Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics (JDDT)
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Hydrogels: A Comprehensive Review of Structure, Properties, and Multifaceted Applications
Full text linkHydrogels, three-dimensional networks of hydrophilic polymers capable of absorbing and retaining significant amounts of water, have transitioned from laboratory curiosities to cornerstone materials in modern technology and medicine. Their unique biocompatibility, tunable physical and chemical properties, and stimuli-responsive nature have made them indispensable in fields ranging from drug delivery and tissue engineering to soft robotics and sustainable agriculture. This review provides a systematic overview of hydrogel classification, cross-linking mechanisms, and fundamental properties. We then delve into their advanced applications across biomedical and non-biomedical sectors, highlighting recent breakthroughs. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and future perspectives for the next generation of "smart" hydrogel systems.
Keywords: Hydrogel, Cross-linking, Stimuli-responsive, Biomaterial, Drug Delivery, Tissue Engineering, Soft Robotics, Agriculture
Decoding DEN-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Models, Mechanisms, and Ameliorative Strategies in Preclinical Research
Full text linkObjective: This review focuses specifically on the DEN-induced hepatocellular carcinoma model, with the objectives are to describing the establishment and characterisation of the DEN model, delineating the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms driving DEN-induced hepatocarcinogenesis, and exploring various ameliorative treatment strategies investigated, including natural products and AgNPs, along with their proposed mechanisms of action. The review also discusses the translational relevance and limitations of the DEN model and outlines future directions in preclinical HCC research aiming to improve therapeutic outcomes.
Data sources: DEN, HCC, and hepatocarcinogenesis were among the search terms used to search databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. After screening abstracts and titles, conference proceedings and commentary were not included. 95 articles and book chapters were included in the final analysis out of 137 sources.
Summary: Future preclinical HCC studies employing DEN models will concentrate on overcoming constraints by combining therapies, targeting tumour heterogeneity, and leveraging enhanced drug delivery technologies, dietary restrictions, tumor microenvironment, and multi-omics approaches. Treatment results are improved by the focused, low-toxicity administration of anti-HCC medicines made possible by nanoparticles. Multi-omics technology integration can reveal new therapeutic targets, biomarkers, and mechanisms influencing the course of HCC and the effectiveness of treatment.
Conclusion: Because it mimics important aspects of actual HCC, the DEN-induced HCC model has proven essential in studying the course of liver cancer and testing treatments. The model is nevertheless crucial for investigating therapies, particularly in light of developments in omics and nanotechnology that are bringing preclinical findings closer to clinical use.
Keywords: DEN (diethylnitrosamine), HCC (hepatocellular carcinoma), CCl4 (carbon tetrachloride), Hepatocarcinogenesis, AgNPs.
Investigation on the Involvement of Phytoconstituents in Endocrine Disorder: A Review
Full text linkThe endocrine system consists of various glands responsible for secreting hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, reproduction, and other physiological processes. Disruptions in this system, termed endocrine disorders, are linked to numerous health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndromes. Moreover, the significance of factors such as life stage, gender and dietary habits in influencing health risks associated with endocrine disruption cannot be overstated. Synthetic medications for these conditions often have adverse side effects like hypoglycemia and heart complications, highlighting the need for alternative treatments. Herbal and natural remedies have shown promise in managing these disorders due to their lower toxicity and minimal side effects. Phytochemicals and poly-herbal therapies are emerging as effective strategies for addressing endocrine and metabolic disorders, influencing molecular targets like AMP-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) and nuclear factor erythroid-2- related factor (Nrf2). Specific disorders such as diabetes, Addison’s disease and hyperthyroidism are characterized by hormone imbalances, with molecular mechanisms involving insulin resistance, cortisol dysregulation, and thyroid dysfunction. Additionally, the role of factors such as life stage, gender, and dietary habits in modulating endocrine disruption-associated health risks is crucial. Natural products, including flavonoids, catechins, resveratrol, and terpenes, are being explored for their therapeutic potential in regulating hormone levels and improving metabolic health.
Keywords: AMPK, Cardiovascular diseases, Diabetes, Endocrine system, Metabolic disorders
A Comprehensive Review on the Role of Natural Plants in Anti-Bacterial Activity
Full text linkNatural plants have been an essential source of therapeutic agents for centuries. With the rising concern over antibiotic resistance, there is an increasing interest in exploring herbal plants as alternative sources of antibacterial agents. These plants contain a wide range of bioactive compounds that exhibit significant antibacterial properties, making them promising candidates for novel drug development. This review explores the various medicinal plants known for their antibacterial efficacy, their phytochemical constituents, and the mechanisms through which they exert their antibacterial effects. Additionally, the review highlights recent advancements in herbal-based antibacterial activity and their potential integration into modern therapeutic strategies. Understanding the antibacterial properties of natural plants can contribute to developing new, effective, and sustainable solutions to combat antibiotic resistance.
Keywords: Antibacterial activity, medicinal plants, phytochemicals, natural remedies, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, antibiotic resistance
Modern Insight into an ancient practice: Fasd (Venesection) for varicose vein Relief: A case study
Full text linkVaricose veins are defined as vein disorders, particularly in the legs, in which several dilated and lengthened veins have permanently lost their valvular efficiency. This impairs backward flow and causes turbulence in the blood circulation in the lower extremities. It is particularly prevalent in the superficial veins of the legs, and it presents with a number of related symptoms that exacerbate varicose veins. The Unani medical system uses many Tadbeer (regimental therapies), which is also known as Ilaj-Bit-Tadabeer like Fasd (Venesection) and Irsale-Alaq (Leech therapy). This study has demonstrated the effectiveness of Fasd (Venesection) in treating varicose veins by enhancing blood circulation and lowering Imtila (Blood congestion). In order to achieve this, the patient was monitored for a month and treated by Fasd (Venesection) every third day with a supportive herbal medicine that included a decoction of 6 grams bark of Arjun (Terminalia Arjuna) twice a day for 21 days. Fasd (Venesection), has been shown to dramatically lower venous engorgement by reducing oedema, congestion, and pain.
Keywords: Unani Medicine, Imtila, Ilaj-Bit-Tadbeer, Fasd(Venesection), Bark of Arjun
The Impact of Health-Related Quality of Life and Comorbidities in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Full text linkBackground: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a primary global health concern, often progressing silently and leading to severe complications in later stages.
Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted over six months among 196 CKD patients (stages 3–5D) at a tertiary care hospital. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was assessed using the validated Malayalam version of the KDQOL-SF™ 1.3 questionnaire. Sociodemographic, clinical, and biochemical data were collected, and CKD staging was based on the CKD-EPI equation. The impact of 12 common comorbidities was analyzed using patient history, clinical evaluation, and laboratory data. Statistical analysis included ANOVA, chi-square tests, Pearson’s correlation, and logistic regression, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: Quality of life (QOL) declined notably as CKD progressed from stage 3 to stage 5, with stage 5 patients exhibiting higher creatinine, lower hemoglobin, and increased serum uric acid and urea levels. HRQoL scores, measured by KDQOL-SF 1.3, worsened across all dimensions, with stage 3 patients having higher SF-36 scores than those in stages 4 and 5. Comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and heart issues were prevalent and significantly impacted CKD progression. Regression analysis highlighted that age above 55, proteinuria, hyperuricemia, unhealthy BMI, and lower GFR were linked to having multiple comorbidities in CKD patients, accelerating progression to stage 5 and increasing treatment burdens.
Conclusion: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly impairs health-related quality of life, with the impact intensifying in advanced stages and in the presence of multiple comorbidities.
Keywords: chronic kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, quality of lif
Formulation and Evaluation of Gastroretentive Floating Tablets of Lovastatin Using Natural Polymers
Full text linkBackground: Lovastatin, a lipid-lowering agent, suffers from low bioavailability due to extensive first-pass metabolism and limited absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. A gastroretentive drug delivery system (GRDDS) offers a promising solution to enhance its therapeutic effectiveness.
Objective: The present study aims to formulate and optimize gastroretentive floating tablets of Lovastatin using various grades of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and natural polymers to achieve sustained drug release.
Methods: Floating tablets were prepared by direct compression using HPMC K4M, HPMC K15M, and guar gum in varying ratios. The tablets were evaluated for pre-compression (bulk density, tapped density, Carr’s index, Hausner ratio) and post-compression (thickness, hardness, friability, drug content, buoyancy) parameters. In vitro dissolution studies were conducted for 12 hours, and the data were fitted into kinetic models to determine the release mechanism.Results: All formulations exhibited acceptable physicochemical characteristics. The optimized batch (F8) demonstrated more than 12 hours of buoyancy, high drug content (99.23%), and sustained release of 99.45% over 12 hours. Drug release followed first-order kinetics with Higuchi diffusion and non-Fickian transport mechanisms.
Conclusion: Floating tablets of Lovastatin prepared with HPMC K4M, K15M, and guar gum can effectively sustain drug release over 12 hours and improve gastric retention. This system holds potential for enhanced therapeutic efficiency in hyperlipidaemia treatment.
Keywords: Lovastatin, gastroretentive tablet, floating drug delivery, HPMC, sustained release, in vitro kinetic
Advances in Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems: Mechanistic Insights and Formulation Strategies
Full text linkSolubility enhancement is a significant challenge in oral drug delivery, particularly for Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS) Class II and IV drugs, which suffer from poor aqueous solubility. Lipid-based formulations, especially Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SNEDDS), have gained attention as effective solutions to this problem. SNEDDS are isotropic mixtures of oil, surfactant, and co-surfactant/co-solvent that spontaneously form nanoemulsions upon contact with gastrointestinal fluids. This review provides a detailed exploration of the formulation, characterization, and solidification techniques of SNEDDS, emphasizing the roles of lipids, surfactants, and co-surfactants in enhancing drug solubility and bioavailability. The article discusses various evaluation techniques for SNEDDS, including droplet size analysis, in vitro dissolution testing, lipolysis, and permeability studies, which are crucial for assessing their performance. Additionally, the review examines the solidification methods of SNEDDS, including adsorption, spray drying, hot melt extrusion, and lyophilization, which enhance formulation stability and scalability. The review also highlights recent innovations in solid SNEDDS (S-SNEDDS), emphasizing their potential in delivering biologics, personalizing therapy, and improving patient compliance. This article positions SNEDDS as a versatile and robust platform capable of significantly enhancing the oral bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs, making them an attractive and reliable solution for modern drug delivery challenges and therapeutic advancements.
Key words: SNEDDS (Self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system), BCS (Biopharmaceutical Classification System), solubility enhancement, nanoemulsion, solidification techniques, bioavailability, self-emulsification, surfactants, co-surfactants, pseudo-ternary phase diagram
Dose-Dependent Effects of Caffeine-Coated Silver Nanoparticles on Radioprotection and Antioxidant Activity in the Liver of Swiss Albino Mice
Full text linkBackground: Ionizing radiation, commonly used in radiotherapy and industrial applications, is known to cause significant oxidative damage by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). This damage affects cellular macromolecules, leading to DNA breaks, lipid peroxidation, and depletion of antioxidant defenses. Nanotechnology, particularly the use of bioactive silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), has emerged as a promising strategy for mitigating radiation-induced toxicity. This study investigates the radioprotective effects of caffeine-coated silver nanoparticles in Swiss albino mice exposed to gamma radiation.
Methodology: Male Swiss albino mice were pre-treated with caffeine-coated AgNPs at doses of 25, 50, 100, 150, and 200 mg/kg for 15 days, followed by 5 Gy whole-body gamma irradiation. Body weight, liver weight, lipid peroxidation (LPO), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were assessed up to 30 days post-irradiation.
Results: Moderate doses (50 and 100 mg/kg) improved body and liver weights, reduced LPO, and preserved GSH levels. Low (25 mg/kg) and high doses (150–200 mg/kg) were less effective or showed signs of toxicity.
Conclusion: Caffeine-coated AgNPs offer dose-dependent radioprotection against gamma radiation-induced oxidative damage, with 50–100 mg/kg showing optimal effects.
Keywords: Caffeine-coated silver nanoparticles, radioprotection, gamma radiation, oxidative stress, GSH, LPO, Swiss albino mice, ROS, nanomedicine, antioxidant therap
Stem Cells Advancement and Applications: A Regenerative Medicines
No full textInnovative advancements in stem cell research have led to the development of organoids that serve as in vitro models for human organ development and disease studies. Developments in the culture of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have facilitated the creation of made tailored differentiation approaches, which have important uses in regenerative medicine. These advancements have enabled the implantation of hPSC-derived cell therapy products into patients, and the results of numerous ongoing clinical trials have been encouraging. A novel strategy for customized cell-based treatments for a range of human illnesses is ectopic expression of reprogramming factors, which allows adult somatic cells to be reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs). The IPSCs technology is a useful tool for drug development and disease modelling, in addition to providing possible remedies. Similar to embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are capable of genetic correction and can develop into any type of cell in the body. These features offer IPSCs a possible path way for the development of long-term treatments for a wide range of diseases that are currently incurable. Additionally, we review the potential uses of IPSCs and clinical examination of future cell culture strategies for large-scale production to improve patient accessibility.
Keywords: Induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs), regenerative medicine, stem cell reprogramming, embryonic stem cells, and human pluripotent stem cell