatment and on days 30 and 180 after LDE–MTX administration. Results: No clinical complaints related with LDE–MTX treatment were reported by the patients, and no hematologic, renal, or hepatic toxicities were observed in the laboratorial exams. FSH, LH, TSH, free T4, anti-Müllerian hormone, and prolactin levels were also within normal ranges during the observation period. Scores for deep dyspareunia (p < 0.001), chronic pelvic pain (p = 0.008), and dyschezia (p = 0.025) were improved over the 180-day observation period. There was a non-significant trend for reduction of VAS scores for dysmenorrhea. Bowel lesions by TVUS were unchanged. No clear differences between the two dose levels in therapeutic responses were observed. Conclusion: Results support the safety and feasibility of using LDE–MTX in women with deep infiltrating endometriosis as a novel and promising therapy for the disease. More prolonged treatment schemes should be tested in future placebo-controlled studies aiming to establish the usefulness of this novel nanomedicine approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Nanoemulsions (NEs) have been considered an effective carrier to protect environmentally labile bioactive compounds from degradation during food processing. Among the numerous types of NEs, biopolymer‐stabilized NEs have gained much attention to achieve this function because of the extensive sources, biocompatibility, and tunability. Therefore, the antioxidant activities, environmental stability, and in vitro digestibility of astaxanthin (AST)‐loaded soybean protein isolate (SPI)–alginate (SA) complexes‐stabilized NEs (AST‐SPI–SA‐NEs) were investigated in this study. RESULTS: The AST‐SPI–SA‐NEs exhibited an encapsulation efficiency of 88.30 ± 1.67%, which is greater than that of the AST‐loaded SPI‐stabilized NEs (AST‐SPI‐NEs) (77.31 ± 0.83%). Both AST‐SPI–SA‐NEs and AST‐SPI‐NEs exhibited significantly stronger hydroxyl or diphenylpicryl‐hydrazyl radical‐scavenging activities than the free AST. The formation of SPI–SA complexes strengthened the thermal, light, and storage stability of AST‐SPI–SA‐NEs with no apparently increasing mean diameter (around 200 nm). AST‐SPI–SA‐NEs also exhibited a better freeze–thaw dispersibility behavior than AST‐SPI‐NEs. AST‐SPI–SA‐NEs were more stable than AST‐SPI‐NEs were under in vitro gastrointestinal digestion conditions and exhibited a greater bioaccessibility (47.92 ± 0.42%) than both AST‐SPI‐NEs (12.97 ± 1.33%) and free AST (7.87 ± 0.37%). Hydrogen bonding was confirmed to participate in the formation of AST‐SPI–SA‐NEs and AST‐SPI‐NEs based on the molecular docking results. CONCLUSIONS: The construction of SPI–SA‐NEs is conducive to the encapsulation, protection, and absorption of AST, providing a promising method for broadening the application of AST in processed foods or developing novel ingredients of functional foods. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increase in antimicrobial resistance, it has become necessary to explore alternative approaches for combating and preventing diseases. DB-cinnamaldehyde (CNM) and Benzyl4-amino (B4AM) are bioactive compounds derived from chalcones but with restricted solubility in aqueous media. Nanoemulsions can enhance the solubility of compounds and can be a promising alternative in the development of novel antimicrobials, with reduced side effects and prolonged release. The objective of this study was to evaluate the stability of oil-in-water nanoemulsions loaded with two distinct types of chalcones at two different dosages, to propose a stable formulation with antimicrobial properties. Results showed that nanoemulsions presented high encapsulation efficiency, low polydispersity index (PDI) and particle size below 200 nm, indicating that emulsification was a suitable method for nanoemulsion preparation. Nanoemulsions with higher dosages exhibited significant antimicrobial effects when compared to free chalcones and positive controls. Notably, B4AM nanoemulsions at higher dosages showed expressive activity against Salmonella minnesota, with a 420% greater inhibitory response compared to the free form and showing equivalence to the positive control. CNM nanoemulsions showed excellent inhibitory activity at the highest dosage, equivalent to the positive control against S. minnesota and Staphylococcus aureus. The greater number of conjugated bonds in CNM increased the antimicrobial activity in comparison with B4AM, and the formation of nanometric domains enhanced the bioavailability, being a promising alternative for antimicrobial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different oils can be homogeneously dispersed in the network junctions of the separated bicontinuous micellar phases. Upon dilution, these dispersions spontaneously form nanoemulsions. The possibility of a micellar sponge phase formation in the case of mixtures with three anionic and two zwitterionic surfactants in the presence of divalent and monovalent salts is studied. The best results are obtained using sodium lauryl ether sulfate with 1 ethylene oxide group (SLES-1EO) and both cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) or N,N-dimethyldodecylamine N-oxide (DDAO) in the presence of an appropriate small amount of MgCl2 and CaCl2. Bicontinuous micellar phases can be produced also in high-salinity NaCl solutions. The bulk properties of these phases are independent of the concentration of the initial solutions from which they are separated, and their Newtonian viscosities are in the range from 0.3 Pa·s to 0.8 Pa·s. Both 8 wt% CAPB- and DDAO-containing sponge phases engulf up to 10 wt% limonene and spontaneously form nanoemulsion upon dilution with droplet sizes of 110–120 nm. Vitamin E can be homogeneously dispersed only in CAPB-containing saturated micellar network, and upon dilution, these dispersions spontaneously form nanoemulsions with smaller droplet sizes of 66 nm for both 8 diastereomers and 2 diastereomers mixtures of vitamin E. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Every year, millions of foodborne illnesses with thousands of deaths occur worldwide, which is why controlling foodborne pathogens is sought. In this study, nanoemulsions of phytochemicals extracted from Plectranthus hadiensis var. tomentosus (PHT) were obtained, and their antioxidant and antimicrobial capacities were evaluated. PHT extracts were obtained by maceration, ultrasound, and Naviglio methods, and their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella enterica was determined by the microdilution method. The extract with the highest antimicrobial activity was obtained by Naviglio with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 12.5 and 25 mg/mL, respectively, for all bacterial strains. The nanoemulsion (o/w) made with Tween 40, 5% extract, and 50% ultrasonic amplitude had a globule size of 4.4 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.48, and a surface charge of −0.08 mV and remained stable for 30 days. This nanosystem presented significantly higher antimicrobial and antioxidant activity than the free extract. Thus, the nanoencapsulation of the phytochemicals in the PHT extracts is an alternative to protect and enhance their biological activity against pathogenic microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gamma−aminobutyric acid (GABA) presents several potential skin benefits, but its water−soluble nature poses challenges for effectively penetrating the skin to produce its effects. This research aimed to improve GABA's skin penetration and availability by employing a nanoemulsion formulation, both with and without the aid of the penetration enhancer 1,8−cineole. Using a high−pressure homogenizer, an oil−in−water nanoemulsion was created, and its size and distribution were analyzed. The stability of these nanoemulsions was tested under various conditions, revealing their resilience over six months, even at elevated temperatures of 40 °C. In vitro tests on pig skin showed that GABA−loaded nanoemulsions, particularly those without the enhancer, demonstrated a nearly 2.89−fold increase in skin permeation compared to the solution form. Moreover, the addition of the enhancer amplified this effect, resulting in over a 3.37−fold increase in skin permeation compared to the solution. These results emphasize the potential of nanoemulsion formulations as effective tools for enhancing GABA's skin permeation and availability, potentially expanding its use in dermatological applications. Further exploration and research are necessary to fully exploit GABA's capabilities in supporting skin health and wellness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, studies on the formulation of nanoemulsions have been the focus of attention due to their potential applicability in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and agricultural industries. Nanoemulsions can be formulated using ingredients approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which assures their safety profiles to a great extent. Bioactive compounds such as essential oils although have strong biological properties and antimicrobial compounds, their usage is restricted due to their high volatility, instability, and hydrophobic nature. Therefore, nanoemulsion as carrier vehicle can be used to encapsulate essential oils to obtain stable and enhanced physicochemical characteristics of the essential oils. This review details the structure, formulation, and characterization techniques used for nanoemulsions, with a focus on the essential oil‐based nanoemulsions which have the potential to be used as antimicrobial and anticancer therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective： Clarifying the effects of lipid co-passengers on the stability of rapeseed oil emulsions and prepare high-stability nano-emulsions. Methods： The endogenous lipidassociated compounds of rapeseed oil were subjected to column chromatography filtration, followed by various concentration gradient re-addition. High-pressure microfluidization was utilized to prepare nanoemulsions, which were subsequently characterized. The influence of lipid associated compound content on the stability of rapeseed oil emulsions was also investigated. Results: The preparation of rapeseed oil nanoemulsions reached optimal conditions when the α-tocopherol content was 292 mg/kg, rapeseed polyphenols content was 32 mg/kg, β-sitosterol content was 6 712 mg/kg, and β-carotene content was 31 mg/kg. The average particle size of the resulting rapeseed oil nanoemulsion was (182.4±2.056) nm, indicating good stability. Conclusion： Lipid associated compounds significantly affect the stability of emulsions.

Nature friendly and sustainable practices have been the prominent aspects reviving the modern agricultural practices. Development of broad spectrum insecticides with the minimal use, maximum efficacy and least environmental deterioration are swiftly emerging as reliable measures. Analogous to drug delivery in animal and human cells, nanocarriers are swiftly emerging as biocompatible and nature friendly aids for pesticide delivery to the agricultural crops. These practices manifest a higher importance for the agriculturally intensive global economies, wherein substantial livelihood means are eventually dependent on agriculture. Amicably transcended from the extraordinary investigational success for drug delivery, trafficking of pesticides through nanoemulsions has emerged as a boost to safeguard the environment and aquatic habitats in particular. The nanoemulsions, with the option of varying surfactant and co-surfactants, engineer the slow release of pesticides which could be targeted for the pest specific elimination. The outcomes have already eased the farmer’s economy besides significantly moderating the toxicity. The threat to soil and surrounding water bodies has been the most significant, wherein almost 90% of the unaided pesticide used to run off as excessive chemical load in the soils or water bodies. The constitutional robustness of emulsions with varied hydrophilic-lipophilic balances and surfactant-co-surfactant stoichiometries have been the distinguishing aspect for the pesticide delivery to the crops. With such insights, this review article focuses on emulsification, the distinguishing working principles, physicochemical characterization driven performance control parameters and finally a discussion of past five year attempts encompassing nanocarrier mediated pesticide delivery for sustainable agriculture and reduced environmental stress.

Monolaurin was utilized to formulate temperature-driven phase inversion nanoemulsions containing lesser galangal essential oil, fixed oil, and Cremophor RH40, with aim for eradicating enveloped viruses. Results showed that the droplet size of the nanoemulsion depended on lesser galangal essential oil–fixed oil ratio, monolaurin concentration, and oil concentration. Nanoemulsions prepared from lesser galangal essential oil–perilla oil (60:40) exhibited approximately 50-nm nanosized droplets and high entrapment efficiency (98.68 % ± 2.45 %). After storage at 25 °C for 1 year, droplet size did not vary significantly from the initial size, and monolaurin content was >95 %, indicating good physical and chemical stability. The monolaurin was located at the oil–water interface as indicated by a two-dimensional nuclear Overhauser effect nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscope and computer simulation. The 0.2% w/v monolaurin nanoemulsion inhibited SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A (H1N1) viruses with efficacy more than 3 log reduction (99.90 %) and low cytotoxicity. Hence, the monolaurin nanoemulsion can successfully eradicate enveloped viruses, especially SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A (H1N1).

Recently, there has been an increasing trend in the food and pharmaceutical industries towards using nanotechnological approaches to drug delivery and active packaging (edible coatings and films). In the food sector, nanoemulsions are the most promising technology for delivering active components and improving the barrier, mechanical, and biological properties of packaging to ensure the safety and quality of food products, as well as extend their shelf life. For this review, we used several databases (Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Research Gate, etc.) to collect information about nanoemulsions and their role in edible packaging. We searched for articles published between 2015 and 2022 and described different scientific approaches to developing active packaging systems based on nanoemulsions, as well as their high-energy and low-energy synthesis methods. We also reviewed the uses of different types of essential oil-based nanoemulsions in the packaging of food products to prolong their shelf life and ensure safety. Non-migratory active packaging and active-release packaging systems were also discussed, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.

Theranostics is a growing field that matches diagnostics and therapeutics. In this approach, drugs and techniques are uniquely coupled to diagnose and treat medical conditions synergically or sequentially. By integrating diagnostic and treatment functions in a single platform, the aim of theranostics is to improve precision medicine by tailoring treatments based on real-time information. In this context, lipid-based nanocarriers have attracted great scientific attention due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and targeting capabilities. The present review highlights the latest research advances in the field of lipid-based nanocarriers for cancer theranostics, exploring several ways of improving in vivo performance and addressing associated challenges. These nanocarriers have significant potential to create new perspectives in the field of nanomedicine and offer promise for a significant step towards more personalized and precise medicine, reducing side effects and improving clinical outcomes for patients. This review also presents the actual barriers to and the possible challenges in the use of nanoparticles in the theranostic field, such as regulatory hurdles, high costs, and technological integration. Addressing these issues through a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach among institutions could be essential for advancing lipid nanocarriers in the theranostic field. Such collaborations can leverage diverse expertise and resources, fostering innovation and overcoming the complex challenges associated with clinical translation. This approach will be crucial for realizing the full potential of lipid-based nanocarriers in precision medicine.