Application of nanotechnologies for the therapeutic use of natural compounds

Natural compounds represent a valuable source of bioactive molecules with vast pharmacological potential; however, despite their therapeutic potential, the clinical application of natural extracts is often influenced by physicochemical and pharmacokinetic limitations, such as poor water solubility, chemical instability, and low bioavailability. In this context, nanotechnologies, particularly phospholipid vesicles, represent promising strategies to overcome these challenges, enhancing the release, efficacy, and safety of natural products. In addition to extracts derived from traditional medicinal plants, agro-food by-products represent an alternative and sustainable source of bioactive molecules. Their use for obtaining natural extracts not only helps reduce waste and the environmental impact of the agri-food sector, but also offers new economic opportunities by promoting a circular economy model and valorizing resources that would otherwise be discarded. In this context, this doctoral thesis aims to provide an in-depth investigation into the applications of nanotechnologies, with particular reference to liposomal systems for the therapeutic use of natural compounds. The work focuses on the formulation, characterization, and evaluation of nanocarriers designed to overcome the typical limitations of natural compounds and tailored for the chosen route of administration, but also particular attention is given to the assessment of the stability of the nanoformulations, their physicochemical and morphological characterization, as well as their safety and efficacy.