Scientia Pharmaceutica (2024)

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Journals

Sci. Pharm.

Journal Description

Scientia Pharmaceuticais an international,peer-reviewed, open access journal related to the pharmaceutical sciences. The journal is owned by the Austrian Pharmaceutical Society (Österreichische Pharmazeutische Gesellschaft, ÖPhG) and is published quarterly online by MDPI and in print by the Austrian Pharmacists' Publishing House (Österreichischer Apothekerverlag).

Open Access— free for readers, witharticle processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
High Visibility: indexedwithin Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), Embase, CAPlus / SciFinder,and other databases.
Journal Rank:CiteScore- Q2 (Pharmaceutical Science)
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a firstdecision is provided to authors approximately 22.7 days after submission; acceptanceto publication is undertaken in 6.9 days (median values for papers published inthis journal in the second half of 2023).
Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.

Impact Factor:2.5 (2022);5-Year Impact Factor:3.5 (2022)

subjectImprint Informationget_appJournal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2218-0532

Latest Articles

13 pages, 3685 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evidence of Hyperglycemic Levels Improving the Binding Capacity between Human Serum Albumin and the Antihypertensive Drug Hydrochlorothiazide

byMarilia Amável Gomes Soares, Franklin Souza-Silva, Carlos Roberto Alves, Leonardo Vazquez, Talita Stelling de Araujo, Carlos Serpa and Otávio Augusto Chaves

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(2), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92020032 - 7 Jun 2024

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), especially arterial hypertension, stand as prominent contributors to global mortality. Regrettably, individuals with diabetes encounter a two-fold increase in the risk of mortality associated with CVDs. Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) represents a primary intervention for hypertension, particularly in diabetic patients. Nevertheless, there has not yet been a comprehensive assessment of the biophysical characteristics regarding the impact of glucose levels on its binding affinity with human serum albumin (HSA). Thus, the present work reports the interactive profile of HSA/HCTZ in nonglycemic, normoglycemic (80 mg/dL), and hyperglycemic (320 mg/dL) conditions by time-resolved fluorescence, saturation transfer difference–nuclear magnetic resonance (STD-NMR), and surface plasmon resonance (SPR). There was a moderate ground state association of HSA/HCTZ with subdomain IIA that was affected in the presence of different glucose levels. The hyperglycemic condition decreased the binding affinity of HCTZ to subdomain IIA and increased the possibility of subdomain IB also being considered as a secondary binding site due to cooperativity and/or alterations in the protein’s structure. Overall, the glucose level under hyperglycemic conditions led to the cavities being more likely to receive more ligands, offering insights into the necessity of glucose control in the human bloodstream to not impact the residence time (pharmaco*kinetic profile) and pharmacotherapeutic potential of HCTZ.Full article

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17 pages, 1324 KiB

Open AccessReview

Medicinal Use of Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.)

byŁukasz Duda, Karol Kamil Kłosiński, Grażyna Budryn, Andrzej Jaśkiewicz, Damian Kołat, Żaneta Kałuzińska-Kołat and Zbigniew Włodzimierz Pasieka

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92020031 - 5 Jun 2024

Abstract

The aim of this review is to discuss the numerous health-promoting properties of Cichorium intybus L. and bring together a range of publications to broaden knowledge and encourage further research and consideration of the plant use as treatment for a range of conditions. A comprehensive search of articles in Polish and English from 1986–2022 years was carried out in PubMed, Google Scholar and ScienceDirect using the keywords chicory, Cichorium intybus L., sesquiterpene lactones and their synonyms. Articles were checked for titles, abstracts, and full-text reviews. The first part of the review article discusses chicory, the countries in which it is found, its life cycle or modern cultivation methods, as well as its many uses, which will be discussed in more detail later in the article. The increased interest in plants as medicines or supplements is also briefly mentioned, as well as some limits that are associated with the medical use of plants. In the Results and Discussion section, there is a discussion of the numerous health-promoting properties of Cichorium intybus L. as a whole plant, with its collection of all the components, and we then examine the structure and the individual constituents of Cichorium intybus L. Among these, this article discusses those that can be utilized for causal applications in medicine, including sesquiterpene lactones and polyphenols, mainly known for their anti-cancer properties, although, in this article, their other health-promoting properties are also discussed. The article also examines inulin, a major component of Cichorium intybus L. The Discussion and the Conclusions sections propose directions for more detailed research and the range of factors that may affect specific results, which may have safety implications when used as supplements or medications.Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Natural Products and Drug Discovery)

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15 pages, 5700 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exposure to Benzo(a)pyrene Enhances Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury in Mice at Non-Hepatotoxic Doses

byYina Montero-Pérez and Jesus Olivero-Verbel

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92020030 - 3 Jun 2024

Abstract

Acetaminophen (APAP) is a widely used analgesic, especially for children. Its primary mechanism involves inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes and activating the endocannabinoid and TRPV1 systems. Though its toxicity is low, it can harm the liver in a dose-dependent manner. Low APAP doses can also increase pollutant-induced liver damage. Little is known about interactions between APAP and benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P). This study aimed to assess if co-exposure to non-hepatotoxic doses of B[a]P and APAP causes liver injury in mice, exploring the underlying mechanisms. Female ICR mice received 50 mg/kg B[a]P or a vehicle for three days, followed by 200 mg/kg APAP or a vehicle. Liver injury was assessed through histopathological examination, serum transaminase activity, and gene expression analysis. In the B[a]P/APAP group, several histology changes were observed, including ballooning injury, steatosis, necrosis, inflammation, and apoptosis. Transaminase levels correlated with histopathological scores, and there was an increase in hepatic cytochrome P450 family 1 subfamily a member 1 (Cyp1a1) mRNA levels and a decrease in aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr), cytochrome P450 family 2 subfamily e polypeptide 1 (Cyp2e1), superoxide dismutase 1 (Sod1), peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (Ppar-γ), and caspase 3 (Casp3). This suggests that prior exposure to B[a]P makes mice more susceptible to APAP-induced liver injury, involving changes in gene expression related to metabolism, redox balance, and cell proliferation. Therefore, using therapeutic APAP doses after exposure to B[a]P could lead to liver injury.Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Scientia Pharmaceutica)

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16 pages, 1485 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Edge Activator Combinations in Transethosomal Formulations for Skin Delivery of Thymoquinone via Langmuir Technique

byHana Mohd, Katarzyna Dopierała, Anze Zidar, Amitkumar Virani and Bozena Michniak-Kohn

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92020029 - 27 May 2024

Abstract

Abstract: Thymoquinone (TQ), a bioactive compound found in Nigella sativa seeds, possesses diverse therapeutic properties for skin conditions. However, formulating TQ presents challenges due to its hydrophobic nature and chemical instability, which hinder its skin penetration. Transethosomes, as a formulation, offer an environment conducive to enhancing TQ’s solubility, stability, and skin permeation. To optimize TQ transethosomal formulations, we introduced a combination of ionic and nonionic surfactants, namely Tween 20 and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium lauroyl glutamate (SLG). Surfactants play a crucial role in stabilizing the formulation, reducing aggregation, improving biocompatibility, and minimizing potential toxicity. We fine-tuned the formulation composition and gained insights into its interfacial behavior using the Langmuir monolayer technique. This method elucidated the interfacial properties and behavior of phospholipids in ethosome and transethosome formulations. Our findings suggest that monolayer studies can serve as the initial step in selecting surfactants for nanocarrier formulations based on their interfacial dilational rheology studies. It was found that the addition of surfactant to the formulation increased the elasticity considering the capability of transethosomes to significantly decrease their radius when permeating the skin barrier. The results of the dilational rheology experiments were most relevant to drug permeation through the skin for the largest amplitude of deformation. The combination of Tween 20 and SLS efficiently modified the rheological behavior of lipids, increasing their elasticity. This conclusion was supported by in vitro studies, where formulation F2 composed of Tween 20 and SLS demonstrated the highest permeation after 24 h (300.23 µg/cm²). Furthermore, the F2 formulation showed the highest encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 94%, surpassing those of the control and ethosomal formulations. Additionally, this transethosomal formulation exhibited antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, with a zone of inhibition of 26.4 ± 0.3 mm. Importantly, we assessed the cytotoxicity of both ethosomes and transethosomes at concentrations ranging from 3.5 µM to 50 µM on HaCaT cell lines and found no cytotoxic effects compared to TQ hydroethanolic solution. These results suggest the potential safety and efficacy of TQ transethosomal formulations.Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Scientia Pharmaceutica)

35 pages, 5088 KiB

Open AccessReview

Drug Delivery Nano-Platforms for Advanced Cancer Therapy

byEkaterina Naumenko, Ivan Guryanov and Marina Gomzikova

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92020028 - 22 May 2024

Abstract

The incidence of cancer is growing every year and covers all age groups, including the working population, which makes cancer socially significant. Existing methods of treatment, despite the effectiveness of individual compounds in relation to cancer cells, are not perfect due to a number of side effects associated with high doses that physicians are forced to administer when using treatment protocols. A particularly difficult issue is the creation of effective functional containers that would have the properties of targeting certain types of cells. The solution of this problem is currently relevant, which is reflected in the growth of publications on this subject in recent years. The most promising is the use of nanotechnology in the development of bioengineered therapeutics and containers for chemotherapeutic agents. In this review, we tried to assess the trends that exist in this area of research, as well as show the wide using of some commercially available formulations based on the nano-sized vehicles.Full article

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16 pages, 763 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bioactive Components Analysis and Pharmacological Properties of Extracts and Metabolites of Lichen Umbilicaria crustulosa

byJovica Tomović, Aleksandar Kočović, Marijana Anđić, Jovana Bradić, Nevena Zubić, Vladimir Jakovljević, Miroslav Sovrlić, Perica Vasiljević and Nedeljko Manojlović

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92020027 - 20 May 2024

Abstract

Lichens, a diverse group of organisms, have a unique structure consisting of fungal filaments and photosynthetic partner cells. This research conducted a comprehensive chemical analysis and evaluation of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of methanolic and acetone extracts from Umbilicaria crustulosa lichen, along with its isolated metabolites. The process involved separating atranorin and chloratranorin fractions, physodic acid, and gyrophoric acid. Secondary metabolites were identified using chromatographic and spectroscopic data. The total polyphenols content was determined spectrophotometrically. This study examined the antioxidant activity of extracts of the lichen U. crustulosa and the isolated fractions using three methods: DPPH scavenging activity, ABTS scavenging activity, and reducing power. This study also evaluated the acute oral toxicity and the anti-inflammatory activity of the extracts in Wistar albino rats. A higher content of the total phenolic compounds was found in the acetone extract, but antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were more prominent in the methanolic extract. The isolated atranorin and chloratranorin fractions and compound physodic acid showed the highest antioxidant activity. No toxic effects were noted in the acute oral toxicity study. This study highlights the potential of the investigated lichen as a valuable source of novel biological agents.Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Scientia Pharmaceutica)

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11 pages, 1857 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Advancing Transdermal Delivery by Zn/Ag-Electrode-Printed Iontophoretic Patch with Self-Generating Microcurrents

byCheng-Liang Peng, Pei-Chi Lee, Hsin-Tung Liu and Ping-Shan Lai

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92020026 - 14 May 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate Zn/Ag-electrode-printed patches for the transdermal delivery of small molecules through iontophoresis. The Zn/Ag-electrode-printed patches interact with biological liquid electrolytes and generate suitable microcurrents for the iontophoretic delivery of small molecules across the skin. In fluorescein permeation studies, Zn/Ag-electrode-printed patches increased the transdermal depth of fluorescein into the dermis, while the permeation of fluorescein was limited when Zn/C-electrode-printed patches were tested. Further permeation experiments were conducted with 3D skin models, which showed a similar trend to the above, indicating that Zn/Ag-electrode-printed patches had a higher penetration rate compared to the blank. Studies using acetyl hexapeptide-8 as a peptide drug model and sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP) as a hydrophilic derivative of ascorbic acid showed that the iontophoretic patch with Zn/Ag electrodes promoted more penetration of drugs than unprinted patches. The permeation of SAP exhibited a two-phase profile with a relatively rapid permeation followed by a sustained, slower permeation. The permeation of acetyl hexapeptide-8 was slower due to its higher molecular weight, but the iontophoretic patch increased the permeation up to 1.5 times more than the unprinted patch. The microcurrent generated by the patch drives the transport of small molecule components through the skin, for the controlled and efficient delivery of therapeutic agents. The flexible design, efficient microcurrent generation, and stable electrodes make the Zn/Ag-electrode-printed patch a promising tool for transdermal drug delivery.Full article

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14 pages, 1859 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Breast Cancer Prevention by Dietary Polyphenols: Microemulsion Formulation and In Vitro Studies

byGhea Putri Cristy, Desy Liana, Jaruwan Chatwichien, Chanat Aonbangkhen, Chantragan Srisomsap and Anuchit Phanumartwiwath

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92020025 - 13 May 2024

Abstract

Concerns surrounding breast cancer have been increasing, as it leads to the current global cancer incidence and causes a high mortality rate in women. This study investigated the physiological effects of common dietary polyphenols that might prevent breast cancer progression. Quercetin, kaempferol, and rosmarinic acid were selected to explore their potential bioactivities. Each polyphenol was formulated into a microemulsion to improve its bioactivity and bioavailability. In vitro antioxidant and cytotoxicity activities of the selected polyphenols and their microemulsion forms were further investigated. The optimized microemulsion carrier with 1% oleic acid, 3% ethanol, 10% polysorbate 20, and 86% ultrapure water achieved more than 90% polyphenol encapsulation efficiency. The microemulsion was stable for more than 30 days when encapsulating polyphenol in the fluctuating temperature treatment. In vitro studies suggested that rosmarinic acid-loaded microemulsion had the best antioxidant activity compared with other polyphenol-loaded microemulsions (PL-MEs). Blank microemulsion and all PL-MEs significantly inhibited the proliferation of both hormone-dependent (T47D) and hormone-independent (MDA-MB-231) breast cancer cells. More studies are warranted to confirm the contribution of the microemulsion carrier components to the polyphenols’ improved antioxidant activity and high toxicity of PL-MEs on breast cancer cells.Full article

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13 pages, 1643 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantitative 1H NMR Spectroscopy Method for Determination of Anthraquinone Derivatives in Extracts from Rubia tinctorum L. Roots and Rhizomes

byVasilii Vasil’ev, Anzhelika Sheremeta, Vasilii Ivlev, Sergey Goriainov, Fadi Hajjar, Cesar Esparza, Evgeniy Platonov, Arkadiy Khromov, Alexandr Kolesnov, Victoria Romashchenko and Gennady Kalabin

Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92020024 - 4 May 2024

Abstract

The roots and rhizomes of Rubia tinctorum L. have been widely used both for industrial and medicinal purposes for centuries. The primary biologically active substances from Rubia tinctorum L. roots and rhizomes are anthraquinone derivatives such as ruberythric acid and lucidin-3-primeveroside. Their identification and quantification are carried out by various analytical methods, requiring a complicated sample preparation as well as special reagents and reference samples. However, NMR spectroscopy has no limitations of this kind. In this work, we have developed and validated a new express and standard-free method for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of ruberythric acid and lucidin-3-primeveroside by ¹H NMR spectroscopy in the extracts from the roots and rhizomes of Rubia tinctorum L. In this work, we have optimized the conditions of the sample preparation and registration of ¹H NMR spectra, determined the optimal solvent and reference compound and confirmed the obtained results by HPLC-UV-MS.Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Natural Products and Drug Discovery)

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