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Microfluidics-based synthesized ZIF-8 nanoparticles embedded inside a natural scaffold for sustained-release of cargo in drug delivery purposes
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Introduction: The growing field of nanotechnology requires the use of scalable devices such as microfluidic-based channels. These reproducible setups ensure time and labor-saving methods for nanoparticle synthesis. Synthesis of porous ZIF-8 nanoparticles can result in better loading and more controlled release, as well as pH-responsiveness, which are important in cancers and inflammatory diseases alike. Embedding the drug-loaded nanomaterials inside a natural scaffold such as wood adds to the mechanical and controlled-release effects needed in multiple drug delivery aspects.

Methods: The synthesis of drug@ZIF-8 nanoparticles was facilitated through microfluidic tubes. Five different flow rate combinations, 2 different solvents, and 2 different ligand/metal molar ratios were chosen based on the literature in order to reach the optimal size and polydispersity index (PDI) for ZIF-8 nanoparticles. Characterization of the drug/ZIF-8/wood scaffold was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to assess its structural integrity. Loading and release tests were also conducted.

Results: Morphology and characterization results were assessed. SEM showed a uniform rhombic dodecahedron structure, presenting successful ZIF-8 synthesis with low PDI and less than 200 nm size. Loading capacity (LC%) was 11.68%, with encapsulation efficiency (EE%) of around 76%. The release of statin from ZIF-8 nanoparticles was evaluated in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) with 2 pH values, revealing a burst profile, while a sustained release profile was observed from the scaffold, taking two months to reach full release. pH-responsive behavior was observed, which is beneficial for drug delivery towards inflamed areas.

Conclusion: This study presents the construction and evaluation of a novel wood-based scaffold integrated with microfluidics-synthesized ZIF-8 nanoparticles aimed at promoting drug delivery aspects such as loading and release profile.

The scaffold represents a promising strategy for tissue regeneration, a field that may benefit from slow and pH-triggered release for better outcomes.

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Evaluation of Alginate-Based Gels as Drug Carrier for Controlled Release of Spiramycin.

Abstract

Introduction: Controlled drug delivery systems (DDS) are vital for enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing side effects. Alginate (Al)-based materials have emerged as promising candidates due to their biocompatibility, gel-forming capacity, and ease of modification. This study aims to evaluate the performance of five novel Al-based formulations for the controlled rate of spiramycin release.

Methods: Five DDS were developed: spiramycin-Al hydrogel (SAH), spiramycin-acid activated montmorillonite-Al hydrogel (SMAH), spiramycin-polylactide-acid activated MMT-Al hydrogel (SPMAH), and spiramycin-Al aerogel beads and films (SAAB and SAAF). Preparation involved drug encapsulation, incorporation of MMT as a sorbent, calcium chloride-induced crosslinking, coating with polylactide, solvent exchange, supercritical drying, and drug impregnation. In vitro drug release was assessed via dissolution tests, and antimicrobial efficacy was evaluated against E. coli, S. aureus, and E. faecalis.

Results: Among the hydrogel formulations, SPMAH demonstrated the slowest release profile (20%), indicating effective sustained release, while SMAH and SAH showed higher release rates (>21% and >42%, respectively). SAAB and SAAF exhibited faster release in water compared to 50% Glycerol Ringer’s solution. In antimicrobial assays, SAAB showed the most potent inhibition against all tested bacteria, highlighting its potential for effective antimicrobial action.

Conclusion: The results demonstrate that Al-based DDS, particularly SPMAH and SAAF, offer promising platforms for controlled spiramycin delivery. These systems may contribute to combating antimicrobial resistance by enabling sustained and targeted drug release. This study provides new insights into the development of advanced biomaterial-based DDS for antibiotics.

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Paeonia lactiflora root extract as a promising phytochemical for LPS-induced skin inflammation management

Skin inflammation is a protective biological response to tissue damage, mediated by various inflammatory factors. Notably, transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) channels have been implicated in this process, which involves dysregulation of both immune and non-immune cells. As such, targeting TRPV1 has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for inflammatory skin conditions.

Paeonia lactiflora Pall., a rich source of bioactive compounds such as the terpene glycoside paeoniflorin, exhibits notable antioxidant and analgesic properties. This study investigated the effects of Paeonia lactiflora root extract standardized for paeoniflorin on LPS-induced inflammation in skin keratinocytes using in silico and in vitro approaches.

Molecular docking simulations predicted paeoniflorin’s binding affinity for the TRPV1 transmembrane domain. In vitro research results demonstrated significant dose-dependent anti-inflammatory effects of the extract on HaCaT keratinocytes. At a concentration of 0.05 mg/mL, the extract showed remarkable efficacy, reducing excessive TNF-α levels by 148.82%, IL-6 by 37.78%, and IL-13 by 68.63% compared to difference between LPS and basal controls (p<0.01). The analgesic effect may be linked to TRPV1 channel amount decrease by 113.47% to difference between LPS and basal controls (p<0.01).

These results confirm the Paeonia lactiflora extract has dual pharmacological potential for inflammatory skin conditions through cytokine and TRPV1 modulation. These findings highlight the therapeutic prospectives of Paeonia lactiflora extract for alleviation of skin inflammation.

  • Open access
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Optimization of the process of preparing microneedle patches based on natural polymer

Introduction

Microneedle patches are modern systems for the transdermal delivery of active substances. One type of such systems comprises dissolvable patches based on natural polymers. A critical step in the preparation of these patches is to thoroughly fill the mold so as to obtain sharp tips of microneedles and remove all air bubbles. The aim of the study was to optimize the preparation process of dissolvable microneedle patches based on sodium hyaluronate.

Methods

For this purpose, 10 % w/w aqueous solutions of sodium hyaluronate were prepared using five different methods: (i) sonication, (ii) shaking, (iii) mechanical mixing, (iv) mechanical mixing combined with sonication, and (v) mechanical mixing combined with shaking. The resulting solutions were poured into silicone molds. In order to optimize the accurate filling of the mold and eliminate residual air bubbles, the molds with the solution were subjected to one of the following conditions: (i) no additional treatment, (ii) sonication, (iii) shaking, or (iv) three cycles of freezing and thawing.

Results

Preparation of the polymer solution using only sonication or a shaking was very time-consuming. Mechanical mixing alone or combined with shaking caused the solution to become aerated. However, mechanical mixing combined with sonication allowed the sodium hyaluronate to dissolve quickly and without aeration of the solution. The mold filled only by pouring the solution, or with using only ultrasounds or a shaker resulted in incomplete filling and the needles were not formed. On the contrary, three cycles of freezing and thawing allowed the mold to be completely filled and sharp needles were obtained.

Conclusions

Mechanical mixing combined with sonication was the most effective method for preparing a homogeneous, nonaerated polymer solution. The most efficient mold filling and sharp microneedle formation was achieved by applying three cycles of freezing and thawing to the filled molds.

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„New Findings and Developed Analytical Approaches for Visible Spectrophotometric Quantitative Evaluation of Ibuprofen in Three Different Pharmaceuticals”
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Ibuprofen is a propionic acid derivative, non-steroidal drug provided with a very effective anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions and an increased antipyretic effect The main purpose of this research was to establish and develop an effective spectrophotometric method to exactly quantify and verify the Ibuprofen amount from three different pharmaceuticals, according to the Rules of Good Pharmaceutical Practice provided by the International and European Pharmacopoeias. By spectrophotometric proposed method. Ibuprofen quantitatively reacted with alcoholic alpha-naphthylamine 0.1 % and sodium nitrite NaNO2 5%-6%, by heating at 72-73ºC for 20 minutes. It was observed the quantitative synthesis of orange azo dye with a pale yellowish tint, dosed in the Visible (VIS) field at λ = 466 nm, in relation to absolute ethanol as a blank. For the first pharmaceutical product, pure Ibuprofen amount determined at λ = 466 nm was found to be 598.750 mg. This amount found was assigned to a mean percentage content of 99.792 % , provided with average percentage deviation of only 1,958 %, below the officially maximum stated value ± 5% and was very close to the officially declared content (600 mg). Regarding the second and third pharmaceuticals, calculated amounts of Ibuprofen were 394,774 mg corresponding to 98,694% Ibuprofen and 197,780 mg assigned to 98,890 % pure Ibuprofen content , respectively. These determined amounts for the second and third products were very close to the officially stated amounts of 400 mg and 200 mg ,and presented average percentage deviations (+) 1,306 % and (+) 1.110 %, both located below the maximum allowed percentage value ± 5% , officially stated by European and International Pharmacopoeias Rules.

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Search and creation of new biologically active organic substances based on 6-(5-mercapto-4-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)pyrimidine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione

The search and development of new biologically active organic compounds remains a cornerstone of modern medicinal chemistry. Among the promising scaffolds, 6-(5-mercapto-4-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)pyrimidine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione stands out due to its unique combination of heterocyclic moieties. This scaffold not only incorporates the biologically significant 1,2,4-triazole ring—a well-known pharmacophore with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties—but also integrates the pyrimidine-2,4-dione fragment, structurally related to vitamin B13 (orotic acid), which is essential for nucleic acid biosynthesis. The synergy between these two fragments opens up new avenues for designing compounds with enhanced pharmacological profiles.

In this study, we synthesized a series of novel derivatives based on the core 6-(5-mercapto-4-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)pyrimidine-2,4-dione scaffold by introducing various substituents via S-alkylation and S-arylation reactions, aiming to modulate lipophilicity and electronic properties. These modifications are expected to influence the compounds’ bioavailability and interactions with biological targets. The synthesized derivatives were characterized by spectroscopic techniques, including NMR, to confirm their structures. Preliminary biological evaluations revealed that several compounds exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, along with notable antioxidant potential in standard DPPH assays.

These results suggest that hybrid molecules combining the triazole-thiol moiety and the vitamin B13-derived pyrimidine-dione core represent a promising class of compounds for further pharmacological development. Ongoing studies are focused on detailed pharmacological profiling, mechanism-of-action investigations, and structure-activity relationship (SAR) analyses to optimize their biological efficacy and safety. The potential applications of these derivatives may extend to antimicrobial therapy, anti-inflammatory treatment, and antioxidant interventions, paving the way for innovative therapeutic agents.

  • Open access
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NOVEL APPROACHES FOR THE ANALYTICAL EVALUATION OF NEW-GENERATION VLP-VACCINES
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Introduction.The work is devoted to the development of an analytical approach to determining the concentration of a next generation of VLP-based vaccines using an innovative method based on the kinetics of diffuse reflection (DRf) in optically turbid media. The quality assessment of the latest VLP-based vaccines containing immunological triterpene hydrocarbon adjuvants is of great importance for the effectiveness of immunobiological products. The aim is to develop a new analytical approach based on the kinetics of light reflection in an optically heterogeneous medium for the quantitative determination of VLP vaccines. Materials and Methods. Sample vaccine (Gam-VLP-Rota) for the prevention of rotavirus infection (160 mg/dose). Solutions (140–360 mg/ml) of bovine serum albumin (BSA, 98%) as the model sample. Squalene adjuvant («oil-in-water» type), phosphate buffer solution (1:1) as the dissolution medium. Laboratory setup for DRf from a rough surface of a heterogeneous solution, consisting of an IR-diode emitter, aimed at a cuvette with a sample, a CC-Device designed to convert an optical image into an electrical signal, and the original Soft (Vidan®) for chemometric processing of the analogue signal.Results. The descriptor sd2 was selected, demonstrating a linear relationship in the coordinates «family of chemometric descriptors (di) — BSA concentration (C, μg/ml)». A calibration line (y = 4,88∙x - 9,83, r=0.9998) was constructed in the coordinates «sd2-C, μg/ml». The DRf measurements of the VLP-Rota vaccine sample were performed under conditions for BSA solutions (n=9). The concentration Cpractical of the tested vaccine sample was determined, based on the sd2 obtained value. The method was validated in accordance with ICH Q2 (R1) guidelines, confirming linearity, accuracy (RSD< 5%) and repeatability (n = 9, P = 0.95). The repeatability error (ε) was determined to be 9.34%, indicating acceptable intra-assay variation.Conclusion. The proposed DRf method confirms its reliability in routine determination of the concentration of new-generation vaccines.

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Exploring Nature's Remedy: The wound-Healing Power of Inula viscosa leaf.
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Inula viscosa, which is also known as false yellow head or sticky fleabane, is a flowering plant with powerful potential. Traditionally, this plant was used in phytomedicine due to its significant properties like anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antioxidant activities. Consequently, a rotary evaporator was employed to get the aqueous crude extract of this plant, utilizing distilled water as the extraction medium. Total phenolic, flavonoids, and tannin content and DPPH radical scavenging activity were examined to assess the antioxidant ability in the extract. Volatile components found in the Inula viscosa essential oil were analyzed with the help of GC-MS after hydro distillation extraction. A cream was prepared containing 5% aqueous crude extract and 2% essential oil from the Inula viscosa plant, where these two components have synergetic effects, producing the best results. An incision was made on 9 mice, and they were split into 3 groups: the control group receiving only the cream base on the wound, and the two other groups being administered treatment of Fucidin or Inula viscosa cream, respectively. Results showed that the Inula viscosa cream significantly aided in diminishing the wound area, achieving closure and appropriate healing in a shorter period without any complications. Hence, Inula viscosa cream has proven to have powerful wound healing capabilities.

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Phyto-Based Nanocosmetics: A Synergistic Approach to Skincare Innovation

The cosmetics industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the escalating demand for naturally derived ingredients and advanced delivery systems. This abstract explores the exciting convergence of plant-based bioactives and cutting-edge nanotechnology in developing next-generation cosmeceuticals. We delve into how nanocosmetics, leveraging diverse nanocarriers like niosomes, nanofibers, and nanoemulgels, revolutionize the efficacy and targeted delivery of active compounds. This approach moves beyond mere aesthetics, aiming to offer genuine therapeutic benefits for skin health by enhancing ingredient stability, solubility, and controlled release. These nano-formulations precisely encapsulate and direct beneficial molecules to specific skin layers, optimizing therapeutic impact while minimizing potential side effects.

Our research directly contributes to this paradigm shift. We employ a rigorous, multi-faceted approach, integrating in vitro enzyme inhibition assays, sophisticated in silico molecular docking and toxicity assessments, and comprehensive cell-based studies to pinpoint high-potential plant extracts and natural compounds. This meticulous screening has led to several successful laboratory-scale formulations. For instance, we have successfully incorporated Cotinus coggygria extracts into innovative niosome, nanofiber, and nanoemulgel systems, demonstrating enhanced skin delivery and biological activity. Furthermore, our team has developed a patent-pending anti-acne formulation based on a unique blend of plant extracts specifically targeting Propionibacterium acnes. We also highlight the broader potential of these nanoforms beyond cosmetics, as shown by our recent development of polycaprolactone (PCL) electrospun nanofibers loaded with Cotinus coggygria extract and hyaluronic acid (HA) for advanced wound healing applications. This talk will showcase our latest breakthroughs in crafting these innovative, phyto-based nanocosmeceuticals.

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FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF NITAZOXANIDE FLOATING MICROSPHERE

Nitazoxanide is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic and antiviral agent widely used in the treatment of diarrhoea caused by protozoa such as Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum. Despite its clinical effectiveness, Nitazoxanide suffers from certain pharmacokinetic limitations, including poor aqueous solubility, low oral bioavailability, and a short plasma half-life. To address these challenges, a gastro retentive drug delivery system in the form of floating microspheres was developed to enhance the drug’s bioavailability and prolong its residence time in the stomach. The floating microspheres were prepared using the solvent evaporation method, in which HPMC and Ethyl cellulose were used as a polymer, DCM and ethanol used as a solvent, Tween 80 is used as a surfactant. Six formulation batches were fabricated and evaluated for parameters such as micromeritic properties, particle size, Percentage entrapment efficiency, percentage yield, Percentage in-vitro buoyancy behavior, surface morphology, zeta potential and in vitro drug release profile. The physicochemical properties of microsphere strongly affected by the presence of drug/polymer ratios. Among all formulations, batch F5 shows highest % entrapment efficiency (78.1%), % yield (84.1%), In-vitro buoyancy (87.9%), Zeta potential of -20.3mV and moderate particle size. The drug is released upto 12 hrs. and 76.02% of drug has been released from the formulation representing the controlled release nature.

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