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Biomedical subjects

E Allémann

Publications and source records attributed to E Allémann.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

In vitro and in vivo activities of verteporfin-loaded nanoparticles.

The main goal of this study was to develop a dispersed polymeric drug delivery system for verteporfin, suitable for intravenous administration and capable of improving its phototherapeutic index and minimizing the side effects. To achieve this objective, two types of verteporfin-loaded nanoparticles (167 and 370 nm in diameter) based on poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) were prepared using the salting-out technique and were first tested on EMT-6 mammary tumor cells in comparison with an aqueous solution (DMSO/PBS). It was observed that small nanoparticles exhibited greater photocytotoxicity compared to large nanoparticles or DMSO/PBS, and the photocytotoxic efficiency was graded as small nanoparticles>DMSO/PBS>large nanoparticles. Furthermore, verteporfin, entrapped into small nanoparticles transferred to serum proteins more rapidly than when dissolved in DMSO/PBS. Drug clearance, measured by skin phototoxicity investigated in mice exposed to simulated sunlight 15 to 150 min after the injection of small nanoparticles was modest at early light exposure times with the small nanoparticles and diminished rapidly with later exposure times. Tumor bioassay results indicated that verteporfin incorporated into small nanoparticles effectively controlled tumor growth for 20 days in mice with early light irradiation times following drug administration.

Animals↗

Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) protein-loaded nanoparticles prepared by the double emulsion method--processing and formulation issues for enhanced entrapment efficiency.

Although extensive research in the field of biodegradable microparticles containing peptide or protein drugs has greatly advanced production know-how, the effects of critical parameters influencing successful drug entrapment have not yet been sufficiently investigated with nano-scaled carriers. This paper deals with the formulation and processing parameters of the w(1)/o/w(2) double emulsion method that can affect nanoparticle size and loading. Fluorescein isothiocyanate-labelled bovine serum albumin (FITC-BSA) was used as a model protein. Results showed that high FITC-BSA entrapment efficiencies were reached (>80%) when sonication was used for the two emulsification steps of the nanoparticle formation, independently of the mixing durations and intensities. By comparison, the use of a vortex mixer for obtaining the primary w(1)/o emulsion led to a rather poor entrapment efficiency (approximately 25%). Some inherent properties of the poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) polymer, such as, for example, high molecular weight, high hydrophilicity or the presence of free carboxylic end groups, enhanced the drug entrapment efficiency. It was also demonstrated that a low nominal drug loading, a large volume of the inner w1 phase or the choice of methylene chloride instead of ethyl acetate as organic solvent favoured the drug entrapment, with entrapment efficiency values often reaching 100%. However, when using methylene chloride, the mean particle size was substantially increased, due to the presence of larger particles. Mean particle size increased also when the polymer concentration in the organic phase was increased.

Animals↗

Encapsulation of p-THPP into nanoparticles: cellular uptake, subcellular localization and effect of serum on photodynamic activity.

The cellular uptake, localization and efflux of meso-tetra-(4-hydroxyphenyl)porphyrin (p-THPP)-loaded nanoparticles have been studied in EMT-6 tumor cells. The effect of blood serum on photocytotoxicity has also been evaluated. Sub-130 nm nanoparticles based on poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) (50:50 PLGA and 75:25 PLGA) and poly(D,L-lactide) (PLA) have been examined in comparison with free p-THPP. For all formulations tested, uptake of photosensitizer into cells was dependent on concentration, time and temperature. All nanoparticulate formulations accumulated within the cells to a greater extent relative to free drug. Indeed, the fluorescence intensities measured on EMT-6 cells treated with p-THPP-loaded nanoparticulate formulations were at least two-fold higher than those obtained with free dye. Furthermore, the highest accumulation level was found with PLGA nanoparticles. Fluorescence microscopy revealed that endocytosis is a major intracellular sequestration mechanism of these p-THPP formulations and that these were localized into early and late endosomes. The efflux study performed on both nonirradiated and irradiated cells indicated that free and p-THPP-loaded nanoparticles gradually escaped from EMT-6 cells as a function of time. This was more pronounced when cells were treated with nanoparticles and irradiated, reflecting important photodamage. It was also found that regardless of the nanoparticulate formulations tested, p-THPP photocytotoxicity was influenced by the concentration of the serum.

Animals↗

Comparison of two methods of encapsulation of an oligonucleotide into poly(D,L-lactic acid) particles.

The aim of this study was to compare two methods to encapsulate a 25-mer-phosphorothioate oligonucleotide (ODN) into poly(D,L-lactic acid) (PLA) particles. Antisense oligonucleotides belong to a new therapeutic class especially attractive for the treatment of cancers and viral diseases. The development of these new drugs suffers, however, from poor stability in biological media and very low cellular uptake. Polymeric particulate systems display interesting features for ODN delivery. ODN are highly hydrophilic and most encapsulation methods are inappropriate for such molecules. Using poly(D,L-lactide) polymer, two methods of encapsulation were compared. First, a double emulsion technique was used to prepare nano- and microparticles. Secondly, the ODN was combined with a quaternary ammonium, the cethyltrimethyl-ammonium bromide (CTAB), to enhance the hydrophobicity of the molecule before entrapment by the emulsification-diffusion method. Both methods led to the formation of individualized and spherical particles loaded with a significant amount of ODN. Similar entrapment efficiencies were obtained for the nanoparticles prepared by both methods (approx. 27% of the theoretical loading) whereas 45% of entrapment efficiency was observed for the microparticles. Seventy five percent of the ODN were released in 60 min with the particles prepared by the emulsification-diffusion method, whereas only 7% were released in 60 h when using the double emulsion method. A viability test on U-937 cells showed better survival rates with the particles prepared by the double emulsion technique. The results suggest that the location of the ODN in the polymeric matrix is affected by the encapsulation method. Particles containing CTAB appeared more toxic than the ones obtained by the double emulsion technique, however, these particles can still be used for antisense activity since high oligonucleotide loading can be achieved.

Diffusion↗

Inhibition of HIV-1 in cell culture by oligonucleotide-loaded nanoparticles.

PURPOSE: To investigate the potential use of polymeric nanoparticles for the delivery of antisense oligonucleotides in HIV-1-infected cell cultures. METHODS: Phosphorothioate oligonucleotides were encapsulated into poly (D,L-lactic acid) nanoparticles. Two models of infected cells were used to test the ability of nanoparticles to deliver them. HeLa P4-2 CD4+ cells, stably transfected with the beta-galactosidase reporter gene, were first used to evaluate the activity of the oligonucleotides on a single-round infection cycle. The acutely infected lymphoid CEM cells were then used to evaluate the inhibition of the viral production of HIV-1 by the oligonucleotides. RESULTS: The addition to infected CEM cells of nanoparticles containing gag antisense oligonucleotides in the nanomolar range led to strong inhibition of the viral production in a concentration-dependent manner. Similar results were previously observed in HeLa P4-2 CD4+ cells. Nanoparticle-entrapped random-order gag oligonucleotides had similar effects on reverse transcription. However, the reverse transcriptase activity of infected cells treated with nanomolar concentrations of free antisense and random oligonucleotides was not affected. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that poly (D,L-lactic acid) nanoparticles may have great potential as an efficient delivery system for oligonucleotides in HIV natural target cells, i.e., lymphocytic cells.

Cell Survival↗

pH-Dependent dissolving nano- and microparticles for improved peroral delivery of a highly lipophilic compound in dogs.

RR01, a new highly lipophilic drug showing extremely low water solubility and poor oral bioavailability, has been incorporated into pH-dependent dissolving particles made of a poly(methacrylic acid-co-ethylacrylate) copolymer. The physicochemical properties of the particles were determined using laser-light-scattering techniques, scanning electron microscopy, high-performance liquid chromatography, and x-ray powder diffraction. Suspension of the free drug in a solution of hydroxypropylcellulose (reference formulation) and aqueous dispersions of pH-sensitive RR01-loaded nanoparticles or microparticles were administered orally to Beagle dogs according to a 2-block Latin square design (n = 6). Plasma samples were obtained over the course of 48 hours and analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The administration of the reference formulation resulted in a particularly high interindividual variability of pharmacokinetic parameters, with low exposure to compound RR01 (AUC0-48h of 6.5 microg x h/mL and coefficient of variation (CV) of 116%) and much higher Tmax, as compared to both pH-sensitive formulations. With respect to exposure and interindividual variability, nanoparticles were superior to microparticles (AUC0-48h of 27.1 microg x h/mL versus 17.7 microg x h/mL with CV of 19% and 40%, respectively), indicating that the particle size may play an important role in the absorption of compound RR01. The performance of pH-sensitive particles is attributed to their ability to release the drug selectively in the upper part of the intestine in a molecular or amorphous form. In conclusion, pH-dependent dissolving particles have a great potential as oral delivery systems for drugs with low water solubility and acceptable permeation properties.

Acrylic Resins↗

Oral bioavailability of a poorly water soluble HIV-1 protease inhibitor incorporated into pH-sensitive particles: effect of the particle size and nutritional state.

The new chemical entity CGP 70726, a very poorly water-soluble HIV-1 protease inhibitor, was incorporated into pH-sensitive nanoparticles and microparticles made of the poly(methacrylic acid-co-ethylacrylate) copolymer Eudragit((R)) L100-55. The particles were characterized in terms of morphology, size distribution, drug loading, production yield and dispersion state of the drug inside the polymeric matrices. Aqueous dispersions of the particles were administered orally to Beagle dogs against a suspension of free drug (control formulation) all at a dose of 100 mg/kg. Oral administration was conducted in the absence and presence of food. Plasma concentrations and pharmacokinetic parameters were determined within 8 h post-dose. While no measurable absorption of the drug resulted after administration of the control formulation, substantial systemic exposure to the compound was obtained with both kinds of pH-sensitive formulations. The selective release of CGP 70726 in a highly dispersed/amorphous state and creation of high concentrations close to its absorption site was thought to account for this positive result. The largest areas under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) were obtained in the fasted state, with slightly better performance of the microparticles over the nanoparticles, in both nutritional states (7.8+/-1.5 versus 5.8+/-0. 8 micromol.h/l in the fasted state; 4.4+/-1.4 versus 2.00+/-0.5 micromol.h/l in the fed state). With these results, the potential of pH-sensitive particles for the oral delivery of HIV-1 protease inhibitors with low water solubility was confirmed.

Administration, Oral↗

Freeze-drying and lyopreservation of diblock and triblock poly(lactic acid)-poly(ethylene oxide) (PLA-PEO) copolymer nanoparticles.

In this study, the formulation and process parameters that determine successful production and long-term stability of freeze-dried poly(lactic acid) (PLA) nanoparticles with "hairy-like" poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) surfaces were investigated. Nanoparticles with grafted (covalently bound) PEO coatings were produced by the salting-out method from blends of PLA and PLA-PEO diblock or triblock copolymers. PLA nanoparticles with physically adsorbed PEO were also produced. The redispersibility of the nanoparticles after freeze-drying under various conditions was assessed. The surface of the nanoparticles was characterized and classified in terms of "brush" and "loop" conformations. Upon freeze-drying, it appeared that the presence of PEO at the nanoparticle surface could severely impair the redispersibility of the particles, especially in the PEO-grafted systems. This effect was shown to be related to the amount and molecular weight of PEO in the various formulations. In most cases, particle aggregation was prevented by use of trehalose as lyoprotective agent. Increasing the concentration of particles in the suspension to be freeze-dried was shown to induce much less damage to the nanoparticles, and freezing the suspension at a very low temperature (-196 degrees C) was found to further improve the lyoprotective effect. Most of the lyoprotected nanoparticles remained stable for at least 12 weeks at 4 and -25 degrees C. The production and preservation of freeze-dried PLA-PEO diblock and triblock copolymer nanoparticles is feasible under optimized lyoprotective conditions.

Drug Delivery Systems↗

Pseudolatex preparation using a novel emulsion-diffusion process involving direct displacement of partially water-miscible solvents by distillation.

Pseudolatexes were obtained by a new process based on an emulsification-diffusion technique involving partially water-miscible solvents. The preparation method consisted of emulsifying an organic solution of polymer (saturated with water) in an aqueous solution of a stabilizing agent (saturated with solvent) using conventional stirrers, followed by direct solvent distillation. The technique relies on the rapid displacement of the solvent from the internal into the external phase which thereby provokes polymer aggregation. Nanoparticle formation is believed to occur because rapid solvent diffusion produces regions of local supersaturation near the interface, and nanoparticles are formed due to the ensuing interfacial phase transformations and polymer aggregation that occur in these interfacial domains. Using this method, it was possible to prepare pseudolatexes of biodegradable and non-biodegradable polymers such as poly(D,L-lactic acid) and poly(epsilon-caprolactone), Eudragit E, cellulose acetate phthalate, cellulose acetate trimellitate using ethyl acetate or 2-butanone as partially water-miscible solvents and poly(vinyl alcohol) or poloxamer 407 as stabilizing agent. A transition from nano- to microparticles was observed at high polymer concentrations. At concentrations above 30% w/v of Eudragit E in ethyl acetate or cellulose acetate phthalate in 2-butanone only microparticles were obtained. This behaviour was attributed to decreased transport of polymer molecules into the aqueous phase.

Chemistry, Pharmaceutical↗

Highly loaded nanoparticulate carrier using an hydrophobic antisense oligonucleotide complex.

Antisense oligonucleotides, and particularly those with phosphorothioate backbones, have emerged as potential gene specific therapeutic agents and are currently undergoing evaluation in clinical trials for a variety of diseases. In the area of HIV-1 therapeutics, targeting of oligonucleotides to infected cells, such as macrophages, would be highly desirable. The present study was designed to prepare and characterize oligonucleotide-loaded nanoparticles for this purpose. Due to their hydrophilic characteristics, oligonucleotides are difficult to entrap in polymeric particles. Here, the oligonucleotides were first complexed with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide. The oligonucleotide-loaded nanoparticles were prepared by the emulsification-diffusion method and subsequently purified. In comparison with previous studies, a high oligonucleotide-loading was achieved; 2.5, 5 and 10% oligonucleotide loading were assessed. If the initial oligonucleotide content was 4%, this method produced a final oligonucleotide loading of 1.9% with an entrapment efficiency of 47%. The integrity of the oligonucleotide and of the polymer, in the final freeze-dried product, was retained.

Cetrimonium↗

Uptake of oligonucleotide-loaded nanoparticles in prostatic cancer cells and their intracellular localization.

The development of antisense biotechnology is dependent, in part, on creating improved methods for delivering oligonucleotides to cells. In this study, we investigated a colloidal system (nanoparticles (NP) of poly (D,L) lactic acid) that affects the intracellular delivery of oligonucleotides. We have examined the intracellular compartmentalization in DU145 cells of fluorescein labeled phosphorothioate oligonucleotides, both in the free state and when loaded into NP. Fluorescent oligonucleotides were incubated for 18 h with DU145 cells and the mean intracellular fluorescence was determined by flow cytometry. After the addition of monensin, an increase in signal intensity was observed, indicating that free oligonucleotides were resident in an acidic intracellular environment, whereas oligonucleotides from the NP did not reside in an acidic compartment. Free and NP loaded with oligonucleotides effluxed from DU145 cells from two intracellular compartments. This preliminary report indicates that colloidal carriers such as NP could prove to be useful in affecting intracellular trafficking of oligonucleotides in DU145 and in other cells.

Humans↗

Formulation and lyoprotection of poly(lactic acid-co-ethylene oxide) nanoparticles: influence on physical stability and in vitro cell uptake.

PURPOSE: To investigate the feasibility of producing freeze-dried poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-surface modified nanoparticles and to study their ability to avoid the mononuclear phagocytic system (MPS), as a function of the PEO chain length and surface density. METHODS: The nanoparticles were produced by the salting-out method using blends of poly(D,L-lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(D,L-lactic acidco-ethylene oxide) (PLA-PEO) copolymers. The nanoparticles were purified by cross-flow filtration and freeze-dried as such or with variable amounts of trehalose as a lyoprotectant. The redispersibility of the particles was determined immediately after freeze-drying and after 12 months of storage at -25 degrees C. The uptake of the nanoparticles by human monocytes was studied in vitro by flow cytometry. RESULTS: PLA-PEO nanoparticles could be produced from all the polymeric blends used. Particle aggregation after freeze-drying was shown to be directly related to the presence of PEO. Whereas this problem could be circumvented by use of trehalose, subsequent aggregation was shown to occur during storage. These phenomena were possibly related to the specific thermal behaviours of PEO and trehalose. In cell studies, a clear relationship between the PEO content and the decrease of uptake was demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS: The rational design of freeze-dried PEO-surface modified nanoparticles with potential MPS avoidance ability is feasible by using the polymer blends approach combined with appropriate lyoprotection and optimal storage conditions.

Biodegradation, Environmental↗

Polymeric nano- and microparticles for the oral delivery of peptides and peptidomimetics.

Due to recent advances, numerous bioactive peptides are now available in large quantities. Administering these substances by the oral route appears as a formidable challenge due to their insufficient stability in the gastrointestinal tract and their poor absorption pattern. Several approaches have been investigated to improve their oral bioavailability. Among them, the use of polymeric particulate delivery systems (microparticles and nanoparticles) represents a promising concept. Encapsulating or incorporating peptides in particles should at least protect these substances against degradation and, in some cases, also enhance their absorption. The aim of this paper is to review the principal studies where peptide-loaded particles were administered by the oral route. The preparation methods and in vitro trials are presented and in vivo results are discussed with emphasis placed on the peptide blood levels reached or on the biological effects observed. Whether or not intact particles can be taken up and translocated to the systemic circulation is not the aim of this review.

Journal Article↗

Comparative pharmacokinetic study of a floating multiple-unit capsule, a high-density multiple-unit capsule and an immediate-release tablet containing 25 mg atenolol.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the possible advantages of floating and high-density dosage forms and their influence on pharmacokinetic parameters. Atenolol was chosen as a model drug because of its poor absorption in the lower gastrointestinal tract. Three formulations containing 25 mg atenolol, a floating multiple-unit capsule, a high-density multiple-unit capsule, and an immediate-release tablet were compared with respect to estimated pharmacokinetic parameters. The two multiple-unit dosage forms were composed of compressed minitablets and had sustained release properties. The bioavailability of the two gastroretentive preparations with sustained release characteristics was significantly decreased when compared to the immediate-release tablet. The floating minitablets seemed to be retained longer in the stomach than the high-density dosage form. The first atenolol concentration detectable in the plasma and the time to peak Tmax were delayed for the floating dosage form. For the parameters Cmax and AUC 0-infinity, the lower limit of the 90% confidence interval was outside the bioequivalence range (0.80-1.25). This study showed that it was not possible to increase the bioavailability of a poorly absorbed drug such as atenolol using gastroretentive formulations. Atenolol absorption was delayed and the maximum plasma concentration was diminished.

Adrenergic beta-Antagonists↗

Preparation and characterization of nanocapsules from preformed polymers by a new process based on emulsification-diffusion technique.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate whether biodegradable nanocapsules could be obtained by the emulsification-diffusion technique. METHODS: This technique consists of emulsifying an organic solution containing an oil, a polymer, and a drug in an aqueous solution of a stabilizing agent. The subsequent addition of water to the system induces solvent diffusion into the external phase, resulting in the formation of colloidal particles. Nanoparticles obtained in this way were characterized by their particle size, zeta potential, isopycnic density and drug entrapment. The shape, surface and structure of the nanocapsules were evaluated by freeze fracture scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and by atomic force microscopy (AFM). RESULTS: Density gradient centrifugation confirmed the formation of nanocapsules. The density was found to be intermediate between those of nanoemulsions and nanospheres. The existence of a unique density band indicated high yields. Nanocapsule density was a function of the original oil/polymer ratio, revealing that the polymer content and, consequently, the wall thickness, can be controlled by this method. SEM and AFM showed the presence of capsular structures with smooth homogeneous walls. The versatility and effectiveness of the method were demonstrated using different lipophilic drug/oil core/wall polymer/partially water-miscible solvent systems. The mechanism of nanocapsule formation was explained as a chemical instability (diffusion stranding) generated during diffusion. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that the emulsification-diffusion technique enables the preparation of nanocapsules in a simple, efficient, reproducible and versatile manner.

Chemistry, Pharmaceutical↗

Preparation techniques and mechanisms of formation of biodegradable nanoparticles from preformed polymers.

The techniques available to prepare biodegradable nanoparticles (nanospheres and nanocapsules) from preformed polymers are reviewed. Although there is abundant literature on this topic, only a few focus on the thorough analysis of preparative procedures. In particular, four techniques are discussed in terms of their technological advantages and drawbacks: emulsification evaporation, solvent displacement, salting-out, and emulsification diffusion. The proposed mechanism of nanoparticle formation for each technique is described from a physicochemical perspective. The effects of preparative variables on nanoparticle size and drug-entrapment efficiency are also discussed.

Biodegradation, Environmental↗

Photodynamic activities and biodistribution of fluorinated zinc phthalocyanine derivatives in the murine EMT-6 tumour model.

The photodynamic properties and biodistribution pattern of zinc dodecafluoro-4-sulphophthalocyanine (ZnPcF12S1), zinc hexadecafluorophthalocyanine (ZnPcF16) and zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) were evaluated in the murine EMT-6 tumour model. All 3 dyes were formulated as a Cremophor oil-water emulsion after initial solubilization in methanol, acetone and pyridine, respectively. Comparison of their phototoxicity after in vitro incubation with EMT-6 cells and exposure to various fluences of red light showed that ZnPcF12S1 is about 50 times more active than ZnPcF16, reflecting better cell-penetrating properties. Solubilisation of ZnPc in 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone prior to formulation resulted in loss of photoactivity upon dilution in serum due to precipitation of the dye in the aqueous environment. In contrast, initial solubilisation in pyridine likely forms a ZnPc-pyridinium salt, and this preparation was 6 times more phototoxic than ZnPcF12S1. In vivo comparison of monosulphonated ZnPcF12S1 with perfluorinated ZnPcF16 showed improved pharmacokinetics in mice, including lower liver and spleen retentions and higher tumour-to-non-target tissue ratios. However, photodynamic therapy (PDT) of the EMT-6 tumour in BALB/c mice with red light, 24 or 48 hr post-injection of 1 micromol x kg(-1) of ZnPcF12S1 induced mortality. Lowering the drug and/or light dose or extending the time interval between drug administration and irradiation to 72 hr avoided adverse effects but also resulted in poor tumour response. The best tumour control (25% of animals) was obtained at 0.1 micromol x kg(-1) and a fluence of 400 J x cm(-2) at 24 hr post-injection. In contrast, ZnPcF16 required a 20-fold higher drug dose to induce a similar tumour response. The systemic shock following PDT with the amphiphilic ZnPcF12S1 likely results from extensive cellular effects.

Animals↗

Kinetics of blood component adsorption on poly(D,L-lactic acid) nanoparticles: evidence of complement C3 component involvement.

After intravenous administration, nanoparticles suffer a major drawback in that they are rapidly and massively taken up by the cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system. The mechanisms involved in the opsonization, adhesion, and internalization of biodegradable nanoparticles by the mononuclear phagocyte system are still poorly understood. In this work, the kinetics of blood protein adsorption onto nanoparticles of poly(D,L-lactic acid) prepared by the salting-out technique was investigated. Nanoparticles of 312 nm were incubated for variable periods of time (5-60 min) in human serum and citrated plasma. After incubation, the particles were washed and the proteins detached from them, denatured, and analyzed by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. In plasma, the predominant protein was immunoglobulin G (IgG), and the amount adsorbed was not dependent on incubation time. Albumin amounts were high for short incubation periods but decreased as a function of time, whereas apolipoprotein E levels increased significantly as a function of the incubation period. Owing to the possible complement cascade inactivation by addition of citrate to plasma, the kinetics of adsorption was also evaluated in serum. In this medium, adsorption of complement C3 components onto the surface of the nanoparticles was clearly evidenced by spots of increasing intensity and area, reaching levels comparable to those of the omnipresent IgG. This result confirms the important role of complement components in the opsonization process of poly(D,L-lactic acid) particles.

Adsorption↗