Journal: |
International Journal of Nanomedicine
dove press
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Volume: |
16
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Abstract: |
As a crucial organ, the lung is exposed to various harmful agents that may induce
inflammation and oxidative stress, which may cause chronic or acute lung injury. Nigella
sativa, also known as black seed, has been widely used to treat various diseases and is one of
the most extensively researched medicinal plants. Thymoquinone (TQ) is the main component
of black seed volatile oil and has been proven to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory,
and antineoplastic properties. The potential therapeutic properties of TQ against various
pulmonary disorders have been studied in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Furthermore, the
application of nanotechnology may increase drug solubility, cellular absorption, drug release
(sustained or control), and drug delivery to lung tissue target sites. As a result, fabricating TQ
as nanoparticles (NPs) is a potential therapeutic approach against a variety of lung diseases.
In this current review, we summarize recent findings on the efficacy of TQ and its nanotypes
in lung disorders caused by immunocompromised conditions such as cancer, diabetes, gastric
ulcers, and other neurodegenerative diseases. It is concluded that TQ nanoparticles with antiinflammatory,
antioxidant, antiasthma, and antitumor activity may be safely applied to treat
lung disorders. However, more research is required before TQ nanoparticles can be used as
pharmaceutical preparations in human studies.
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