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Search Results (224)

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19 pages, 1976 KiB  
Article
Eudragit® S 100 Coating of Lipid Nanoparticles for Oral Delivery of RNA
by Md. Anamul Haque, Archana Shrestha and George Mattheolabakis
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2477; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082477 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based delivery systems are promising tools for advancing RNA-based therapies. However, there are underlying challenges for the oral delivery of LNPs. In this study, we optimized an LNP formulation, which we encapsulated in a pH-sensitive Eudragit® S 100 (Eu) coating. [...] Read more.
Lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based delivery systems are promising tools for advancing RNA-based therapies. However, there are underlying challenges for the oral delivery of LNPs. In this study, we optimized an LNP formulation, which we encapsulated in a pH-sensitive Eudragit® S 100 (Eu) coating. LNPs were prepared using the DLin-MC3-DMA ionizable lipid, cholesterol, DMG-PEG, and DSPC at a molar ratio of 50:38.5:10:1.5. LNPs were coated with 1% Eu solution via nanoprecipitation using 0.25% acetic acid to get Eu-coated LNPs (Eu-LNPs). Particle characteristics of LNPs were determined by using dynamic light scattering (DLS). Ribogreen and agarose gel retardation assays were used to evaluate nucleic acid entrapment and stability. LNPs and Eu-LNPs were ~120 nm and 4.5 μm in size, respectively. Eu-LNPs decrease to an average size of ~191 ± 22.9 nm at a pH of 8. Phosphate buffer (PB)-treated and untreated Eu-LNPs and uncoated LNPs were transfected in HEK-293 cells. PB-treated Eu-LNPs showed significant transfection capability compared to their non-PB-treated counterparts. Eu-LNPs protected their nucleic acid payloads in the presence of a simulated gastric fluid (SGF) with pepsin and maintained transfection capacity following SGF or simulated intestinal fluid. Hence, Eu coating is a potentially promising approach for the oral administration of LNPs. Full article
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16 pages, 4826 KiB  
Article
Formulation-Driven Optimization of PEG-Lipid Content in Lipid Nanoparticles for Enhanced mRNA Delivery In Vitro and In Vivo
by Wei Liu, Meihui Zhang, Huiyuan Lv and Chuanxu Yang
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 950; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17080950 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 398
Abstract
Background: Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) represent one of the most effective non-viral vectors for nucleic acid delivery and have demonstrated clinical success in siRNA therapies and mRNA vaccines. While considerable research has focused on optimizing ionizable lipids and helper lipids, the impact of [...] Read more.
Background: Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) represent one of the most effective non-viral vectors for nucleic acid delivery and have demonstrated clinical success in siRNA therapies and mRNA vaccines. While considerable research has focused on optimizing ionizable lipids and helper lipids, the impact of PEGylated lipid content on LNP-mediated mRNA delivery, especially in terms of in vitro transfection efficiency and in vivo performance, remains insufficiently understood. Methods: In this study, LNPs were formulated using a self-synthesized ionizable lipid and varying molar ratios of DMG-PEG2000. Nanoparticles were prepared via nanoprecipitation, and their physicochemical properties, mRNA encapsulation efficiency, cellular uptake, and transfection efficiency were evaluated in HeLa and DC2.4 cells. In vivo delivery efficiency and organ distribution were assessed in mice following intravenous administration. Results: The PEGylated lipid content exerted a significant influence on both the in vitro and in vivo performance of LNPs. A bell-shaped relationship between PEG content and transfection efficiency was observed: 1.5% DMG-PEG2000 yielded optimal mRNA transfection in vitro, while 5% DMG-PEG2000 resulted in the highest transgene expression in vivo. This discrepancy in optimal PEG content may be attributed to the trade-off between cellular uptake and systemic circulation: lower PEG levels enhance cellular internalization, whereas higher PEG levels improve stability and in vivo bioavailability at the expense of cellular entry. Furthermore, varying the PEG-lipid content enabled the partial modulation of organ distribution, offering a formulation-based strategy to influence biodistribution without altering the ionizable lipid structure. Conclusions: This study highlights the critical role of PEGylated lipid content in balancing nanoparticle stability, cellular uptake, and in vivo delivery performance. Our findings provide valuable mechanistic insights and suggest a straightforward formulation-based strategy to optimize LNP/mRNA systems for therapeutic applications. Full article
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18 pages, 4066 KiB  
Article
Intravenous Administration of sRNA Nanoparticles for Treatment of Osteoporosis in Mice
by Xuemeng Mu, Xinyi Du, Huitian Han, Fei Liu, Zhifa Zheng, Jing Hao, Lijin Liu, Su Liu, Ze Wei, Changfa Huang, Annan Liang, Wei Zou, Lina Zhao, Zhihong Wu and Jia Zhang
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(6), 789; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17060789 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 556
Abstract
Background: With the intensification of population aging, osteoporosis has become one of the significant public health issues affecting human health. Currently available medications for treating osteoporosis are associated with various adverse effects and resistance issues. Oligonucleotide drugs show great potential. Effective delivery [...] Read more.
Background: With the intensification of population aging, osteoporosis has become one of the significant public health issues affecting human health. Currently available medications for treating osteoporosis are associated with various adverse effects and resistance issues. Oligonucleotide drugs show great potential. Effective delivery systems are essential to enhance the stability, bioavailability, and targeting of sRNA drugs. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) show promise as alternative osteoporosis therapeutics. This study explores the potential of LNPs as an effective delivery system to treat osteoporosis. Methods: LNPs were prepared using microfluidic techniques with varying lipid compositions, and characterized in terms of size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency (EE%). Dynamic light scattering (DLS) was employed to determine the size of the LNPs. The zeta potential was measured using electrophoretic light scattering. The pharmacodynamic effects and safety were then evaluated in a mouse model through intravenous administration. Results: Several lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations with different nitrogen/phosphorus ratios and different DMG-PEG2000 ratios were examined, and a lead candidate that supports delivery of sRNA in animal models of osteoporosis was identified. In OVX mice, LNP-sRNA significantly improved bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular microstructure, and biomechanical strength. Safety assessments revealed no systemic toxicity. It is shown that the optimized LNPs can serve as a promising delivery system to mediate sRNA delivery to bone tissue. Conclusions: After comparison of in vitro and in vivo properties, the optimized LNPs demonstrated good comprehensive performance as a delivery system for osteoporosis treatment. These results highlight the potential of the optimized LNPs as an ideal delivery system for osteoporosis, offering improved therapeutic efficacy and reduced systemic side effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Delivery Systems for Regenerative Medicine)
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13 pages, 1678 KiB  
Article
pH-Sensitive Multiliposomal Containers for Encapsulation and Rapid Release of Bioactive Substances
by Anna A. Efimova, Tatyana A. Abramova, Igor V. Yatsenko, Alexey V. Kazantsev, Denis V. Pozdyshev, Nikolay V. Lukashev, Vladimir I. Muronets and Alexander A. Yaroslavov
Molecules 2025, 30(12), 2608; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30122608 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 468
Abstract
A new method of the design of stimuli-sensitive multiliposomal containers for encapsulation and controlled drug release is described. Despite quite a wide choice of pH-sensitive containers, there is still a considerable challenge to synthesize those that respond quickly to small variations in pH [...] Read more.
A new method of the design of stimuli-sensitive multiliposomal containers for encapsulation and controlled drug release is described. Despite quite a wide choice of pH-sensitive containers, there is still a considerable challenge to synthesize those that respond quickly to small variations in pH and release most of the encapsulated drug in a short time. The suggested AMS-containing multiliposomal complexes demonstrated an excellent rate of encapsulated substance release under altering the pH of the outer solution. To improve the efficiency of the delivery of bioactive compounds to target cells and to increase the therapeutic effect, pH-sensitive liposomes were concentrated on the surface of the carrier- PEG-coated cationic liposomes. A pH-sensitive ampholytic derivative of cholan-24-oic acid embedded into the membrane of anionic liposomes allowed the rapid release of the cargo in the areas of low pH, such as tumors, inflammation sites, etc. The diameter of the complexes was optimized for passive targeting and typically ranged from 250 to 400 nm. The biodegradability of liposomes ensured enzymatic destruction of the multiliposomal containers and their elimination from the body after performing their transport function. The multiliposomal complexes and products of their biodegradation demonstrated low cytotoxicity. The composition of multiliposomal complexes, in particular, the amount of PEGylated lipid in the bilayer, was estimated to provide a high speed of the cargo release upon changing the pH. The novel developed pH-sensitive containers show potential for biomedical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanochemistry)
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32 pages, 6157 KiB  
Article
mPEG-PCL Nanoparticles to Improve Oral Bioavailability of Acalabrutinib: Effect of Polymer Lipophilicity and Hydrophilicity on Physicochemical Properties and In Vivo Performance in Rats
by Swagata Sinha, Punna Rao Ravi, Sahadevan Rajesh Rashmi and Łukasz Szeleszczuk
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(6), 774; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17060774 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 754
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This research focuses on the development and optimization of polymer–lipid hybrid nanoparticles (PLHNs) using two grades of mPEG-PCL co-polymers in combination with DPPC and lecithin to address the biopharmaceutical challenges of acalabrutinib (ACP), a selective treatment for different hematological malignancies. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This research focuses on the development and optimization of polymer–lipid hybrid nanoparticles (PLHNs) using two grades of mPEG-PCL co-polymers in combination with DPPC and lecithin to address the biopharmaceutical challenges of acalabrutinib (ACP), a selective treatment for different hematological malignancies. Methods: Variations in the mPEG-to-ε-caprolactone ratio influenced both the molecular weight (Mw) of the synthesized co-polymers and their aqueous phase affinity. The ACP-loaded PLHNs (ACP-PLHNs) were optimized using a circumscribed central composite design. The in vivo studies were performed in Wistar rats. Results: The lipophilic mPEG-PCL (Mw = 9817.67 Da) resulted in PLHNs with a particle size of 155.91 nm and 40.08% drug loading, while the hydrophilic mPEG-PCL (Mw = 23,615.84 Da) yielded PLHNs with a relatively larger size (223.46 nm) and relatively higher drug loading (46.59%). The drug release profiles were polymer-grade dependent: lipophilic ACP-PLHNs (lACP-PLHNs) sustained release up to 30 h in pH 7.2 buffer, while hydrophilic ACP-PLHNs (hACP-PLHNs) completed release within 24 h. Stability studies showed greater stability for lACP-PLHNs, likely due to reduced molecular rearrangement from the chemically stable lipophilic co-polymer. Conclusions: Oral administration of both formulations exhibited a 2-fold (p < 0.001) improvement in the Cmax and AUC0-tlast and a 3.9-fold (p < 0.001) increase in the relatively oral bioavailability compared to the conventional ACP suspension in male wistar rats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances on Molecular Modeling in Pharmaceutics)
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16 pages, 1559 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Lipoplexes Functionalized with a Sialic Acid Mimetic (F9-PEG) to Target the C1858T PTPN22 Variant for Preclinical Assessment of a Novel Immunotherapy in Endocrine Autoimmunity
by Simona Sennato, Giorgia Paldino, Cecilia Bombelli, Irene Mezzani, Stefania Petrini, Domenico Vittorio Delfino, Francesco Fiorentino, Carlotta Marianecci, Alessia Ciogli, Dante Rotili, Francesca Ceccacci and Alessandra Fierabracci
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(6), 710; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17060710 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 493
Abstract
Background: The C1858T PTPN22 variant is strongly associated with type 1 diabetes and autoimmune thyroid disease. Current treatment is substitutive hormonal administration, which does not target the disease pathogenetic mechanism. We previously implemented a novel immunotherapy, employing siRNA directed against the C1858T variant [...] Read more.
Background: The C1858T PTPN22 variant is strongly associated with type 1 diabetes and autoimmune thyroid disease. Current treatment is substitutive hormonal administration, which does not target the disease pathogenetic mechanism. We previously implemented a novel immunotherapy, employing siRNA directed against the C1858T variant of PTPN22 delivered via functionalized lipoplexes, in order to halt autoimmune disease progression. Objectives: The objective of this study was to optimize lipoplex formulations functionalized with F9-PEG (a Siglec-10’s ligand) to facilitate targeted delivery by investigating their physical and chemical properties to warrant the best performance in in vivo studies. Methods: The effectiveness of siRNA liposome binding was evaluated by varying the relative lipid/siRNA charge ratio and analyzing the stability of the different formulations with respect to the methods of F9-PEG addition and ATTO740 fluorescent labeling by electrophoresis, dynamic and dielectrophoretic light scattering (DLS and DELS), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results: The optimal charge ratio of +2/−1 (lipid/siRNA) ensured a greater stability of lipoplexes and complete complexation of siRNA. Stability was improved by selecting a protocol of preparation that envisages functionalization with F9-PEG and the addition of ATTO740 lipid in the lipid film preparation step. HPLC confirmed the integrity of siRNA after preparation. Conclusions: The results of this study lead to formulations of F9-PEG lipoplexes with optimal properties that could be used for biodistribution and safety/efficacy studies in mice. Lipoplexes functionalized with F9-PEG could therefore represent a promising personalized nanotherapeutic platform for targeted siRNA delivery in endocrine C1858T patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biopharmaceutics)
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19 pages, 11989 KiB  
Article
PEG-Mediated Protoplast Transformation of Penicillium sclerotiorum (scaumcx01): Metabolomic Shifts and Root Colonization Dynamics
by Israt Jahan, Qilin Yang, Zijun Guan, Yihan Wang, Ping Li and Yan Jian
J. Fungi 2025, 11(5), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11050386 - 17 May 2025
Viewed by 1704
Abstract
Protoplast-based transformation is a vital tool for genetic studies in fungi, yet no protoplast method existed for P. sclerotiorum-scaumcx01 before this study. Here, we optimized protoplast isolation, regeneration, and transformation efficiency. The highest protoplast yield (6.72 × 106 cells/mL) was obtained [...] Read more.
Protoplast-based transformation is a vital tool for genetic studies in fungi, yet no protoplast method existed for P. sclerotiorum-scaumcx01 before this study. Here, we optimized protoplast isolation, regeneration, and transformation efficiency. The highest protoplast yield (6.72 × 106 cells/mL) was obtained from liquid mycelium after 12 h of enzymatic digestion at 28 °C using Lysing Enzymes, Yatalase, cellulase, and pectinase. Among osmotic stabilizers, 1 M MgSO4 yielded the most viable protoplasts. Regeneration occurred via direct mycelial outgrowth and new protoplast formation, with a 1.02% regeneration rate. PEG-mediated transformation with a hygromycin resistance gene and GFP tagging resulted in stable GFP expression in fungal spores and mycelium over five generations. LC/MS-based metabolomic analysis revealed significant changes in glycerophospholipid metabolism, indicating lipid-related dynamics influenced by GFP tagging. Microscopy confirmed successful colonization of tomato roots by GFP-tagged scaumcx01, with GFP fluorescence observed in cortical tissues. Enzymatic (cellulase) seed pretreatment enhanced fungal colonization by modifying root surface properties, promoting plant–fungal interaction. This study establishes an efficient protoplast transformation system, reveals the metabolic impacts of genetic modifications, and demonstrates the potential of enzymatic seed treatment for enhancing plant–fungal interactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Cell Biology, Metabolism and Physiology)
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15 pages, 2533 KiB  
Article
Mesoscopic Structure of Lipid Nanoparticles Studied by Small-Angle X-Ray Scattering: A Spherical Core-Triple Shell Model Analysis
by Hao Li, Panqi Song, Yiwen Li, Shuyang Tu, Mehwish Mehmood, Liang Chen, Na Li and Qiang Tian
Membranes 2025, 15(5), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes15050153 - 16 May 2025
Viewed by 1761
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are widely recognized as effective drug delivery systems for RNA therapeutics because their efficacy is critically dependent on structural organization. The mesoscopic architecture of these multicomponent systems, which is governed by interactions among ionizable lipids, structural lipids, nucleic acids, and [...] Read more.
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are widely recognized as effective drug delivery systems for RNA therapeutics because their efficacy is critically dependent on structural organization. The mesoscopic architecture of these multicomponent systems, which is governed by interactions among ionizable lipids, structural lipids, nucleic acids, and stabilizers, dictates encapsulation efficiency, biodistribution, and therapeutic performance. Although small-angle X-Ray scattering (SAXS) enables nanostructure characterization, the absence of suitable analytical models has hindered LNP development. Here, we present a core-triple shell SAXS model that resolves LNP hierarchical organization, including the inner lipid layer, intermediate hydrophilic region, and outer PEG corona. For LNPs encapsulating mRNA, a Gaussian distribution model was implemented to characterize the quasi-periodic structure originating from the self-assembly of mRNA-ionizable lipid complexes. Validation studies employing Comirnaty-based LNPs demonstrated that controlled variation of nitrogen-to-phosphorus (N/P) ratios produced distinguishable structural features that establish quantitative correlations between N/P ratios and LNP mesoscopic assembled structure. The modeling framework provides pharmaceutical researchers with robust analytical tools for systematic stability assessment and precision formulation for the optimization of LNPs. These structural insights are expected to advance the development of next-generation RNA therapeutics by potentially enhancing their delivery efficiency and pharmacokinetic properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biological Membranes)
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13 pages, 2011 KiB  
Article
High-Efficiency Drug Loading in Lipid Vesicles by MEMS-Driven Gigahertz Acoustic Streaming
by Bingxuan Li, Haopu Wang, Zhen Wang, Huikai Xie and Yao Lu
Micromachines 2025, 16(5), 562; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16050562 - 7 May 2025
Viewed by 811
Abstract
Drug carriers hold significant promise for precision medicine but face persistent challenges in balancing high encapsulation efficiency with structural preservation during active loading. In this study, we present a microelectromechanical system (MEMS)-driven platform that can generate gigahertz (GHz)-frequency acoustic streaming (1.55 GHz) to [...] Read more.
Drug carriers hold significant promise for precision medicine but face persistent challenges in balancing high encapsulation efficiency with structural preservation during active loading. In this study, we present a microelectromechanical system (MEMS)-driven platform that can generate gigahertz (GHz)-frequency acoustic streaming (1.55 GHz) to enable nondestructive, power-tunable drug encapsulation in lipid vesicles. Utilizing DSPE-PEG-modified bilayers with hydrodynamic shear forces, our method achieves transient membrane permeability that preserves membrane integrity while permitting controlled doxorubicin (DOX) influx. We developed the GHz acoustic MEMS platform and applied it to systematically investigate two drug loading strategies: (1) loading DOX into giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs, >10 μm in diameter) prior to extrusion into small unilamellar vesicles (SUVs, 100 nm) versus (2) direct acoustic loading into pre-formed SUVs. The GUV-first approach demonstrated better performance, achieving 60.04% ± 1.55% encapsulation efficiency (EE%) at 250 mW acoustic power—a 5.93% enhancement over direct SUV loading (54.11% ± 0.72%). Structural analysis via TEM confirmed intact SUV morphology post-loading, while power-dependent EE% analysis showed a linear trend. This work bridges gaps in nanocarrier engineering by optimizing drug loading strategies, aiming to offer a potential drug carrier platform for drug delivery in biomedical treatment in future. Full article
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16 pages, 4749 KiB  
Article
Neuroprotective Effects of Peanut Skin Extract Against Oxidative Injury in HT-22 Neuronal Cells
by Jinlan Huang, Yue Zhou, Hui Xu and Mingfu Wang
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(4), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18040544 - 8 Apr 2025
Viewed by 737
Abstract
Background: Oxidative stress is a key therapeutic target in neurological disorders. As processing wastes from the peanut industry, peanut skins are great sources of antioxidants and possess potential in neuroprotection. Methods: We prepared a peanut skin extract (PSE) and investigated its protective effects [...] Read more.
Background: Oxidative stress is a key therapeutic target in neurological disorders. As processing wastes from the peanut industry, peanut skins are great sources of antioxidants and possess potential in neuroprotection. Methods: We prepared a peanut skin extract (PSE) and investigated its protective effects against tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP)-induced oxidative injury in HT-22 neuronal cells. Results: PSE was rich in phenolic compounds (123.90 ± 0.46 mg GAE/g), comprising flavonoids (75.97 ± 0.23 mg RE/g) and proanthocyanidins (53.34 ± 1.58 mg PE/g), and displayed potent radical scavenging activities in chemical-based assays. In HT-22 cells, PSE pretreatment restored oxidative balance and endogenous antioxidant defense disrupted by t-BHP, as evidenced by significant reductions in ROS generation and lipid peroxidation levels, along with enhanced endogenous antioxidants. Specifically, 25 μg/mL PSE pretreatment reduced ROS levels by 53.03%, decreased MDA content by 78.82%, enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity by 12.42%, and improved the ratio of glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSG) by 80.34% compared to the t-BHP group. Furthermore, PSE rescued mitochondrial membrane potential collapse, inhibited cytochrome c (Cyt.c) release, and prevented subsequent apoptotic death. Notably, the neuroprotective efficacy of PSE was comparable to that of edaravone, an approved neuroprotective drug. Mechanistic investigations combining network pharmacology and experimental validation revealed that the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway played a pivotal role in mediating the neuroprotective effects of PSE. Compared to t-BHP-treated cells, 25 µg/mL PSE pretreatment significantly upregulated PI3K/Akt phosphorylation, the expression of Nrf2, and its downstream antioxidant proteins heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone 1 (NQO1). Conclusions: Collectively, these findings demonstrate the potential of PSE as a natural protective agent against oxidative-related neurological disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue NeuroImmunoEndocrinology)
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21 pages, 4145 KiB  
Article
A Polysorbate-Based Lipid Nanoparticle Vaccine Formulation Induces In Vivo Immune Response Against SARS-CoV-2
by Aishwarya Saraswat, Alireza Nomani, Lin-Kin Yong, Jimmy Chun-Tien Kuo, Heather Brown, Muralikrishna Narayanareddygari, Avery Peace, Rizan Fazily, Timothy Blake, Christopher D. Petro, Bindhu Rayaprolu, Johanna Hansen, Amardeep Singh Bhalla and Mohammed Shameem
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(4), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17040441 - 29 Mar 2025
Viewed by 2224
Abstract
Background: Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have proven effective in delivering RNA-based modalities. Rapid approval of the COVID-19 vaccines highlights the promise of LNPs as a delivery platform for nucleic acid-based therapies and vaccines. Nevertheless, improved LNP designs are needed to advance next-generation vaccines and [...] Read more.
Background: Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have proven effective in delivering RNA-based modalities. Rapid approval of the COVID-19 vaccines highlights the promise of LNPs as a delivery platform for nucleic acid-based therapies and vaccines. Nevertheless, improved LNP designs are needed to advance next-generation vaccines and other gene therapies toward greater clinical success. Lipid components and LNP formulation excipients play a central role in biodistribution, immunogenicity, and stability. Therefore, it is important to understand, identify, and assess the appropriate lipid components for developing a safe and effective formulation. Herein, this study focused on developing a novel Polysorbate-80 (PS-80)-based LNP. We hypothesized that substituting conventional linear PEG-lipids with PS-80, a widely used, biocompatible injectable surfactant featuring a branched PEG-like structure, may change the LNPs biodistribution pattern and enhance long-term stability. By leveraging PS-80’s unique structural properties, this study aimed to develop an mRNA-LNP platform with improved extrahepatic delivery and robust freeze/thaw tolerance. Methods: We employed a stepwise optimization to establish both the lipid composition and formulation buffer to yield a stable, high-performing PS-80-based SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-LNP (SC2-PS80 LNP). We compared phosphate- versus tris-based buffers for long-term stability, examined multiple lipid ratios, and evaluated the impact of incorporating PS-80 (a branched PEG-lipid) on in vivo biodistribution. Various analytical assays were performed to assess particle size, encapsulation efficiency, mRNA purity, and in vitro potency of the developed formulation and a humanized mouse model was used to measure its immunogenicity over six months of storage at −80 °C. Results: Replacing the standard 1,2-dimyristoyl-rac-glycero-3-methoxy polyethylene glycol-2000 (PEG-DMG) lipid with PS-80 increased spleen-specific expression of the mRNA-LNPs after intramuscular injection. Formulating in a tris-sucrose-salt (TSS) buffer preserved the LNP’s physicochemical properties and in vitro potency over six months at −80 °C, whereas a conventional PBS-sucrose (PSS) buffer was less protective under frozen conditions. Notably, TSS-based SC2-PS80 LNPs elicited potent humoral immunity in mice, including high anti-spike IgG titers and robust pseudovirus neutralization, comparable to freshly prepared formulations. Conclusions: A PS-80-based mRNA-LNP platform formulated in TSS buffer confers improved extrahepatic delivery, long-term frozen stability, and strong immunogenicity against SARS-CoV-2 following six months. These findings offer a promising pathway for the design of next-generation mRNA vaccines and therapeutics with enhanced stability and clinical potential. Full article
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21 pages, 2503 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Nanoencapsulation of Codium tomentosum Extract and Its Potential Application in Yogurt Fortification
by Micaela Costa, Cristina Soares, Aurora Silva, Maria Fátima Barroso, Pedro Simões, Mariana Ferreira, Paula Gameiro, Clara Grosso and Cristina Delerue-Matos
Mar. Drugs 2025, 23(4), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/md23040147 - 28 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 730
Abstract
Marine macroalgae are excellent sources of bioactive compounds recognized by their pharmaceutical and biomedical potential. A subcritical water extraction (SWE) was applied to the macroalga Codium tomentosum, and the extract was used to prepare phytosomes. A Box–Behnken design was applied to optimize [...] Read more.
Marine macroalgae are excellent sources of bioactive compounds recognized by their pharmaceutical and biomedical potential. A subcritical water extraction (SWE) was applied to the macroalga Codium tomentosum, and the extract was used to prepare phytosomes. A Box–Behnken design was applied to optimize the entrapment efficiency. These phytosomes were further modified with DSPE-PEG (2000)-maleimide and apolipoprotein E and characterized by dynamic light scattering, UV spectrophotometry, octanol/water partition coefficient, differential scanning calorimetry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. As proof of concept, prototypes of functional food tailored to the elderly were produced. Yogurts were fortified with seaweed extract or phytosomes, and physicochemical properties and proximal composition (pH, acidity, syneresis, moisture, peroxides, proteins, total lipids, sugar content, ash, and mineral composition) were analyzed. The antioxidant and the inhibition capacity of two brain enzymes, cholinesterases (AChE and BuChE), involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease, were also evaluated in the final prototypes. Despite their unappealing sensory characteristics, the results are promising for integrating marine extracts with potential neuroprotective effects into functional foods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Extraction and Application of Functional Components in Algae)
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16 pages, 2440 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Four Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Cultivars at Different Drought Stress Levels
by Müge Teker Yıldız and Cüneyt Akı
Agronomy 2025, 15(3), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15030653 - 5 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1268
Abstract
Drought, one of the abiotic stress factors that threatens world food security, destructively limits the growth and development of agricultural plants. Therefore, determining drought-resistant cultivars is of vital importance against increasing climate change. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one of the most [...] Read more.
Drought, one of the abiotic stress factors that threatens world food security, destructively limits the growth and development of agricultural plants. Therefore, determining drought-resistant cultivars is of vital importance against increasing climate change. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one of the most important economic agricultural plants grown worldwide. In this study, different drought stress tolerances (10% PEG (Polyethylene Glycol 6000) and water scarcity) were applied to four commercial tomato cultivars (Rio Grande, Falcon, H−2274, Tyfrane F1) and the effects of drought stress were evaluated within the scope of physiological (germination percentage, shoot length, root length, fresh weight, dry weight, total chlorophyll content, relative water content) and biochemical (protein amount, superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase activity (POX), catalase activity (CAT), hydrogen peroxide content (H2O2) and lipid peroxidation activity (TBARs)) parameters. According to the research results, it was determined that drought stress leads to decreased root–shoot lengths, chlorophyll content, relative water content, fresh and dry weights, and antioxidant enzyme activities in Falcon and H−2274 cultures, increasing TBARs and H2O2 amounts. While the relative water content, which is an indicator of drought stress, shows the water status of the plant, antioxidant enzyme systems are evidence of the resilience of the defense mechanisms of the cultures. In this context, the Falcon cultivar had significantly reduced shoot length (21%, 37%), relative water content (20%, 30%), chlorophyll content (7%, 23%), fresh weight (51%, 49%) and dry weight (9%, 29%) under PEG and water scarcity application; in contrast to these reductions, TBARs (2%, 14%) and H2O2 content (3%, 15%) were significantly increased compared to the control, proving that it is a susceptible cultivar. On the other hand, a slight decrease in relative water content (1%, 3%), a slight increase in total chlorophyll content (6%), intense CAT activity (50%, 67%) and SOD activity (30%), but a decrease in lipid peroxidation level (5%, 22%) and a decrease in H2O2 content (11%, 15%), were detected in the Rio Grande cultivar in PEG and water scarcity treatment compared to the control, proving that this cultivar is resistant to drought and can be effectively grown in water-scarce areas. It was determined that four tomato cultivars had different perception and antioxidant defense systems against drought stress. As a result, when four tomato cultivars under different drought stress levels were evaluated in terms of physiological and biochemical parameters, the tolerance levels were determined as Rio Grande > Tyfrane F1 ≈ Tyfrane F1 > H−2274 > Falcon. In this context, the different responses of tomato cultivars to PEG and water scarcity are important for the selection of drought-resistant cultivars and the development of strategies to increase plant productivity under abiotic stress conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)
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18 pages, 4658 KiB  
Article
Integrated RNA-Seq and Metabolomics Analyses of Biological Processes and Metabolic Pathways Involved in Seed Development in Arachis hypogaea L.
by Long Li, Yutong Wang, Xiaorui Jin, Qinglin Meng, Zhihui Zhao and Lifeng Liu
Genes 2025, 16(3), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16030300 - 28 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1003
Abstract
In peanut cultivation, fertility and seed development are essential for fruit quality and yield, while pod number per plant, seed number per pod, kernel weight, and seed size are indicators of peanut yield. In this study, metabolomic and RNA-seq analyses were conducted on [...] Read more.
In peanut cultivation, fertility and seed development are essential for fruit quality and yield, while pod number per plant, seed number per pod, kernel weight, and seed size are indicators of peanut yield. In this study, metabolomic and RNA-seq analyses were conducted on the flowers and aerial pegs (aerpegs) of two peanut cultivars JNH3 (Jinonghei) and SLH (Silihong), respectively. Compared with SLH, JNH3 had 3840 up-regulated flower-specific differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 5890 up-regulated aerpeg-specific DEGs. Compared with the JNH3 aerpegs, there were 4079 up-regulated variety-specific DEGs and 18 up-regulated differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) of JNH3 flowers, while there were 3732 up-regulated variety-specific DEGs and 48 up-regulated DAMs in SLH flowers. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses revealed that the DEGs of JNH3 were associated with pollen germination and phenylalanine metabolism in flower and aerpeg tissues, respectively. In contrast, the DEGs of SLH were associated with protein degradation, amino acid metabolism, and DNA repair. However, there were significant differences in the lipids and lipid-like molecules between JNH3 flowers and SLH flowers. This investigation provides candidate genes and an experimental basis for the further improvement of high-quality and high-yield peanut varieties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Genomics of Peanut)
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18 pages, 8963 KiB  
Article
Influence of Different Cationic Polymer-Based Micelles on the Corneal Behavior and Anti-Cataract Effect of Diosmetin
by Jing Zhang, Min Zha, Anping Wan, Satya Siva Kishan Yalamarty, Nina Filipczak and Xiang Li
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(3), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17030302 - 25 Feb 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 750
Abstract
Background Despite many studies on polymer-incorporated nanocarriers for ophthalmic drug delivery, few have thoroughly explored the relationship between coating composition and performance. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of three commonly used cationic polymers—distearoyl phosphatidylethanolamine-polyethylene glycol 1000-poly(amidoamine) (DSPE-PEG1000-PAMAM), trimethyl chitosan (TMC), and [...] Read more.
Background Despite many studies on polymer-incorporated nanocarriers for ophthalmic drug delivery, few have thoroughly explored the relationship between coating composition and performance. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of three commonly used cationic polymers—distearoyl phosphatidylethanolamine-polyethylene glycol 1000-poly(amidoamine) (DSPE-PEG1000-PAMAM), trimethyl chitosan (TMC), and (2,3-dioleoyloxypropyl) trimethylammonium chloride (DOTAP)—on the corneal behaviors and anti-cataract efficacy of diosmetin (DIO)-loaded micelles (D-M-P, D-M-T, and D-M-D, respectively). Methods The DIO-loaded micelles were prepared using the thin-film dispersion method and incorporated with the three polymers through hydrophobic interactions and electrostatic adsorption. Structural characterization was demonstrated by TEM imaging and particle size analyzer. In vitro release behavior was detected by the dialysis method. Cell viability of D-M-P, D-M-T, and D-M-D on L929 cells was detected by CCK-8 assays, with cellular uptake performed using coumarin 6 as the fluorescence indicator. Precorneal retention behaviors of these three vesicles were observed by In Vivo Imaging System. Transcorneal permeability was determined by modified Franz diffusion method and the permeation routes of the vesicles are investigated. Selenite-induced cataract model was established. The anti-cataract effects of three different DIO-loaded micelles were evaluated by the observation of lens opacity and antioxidant enzyme activities. Eye Irritation of the DIO in different preparations was estimated using the Draize test, along with H&E staining of the corneas. Results Structural characterization of DIO-loaded micelles revealed that the vesicles were spherical, with a uniform size distribution of around 28 nm, a similar surface potential of approximately 6.0 mV, and a high DIO entrapment efficiency of about 95%. Compared to the DIO suspension, all three formulations exhibited a significant sustained-release effect. They showed no signs of irritation and demonstrated increased IC50 values in L929 cells, indicating improved biocompatibility. Cellular uptake in human lens epithelial cells (HLECs) was assessed using confocal laser scanning microscopy. C-M-T displayed the highest fluorescence signals, with a cellular internalization 3.2 times greater than that of the solution group. Both C-M-T and C-M-P enhanced vesicle retention on the corneal surface by at least 47.8% compared to the Cou-6 solution. Furthermore, TMC facilitated the paracellular transport of vesicles into the deepest layers of the cornea and delivered DIO across the cornea, with a Papp value 3.11 times and 1.49 times those of D-M-D and D-M-P, respectively. In terms of therapeutic efficacy, D-M-T demonstrated the most significant attenuation of lens opacity, along with enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. Conclusion The modification of micelle vesicles with different cationic polymers significantly influences their performance in ocular drug delivery. Among the tested formulations, D-M-T stands out due to its multiple advantages, including enhanced transcorneal drug delivery, therapeutic efficacy for DIO, and safety, making it the most promising candidate for ophthalmic applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer-Based Delivery System)
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