Surfactants are essential in the manufacture of polymeric nanoparticles by emulsion formation methods and to preserve the stability of carriers in liquid media. The deposition of non-ionic surfactants at the interface allows a considerable reduction of the globule of the emulsion with high biocompatibility and the possibility of oscillating the final sizes in a wide nanometric range. Therefore, this review presents an analysis of the three principal non-ionic surfactants utilized in the manufacture of polymeric nanoparticles; polysorbates, poly(vinyl alcohol), and poloxamers. We included a section on general properties and uses and a comprehensive compilation of formulations with each principal non-ionic surfactant. Then, we highlight a section on the interaction of non-ionic surfactants with biological barriers to emphasize that the function of surfactants is not limited to stabilizing the dispersion of nanoparticles and has a broad impact on pharmacokinetics. Finally, the last section corresponds to a recommendation in the experimental approach for choosing a surfactant applying the systematic methodology of Quality by Design.

The freeze-thaw (F/T) method is commonly employed during the processing and handling of drug substances to enhance their chemical and physical stability and obtain pharmaceutical applications such as hydrogels, emulsions, and nanosystems (e.g., supramolecular complexes of cyclodextrins and liposomes). Using F/T in manufacturing hydrogels successfully prevents the need for toxic cross-linking agents; moreover, their use promotes a concentrated product and better stability in emulsions. However, the use of F/T in these applications is limited by their characteristics (e.g., porosity, flexibility, swelling capacity, drug loading, and drug release capacity), which depend on the optimization of process conditions and the kind and ratio of polymers, temperature, time, and the number of cycles that involve high physical stress that could change properties associated to quality attributes. Therefore, is necessary the optimization of F/T conditions and variables. The current research regarding F/T is focused on enhancing the formulations, the process, and the use of this method in pharmaceutical, clinical, and biological areas. The present review aims to discuss different studies related to the impact and effects of the F/T process on the physical, mechanical, and chemical properties (porosity, swelling capacity) of diverse pharmaceutical applications with an emphasis on their formulation properties, the method and variables used, as well as challenges and opportunities in developing. Finally, we review the experimental approach for choosing the standard variables studied in the F/T method applying the systematic methodology of quality by design.

Dietary compounds in cancer prevention have gained significant consideration as a viable method. Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM) are heterocyclic and bioactive chemicals found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and brussels sprouts. They are synthesized after glycolysis from the glucosinolate structure. Clinical and preclinical trials have evaluated the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic, effectiveness, antioxidant, cancer-preventing (cervical dysplasia, prostate cancer, breast cancer), and anti-tumor activities of I3C and DIM involved with polyphenolic derivatives created in the digestion showing promising results. However, the exact mechanism by which they exert anti-cancer and apoptosis-inducing properties has yet to be entirely understood. Via this study, we update the existing knowledge of the state of anti-cancer investigation concerning I3C and DIM chemicals. We have also summarized; (i) the recent advancements in the use of I3C/DIM as therapeutic molecules since they represent potentially appealing anti-cancer agents, (ii) the available literature on the I3C and DIM characterization, and the challenges related to pharmacologic properties such as low solubility, and poor bioavailability, (iii) the synthesis and semi-synthetic derivatives, (iv) the mechanism of anti-tumor action in vitro/in vivo, (v) the action in cellular signaling pathways related to the regulation of apoptosis and anoikis as well as the cell cycle progression and cell proliferation such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor and PPARγ agonists; SR13668, Akt inhibitor, cyclins regulation, ER-dependent-independent pathways, and their current medical applications, to recognize research opportunities to potentially use these compounds instead chemotherapeutic synthetic drugs.

Intranasal drug delivery is emerging as a transformative strategy for treating neurodegenerative diseases, offering a noninvasive route that bypasses the limitations of the blood–brain barrier. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current landscape and challenges of intranasal drug delivery for neurodegenerative conditions with an emphasis on nanoparticle (NP)‐based formulations. Unlike traditional systemic methods, intranasal delivery uses the nasal cavity’s anatomy to achieve rapid and direct central nervous system transport via the olfactory and trigeminal pathways. This review evaluates NP strategies designed to overcome physiological barriers such as mucociliary clearance, enzymatic degradation, and limited nasal volume capacity. Innovations in mucoadhesive coatings, surface modifications, and stimuli‐responsive NP that optimize drug release and retention time within the nasal cavity are highlighted. In addition, cutting‐edge NP systems under clinical investigation and their translational potential are explored, addressing challenges like reproducibility, safety, and patient adherence. New research directions for optimizing NP formulations to improve outcomes in diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and hereditary ataxias are proposed. Lastly, broader implications of these technologies for conditions such as psychiatric disorders and brain injuries are discussed. By integrating nanotechnology and intranasal administration, this review aims to inspire future research to bridge the gap between preclinical promise and clinical success, advocating for continued innovation to unlock the full therapeutic potential of this promising approach for treating neurological disorders.

Dysmenorrhea is the combination of cramps and pain associated with the menstrual period, and the symptoms affect at least 30% of women worldwide. Tolerance to symptoms depends on each persons pain threshold; however, dysmenorrhea seriously affects daily activities and chronically reduces the quality of life. Some dysmenorrhea cases even require hospitalization due to unbearable symptoms of severe pain. Dysmenorrhea is an underestimated affectation and remains even in different first-world countries as a taboo subject, promoted by the establishment of an apparent policy of gender equality. A person with primary or secondary dysmenorrhea requires medical assistance in choosing the best treatment and an integral approach. This review intends to demonstrate the impact of dysmenorrhea on quality of life. We describe the pathophysiology of this disorder from a molecular point of view and perform a comprehensive compilation and analysis of the most critical findings in the therapeutic management of dysmenorrhea. Likewise, we propose an interdisciplinary approach to the phenomenon of dysmenorrhea at the cellular level in a concise way and the botanical, pharmacological, and medical applications for its management. Since dysmenorrhea symptoms can vary between individuals, medical treatment cannot be generalized and depends on each patient. Therefore, we hypothesized that a suitable strategy could result from the combination of pharmacological therapy aided by a non-pharmacological approach.