Abstract:
Nanomedicine and nano delivery systems are relatively new, yet rapidly evolving sciences where nanoscale materials are used to act as diagnostic tools or to deliver therapeutic agents to specific targeted sites in a controlled manner. Nanomedicines and nano-based drug delivery systems enhance both the efficacy of new and old drugs through the comprehensive analysis of development and application of nanoparticles. Nanoparticulate structures with stimuli-sensitive polymers and liposomes have gained significant attention for the treatment of liver fibrosis. An advanced stage of fibrosis is liver cirrhosis, characterized by histological growth of regenerative nodules surrounded by dense fibrotic septa. Clinically, cirrhosis is considered as an end stage disease, that precedes to death, if the liver transplantation is not to be performed. Available anti-fibrotic therapies have focused against the reduction of hepatic inflammation rather than to vanquish fibrosis. Therefore, there is a need of significant therapeutic agent, capable of eradicating the fibrosis.
Vitexin is a natural flavonoid found in certain herbs. Recent study confirmed that vitexin inhibits NAFLD by activating AMPK which in turn inhibits lipogenesis and activates lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation. Due to hydrophobic nature, vitexin showed low bioavailability and less efficacy. Also, Reticulocyte endothelial system (RES) may causes the opsonization while systemic circulation. Different types of proteins in blood stream may bind to vitexin drug and ultimately lead to the formation of corona complex that changes its pharmacokinetic behavior.
To overcome the drawbacks, vitexin encapsulated liposome nanoparticles were synthesized by ‘thin film hydration method’ and used against liver cirrhosis for the first time. To enhance the stability, Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was used to enhance stability and for inducing the stealth effect, by coating the liposomes nanoparticles. Pegylation enhances the steric repulsion and hence known as better stabilizer for different types of nanoparticles. PEG follows the erosion -controlled release mechanism of drug that resulted in sustained release. Hence, it is noteworthy that encapsulating the vitexin drug within liposomes and tailoring these liposome nanoparticles by PEG, is a substantial strategy to combat liver cirrhosis.
