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Globally large numbers of people are suffering from brain disorders for instance neurodegenerative disorders whereas treatments remain inadequate. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) serves as a major obstacle in transporting active therapeutic agents into the brain. Herbal medicines have the potency to treat these brain diseases however, it is having some limitations like poor brain permeability, and slow bioavailability.
The objective of this study was to assess the neuroprotective effects of andrographolide-loaded β-cyclodextrin-lactose nanoparticles on spatial learning and memory in experimental models, aiming to enhance cognitive function and brain health.
Swiss Albino mice (25-30 g, 2-3 weeks, both sexes) were sourced from Galgotias University, India (Reg. No. 94090). Andrographolide (AGL), a diterpenoid from Andrographis paniculata, was encapsulated in β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) combined with lactose using the solvent evaporation method, optimized via Design-Expert software. To improve neuronal uptake, lactose was added to β-CD using the heating method, confirmed by 1H NMR spectra. The AGL-loaded β-CD-lactose nanoparticles were characterized for particle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency, and their effects on brain tissue were assessed biochemically and histopathologically.
Developed nanoparticles had particle size 247.9 ± 3.2 nm, PDI 0.5 ± 0.02, and zeta potential 26.8 ± 2.5 mV, while entrapment efficacy between 74 ± 0.45% to 82 ± 0.32% and in-vitro drug release from the nanoparticles had 79.48 ± 0.74% in 24 hours. TEM analysis showed spherical morphology. Furthermore, behavioural assay and acute toxicity of nanoparticles were also analyzed which indicate that nanoparticles can reach into the brain and are safe for further use.
The lactose-modified β-cyclodextrin nanoparticles significantly improved the neuroprotective effect of AGL, offering an effective strategy for drug delivery to the brain and potential treatment for neurodegenerative disorders.
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