Nianping Feng
Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
Title: Chitosan-Modified Silymarin-Loaded Lipid-Polymer Hybrid Nanoparticles: Preparation and the Lipid-Lowering Effect
Biography
Biography: Nianping Feng
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed chronic liver diseases. The identification of safe and effective drugs treating NAFLD is critical for improving patient survival and preventing further progression of the disease. Silymarin (SM) is a mixture of flavonoid compounds extracted from the seeds of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn, and has been used as an agent in the treatment of fatty liver, liver injury, and hepatitis, and has shown hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties. However, the poor water solubility of SM limits its oral absorption and bioavailability. The purpose of this study is to develop the chitosan-modified, SM-loaded LPNs (CS-LPNs) to enhance the bioavailability and improve the efficacy of SM.
Methodology: A NAFLD model was generated by using PNPLA3 I148M transgenic mice, and the lipid-lowering effect of chitosan-modified silymarin-loaded lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles was investigated. The nanoprecipitation method was used to prepare the lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles, and their characterization was also determined.
Findings: The average diameter of the CS-LPNs was 286.47 ± 23.79 nm. In vitro release experiments showed an 80% release within 8 h. Cytology, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of the nanoparticles were characterized. CS-LPNs reduced lipid accumulation in the livers of PNPLA3 I148M transgenic mice, effectively lowered blood lipid levels, and improved liver function. CS-LPNs provide a new treatment option for NAFLD.
Conclusion: We confirmed that CS-LPNs can inhibit lipid accumulation in the liver and enhance drug efficacy. These findings indicate that CS-LPNs may offer a new treatment option for NAFLD.