Evaluation of Chitosan-Based Nano-Encapsulated Diterpenoids from Andrographis paniculata for Targeted Anti-Inflammatory Therapy: Roles of Analytical Chemistry Medical Imaging, and Biochemical Assessment

Abstract

The formulation, characterization, and therapeutic potential of Andrographis paniculata-derived chitosan-based nano-encapsulated diterpenoids for targeted anti-inflammatory therapy are examined in this study. Chromatographic and spectroscopic methods, such as UV-Vis, FTIR, NMR, and GC-MS, were used to isolate and characterize two important bioactive compounds: 14-deoxy-11,12 didehydroandrographolide and neoandrographolide. The existence of functional groups including amines, carbonyls, thiols, and nitro compounds—which support the compounds’ anti-inflammatory qualities—was verified by FTIR spectra. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) showed that spherical nanoparticles with mesoporous structures (22.10 nm) were produced by ionic gelation using chitosan and sodium sulfate, followed by sonication, to accomplish nano-encapsulation. High encapsulation efficiency (82.5% for the main isolate) and a biphasic drug release profile—an initial burst followed by a sustained release over four hours—were demonstrated by the encapsulated compounds. In carrageenan-induced Wistar rats, sonographic imaging showed a significant decrease in paw thickness and vascular perfusion after therapy. This was supported by improved liver and kidney function and lower levels of inflammatory biomarkers (TNF-α, IL-6, and CRP). A comparative analysis revealed that the nanoformulated extract exhibited less toxicity and performed on par with or better than common anti-inflammatory medications, such as Diclofenac. The effectiveness of A. paniculata nanoformulations for safer, longer-lasting, and more focused anti-inflammatory treatment is supported by this multidisciplinary approach that combines phytochemistry, nanotechnology, analytical chemistry, imaging, and biochemical validation.