Carrier-free self-assembled nanomedicines of active ingredients from pomegranate peel: an overview

Abstract

This study systematically reviewed the construction strategies of pomegranate peel carrier-free self-assembled nanomedicines and their performance in practical applications, aiming to provide theoretical support and technical path for the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine and the development of new drugs. Pomegranate peel is rich in polyphenols (such as ellagic acid and gallic acid), triterpenoids (such as ursolic acid and oleanolic acid), flavonoids (such as quercetin and baicalein) and other active ingredients. These components can be self-assembled to form nanostructures without exogenous carriers through intermolecular synergy, including hydrogen bond network, π-π stacking and hydrophobic interaction. This technology not only effectively improves the water solubility, bioavailability and stability of the active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine, but also significantly enhances pharmacological activities including anti-tumor, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidation etc. Compared with the traditional nanocarrier system, this method adopts the design concept of ‘active ingredient is carrier’, showing significant advantages in avoiding potential toxicity and improving drug loading efficiency, while retaining the structural integrity and synergistic effect of natural components. The study further pointed out that in the future, the self-assembly mechanism should be further explored, its application in precision medicine and individualized treatment should be optimized, and preclinical and clinical studies should be promoted to verify its safety and effectiveness. Combined with modern pharmaceutical engineering technology, promoting the large-scale production and industrialization of such carrier-free self-assembled nanomedicines will bring important impetus to the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine and global health.