Displaying publications 1 - 20 of 44 in total

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  1. Fulltext Potential of Nanoparticles Integrated with Antibacterial Properties in Preventing Biofilm and Antibiotic Resistance
    Thambirajoo M, Maarof M, Lokanathan Y, Katas H, Ghazalli NF, Tabata Y, et al.
    Antibiotics (Basel), 2021 Nov 02;10(11).
    PMID: 34827276 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10111338
    Nanotechnology has become an emerging technology in the medical field and is widely applicable for various clinical applications. The potential use of nanoparticles as antimicrobial agents is greatly explored and taken into consideration as alternative methods to overcome the challenges faced by healthcare workers and patients in preventing infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms. Among microorganisms, bacterial infections remain a major hurdle and are responsible for high morbidity and mortality globally, especially involving those with medical conditions and elderly populations. Over time, these groups are more vulnerable to developing resistance to antibiotics, as bacterial biofilms are difficult to destroy or eliminate via antibiotics; thus, treatment becomes unsuccessful or ineffective. Mostly, bacterial biofilms and other microbes can be found on medical devices and wounds where they disperse their contents which cause infections. To inhibit biofilm formations and overcome antibiotic resistance, antimicrobial-loaded nanoparticles alone or combined with other substances could enhance the bactericidal activity of nanomaterials. This includes killing the pathogens effectively without harming other cells or causing any adverse effects to living cells. This review summarises the mechanisms of actions employed by the different types of nanoparticles which counteract infectious agents in reducing biofilm formation and improve antibiotic therapy for clinical usage.
  2. Preparation, characterization and in vitro release study of BSA-loaded double-walled glucose-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) microspheres
    Ansary RH, Rahman MM, Awang MB, Katas H, Hadi H, Mohamed F, et al.
    Arch Pharm Res, 2016 Sep;39(9):1242-56.
    PMID: 26818028 DOI: 10.1007/s12272-016-0710-3
    The aim of this study was to prepare a model protein, bovine serum albumin (BSA) loaded double-walled microspheres using a fast degrading glucose core, hydroxyl-terminated poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (Glu-PLGA) and a moderate-degrading carboxyl-terminated PLGA polymers to reduce the initial burst release and to eliminate the lag phase from the release profile of PLGA microspheres. The double-walled microspheres were prepared using a modified water-in-oil-in-oil-in-water (w/o/o/w) method and single-polymer microspheres were prepared using a conventional water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) emulsion solvent evaporation method. The particle size, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, thermal properties, in vitro drug release and structural integrity of BSA were evaluated in this study. Double-walled microspheres prepared with Glu-PLGA and PLGA polymers with a mass ratio of 1:1 were non-porous, smooth-surfaced, and spherical in shape. A significant reduction of initial burst release was achieved for the double-walled microspheres compared to single-polymer microspheres. In addition, microspheres prepared using Glu-PLGA and PLGA polymers in a mass ratio of 1:1 exhibited continuous BSA release after the small initial burst without any lag phase. It can be concluded that the double-walled microspheres made of Glu-PLGA and PLGA polymers in a mass ratio of 1:1 can be a potential delivery system for pharmaceutical proteins.
  3. Design, mechanism, delivery and therapeutics of canonical and Dicer-substrate siRNA
    Raja MAG, Katas H, Amjad MW
    Asian J Pharm Sci, 2019 Sep;14(5):497-510.
    PMID: 32104477 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2018.12.005
    Upon the discovery of RNA interference (RNAi), canonical small interfering RNA (siRNA) has been recognized to trigger sequence-specific gene silencing. Despite the benefits of siRNAs as potential new drugs, there are obstacles still to be overcome, including off-target effects and immune stimulation. More recently, Dicer substrate siRNA (DsiRNA) has been introduced as an alternative to siRNA. Similarly, it also is proving to be potent and target-specific, while rendering less immune stimulation. DsiRNA is 25-30 nucleotides in length, and is further cleaved and processed by the Dicer enzyme. As with siRNA, it is crucial to design and develop a stable, safe, and efficient system for the delivery of DsiRNA into the cytoplasm of targeted cells. Several polymeric nanoparticle systems have been well established to load DsiRNA for in vitro and in vivo delivery, thereby overcoming a major hurdle in the therapeutic uses of DsiRNA. The present review focuses on a comparison of siRNA and DsiRNA on the basis of their design, mechanism, in vitro and in vivo delivery, and therapeutics.
  4. Purification, characterization and comparative studies of spray-dried bacterial cellulose microparticles
    Amin MC, Abadi AG, Katas H
    Carbohydr Polym, 2014 Jan;99:180-9.
    PMID: 24274495 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2013.08.041
    Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a biopolymer with significant potential for the development of novel materials. This work aimed to prepare and characterize BC powders from nata de coco, and assess the possible enhancement of the powder properties by spray drying. Therefore, BC powders prepared by acid treatment and mechanical processing were spray-dried, and characterized according to their morphology, flowability, thermal stability, water retention capacity, and compared with commercial microcrystalline cellulose (MCC). The powders redispersibility and suspensions rheology were also evaluated. SEM showed that spray-dried BC microparticles exhibited semispherical shape and had flow rate of 4.23 g s(-1) compared with 0.52 g s(-1) for MCC. Particle size analysis demonstrated that spray-dried BC microparticles could be redispersed. TGA showed that BC samples had higher thermal stability than MCC. Water retention capacities of BC samples were greater than MCC. These findings provide new insight on the potential applications of spray-dried BC as a promising pharmaceutical excipient.
  5. Drug nanocarrier, the future of atopic diseases: Advanced drug delivery systems and smart management of disease
    Shao M, Hussain Z, Thu HE, Khan S, Katas H, Ahmed TA, et al.
    Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces, 2016 Nov 01;147:475-491.
    PMID: 27592075 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2016.08.027
    Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronically relapsing skin inflammatory disorder characterized by perivascular infiltration of immunoglobulin-E (IgE), T-lymphocytes and mast cells. The key pathophysiological factors causing this disease are immunological disorders and the compromised epidermal barrier integrity. Pruritus, intense itching, psychological stress, deprived physical and mental performance and sleep disturbance are the hallmark features of this dermatological complication. Preventive interventions which include educational programs, avoidance of allergens, exclusive care towards skin, and the rational selection of therapeutic regimen play key roles in the treatment of dermatosis. In last two decades, it is evident from a plethora of studies that scientific focus is being driven from conventional therapies to the advanced nanocarrier-based regimen for an effective management of AD. These nanocarriers which include polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), hydrogel NPs, liposomes, ethosomes, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanoemulsion, provide efficient roles for the target specific delivery of the therapeutic payload. The success of these targeted therapies is due to their pharmaceutical versatility, longer retention time at the target site, avoiding off-target effects and preventing premature degradation of the incorporated drugs. The present review was therefore aimed to summarise convincing evidence for the therapeutic superiority of advanced nanocarrier-mediated strategies over the conventional therapies used in the treatment of AD.
  6. Nanoencapsulation, an efficient and promising approach to maximize wound healing efficacy of curcumin: A review of new trends and state-of-the-art
    Hussain Z, Thu HE, Ng SF, Khan S, Katas H
    Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces, 2017 Feb 01;150:223-241.
    PMID: 27918967 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2016.11.036
    Wound healing is a multifarious and vibrant process of replacing devitalized and damaged cellular structures, leading to restoration of the skin's barrier function, re-establishment of tissue integrity, and maintenance of the internal homeostasis. Curcumin (CUR) and its analogs have gained widespread recognition due to their remarkable anti-inflammatory, anti-infective, anticancer, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and wound healing activities. However, their pharmaceutical significance is limited due to inherent hydrophobic nature, poor water solubility, low bioavailability, chemical instability, rapid metabolism and short half-life. Owing to their pharmaceutical limitations, newer strategies have been attempted in recent years aiming to mitigate problems related to the effective delivery of curcumanoids and to improve their wound healing potential. These advanced strategies include nanovesicles, polymeric micelles, conventional liposomes and hyalurosomes, nanocomposite hydrogels, electrospun nanofibers, nanohybrid scaffolds, nanoconjugates, nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), nanoemulsion, nanodispersion, and polymeric nanoparticles (NPs). The superior wound healing activities achieved after nanoencapsulation of the CUR are attributed to its target-specific delivery, longer retention at the target site, avoiding premature degradation of the encapsulated cargo and the therapeutic superiority of the advanced delivery systems over the conventional delivery. We have critically reviewed the literature and summarize the convincing evidence which explore the pharmaceutical significance and therapeutic feasibility of the advanced delivery systems in improving wound healing activities of the CUR and its analogs.
  7. Oral Dispersible Films from Product Development to End-User Acceptability: A Review
    Khan QU, Siddique MI, Sarfraz M, Rehman K, Sohail MF, Katas H
    Crit Rev Ther Drug Carrier Syst, 2022;39(1):33-64.
    PMID: 34936317 DOI: 10.1615/CritRevTherDrugCarrierSyst.2021036885
    Orodispersible films (ODFs) have served as an emerging platform for the delivery of drugs in a convenient way. They have numerous advantages, the significant one is simplicity of administration for special populations such as pediatric and geriatric as well as patients with swallowing difficulty. Besides, the advantages include accurate dosing and fast action. The ODFs are efficiently designed with detailed knowledge of drug and polymers as well as a suitable selection of method. Many conventional and advance formulation strategies have been used for the development of ODFs. The biopharmaceutical concerns of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) are given in this review in light of the fact that ODFs can be utilized to increase the bioavailability of APIs. The basic critical issues such as good mechanical properties, water solubility of the API and taste masking are very important to be considered during the development of ODFs. The knowledge of critical quality concerns of ODFs will be helpful in the future development of ODF. As ODFs remain in the mouth until complete degradation, taste, texture and mouth-feel are the qualities that in all respects liable for acceptability of the patient. An assortment of packaging choices is also accessible for ODFs. This review focuses on the different critical concerns of ODF related to composition, bio-pharmaceutical, manufacturing, quality tests, packaging and acceptability. Additionally, potential barriers in the ODFs development are discussed in details. Therefore, this review is an informative bundle of ODFs concerns from the product development stage to the end-user acceptability.
  8. Simvastatin nanoparticles loaded polymeric film as a potential strategy for diabetic wound healing: in vitro and in vivo evaluation
    Tufail S, Siddique MI, Sarfraz M, Sohail MF, Shahid MN, Omer MO, et al.
    Curr Drug Deliv, 2021 Jul 20.
    PMID: 34288836 DOI: 10.2174/1567201818666210720150929
    INTRODUCTION: The pleiotropic effects of statins are recently explored for wound healing through angiogenesis and lymph-angiogenesis that could be of great importance in diabetic wounds.

    AIM: Aim of the present study is to fabricate nanofilm embedded with simvastatin loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CS-SIM-NPs) has been reported herein to explore the efficacy of SIM in diabetic wound healing.

    METHODS: The NPs, prepared via ionic gelation, were 173nm ± 2.645 in size with a zeta potential -0.299 ± 0.009 and PDI 0.051 ± 0.088 with excellent encapsulation efficiency (99.97%). The optimized formulation (CS: TPP, 1:1) that exhibited the highest drug release (91.64%) was incorporated into polymeric nanofilm (HPMC, Sodium alginate, PVA), followed by in vitro characterization. The optimized nanofilm was applied to the wound created on the back of diabetes-induced (with alloxan injection 120 mg/kg) albino rats.

    RESULTS: The results showed significant (p < 0.05) improvement in the wound healing process compared to the diabetes-induced non-treated group. The results highlighted the importance of nanofilms loaded with SIM-NPs in diabetic wound healing through angiogenesis promotion at the wound site.

    CONCLUSION: Thus, CS-SIM-NPs loaded polymeric nanofilms could be an emerging diabetic wound healing agent in the industry of nanomedicines.

  9. Efficient Colonic Delivery of DsiRNA by Pectin-Coated Polyelectrolyte Complex Nanoparticles: Preparation, Characterization and Improved Gastric Survivability
    Hussain Z, Katas H, Yan SL, Jamaludin D
    Curr Drug Deliv, 2017;14(7):1016-1027.
    PMID: 28240178 DOI: 10.2174/1567201814666170224142446
    BACKGROUND: Despite having excellent anticancer efficacy and ability to knockdown gene expression, the therapeutic feasibility of Dicer-substrate small interfering RNA (DsiRNA) is limited due to its poor cellular uptake, chemical instability and rapid degradation in biological environments.

    OBJECTIVE: The present study was aimed to circumvent the pharmaceutical issues related to DsiRNA delivery to colon for the treatment of colorectal cancer.

    METHOD: In this study, we have prepared water-soluble chitosan (WSC)-DsiRNA complex nanoparticles (NPs) by a simple complexation method and subsequently coated with pectin to protect DsiRNA from gastric milieu.

    RESULTS: The mean particle size and zeta potential of the prepared WSC-DsiRNA complexes were varied from 145 ± 4 nm to 867 ± 81 nm and +38 ± 4 to -6.2 ± 2.7 mV respectively, when the concentrations of WSC (0.1%, 0.2% and 0.3% w/v) and pectin (0.1%, 0.2% and 0.25% w/v) were varied. The electron microscopic analysis revealed that morphology of WSC-DsiRNA complexes was varied from smooth spherical to irregular spherical. Cytotoxicity analysis demonstrated that viability of colorectal adenocarcinoma cell was decreased when the dose of WSC-DsiRNA was increased over the incubation from 24 to 48 h. A significantly low cumulative release of DsiRNA in simulated gastric (<15%) and intestinal fluids (<30%) and a marked increase in its release (>90%) in simulated colonic fluid (SCF) evidenced the feasibility and suitability of WSC-DsiRNA complexes for the colonic delivery.

    CONCLUSION: These findings clearly indicated promising potential of WSC-DsiRNA complexes as a carrier to delivery DsiRNA to colon for the treatment of colorectal cancer.

  10. Antibacterial and Anti-Biofilm Biosynthesised Silver and Gold Nanoparticles for Medical Applications: Mechanism of Action, Toxicity and Current Status
    Abdalla SSI, Katas H, Azmi F, Busra MFM
    Curr Drug Deliv, 2020;17(2):88-100.
    PMID: 31880259 DOI: 10.2174/1567201817666191227094334
    Fast progress in nanoscience and nanotechnology has contributed to the way in which people diagnose, combat, and overcome various diseases differently from the conventional methods. Metal nanoparticles, mainly silver and gold nanoparticles (AgNPs and AuNPs, respectively), are currently developed for many applications in the medical and pharmaceutical area including as antibacterial, antibiofilm as well as anti-leshmanial agents, drug delivery systems, diagnostics tools, as well as being included in personal care products and cosmetics. In this review, the preparation of AgNPs and AuNPs using different methods is discussed, particularly the green or bio- synthesis method as well as common methods used for their physical and chemical characterization. In addition, the mechanisms of the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity of AgNPs and AuNPs are discussed, along with the toxicity of both nanoparticles. The review will provide insight into the potential of biosynthesized AgNPs and AuNPs as antimicrobial nanomaterial agents for future use.
  11. Recent Advances in Polymer-based Wound Dressings for the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcer: An Overview of State-of-the-art
    Hussain Z, Thu HE, Shuid AN, Katas H, Hussain F
    Curr Drug Targets, 2018;19(5):527-550.
    PMID: 28676002 DOI: 10.2174/1389450118666170704132523
    BACKGROUND: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are the chronic, non-healing complications of diabetic mellitus which compels a significant burden to the patients and the healthcare system. Peripheral vascular disease, diabetic neuropathy, and abnormal cellular and cytokine/chemokine activity are among the prime players which exacerbate the severity and prevent wound repair. Unlike acute wounds, DFUs impose a substantial challenge to the conventional wound dressings and demand the development of novel and advanced wound healing modalities. In general, an ideal wound dressing should provide a moist wound environment, offer protection from secondary infections, eliminate wound exudate and stimulate tissue regeneration.

    OBJECTIVE: To date, numerous conventional wound dressings are employed for the management of DFUs but there is a lack of absolute and versatile choice. The current review was therefore aimed to summarize and critically discuss the available evidences related to pharmaceutical and therapeutic viability of polymer-based dressings for the treatment of DFUs.

    RESULTS: A versatile range of naturally-originated polymers including chitosan (CS), hyaluronic acid (HA), cellulose, alginate, dextran, collagen, gelatin, elastin, fibrin and silk fibroin have been utilized for the treatment of DFUs. These polymers have been used in the form of hydrogels, films, hydrocolloids, foams, membranes, scaffolds, microparticles, and nanoparticles. Moreover, the wound healing viability and clinical applicability of various mutually modified, semi-synthetic or synthetic polymers have also been critically discussed.

    CONCLUSION: In summary, this review enlightens the most recent developments in polymer-based wound dressings with special emphasis on advanced polymeric biomaterials, innovative therapeutic strategies and delivery approaches for the treatment of DFUs.

  12. Preparation, characterization, and in vitro release studies of insulin-loaded double-walled poly(lactide-co-glycolide) microspheres
    Ansary RH, Rahman MM, Awang MB, Katas H, Hadi H, Doolaanea AA
    Drug Deliv Transl Res, 2016 06;6(3):308-18.
    PMID: 26817478 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-016-0278-y
    The purpose of this study was to fabricate insulin-loaded double-walled and single-polymer poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microspheres using a fast degrading glucose core, hydroxyl-terminated poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (Glu-PLGA), and a moderate degrading carboxyl-terminated PLGA polymers. A modified water-in-oil-in-oil-in-water (w/o/o/w) emulsion solvent evaporation technique was employed to prepare double-walled microspheres, whereas single-polymer microspheres were fabricated by a conventional water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) emulsion solvent evaporation method. The effect of fabrication techniques and polymer characteristics on microspheres size, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release, and insulin stability was evaluated. The prepared double-walled microspheres were essentially non-porous, smooth surfaced, and spherical in shape, whereas single-polymer microspheres were highly porous. Double-walled microspheres exhibited a significantly reduced initial burst followed by sustained and almost complete release of insulin compared to single-polymer microspheres. Initial burst release was further suppressed from double-walled microspheres when the mass ratio of the component polymers was increased. In conclusion, double-walled microspheres made of Glu-PLGA and PLGA can be a potential delivery system of therapeutic insulin.
  13. Topical application of omega-3-, omega-6-, and omega-9-rich oil emulsions for cutaneous wound healing in rats
    Ishak WMW, Katas H, Yuen NP, Abdullah MA, Zulfakar MH
    Drug Deliv Transl Res, 2019 04;9(2):418-433.
    PMID: 29667150 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-018-0522-8
    Wound healing is a physiological event that generates reconstitution and restoration of granulation tissue that ends with scar formation. As omega fatty acids are part of membrane phospholipids and participate in the inflammatory response, we investigated the effects of omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids in the form of oils on wound healing. Linseed (LO), evening primrose (EPO), and olive oils (OO) rich in omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids were formulated into emulsions and were topically applied on rats with excision wounds. All omega-3-, omega-6-, and omega-9-rich oil formulations were found to accelerate wound closure compared to untreated, with significant improvement (p 
  14. Potential treatment of atopic dermatitis: tolerability and safety of cream containing nanoparticles loaded with hydrocortisone and hydroxytyrosol in human subjects
    Siddique MI, Katas H, Jamil A, Mohd Amin MCI, Ng SF, Zulfakar MH, et al.
    Drug Deliv Transl Res, 2019 04;9(2):469-481.
    PMID: 29159691 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-017-0439-7
    Hydrocortisone (HC), topical glucocorticoid along with hydroxytyrosol (HT), and anti-microbial- and anti-oxidant-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) were prepared in large scale and analyzed for their adverse effects on healthy human skin followed by repeated applications. Ten subjects were randomized to receive test (HC-HT CSNPs) and vehicle samples (aqueous (AQ) cream). They were applied on the arms for 28 days, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL), erythema intensity, and irritation score were measured. Blood samples were analyzed for blood hematology, blood biochemistry, and adrenal cortico-thyroid hormone (ACTH) levels. Skin biopsy was obtained to assess histopathological changes in the skin. HC-HT CSNP AQ cream was stored at 4, 25, and 45 °C for a period of 1 year, and its stability was assessed by monitoring their physical appearances, particle size, and pH. Spherical-shaped NPs were successfully upscaled using spinning-disc technology, with insignificant changes in particle size, zeta potential, and incorporation of drugs as compared to the well-established laboratory method. Particle size of HC-HT CSNPs was H&E) staining results. Comparative results of blood hematology, blood biochemistry, and adrenal cortico-thyroid hormone level at day 0 and day 28 were not significant, indicating non-systemic toxicity. In conclusion, HC-HT CSNP AQ cream is safe, well-tolerated, and non-toxic, which may be useful in treating atopic dermatitis.
  15. Comparative characterization and cytotoxicity study of TAT-peptide as potential vectors for siRNA and Dicer-substrate siRNA
    Katas H, Abdul Ghafoor Raja M, Ee LC
    Drug Dev Ind Pharm, 2014 Nov;40(11):1443-50.
    PMID: 23962166 DOI: 10.3109/03639045.2013.828222
    Recently, a newly discovered Dicer-substrate siRNA (DsiRNA) demonstrates higher potency in gene silencing than siRNA but both suffer from rapid degradation, poor cellular uptake and chemical instability. Therefore, Tat-peptide was exploited to protect and facilitate their delivery into cells. In this study, Tat-peptide was complexed with siRNA or DsiRNA through simple complexation. The physicochemical properties (particle size, surface charge and morphology) of the complexes formed were then characterized. The ability of Tat-peptide to carry and protect siRNA or DsiRNA was determined by UV-Vis spectrophotometry and serum protection assay, respectively. Cytotoxicity effect of these complexes was assessed in V79 cell line. siRNA-Tat complexes had particle size ranged from 186 ± 17.8 to 375 ± 8.3 nm with surface charge ranged from -9.3 ± 1.0 to +13.5 ± 1.0 mV, depending on the Tat-to-siRNA concentration ratio. As for DsiRNA-Tat complexes, the particle size was smaller than the ones complexed with siRNA, ranging from 176 ± 8.6 to 458 ± 14.7 nm. Their surface charge was in the range of +27.1 ± 3.6 to +38.1 ± 0.9 mV. Both oligonucleotide (ON) species bound strongly to Tat-peptide, forming stable complexes with loading efficiency of more than 86%. These complexes were relatively non cytotoxic as the cell viability of ∼90% was achieved. In conclusion, Tat-peptide has a great potential as siRNA and DsiRNA vector due to the formation of stable complexes with desirable physical characteristics, low toxicity and able to carry high amount of siRNA or DsiRNA.
  16. Fabrication and characterization of matrix type transdermal patches loaded with tizanidine hydrochloride: potential sustained release delivery system
    Shahid N, Siddique MI, Razzaq Z, Katas H, Waqas MK, Rahman KU
    Drug Dev Ind Pharm, 2018 Dec;44(12):2061-2070.
    PMID: 30081679 DOI: 10.1080/03639045.2018.1509081
    OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to optimize and develop matrix type transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) containing tizanidine hydrochloride (TZH) using different polymers by solvent evaporation method.

    SIGNIFICANCE: A strong need exists for the development of transdermal patch having improved bioavailability at the site of action with fewer side effects at off-target organs.

    METHODS: The patches were physically characterized by texture analysis (color, flexibility, smoothness, transparency, and homogeneity), in vitro dissolution test and FTIR analysis. Furthermore, functional properties essential for TDDS, in vitro percentage of moisture content, percentage of water uptake, in vitro permeation by following different kinetic models, in vivo drug content estimation and skin irritation were determined using rabbit skin.

    RESULTS: The optimized patches were soft, of uniform texture and thickness as well as pliable in nature. Novel transdermal patch showed ideal characteristics in terms of moisture content and water uptake. FTIR analysis confirmed no interaction between TZH and cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP). The patch showed sustained release of the drug which increased the availability of short acting TZH at the site of action. The patch also showed its biocompatibility to the in vivo model of rabbit skin.

    CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrated that topically applied transdermal patch will be a potential medicated sustain release patch for muscle pain which will improve patient compliance.

  17. Formulation and Cost-Effectiveness of Fluid Gels as an Age-Appropriate Dosage Form for Older Adults with Dysphagia
    Abd Aziz ZH, Katas H, Omar MS, Mohamed Shah N, Yusop SM
    Dysphagia, 2021 Sep 13.
    PMID: 34518932 DOI: 10.1007/s00455-021-10365-6
    Dysphagia is associated with increased dependency and treatment costs, whereby patients resort to extemporaneous compounding that may further increase the number of adverse events and medical errors. In the management of dysphagia, increasing the bolus viscosity of medication such as fluid gels can be practiced. This study aimed to prepare and characterize the fluid gels as well as to estimate the cost of using fluid gels and compare it to the conventional practice of extemporaneous preparation of thickened liquid. Fluid gels were formulated using gellan gum and determined for physicochemical characteristics and in vitro drug release profile. The cost-based price of the fluid gel was estimated and compared to the cost of administering standard medication as well as administering thickened liquid using thickening powder. Fluid gels exhibited good physicochemical properties with the viscosity within nectar and honey consistency. A similar dissolution profile to the reference was observed for the 0.5% w/v gellan gum fluid gel and exhibiting the Higuchi release model. The price for 100 mL unit of 50 mg/mL paracetamol/acetaminophen and 20 mg/mL ibuprofen fluid gel was estimated to be about USD2.30 and USD2.37, respectively. A dose of 1000 mg paracetamol and 400 mg ibuprofen fluid gel was estimated to be about USD0.46 and USD0.47, respectively, which is lower than the cost of administering the same dose using extemporaneous thickened liquid. Fluid gels could be a cost-effective formulation for delivering medication in patients with dysphagia and can be developed on a profitable scale.
  18. Dual Action Gels Containing DsiRNA Loaded Gold Nanoparticles: Augmenting Diabetic Wound Healing by Promoting Angiogenesis and Inhibiting Infection
    Yasser Hamdi Nor Azlan A, Katas H, Mohamad Zin N, Fauzi Mh Busra M
    Eur J Pharm Biopharm, 2021 Sep 25.
    PMID: 34582971 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2021.09.007
    Hyperglycemia induces the prostaglandin transporter (PGT) gene overexpression, leading to poor vascularization and wound healing. Dicer substrate small interfering RNA (DsiRNA) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) co-loaded into PF127 gel was developed to overcome the disturbance and infections. The AuNPs were biosynthesized using cold and hot water extracts of Lignosus rhinocerotis (abbreviated CLRE and HLRE, respectively). The wound healing efficacy of a PF127 gel containing DsiRNA-AuNPs-CLRE and -HLRE (assigned as F2 and F3, respectively) was evaluated in a diabetes-induced Wistar rat model. The F2 (DC) and F3 (DH) treated groups revealed a faster wound closure (92.67 ± 3.4% and 85.1 ± 7.3%, respectively) than the positive control (commercial gel, DTI)(74.9 ± 13.3%). DH and DC groups presented an increased blood vessel density, along with decreased inflammatory cells. In comparison to positive control, higher prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) (495 ±79 and 50 ±121 pg/mL, for DC and DH group, respectively), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (49 ±15 and 38 ±3 pg/mL, for DC and DH group, respectively) and VEGF-A levels were detected in both groups (DC and DH), indicating the effectiveness of DsiRNA in enhancing PGE2 production and vascularization. On evaluating microbiomes adhered to the wound areas, Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus and Corynebacterium, as well as Gram-negative Pseudomonas, Rodentibacter, and Acinetobacter, were found to be sensitive to the gel. Collectively, the gel was confirmed as a promising dressing for diabetic wound therapy, warranting further studies for clinical use.
  19. Lineage-related and particle size-dependent cytotoxicity of chitosan nanoparticles on mouse bone marrow-derived hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells
    Omar Zaki SS, Katas H, Hamid ZA
    Food Chem Toxicol, 2015 Nov;85:31-44.
    PMID: 26051352 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2015.05.017
    Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) have potential applications in stem cell research. In this study, ex vivo cytotoxicity of CSNPs on mouse bone marrow-derived (MBMCs) hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) was determined. MBMCs were exposed to CSNPs of different particle sizes at various concentrations for up to 72 h. Cytotoxicity effect of CSNPs on MBMCs was determined using MTT, Live/Dead Viability/Cytotoxicity assays and flow cytometry analysis of surface antigens on HSCs (Sca-1(+)), myeloid-committed progenitors (CD11b(+), Gr-1(+)), and lymphoid-committed progenitors (CD45(+), CD3e(+)). At 24 h incubation, MBMCs' viability was not affected by CSNPs. At 48 and 72 h, significant reduction was detected at higher CSNPs concentrations. Small CSNPs (200 nm) significantly reduced MBMCs' viability while medium-sized particle (∼400 nm) selectively promoted MBMCs growth. Surface antigen assessment demonstrated lineage-dependent effect. Significant decrease in Sca-1(+) cells percentage was observed for medium-sized particle at the lowest CSNPs concentration. Meanwhile, reduction of CD11b(+) and Gr-1(+) cells percentage was detected at high and intermediate concentrations of medium-sized and large CSNPs. Percentage of CD45(+) and CD3e(+) cells along with ROS levels were not significantly affected by CSNPs. In conclusion, medium-sized and large CSNPs were relatively non-toxic at lower concentrations. However, further investigations are necessary for therapeutic applications.
  20. Fulltext Preparation and characterisation of highly loaded fluorescent chitosan nanoparticles
    Katas H, Mui Wen C
    ISRN Pharm, 2011;2011:246162.
    PMID: 22389847 DOI: 10.5402/2011/246162
    Chitosan (CS) nanoparticles have been developed as a versatile drug delivery system to transport drugs, genes, proteins, and peptides into target sites. Demands on fluorescent nanoparticles have increased recently due to various applications in medical and stem-cell-based researches. In this study, fluorescent CS nanoparticles were prepared by a mild method, namely, complex coacervation. Entrapment efficiency of sulforhodamine (SR101) loaded into CS nanoparticles was investigated to evaluate their capacity in incorporating fluorescent molecule. Particle size of produced fluorescent nanoparticles was in the range of 600-700 nm, and their particle size was highly dependent on the CS molecular weight as well as concentration. A high entrapment efficiency of SR101 into CS nanoparticles could also be obtained when it was dissolved in methanol. In conclusion, highly loaded fluorescent CS nanoparticles could be easily prepared using complex coacervation method and therefore can be applied in various medical researches.
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