Faculty Publication and Patent

Faculty Publication and Patent

DR. S.M. BHADANE
B. Pharmacy
Research Paper 2026

Lipid–polymer conjugated nanocarriers of ferulic acid for obesity intervention via oxidative stress regulation

Objective: Ferulic acid (FA) has antioxidant and metabolic benefits, but its use in obesity treatment is limited by poor solubility, low permeability, and rapid clearance. This study developed a chitosan-conjugated hybrid polymer–lipid nanocarrier to improve FA oral bioavailability and anti-obesity activity.

Methods: FA-loaded nanocarriers were prepared by emulsification–solvent evaporation and probe sonication. The formulation was optimized using a central composite design with 17 experimental runs. Particle size, PDI, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, and in vitro release were evaluated. Anti-obesity efficacy was tested in high-fructose diet-induced obese Sprague–Dawley rats, with six animals per group. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s test at p < 0.05. Results: The optimized formulation, F8, showed a particle size of 110.3 ± 0.2 nm, PDI of 0.241 ± 0.02, zeta potential of −37.21 ± 0.21 mV, encapsulation efficiency of 86.96 ± 4.4%, and drug loading of 17.39 ± 3.2%. It provided sustained release of 80.24 ± 2.6% over 24 hours and followed Korsmeyer–Peppas kinetics. In vivo treatment significantly reduced insulin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL, while increasing HDL compared with high-fructose controls. It also reduced oxidative stress and improved lipid metabolism, indicating restoration of redox-sensitive metabolic pathways. Conclusion: The optimized FA nanocarrier improved drug delivery, sustained release, metabolic parameters, and anti-obesity efficacy, supporting its potential for oral obesity management.
Prof.(Dr.) Raman R Chandak
B. Pharmacy
Research Paper 2026

Formulation & Evaluation of Herbal Emulgel of Ziziphus Mauritiana Root Extract for Its Antimicrobial Potential.

Objective: To develop and evaluate a Ziziphus mauritiana root extract emulgel for antimicrobial activity, physicochemical properties, phytochemical screening, and chemical characterization.

Significance: Antimicrobial research supports the development of antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals used to prevent and treat infections. It also helps make procedures such as chemotherapy, organ transplantation, and major surgeries safer by reducing infection risks. Methods: Antibacterial activity was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method against selected bacterial strains. Aqueous and ethanol extracts at concentrations of 20–320 mg/mL were tested, and inhibition zones were measured after incubation at 37 °C for 24 hours. Results: UV-Visible spectroscopy confirmed the extract at absorption maxima of 309 nm and 310.8 nm. Emulgel batches F2, F4, F5, and F6 were considered the best. F1 failed due to a high extract concentration, while F3 failed because heating caused colour variation. F1 was pale yellow, smooth, pleasantly scented, had a pH of 6, viscosity of 45,762 cps, and caused no skin irritation. F2 and F4 showed stronger antibacterial activity against E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, but were inactive against Bacillus species.
International Journal Of Pharmacognosy
DR. S.M. BHADANE
B. Pharmacy
Publication 2026

Development, Characterization and Evaluation of Ethosome-Loaded Minocycline Gel for Topical Treatment of Acne Vulgaris

ABSTRACT: Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disorder requiring effective localized treatment. Conventional therapies are associated with poor skin penetration and systemic side effects. The present study aimed to develop and evaluate an ethosome-loaded minocycline gel for enhanced topical delivery.

Ethosomes were prepared using the cold method and incorporated into a Carbopol gel base. The formulations were evaluated for physicochemical properties, particle size, zeta potential, in-vitro drug release, antibacterial activity, cytotoxicity, and stability. The optimized formulation (F3) showed a particle size of 220 nm, zeta potential of −33.45 mV, pH of 5.8, and sustained drug release of 92% over 120 minutes. The formulation exhibited significant antibacterial activity (zone of inhibition: 16 mm) and minimal cytotoxicity in HaCaT cell lines. Stability studies confirmed no significant changes over 30 days. The study concludes that ethosome-loaded minocycline gel enhances drug penetration, provides sustained release, and offers a promising alternative for acne treatment. KEYWORDS Ethosomes, Minocycline, Acne vulgaris, Topical drug delivery, Nanocarrier
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
B. Pharmacy
Publication 2026

Extraction, Evaluation and Formulation of Herbal V -Wash from Hibiscus Rosa Sinensis

The main aim of the present study is to formulate an effective herbal V Wash of white hibiscus flowers, which can produce a better antibacterial activity against various bacterial infections.

Hibiscus rosa sinensis, a plant from the Malvaceae family, is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical climates, with around 40 species found in India. Known for its diverse medicinal properties, hibiscus is used to treat various ailments such as amoebic colitis, abdominal pain, cold, cough, diarrhea, headache, and ulcers. It contains bioactive compounds exhibiting anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifertility, antifungal, and antihypertensive activities. The plant's leaves, flowers, roots, and bark are integral in traditional medicine across several cultures. Hibiscus has applications in teas, tinctures, cosmetics, essential oils, and the food and pharmaceutical industries. The therapeutic value of hibiscus extends globally, from anti-diarrheal treatments in Japan to diuretic uses in Egypt, establishing it as a key component in herbal remedies. It was found that F1 batch is pale yellowish in colour and smooth texture with pleasant odour with pH of 3.98, viscosity is 1042 m.Pa.s, foaming height is 10 mm and no irritation found on human skin. The antibacterial activity determines by Disk Diffusion method. F1 batch shows more activity against E. coli, Bacillus and it was inactive against Pseudomonas aeurogenosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Keywords: Herbal V Wash, Hibiscus rosa sinensis, Antibacterial Activity, E. Coli, Bacillus, Tannins.
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
B. Pharmacy
Publication 2026

Phytofabrication and Characterization of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Vitex negundo Seed Extract: An Ecofriendly Nanotechnological Approach

This study developed an eco-friendly method for synthesising zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using the aqueous seed extract of Vitex negundo Linn.

This study developed an eco-friendly method for synthesising zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using the aqueous seed extract of *Vitex negundo* Linn. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of compounds that helped reduce and stabilise the nanoparticles. Among five formulations, F2 showed the best stability and uniformity. UV-Vis, particle size, zeta potential, and FTIR analysis confirmed the formation of ZnO nanoparticles with an average size of 85.49 nm. The F2 formulation also showed significant antifungal activity against *Candida albicans*, indicating its potential for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
B. Pharmacy
Publication 2026

Development and Characterization of Nasal Mucoadhesive Microemulsion of Sumatriptan Succinate

The purpose of this study was to enhance the brain uptake of sumatriptan succinate (SS) in o/w microemulsion, which was suitable for intranasal delivery.

This study aimed to improve the brain delivery of sumatriptan succinate through an intranasal oil-in-water microemulsion. The formulation used isopropyl myristate as the oil, Tween 80 and Span 80 as surfactants, and n-butanol as the cosurfactant. The optimized formulation contained 5% oil, 25% water, and 70% surfactant–cosurfactant mixture. HPMC K4M was added as a mucoadhesive polymer to increase nasal residence time and prolong drug release. After administration, the formulation formed a gel inside the nasal cavity, which improved drug absorption and bioavailability. The results suggest that this mucoadhesive microemulsion can provide rapid and effective delivery of sumatriptan succinate for the emergency treatment of acute migraine attacks.
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
B. Pharmacy
Publication 2026

Enhanced Dissolution Rate of Glipizide by a Liquisolid Technique

Most drugs cannot be given orally because of significant degradation in the GIT or first pass metabolism in the liver. Nasal route for the delivery of some drugs offers an alternative in the pharmaceutical industry.

The present review deals with the utility of the nasal route for the delivery of drugs to the brain as a microemulsion system in the treatment of a number of ailments like migraine, epilepsy, and hypertension. The nasal route could be important for drugs that are used in crisis treatments, such as for pain, and for centrally acting drugs where the pathway from nose to brain might provide a faster and more specific therapeutic effect. The purpose of the article is to provide an overview of the concept of microemulsion, selection of surfactant, co-surfactant, oils, formulation of microemulsion, phase diagram study, and evaluation of microemulsion. The review also focuses on the excipients available for formulation of microemulsions for nasal delivery and describes the investigations reported for the various classes of therapeutic agents. The interesting features of microemulsion such as spontaneity of formation, ease of manufacturing, high solubilization capacity and self-preserving properties make them the vehicle of choice for nasal delivery. KEYWORDS: Microemulsion, nasal delivery, mucoadhesion, drug delivery, solubilization
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
B. Pharmacy
Publication 2026

Enhanced Dissolution Rate of Glipizide by a Liquisolid Technique

This study aims to prepare immediate release glipizide liquisolid tablets using Avicel PH-102 and Aerosil 200 as the carrier and coating material respectively to increase dissolution rate of poorly soluble glipizide.

This study also aims to evaluate treated Gellan gum as disintegrant in the preparation of liquisolid tablets. The solubility of glipizide was increased by use of liquisolid technique. The glipizide liquisolid tablets were evaluated for characteristics like drug content, friability, hardness, disintegration time, thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) study and dissolution rates. The dissolution patterns of glipizide liquisolid tablets, carried out according to USP paddle method, and were compared with their commercial counterparts. The results obtained shows that all glipizide liquisolid tablets exhibits higher dissolution rates than those of marketed glipizide tablets. Dissolution rates increases with increasing concentration of liquid vehicles and maximum drug release achieved by formulations containing Polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) as a liquid vehicle. The results of XRD and thermal analysis did not show any changes in crystallinity of drug and interaction between glipizide and excipients during the formulation process. KEYWORDS: Glipizide, liquisolid tablets, dissolution rate enhancement, non-volatile solvents
B pharmacy
B. Pharmacy
Publication 2026

Lipid–polymer conjugated nanocarriers of ferulic acid for obesity intervention via oxidative stress regulation

This study developed and optimized chitosan-conjugated hybrid polymer–lipid nanocarriers to improve the oral bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of ferulic acid for obesity management.

The optimized formulation showed suitable particle size, high encapsulation efficiency, good stability, and sustained drug release over 24 hours. In a high-fructose diet-induced obese rat model, the nanocarrier formulation significantly improved insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism by reducing insulin, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and oxidative stress while increasing HDL levels. These findings suggest that ferulic acid-loaded nanocarriers may serve as a promising oral treatment platform for obesity-related metabolic disorders.
Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy
DR. S.M. BHADANE
B. Pharmacy
Publication 2026

Emerging Horizons in Acne Therapy: A Comprehensive Review of Conventional and Novel Anti-Acne Drugs

Acne vulgaris is a multicausal skin disorder influenced by excess sebum production, follicular hyper keratinization, Cutibacterium acnes proliferation, and inflammation.

Until recently, standard treatments have remained the mainstay of therapy, which includes topical retinoid, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, hormonal agents, and many of which have their use severely limited due to side effects, antibiotic resistance, and lack of patient compliance. Recent advances include the utilization of novel drug delivery systems such as liposomes, ethosomes, and nanoparticles that enhance drug penetration while minimizing systemic exposure. Biologics, antimicrobial peptides, probiotics, and phytochemical-based formulations are newer, promising, targeted, and safer alternatives. This review comprehensively discusses traditional and next-generation anti-acne agents, focusing on their mode of action, therapeutic potential, and clinical efficacy, with emphasis on current challenges and future directions toward personalized, sustainable, and patient-friendly acne management. KEYWORDS: Acne vulgaris, novel drug delivery, antimicrobial peptides, nanotechnology, personalized therapy.
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
B. Pharmacy
Publication 2026

Phytofabrication and Characterization of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Vitex negundo Seed Extract: An Ecofriendly Nanotechnological Approach

This study reports the eco-friendly synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using aqueous seed extract of Vitex negundo Linn.

The plant extract acted as a natural reducing and stabilising agent due to the presence of alkaloids, tannins, carbohydrates, and saponins. Among five formulations, F2 showed the best stability and physicochemical properties. ZnO nanoparticle formation was confirmed through UV-Vis spectroscopy, particle-size analysis, zeta potential, and FTIR studies. The optimized formulation demonstrated significant antifungal activity against Candida albicans. The findings suggest that green-synthesised ZnO nanoparticles from Vitex negundo seeds may have promising applications in pharmaceutical and biomedical fields.
DR. S.M. BHADANE
B. Pharmacy
Publication 2026

Therapeutic Potential of Resveratrol-Loaded Liposomal Nanoparticles in Attenuating Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats

This study evaluated the neuroprotective potential of resveratrol-loaded liposomal nanoparticles (RSV-LNPs) against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats. The nanoparticles were prepared using the thin-film hydration method and showed good stability, uniform particle distribution, suitable particle size, and high encapsulation efficiency.

Cerebral injury was induced through middle cerebral artery occlusion followed by reperfusion. Treatment with RSV-LNPs significantly reduced infarct volume and improved neurological function compared with the untreated ischemia-reperfusion group. The formulation also lowered malondialdehyde levels and improved antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase and catalase. Inflammatory markers such as TNF-α and IL-6 were also significantly reduced. Histopathological examination showed decreased neuronal damage and improved brain tissue structure. Overall, RSV-LNPs demonstrated strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. The findings suggest that liposomal nanocarriers can enhance the therapeutic effectiveness of resveratrol and may offer a promising treatment approach for ischemic stroke.
International Journal of Zoological Investigations
Prof. Ashwini D. Rasal
B. Pharmacy
Publication 2026

International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Nanotechnology (IJPSN)

The International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Nanotechnology (IJPSN) is a Scopus-indexed and PCI-recommended international research journal dedicated to pharmaceutical sciences and nanotechnology.

Established in 2008, the journal provides a global platform for researchers, academicians, and pharmaceutical professionals to publish high-quality research, reviews, and scientific advancements. IJPSN is published under the editorial leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Bikash Medhi, supported by an experienced editorial publishing team, an eminent Editorial Board, and an Editorial Advisory Panel comprising experts from India, the USA, and other countries worldwide. The journal is published by Pharma Book Syndicate, a unit of BSP Books Pvt. Ltd.
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