Rashmi Chanda

This study discusses the complex mechanisms through which enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions, highlighting their efficiency, specificity, and structural flexibility. Acid-base catalysis, covalent catalysis, metal ion catalysis, and transition state stabilization are some of the distinct yet combined catalytic techniques that enzymes use to lower activation energy and speed up reactions. Our understanding of enzyme-substrate interactions, conformational change, and reaction kinetics has significantly increased thanks to advancements in structural biology techniques including X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), and molecular dynamics simulations. The understanding developed through enzymology has deep-rooted impacts across a range of disciplines, from drug development where enzyme inhibitors are key to the treatment of diseases like HIV and hypertension to biotechnology, where designed enzymes are transforming industrial catalysis, biofuel manufacture, and bioremediation. Furthermore, the coupling of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning is opening up possibilities for predictive modeling and the development of new biocatalysts with designed functions. Although enzyme research has come a long way, it is still challenging to capture transient catalytic states, elucidate enzyme behavior in cellular environments, and maximize enzyme efficiency for synthetic purposes. With continued advances in research, enzymes will continue to be at the center of scientific and technological innovations, leading the way in medicine, industry, and green chemistry.

This study involved developing and evaluating a vitamin D lotion to protect breast cancer patients' skin from radiotherapy-induced dermatitis. This lotion was produced using an emulsion-based system combining vitamin D with excipients for stability and efficacy. Physical and chemical assessments for the lotion in question included pH 5.2, viscosity of 2400 cPs, and spreading pleasingly smoothness. The acceptable range was met; however, sensory testing showed high acceptability scores by patients, as: mean scores were 4.2 for spreadability, 4.4 for absorption, and 4.6 for comfort. Significant reductions in radiation dermatitis severity were established with significant improvement in RTOG/EORTC scores from baseline to week 4: from 3.5 to 1.5, p

Itraconazole is a potent antifungal agent, which has poor solubility and high first-pass metabolism, thus limiting its oral bioavailability. The present research work focuses on the enhancement of itraconazole's bioavailability through the formulation and evaluation of a nanoemulsion. A nanoemulsion was prepared with the help of Tween 80, medium-chain triglycerides, and propylene glycol. It was ensured the stability of the drug was ensured through mean particle size, 180 nm, polydispersity index of 0.15, and zeta potential of -22.4 mV. In vitro drug release experiments showed that the amount released was 88% within 4 hours, which is significantly higher compared to the output from the basic suspension with around 50% release. The ex vivo permeation experiments showed improvement in the drug permeability, sixfold. Pharmacokinetic studies in rats demonstrated high values of the obtained peak concentrations C_max of 25.4 μg/ml, and AUC_0-∞ of 110.2 μg·hr/ml. Stability studies from three months' duration showed a broader durability of the formulation. Noticeably, the outcome is a novel agent in this clinical environment that can increase oral bioavailability and simultaneously enhance drug activity.