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Gels
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Nanosized Gel as a Drug Delivery System
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Nanosized Gel as a Drug Delivery System

A special issue of Gels (ISSN 2310-2861). This special issue belongs to the section "Gel Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2024 | Viewed by 9031

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Sara Targonska

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Guest Editor
Institute of Low Temperature and Structure Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa 00-901, Poland
Interests: bone regeneration; apatite; polymers; composites
Prof. Dr. Rafał Jakub Wiglusz

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Guest Editor
1. Institute of Low Temperature and Structure Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, 00-901 Warszawa, Poland
2. Department of Organic Chemistry, Bioorganic Chemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology, 44100 Gliwice, Poland
Interests: biomaterials; biomimetics; biopolymers; hydrogels; nanomedicine
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The presented Special Issue entitled “Nanosized Gel as a Drug Delivery System” is a highly promising issue because it combines the two rapidly growing topics: drug delivery systems and nanoscience in the field of gels.

Gels, nanogels, and hydrogels have been extensively used as scaffolds in various types of systems due to their high water concentration and biocompatibility. They can be characterized by excellent properties relating to cell adhesion, proliferation, migration, and differentiation. All of these advantages promote the development of tissue engineering.

In recent years, the application of nano-sized in drug delivery systems has received considerable attention. The macro- and microporous structure, high water content, and controllable drug delivery provide better conditions for cell behavior and tissue regeneration.  To maximize therapeutic activity, smart drug delivery systems are continuously being improved.

This Special Issue will collect original research articles and reviews discussing the synthesis, characterization, and deployment of nanogel drug delivery systems. We welcome submissions from various fields, including materials science, tissue engineering, chemistry, biology, and medicine. The publication of original research articles, rapid communications or reviews in this Special Issue will make an important contribution to developing nanogels dedicated to drug-delivery systems.

Dr. Sara Targonska
Prof. Dr. Rafał Jakub Wiglusz
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Gels is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • nanogels
  • drug delivery
  • tissue regeneration
  • synthesis and characterization
  • health sciences

Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

19 pages, 7733 KiB  
Article
Development and Characterization of Terbinafine-Loaded Nanoemulgel for Effective Management of Dermatophytosis
by Mayank Phagna, Reena Badhwar, Manvi Singh, Abdulsalam Alhalmi, Rahmuddin Khan, Omar M. Noman and Ahmad Alahdab
Gels 2023, 9(11), 894; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9110894 - 12 Nov 2023
Viewed by 1142
Abstract
Dermatophytosis, the most prevalent fungal infection, is witnessing a rising incidence annually. To address this challenge, we developed a terbinafine-loaded oil-in-water nanoemulsion (TH-NE) through the aqueous microtitration method. The formulation comprised olive oil (oil phase), Span 80 (surfactant), and propylene glycol (co-surfactant). Pseudo-phase [...] Read more.
Dermatophytosis, the most prevalent fungal infection, is witnessing a rising incidence annually. To address this challenge, we developed a terbinafine-loaded oil-in-water nanoemulsion (TH-NE) through the aqueous microtitration method. The formulation comprised olive oil (oil phase), Span 80 (surfactant), and propylene glycol (co-surfactant). Pseudo-phase ternary diagrams and thermodynamic studies underscored the stability of TH-NE. Employing the Box–Behnken design (BBD), we optimized TH-NE, which resulted in a remarkable particle size of 28.07 nm ± 0.5, a low polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.1922 ± 0.1, and a substantial negative zeta potential of −41.87 mV ± 1. Subsequently, TH-NE was integrated into a 1.5% carbopol matrix, yielding a nanoemulgel (TH-NEG). Texture analysis of TH-NEG demonstrated a firmness of 168.00 g, a consistency of 229.81 g/s, negative cohesiveness (−83.36 g), and a work of cohesion at −107.02 g/s. In vitro drug release studies revealed an initial burst effect followed by sustained release, with TH-NEG achieving an impressive 88% release over 48 h, outperforming TH-NE (74%) and the marketed formulation (66%). Ex vivo release studies mirrored these results, with TH-NEG (86%) and TH-NE (71%) showcasing sustained drug release in comparison to the marketed formulation (67%). Confocal microscopy illustrated that TH-NEG and TH-NE penetrated to depths of 30 µm and 25 µm, respectively, into the epidermal layer. Furthermore, dermatokinetic studies highlighted the enhanced drug penetration of TH-NEG compared to TH-NE through mouse skin. In summary, our study establishes TH-NEG as a promising carrier for terbinafine in treating dermatophytosis, offering improved drug delivery and sustained release potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanosized Gel as a Drug Delivery System)
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15 pages, 1653 KiB  
Article
Nanogel-Based Delivery System for Lemongrass Essential Oil: A Promising Approach to Overcome Antibiotic Resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections
by Mohammed F. Aldawsari, Ahmed I. Foudah, Pinki Rawat, Aftab Alam and Mohamad Ayman Salkini
Gels 2023, 9(9), 741; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9090741 - 13 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1073
Abstract
The emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) presents a substantial obstacle in medical environments. To effectively tackle this problem, we suggest an innovative approach: employing a delivery system based on nanogels to administer lemongrass essential oil (LGO). Developed [...] Read more.
The emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) presents a substantial obstacle in medical environments. To effectively tackle this problem, we suggest an innovative approach: employing a delivery system based on nanogels to administer lemongrass essential oil (LGO). Developed PVA and PLGA nanoparticle formulation efficiently encapsulates LGO with 56.23% encapsulation efficiency by solvent extraction technique, preserving stability and bioactivity. Nanogel: 116 nm size, low polydispersity (0.229), −9 mV zeta potential. The nanogel’s controlled release facilitated targeted LGO delivery via pH-controlled dissolution. Pure LGO had the highest release rate, while LGO-NP and LGO-NP-CG exhibited slower rates. In 15 h, LGO-NP released 50.65%, and LGO-NP-CG released 63.58%, releasing 61.31% and 63.58% within 24 h. LGO-NP-CG demonstrated superior antioxidant activity, a lower MIC against P. aeruginosa, and the most potent bactericidal effect compared to other formulations. This underscores the versatile efficacy of LGO, suggesting its potential to combat antibiotic resistance and enhance treatment effectiveness. Moreover, employing a nanogel-based delivery approach for LGO offers an efficient solution to combat drug resistance in P. aeruginosa infections. By employing strategies such as nanogel encapsulation and controlled release, we can enhance the effectiveness of LGO against antibiotic-resistant strains. This study establishes a robust foundation for exploring innovative approaches to treating P. aeruginosa infections using nanomedicine and paves the way for investigating novel methods of delivering antimicrobial drugs. These efforts contribute to the ongoing battle against antibiotic resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanosized Gel as a Drug Delivery System)
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17 pages, 2401 KiB  
Article
Nanofluorapatite Hydrogels in the Treatment of Dentin Hypersensitivity: A Study of Physiochemical Properties and Fluoride Release
by Katarzyna Wiglusz, Maciej Dobrzynski, Martina Gutbier and Rafal J. Wiglusz
Gels 2023, 9(4), 271; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9040271 - 25 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1643
Abstract
The aim of this work was to prepare a new hydrogel based on nanohydroxyapatite (nFAP, 10% w/w) and fluorides (4% w/w), both of which are used as sources of fluoride ions in the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity, and to characterize its [...] Read more.
The aim of this work was to prepare a new hydrogel based on nanohydroxyapatite (nFAP, 10% w/w) and fluorides (4% w/w), both of which are used as sources of fluoride ions in the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity, and to characterize its physicochemical properties. The release of fluoride ions from 3 gels (G-F, G-F-nFAP, and G-nFAP gel) was controlled in Fusayama–Meyer artificial saliva at pH 4.5, 6.6, and 8.0. The properties of the formulations were determined by an analysis of viscosity, a shear rate test, a swelling study, and gel aging. Various methods, i.e., FT-IR spectroscopy, UV-VIS spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric, electrochemical, and rheological analysis, were used for the experiment. The profiles of fluoride release indicate that the amount of fluoride ions released increases with a decrease in the pH value. The low pH value facilitated water absorption by the hydrogel, which was also confirmed by the swelling test, and it promoted the exchange of ions with the surrounding environment. Under conditions similar to physiological conditions (at pH 6.6), the amounts of fluorides released into artificial saliva were approximately 250 µg/cm2 and 300 µg/cm2 for the G-F-nFAP hydrogel and G-F hydrogel, respectively. The aging study and properties of the gels showed a loosening of the gel network structure. The Casson rheological model was used to assess the rheological properties of the non-Newtonian fluids. Hydrogels consisting of nanohydroxyapatite and sodium fluoride are promising biomaterials in the prevention and management of the dentin hypersensitivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanosized Gel as a Drug Delivery System)
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15 pages, 2123 KiB  
Article
Pluronics-Based Drug Delivery Systems for Flavonoids Anticancer Treatment
by Sylwia Ronka, Aleksandra Kowalczyk, Dagmara Baczyńska and Anna K. Żołnierczyk
Gels 2023, 9(2), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9020143 - 08 Feb 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1756
Abstract
This research concerns the investigation of the preparation of polymeric nanocarriers containing a flavonoid—naringenin, xanthohumol or isoxanthohumol—based on Pluronics by the thin-film formation method. The size of the formed micelles and their stability upon dilution were evaluated using Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis; [...] Read more.
This research concerns the investigation of the preparation of polymeric nanocarriers containing a flavonoid—naringenin, xanthohumol or isoxanthohumol—based on Pluronics by the thin-film formation method. The size of the formed micelles and their stability upon dilution were evaluated using Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis; the high values of the drug loading and the encapsulation efficiency confirmed that the proposed systems of flavonoids delivery consisting of Pluronic P123 and F127 nanomicelles could effectively distribute the drug into tumour tissues, which makes these nanocarriers ideal candidates for passive targeting of cancer cells by the enhanced permeation and retention (EPR) effect. The in vitro cytotoxicity of proposed flavonoids in the Pluronic formulations was investigated by the SRB assay with human colon cancer cells. We designed mixed polymeric micelles, which was a successful drug delivery system for the case of naringenin not being able to enhance the bioavailability and cytotoxic activity of xanthohumol and isoxanthohumol. Furthermore, it was observed that the higher amount of polymer in the formulation achieved better cytotoxic activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanosized Gel as a Drug Delivery System)
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17 pages, 2480 KiB  
Article
Tamoxifen Citrate Containing Topical Nanoemulgel Prepared by Ultrasonication Technique: Formulation Design and In Vitro Evaluation
by Mohammad H. Alyami, Hamad S. Alyami, Abdullah A. Alshehri, Wijdan K. Alsharif, Ibrahim Ahmed Shaikh and Thamer S. Algahtani
Gels 2022, 8(7), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8070456 - 21 Jul 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2873
Abstract
The present study aims to design and develop a nanoemulgel formulation of Tamoxifen citrate (TAM), a water-insoluble, potent anticancer drug, using the spontaneous emulsification method to improve topical delivery, achieve high accumulation at the tumour site, and spare the healthy tissues. The oil-based [...] Read more.
The present study aims to design and develop a nanoemulgel formulation of Tamoxifen citrate (TAM), a water-insoluble, potent anticancer drug, using the spontaneous emulsification method to improve topical delivery, achieve high accumulation at the tumour site, and spare the healthy tissues. The oil-based selection was related to the TAM solubility, while the surfactant and co-surfactant were chosen based on the droplets’ thermodynamic stability and size. Afterwards, a pseudo-ternary phase diagram was built for the most promising formulation using two oils, olive and sesame, with a varied mix of Tween 40 as the surfactant and Trascutol HP as the co-surfactant (Smix), by the optimisation of experiments. The nanoemulsion (NE) formulations that were prepared were found to have an average droplet size of 41.77 ± 1.23 nm and 188.37 ± 3.53 nm, with suitable thermodynamic stability and physicochemical properties. Both olive and sesame oils are natural food additives due to their associated antioxidant effects; therefore, they showed no toxicity profile on breast cell lines (MCF-7, ATCC number HTB-22). The TAM-NE preparations revealed a prolonged and doublings superior cumulative percentage of in vitro release of TAM compared to TAM plain gel suspension over 24 h. The release data suggested that the Higuchi model was the best fitting kinetical model for the developed formulations of NE1, NE9, and NE18. The extended release of the drug as well as an acceptable amount of the drug permeated TAM via nanogel preparations suggested that nanoemulgel (NEG) is suitable for the topical delivery of TAM in breast cancer management. Thus, this work suggests that a nanogel of TAM can improve anticancer properties and reduce systemic adverse effects compared to a suspension preparation of TAM when applied in the treatment of breast cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanosized Gel as a Drug Delivery System)
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