NANOTECHNOLOGY-ENHANCED NEEM EXTRACTS: BRIDGING PHYTOMEDICINE AND PRECISION DRUG DELIVERY FOR THERAPEUTIC INNOVATION

Abstract

Neem extracts with nanotechnology have emerged as a novel area at the interface of ancient phytomedicine and modern drug delivery systems. The ‘neem tree’ ( Azadirachta indica), with its pharmacologically active constituents such as azadirachtin, nimbin, and quercetin, possesses excellent antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, in their crude form, their poor solubility in water, poor bioavailability, and instability pose a hurdle in their application towards better healthcare. Some breakthroughs have been achieved with nanotechnology, which encapsulates these extracts in nanoparticles, liposomes, polymer micelles, nanofibers, and hydrogels for controlled release, target delivery, and better pharmacokinetics.This article provides a brief update on the synthesis of nano-formulations of neem, including the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles using neem leaves to prepare metallic nanoparticles such as ZnO and AgNPs, as well aschitosan-based nanocarrier systems for the sustained delivery of phytoconstituents. Such systems show far better efficacy in patient treatment with a boost in targeting capability in oncology with reduced cytotoxicity and tumor-targeting capabilities in tumor-bearing animals. Moreover, in wound dressers, a composite blend of neem with nanofibers serves better in regeneration due to higher swelling and fungicidal effects.  Infectious diseases can target and eradicate MDR organisms .Future directions in this area would focus on a multifunctional platform for providing treatment via a combination of ‘neem with stimuli-responsive nanomaterials, with a focus on "precision medicine" in diseases such as cancer or ‘arthritis’.