Formulation and evaluation of nanoparticles for targeting kidney and treating kidney stone

This research work focuses on developing and evaluating nanoparticles containing allopurinol for the management of uric acid nephrolithiasis. The study formulated three different nanoparticles - magnetic nanoparticles, bovine serum albumin (BSA) nanoparticles, and chitosan nanoparticles - using different methods and characterized them based on particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, FTIR spectra, DSC thermograms, XRD patterns, TEM images, and in vitro drug release. The in vivo targeting potential of the nanoparticles was evaluated in mice, and the effectiveness of the nanoparticles was tested in managing hyperuricemic nephrolithiasis by measuring pH and uric acid levels in urine and serum samples of mice. Histological examination of kidney samples was also performed to confirm the outcomes. The results showed that the nanoparticles prepared from low MW chitosan polymer exhibited maximum kidney targeting potential and efficacy in managing hyperuricemia-related nephrolithiasis. This research could potentially lead to the development of a targeted therapy for uric acid nephrolithiasis.