Search Results (23)

Malaria has long been a significant global health concern, listed as a high-priority disease by several global health agencies, despite of several control measures have been put in place. Most widely utilized treatment options for malaria include chloroquine, artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), and quinine. However, challenges, such as drug resistance, misdiagnosis, and limited treatment efficacy remain major concerns. Despite ongoing efforts, the development of an effective malaria vaccine is still debatable. Many existing malaria treatments have drawbacks, such as low water solubility, poor bioavailability, and a rise in drug-resistant parasites owing to their non-judicious use, which contributes to increased malaria cases and fatalities. Nanotechnology presents a promising approach to safer and more effective malaria therapy and control. Nanoparticles offer several advantages over conventional treatments, including high drug-loading capacity, targeted delivery, improved biocompatibility, and reduced toxicity in host cells. Green nanotechnology-based antimalarial therapies have demonstrated potential therapeutic benefits, enhanced safety, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional treatments, ultimately improving patient compliance and treatment outcomes. In this review paper, we discussed non-conventional breakpoints in the malarial life cycle, traditional herbal remedies for malaria, and nanoparticle-based delivery systems. Additionally, we reviewed the antimalarial effects of herbal nano-formulations, their pharmacological and therapeutic potential, drug-resistant malaria, preventive strategies, vector control using green nanomaterials, and the challenges associated with plant-based nanotechnologies. This review suggests nanotechnology-based therapeutics as promising candidates to treat malaria with significant room for applications and commercialization potential in the longer run. Full article

Background/Objectives: Diabetes is characterized by multiple metabolic disorders, defined by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged duration. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) comprises defective insulin secretion, its ineffective utilization, or both, resulting in hyperglycemia. The disease is one of the leading causes of mortality, according to the WHO, and necessitates the development of advanced therapeutics. Methods: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The study and execution of the literature review followed a timeframe of 3–6 months, during which the conceptualization, execution, analysis, writing, and editing were conducted. Ginsenosides, triterpenoids from the Panax genus, are widely recognized for their promising antidiabetic effects, mediated through mechanisms that include glucose uptake, insulin secretion, antioxidant activity, and anti-inflammatory pathways. Ongoing clinical trials in patients with IGT or Type 2 diabetes have shown an improvement in insulin sensitivity and glucose control, and consolidate the therapeutic potential of ginseng pharmacotherapy. Results: This viewpoint summarizes the most recent discoveries on the hypoglycemic mechanisms of ginsenosides for Type 2 diabetes and its associated complications, with a major focus on ginseng-based drug development. An emphasis is placed on how ginsenosides control blood glucose levels and regulate signaling pathways, investigating their antidiabetic mechanisms and potential. Conclusions: Preclinical studies suggest that nano-innovations in ginseng have the potential to address therapeutic challenges, improve systemic circulation, lower the toxicity of biomolecules, and improve bioavailability, defining exciting outcomes. Furthermore, well-designed human clinical trials are necessary to understand the antidiabetic mechanisms and pharmacological potential of ginseng and/or ginsenosides in drug development. Full article

Carbon dots have emerged as promising nanocarriers for drug delivery due to their unique physicochemical properties and biocompatibilities. Here, the potential of leaf-derived carbon dots (named as SBL_CD), derived from Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.), was illustrated as a novel nano-formulation for bioactive compound delivery. Seabuckthorn leaves, rich in flavonoids, are the waste product during the production of Seabuckthorn fruits. The wasted leaves were utilized to synthesize carbon dots via a hydrothermal method. The resulting SBL_CD, characterized by TEM, FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy, exhibited a diameter of ~5 nm in both amorphous and quasi-crystalline forms. Applications of SBL_CD in cultures demonstrated robust properties of anti-inflammation and inducing neuronal cell differentiation. Furthermore, SBL_CD was able to encapsulate luteolin, a bioactive flavonoid. The enhanced delivery efficiency translated to superior biological activity, with SBL_CD-luteolin requiring only 1.50 μg/mL in achieving the EC₅₀ efficacy, as compared to 6.82 μg/mL for free luteolin in pNF200-Luc expression assays. This approach not only valorizes Seabuckthorn leaf by-products but also potentially improves the efficacy of encapsulated flavonoids. The development of SBL_CD as a multifunctional platform for flavonoid delivery represents a promising strategy in enhancing the efficacy of neuroactive compounds, combining anti-inflammatory effects (>70% cytokine suppression) with enhanced cellular uptake (4.5-fold increase). Full article

Phytochemicals from medicinal plants offer significant therapeutic benefits, yet their clinical utility is often limited by poor solubility, instability, and low bioavailability. Nanotechnology presents a transformative approach to overcome these challenges by encapsulating phytochemicals in nanocarriers that enhance stability, targeted delivery, and controlled release. This review highlights major classes of phytochemicals such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids and explores various nanocarrier systems including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and hybrid platforms. It also discusses their mechanisms of action, improved pharmacokinetics, and disease-specific targeting. Further, the review examines clinical advancements, regulatory considerations, and emerging innovations such as smart nanocarriers, AI-driven formulation, and sustainable manufacturing. Nano-phytomedicine offers a promising path toward safer, more effective, and personalized therapies, bridging traditional herbal knowledge with modern biomedical technology. Full article

The incidence of fungal infections is significantly rising, posing a challenge due to the limited class of antifungal drugs. There is a necessity to combat emerging resistant fungal infections by developing novel antifungal agents. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal effects of lawsone (LAW), a natural component extracted from herbal medicine, and LAW-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (LAW-MSNs) on growth, biofilm formation, and expression of ALS1 and EPA1 genes contributing to cell adhesion of Candida spp. Twenty C. albicans and twenty C. glabrata isolates, including ten fluconazole-resistant and ten fluconazole-susceptible isolates, were examined. The findings of the study indicated that LAW and LAW-MSNs inhibited Candida isolates growth at MIC range of 0.31–>5 µg/mL and significantly reduced biofilm formation in C. albicans and C. glabrata. Moreover, both LAW and LAW-MSNs downregulated the expression of the adhesion genes ALS1 and EPA1 in C. albicans and C. glabrata. Based on the obtained findings, LAW emerged as a promising antifungal candidate. However, the nano-formulation (LAW-MSNs) improved its antifungal properties. Full article

With the development of technology, natural material components are widely used in various fields of science. Natural product components in phytochemical compounds are secondary metabolites produced by plants; they have been shown to have many pharmacological activities. Phytochemical compounds obtained from plants have an important role in herbal medicine. Herbal medicine is safer and cheaper than synthetic medicine. However, herbal medicines have weaknesses, such as low solubility, less stability, low bioavailability, and experiencing physical and chemical degradation, reducing their pharmacological activity. Recent herbal nano-delivery developments are mostly plant-based. A nanotechnology-based system was developed to deliver herbal therapies with better bioavailability, namely the nanohydrogel system. Nanohydrogel is a delivery system that can overcome the disadvantages of using herbal compounds because it can increase solubility, increase pharmacological activity and bioavailability, reduce toxicity, slow delivery, increase stability, improve biodistribution, and prevent physical or chemical degradation. This review article aimed to provide an overview of recent advances in developing nanohydrogel formulations derived from natural ingredients to increase solubility and pharmacological activity, as well as a summary of the challenges faced by delivery systems based on nanohydrogel derived from natural materials. A total of 25 phytochemicals derived from natural products that have been developed into nanohydrogel were proven to increase the activity and solubility of these chemical compounds. Full article

Nanoformulations have become increasingly useful as drug delivery technologies in recent decades. As therapeutics, oral administration is the most common delivery method, although it is not always the most effective route because of challenges with swallowing, gastrointestinal discomfort, low solubility, and poor absorption. One of the most significant barriers that medications must overcome to exert a therapeutic effect is the impact of the first hepatic transit. Studies have shown that controlled-release systems using nanoparticles composed of biodegradable natural polymers significantly improve oral administration, which is why these materials have attracted significant attention. Chitosan possesses a wide variety of properties and functions in the pharmaceutical as well as healthcare industries. Drug encapsulation and transport within the body are two of its most important features. Moreover, chitosan can enhance drug efficacy by facilitating drug interaction with target cells. Based on its physicochemical properties, chitosan can potentially be synthesized into nanoparticles, and this review summarizes recent advances and applications of orally delivered chitosan nanoparticle interventions. Full article

In this nanotechnology era, nanostructures play a crucial role in the investigation of novel functional nanomaterials. Complex nanostructures and their corresponding fabrication techniques provide powerful tools for the development of high-performance functional materials. In this study, advanced micro-nanomanufacturing technologies and composite micro-nanostructures were applied to the development of a new type of pharmaceutical formulation, aiming to achieve rapid hemostasis, pain relief, and antimicrobial properties. Briefly, an approach combining a electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA) technique and reversed-phase solvent was employed to fabricate a novel beaded nanofiber structure (BNS), consisting of micrometer-sized particles distributed on a nanoscale fiber matrix. Firstly, Zein-loaded Yunnan Baiyao (YB) particles were prepared using the solution electrospraying process. Subsequently, these particles were suspended in a co-solvent solution containing ciprofloxacin (CIP) and hydrophilic polymer polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and electrospun into hybrid structural microfibers using a handheld electrospinning device, forming the EHDA product E3. The fiber-beaded composite morphology of E3 was confirmed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the amorphous state of CIP in the BNS membrane due to the good compatibility between CIP and PVP. The rapid dissolution experiment revealed that E3 exhibits fast disintegration properties and promotes the dissolution of CIP. Moreover, in vitro drug release study demonstrated the complete release of CIP within 1 min. Antibacterial assays showed a significant reduction in the number of adhered bacteria on the BNS, indicating excellent antibacterial performance. Compared with the traditional YB powders consisting of Chinese herbs, the BNS showed a series of advantages for potential wound dressing. These advantages include an improved antibacterial effect, a sustained release of active ingredients from YB, and a convenient wound covering application, which were resulted from the integration of Chinese herbs and Western medicine. This study provides valuable insights for the development of novel multiscale functional micro-/nano-composite materials and pioneers the developments of new types of medicines from the combination of herbal medicines and Western medicines. Full article

White, green, and oolong teas are produced from the tea plant (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze) and are reported to have anti-obesity and hypolipidemic effects. The current study aims to investigate the anti-obesity effects of a tea mixture nano-formulation by targeting the AMPK/Sirt-1/GLUT-4 axis in rats. In vitro lipase and α-amylase inhibition assays were used to determine the active sample, which was then incorporated into a nanoparticle formulation subjected to in vivo anti-obesity testing in rats by measuring the expression level of different genes implicated in adipogenesis and inflammation using qRT-PCR. Moreover, metabolomic analysis was performed for each tea extract using LC/ESI MS/MS coupled to chemometrics in an attempt to find a correlation between the constituents of the extracts and their biological activity. The in vitro pancreatic lipase and α-amylase inhibition assays demonstrated more effective activity in the tea mixture than the standards, orlistat and acarbose, respectively, and each tea alone. Thus, the herbal tea mixture and its nanoparticle formulation were evaluated for their in vivo anti-obesity activity. Intriguingly, the tea mixture significantly decreased the serum levels of glucose and triglycerides and increased the mRNA expression of GLUT-4, P-AMPK, Sirt-1, and PPAR-γ, which induce lipolysis while also decreasing the mRNA expression of TNF-α and ADD1/SREBP-1c, thereby inhibiting the inflammation associated with obesity. Our study suggests that the tea mixture nano-formulation is a promising therapeutic agent in the treatment of obesity and may also be beneficial in other metabolic disorders by targeting the AMPK/Sirt-1/Glut-4 pathway. Full article

Biodiversity is a hallmark of the Asteraceae family. Several species are known for their pharmacological potential. The search for new substances has permeated the chemistry of natural products for years. However, the development of a final product is still a challenge. Plant extracts have physicochemical characteristics that sometimes hinder administration, requiring a formulation. In this context, nanotechnology emerges as a tool to improve the pharmacokinetic parameters of several pharmacologically active substances. Nanoemulsions, liposomes, and nanoparticles are used to carry the active ingredients and thus improve therapeutic action, especially for substances with solubility and absorption problems. This paper aimed at compiling all the studies that used nanotechnology to develop formulations from species of the Asteraceae family from 2010 to 2021 in a literature review. The search showed that nanoemulsions are the most developed formulation associated with essential oils. The use of nanotechnology promoted an improvement in the pharmacokinetic parameters of active substances. Full article

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and a significant health concern worldwide. The main threat to the elimination of TB is the development of resistance by MTB to the currently used antibiotics and more extended treatment methods, which is a massive burden on the health care system. As a result, there is an urgent need to identify new, effective therapeutic strategies with fewer adverse effects. The traditional medicines found in South Asia and Africa have a reservoir of medicinal plants and plant-based compounds that are considered another reliable option for human beings to treat various diseases. Abundant research is available for the biotherapeutic potential of naturally occurring compounds in various diseases but has been lagging in the area of TB. Plant-based compounds, or phytoproducts, are being investigated as potential anti-mycobacterial agents by reducing bacterial burden or modulating the immune system, thereby minimizing adverse effects. The efficacy of these phytochemicals has been evaluated through drug delivery using nanoformulations. This review aims to emphasize the value of anti-TB compounds derived from plants and provide a summary of current research on phytochemicals with potential anti-mycobacterial activity against MTB. This article aims to inform readers about the numerous potential herbal treatment options available for combatting TB. Full article

Although psoriasis remains one of the most devastating inflammatory disorders due to its huge negative impact on patients’ quality of life, new “green” treatment approaches still need to be fully explored. The purpose of this review article is to focus on the utilization of different essential oils and active constituents of herbal botanical origin for the treatment of psoriasis that proved efficacious via both in vitro and in vivo models. The applications of nanotechnology-based formulations which displayed great potential in augmenting the permeation and delivery of these agents is also addressed. Numerous studies have been found which assessed the potential activity of natural botanical agents to overcome psoriasis. Nano-architecture delivery is applied in order to maximize the benefits of their activity, improve properties, and increase patient compliance. This field of natural innovative formulations can be a promising tool to optimize remediation of psoriasis while minimizing adverse effects. Full article

Advancement in nanotechnology has unleashed the therapeutic potentials of dietary polyphenols by enhancing bioavailability, improving biological half-life, and allowing site-specific drug delivery. In this review, through citation of relevant literature reports, we discuss the application of nano-pharmaceutical formulations, such as solid lipid nanoparticles, nano-emulsions, nano-crystals, nano-polymersomes, liposomes, ethosomes, phytosomes, and invasomes for dietary polyphenols. Following this, we highlight important studies concerning different combinations of nano formulations with dietary polyphenols (also known as nanophytopolyphenols). We also provide nano-formulation paradigms for enhancing the physicochemical properties of dietary polyphenols. Finally, we highlight the latest patents that were granted on nano-formulations of dietary polyphenols. Based on our review, we observe that nanosized delivery of herbal constituents, spices, and dietary supplements have the ability to improve biological processes and address issues connected with herbal treatments. Full article

The use of natural compounds is becoming increasingly popular among patients, and there is a renewed interest among scientists in nature-based bioactive agents. Traditionally, herbal drugs can be taken directly in the form of teas/decoctions/infusions or as standardized extracts. However, the disadvantages of natural compounds, especially essential oils, are their instability, limited bioavailability, volatility, and often irritant/allergenic potential. However, these active substances can be stabilized by encapsulation and administered in the form of nanoparticles. This brief overview summarizes the latest results of the application of nanoemulsions, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, and nanostructured lipid carriers used as drug delivery systems of herbal essential oils or used directly for their individual secondary metabolites applicable in cancer therapy. Although the discussed bioactive agents are not typical compounds used as anticancer agents, after inclusion into the aforesaid formulations improving their stability and bioavailability and/or therapeutic profile, they indicated anti-tumor activity and became interesting agents with cancer treatment potential. In addition, co-encapsulation of essential oils with synthetic anticancer drugs into nanoformulations with the aim to achieve synergistic effect in chemotherapy is discussed. Full article

Polymer, lipid, and natural protein-based hair care nanocarriers are in preclinical testing. Nanomedicine has enhanced therapeutic efficacy and decreased side effects. This review examines herbal nanomedicine for hair care. We also reviewed the hair cycle, its morphology, and the mechanisms of herbal-based medicine that regulate the hair cycle to treat hair loss. Nano-formulations have better solubility, permeability, therapeutic efficacy, and prolonged distribution than standard herbal medicines. This review also discussed the nanotechnology barrier and nano formulations for hair loss and growth and includes a recent herbal nanomedicine study. Researchers interested in using herbs to treat hair problems and clinically translating hair care products may find the results presented significant. Full article