Amplifying therapeutic potential through optimization of bioavailability of poorly soluble flavonols via albumin-based nanoparticles.

Abstract

Objective: Flavonols have different pharmacological actions that render them highly promising therapeutic targets. However, their water solubility and bioavailability are low, which restricts their therapeutic potential. ABNPs, albumin-based nanoparticles, are potential nanocarriers that enhance flavonol solubility, stability, and targeted delivery. By utilizing ABNPs, in this work we provide a detailed overview of strategies employed to attain maximum bioavailability of poorly water-soluble flavonols. The review critically evaluates ABNP-mediated delivery's pharmacokinetic advantage, physicochemical properties, and formulation principles. We also highlight existing gaps in research, such as the need for stringent in vivo validity tests, standardized formulation procedures, and in-depth mechanistic understanding of flavonol-albumin interactions.

Significance: Despite having potential therapeutic activities, the utilization of flavonoids in the form of medication is limited. Some recent studies have shown that flavonoids exhibit low solubility, low permeability and chemical instability, thereby limiting their bioavailability and therapeutic responses.

Methods: To overcome these drawbacks, multiple novel drug delivery approaches have emerged in the pharmaceutical research.

Results: These novel approaches seem to offer a viable foundation for improving the bioavailability of the flavonoids and positioning them as viable therapeutic options. Out of all the polymers implemented in enhancing the solubility and bioavailability of the flavonoids, albumin-based nanomaterials have been the most efficacious one.

Conclusion: Compared to all other polymeric nano-carriers, albumin nano-carriers offer a greater scale of drug entrapment and drug loading because of their capacity for surface modification, crosslinking, conjugation, coupling, and characteristics including biodegradability and biocompatibility.