Advancing Anti-Inflammatory Therapy Through NaringinLoaded Liposomes: Formulation Strategies, Characterization, and Therapeutic Potential

Abstract

Numerous acute and chronic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, pulmonary fibrosis, neurological disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, and inflammatory skin ailments, are caused by inflammation, a complicated biological reaction. Naringin—a naturally occurring flavanone glycoside that is mostly found in citrus fruits—has gained a lot of interest due to its strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiarthritic, and immunomodulatory qualities. Naringin reduces oxidative stress, suppresses NF-κB signaling pathways, and inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines, among other processes that contribute to its therapeutic effects. Due to its poor water solubility, low oral bioavailability, substantial gastrointestinal metabolism, rapid systemic clearance, and instability under physiological conditions, its clinical applicability remains limited despite these encouraging pharmacological actions. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery methods, with liposomes among the most promising carriers, have been thoroughly studied to address these issues. Liposomes are biocompatible phospholipid vesicles that can improve the solubility of drugs, prevent the degradation of encapsulated chemicals, extend the duration of circulation, and distribute drugs in a controlled and precise manner. This review comprehensively discusses the physicochemical properties of naringin and the limitations associated with the conventional delivery of naringin, which restrict its therapeutic efficacy. Special emphasis is placed on naringin-loaded liposomal formulations as promising nanocarriers for anti-inflammatory drug delivery, including their formulation approaches, methods of preparation, and characterization techniques. Furthermore, the review highlights the co-administration of naringin with other bioactive compounds as a combinational therapeutic strategy to enhance anti-inflammatory and other regenerative outcomes.