Dr. Andonova's research is centered around phycocyanin (PC), a pigment that comes from blue-green algae and is extracted through eco-friendly methods. They investigate how PC can be used as a natural treatment to support heart health, reduce inflammation, protect the brain, and enhance immune function. By using advanced computer-based analyses, they assess the safety of this compound, ensuring it does not interact harmfully with other biological molecules.
Key findings
Phycocyanin was found to have a favorable safety profile, with no harmful interactions identified with DNA or proteins.
The research indicates that phycocyanin may have positive effects on heart health and inflammation.
Dr. Andonova's studies suggest that phycocyanin may help protect brain function and boost immune responses.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Andonova study natural treatments?
Yes, Dr. Andonova specifically studies phycocyanin, a natural pigment known for its health benefits.
What health conditions are relevant to Dr. Andonova's research?
Their research focuses on conditions related to heart health, inflammation, brain protection, and immune function.
Is phycocyanin safe for use?
Yes, the studies confirm that phycocyanin has a favorable safety profile and does not bind to DNA or proteins.
Publications in plain English
Phytochemical Analysis of Lipid Composition and Biological Activities in the Seeds of Evening Primrose from Bulgaria.
2026
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)
Zheleva A, Petkova Z, Antova G, Teneva O, Angelova-Romova M +6 more
Plain English This study looked at the seeds of Evening Primrose, a plant found in Bulgaria, to understand their chemical makeup and health benefits. Researchers found that the seeds contain a stable amount of oil (around 16.7% to 16.9%) with a main fatty acid called linoleic acid making up about 70% of it. The oil showed strong antioxidant properties and some ability to fight germs, as well as the potential to promote cell growth in skin cells.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients looking for natural treatments for skin conditions and health-related issues.
Comparative Phytochemical Analysis of the Aerial Parts ofandCultivated in Bulgaria Using GC-MS and HPLC.
2026
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)
Sabotinova D, Boycheva P, Ivanova N, Andonova V, Georgiev V +1 more
Plain English This study examined two aromatic plants commonly used in Bulgarian medicine to see what chemicals they contain. Researchers found that one plant had a higher variety and quantity of beneficial compounds, including important acids known for their health properties, while the other plant produced a different essential oil beneficial for its antimicrobial effects. This information is valuable because it can guide future research into using these plants for medicinal purposes.
Who this helps: Patients seeking natural treatments and healthcare providers interested in herbal remedies.
Antimicrobial and Antiherpetic Properties of NanoencapsulatedExtract.
2025
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)
Sotirova Y, Ivanova N, Ermenlieva N, Vilhelmova-Ilieva N, Simeonova L +3 more
Plain English This study examined the effectiveness of a special plant extract (hyperforin-rich) that was delivered using tiny fat particles (nanostructured lipid carriers, or NLCs). The researchers found that the version using borage oil (HP-NLC2) was able to kill bacteria at a concentration of 6.3 mg/mL and had some antifungal properties, while the version with almond oil (HP-NLC1) was not very effective against fungi. Although both versions had limited ability to fight the herpes virus, HP-NLC2 showed more promise as a better option for developing skin treatments.
Who this helps: This benefits patients seeking effective treatments for bacterial and fungal infections.
In Situ Gelling Behavior and Biopharmaceutical Characterization of Nano-Silver-Loaded Poloxamer Matrices Designed for Nasal Drug Delivery.
2024
Gels (Basel, Switzerland)
Ivanova N, Ermenlieva N, Simeonova L, Vilhelmova-Ilieva N, Bratoeva K +2 more
Plain English This study looked at a new nasal spray made from a mixture of two substances—Poloxamer 407 and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose—designed to deliver silver nanoparticles that fight infections. Researchers found that when they combined these ingredients at specific ratios, the spray turned into a gel at normal nasal temperatures (around 32°C) and could effectively cover the nasal cavity while remaining sticky enough to stay in place for 70 minutes. Importantly, this formulation showed promise in preventing infections from viruses including the flu and coronavirus.
Who this helps: This helps patients at risk of respiratory infections.
Tissue Regeneration and Remodeling in Rat Models after Application ofL. Extract-Loaded Bigels.
2024
Gels (Basel, Switzerland)
Sotirova Y, Kiselova-Kaneva Y, Vankova D, Tasinov O, Ivanova D +4 more
Plain English This study looked at how different formulations of St. John's Wort (a plant known for its healing properties) can help wounds heal better in rats. Researchers found that both types of formulations—one with free extract and one with a more stable, protected extract—helped reduce wound size after 21 days, with the protected extract showing the smallest wound size. Additionally, the free extract formulation showed stronger effects on reducing inflammation and boosting certain healing-related proteins.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with wounds or skin injuries, as it may improve healing options.
Spectral Characteristics, In Silico Perspectives, Density Functional Theory (DFT), and Therapeutic Potential of Green-Extracted Phycocyanin from.
2024
International journal of molecular sciences
Andonova V, Nikolova K, Iliev I, Georgieva S, Petkova N +3 more
Plain English The study focused on phycocyanin (PC), a green pigment obtained using eco-friendly extraction methods. Researchers confirmed PC's structure and assessed its safety and potential health benefits using computer-based analyses. They found that it has a favorable safety profile, doesn't bind to DNA or proteins, and may help with heart health, inflammation, brain protection, and immune function.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients looking for natural treatments and doctors seeking effective, safe therapies.
Recent Progress of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles and Nanostructured Lipid Carriers as Ocular Drug Delivery Platforms.
2023
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)
Gugleva V, Andonova V
Plain English This research paper focused on new ways to deliver eye medication more effectively using solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs). These methods can help medicines stay in the eye longer, allowing for better treatment outcomes. The study found that these delivery systems are safe, can be scaled up for manufacturing, and improve how long the medicine works and how effectively it penetrates eye tissues.
Who this helps: This benefits patients needing eye treatments and doctors who prescribe medications for eye conditions.
Does multisensory stimulation with virtual reality (VR) and smell improve learning? An educational experience in recall and creativity.
2023
Frontiers in psychology
Andonova V, Reinoso-Carvalho F, Jimenez Ramirez MA, Carrasquilla D
Plain English This study looked at how using virtual reality (VR) and smell together affects learning, recall, and creativity in students. Researchers tested different combinations of sensory stimuli on groups of students and found that while traditional video helped with memorization (the best recall scores), using VR improved creativity. These findings highlight the potential for combining sensory experiences in teaching to enhance learning outcomes.
Who this helps: This helps educators looking to improve teaching methods for students.
Chlorhexidine-Silver Nanoparticle Conjugation Leading to Antimicrobial Synergism but Enhanced Cytotoxicity.
2023
Pharmaceutics
Ivanova N, Ermenlieva N, Simeonova L, Kolev I, Slavov I +2 more
Plain English This study examined a new combination of chlorhexidine and silver nanoparticles to see how well it can fight the Influenza virus. Researchers found that this combination was more effective against the virus at low concentrations, specifically 5.5 micrograms/mL of silver nanoparticles combined with 8.8 micrograms/mL of chlorhexidine. Although this new treatment showed great potential for fighting the virus, it also carried a risk of toxicity to certain cell types, which needs further investigation before use in patients.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients, particularly those vulnerable to influenza infections, by working towards more effective antiviral treatments.
Therapeutic Potential of Myrtenal and Its Derivatives-A Review.
2023
Life (Basel, Switzerland)
Dragomanova S, Andonova V, Volcho K, Salakhutdinov N, Kalfin R +1 more
Plain English This study looked at myrtenal, a natural compound, and its modified versions to see how effective they might be in treating various health conditions. Researchers found that myrtenal and its derivatives showed promising effects, such as being able to fight infections, reduce anxiety, and protect brain health. For example, a modified form of myrtenal combined with another chemical showed strong potential for treating illnesses like cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from infections, anxiety, and neurodegenerative disorders.
A multisensory mindfulness experience: exploring the promotion of sensory awareness as a mindfulness practice.
2023
Frontiers in psychology
Finck C, Avila A, Jiménez-Leal W, Botero JP, Shambo D +3 more
Plain English This study explored whether mindfulness can be strengthened through experiences that engage multiple senses, like sound, smell, and sight, while providing real-time feedback on a person's heartbeat. Researchers tested two types of mindfulness practices on 68 participants and found that both methods increased relaxation in the body, indicated by heightened parasympathetic activity, though there was no significant change in anxiety levels. This research is important because it shows that enhancing mindfulness with sensory experiences may help people connect better with their emotional well-being.
Who this helps: This benefits patients seeking effective mindfulness strategies for stress reduction.
Bigel Formulations of Nanoencapsulated St. John's Wort Extract-An Approach for Enhanced Wound Healing.
2023
Gels (Basel, Switzerland)
Sotirova Y, Gugleva V, Stoeva S, Kolev I, Nikolova R +5 more
Plain English The study focused on creating a special gel to deliver a concentrated form of St. John's Wort, a plant thought to help healing, specifically for treating wounds. Researchers developed a version called HP-NLC-BG2, which showed impressive results in tests on rats, having a tear resistance of 7.764 N, outperforming both a regular herbal ointment and a control group. This matters because it suggests that this new gel formulation could significantly improve wound healing.
Who this helps: Patients with wounds needing faster healing.
Stability study of extemporaneously compounded nitrofurantoin oral suspensions for pediatric patients.
2022
Folia medica
Pehlivanov I, Stoeva S, Simitchiev A, Stefanov S, Andonova V
Plain English This study investigated how long nitrofurantoin, an antibiotic, remains effective when mixed into a liquid form for children, stored at two different temperatures: cold (4°C) and room temperature (25°C). The researchers aimed to find a reliable way to prepare this medication that would keep it stable and easy to dose. They found that specific mixtures could maintain the drug's effectiveness for an extended period, which is crucial for treating pediatric patients accurately.
Who this helps: This helps pediatric patients who need nitrofurantoin for treatment, as well as their doctors.
Advances in the Prophylaxis of Respiratory Infections by the Nasal and the Oromucosal Route: Relevance to the Fight with the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic.
2022
Pharmaceutics
Ivanova N, Sotirova Y, Gavrailov G, Nikolova K, Andonova V
Plain English This study looked at new ways to prevent respiratory infections, especially COVID-19, by using treatments that are applied in the nose and mouth. The researchers found that these methods can help boost the body’s immune response and trap viruses at entry points like the nose or mouth. This is important because it offers alternatives to traditional prevention methods like face masks, which many people do not use correctly.
Who this helps: This helps patients by providing more options to protect themselves against respiratory infections.
Incorporation of the Dry Blossom Flour ofL. in the Production of Sponge Cakes.
2022
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
Gentscheva G, Milkova-Tomova I, Buhalova D, Pehlivanov I, Stefanov S +6 more
Plain English This study explored how to make sponge cakes using a special dry blossom flour mixed with whole-grain oat flour instead of just wheat flour. They tested sponge cakes with 5%, 10%, and 15% of this flower flour and found that these cakes had lower carbs and more dietary fiber while still keeping their volume. Specifically, the new cakes were better in taste and nutrition, making them a healthy option compared to traditional wheat cakes.
Who this helps: This benefits patients looking for healthier dessert options and those with dietary restrictions.
Dermal Drug Delivery of Phytochemicals with Phenolic Structure via Lipid-Based Nanotechnologies.
2021
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)
Gugleva V, Ivanova N, Sotirova Y, Andonova V
Plain English This study looked at how to effectively deliver beneficial plant compounds called phenolic compounds through the skin using new lipid-based technologies. Researchers found that using lipid-based carriers, like tiny fat droplets, can help these compounds better penetrate the skin and stay stable, improving their effectiveness in treating issues like inflammation and cancer. This matters because it opens up new ways to use natural compounds for skin treatments, potentially making them more effective and safer for patients.
Who this helps: Patients seeking improved skin treatments.
Lipid Nanoparticulate Drug Delivery Systems: Recent Advances in the Treatment of Skin Disorders.
2021
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)
Stefanov SR, Andonova VY
Plain English This study looks at how lipid nanoparticles (tiny fat particles) can be used to deliver medications for skin disorders. Researchers found that these nanoparticles can improve the effectiveness of treatments by enhancing drug stability, targeting, and skin hydration. This matters because better delivery systems can lead to more effective treatments for conditions that affect the skin.
Who this helps: This helps patients with skin disorders looking for more effective treatments.
Natural Lipids as Structural Components of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles and Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Topical Delivery.
2020
Current pharmaceutical design
Dobreva M, Stefanov S, Andonova V
Plain English This research paper looks at how natural fats and oils can be used to improve drug delivery through solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) for skin treatments. The findings highlight that these natural lipids enhance the delivery of active ingredients and hydration, making them effective and safe for use in topical applications. Using natural components can lead to better skin restoration and controlled release of medication.
Who this helps: This benefits patients needing topical treatments, particularly those using cosmetic or dermatological products.
Antioxidant Activity of Dry Birch (Betula Pendula) Leaves Extract.
2018
Folia medica
Penkov D, Andonova V, Delev D, Kostadinov I, Kassarova M
Plain English This study looked at the antioxidant properties of dry birch leaves, specifically measuring how well an extract from these leaves can fight harmful free radicals. Researchers found that the extract has significant antioxidant activity, with up to 99.46% effectiveness at certain concentrations. This is important because antioxidants can help protect cells from damage and may contribute to better health.
Who this helps: This benefits patients looking for natural ways to support their health.
Ketoprofen-loaded polymer carriers in bigel formulation: an approach to enhancing drug photostability in topical application forms.
2017
International journal of nanomedicine
Andonova V, Peneva P, Georgiev GS, Toncheva VT, Apostolova E +5 more
Plain English This study focused on improving the stability and effectiveness of a pain-relieving drug called ketoprofen when applied to the skin. Researchers found that a new formulation using a special mix of polymers allowed the ketoprofen to be more stable when exposed to light, with the drug being released steadily for up to 6 hours. Additionally, there were no signs of skin irritation or inflammation after use, and users experienced pain relief and reduced inflammation after 4 hours.
Who this helps: This benefits patients needing topical pain relief, particularly those sensitive to light exposure.
Characterization Methods for Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) and Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLC).
2017
Current pharmaceutical design
Andonova V, Peneva P
Plain English This research paper looks at solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), which are new ways to deliver medications more effectively compared to traditional methods. The findings show that SLN and NLC can improve how drugs dissolve and are absorbed in the body, leading to better effectiveness while also being safer, though they have some limitations like lower ability to hold drugs. Understanding how to properly characterize these nanoparticles is crucial to ensuring they work well and are safe for patients.
Who this helps: This helps patients needing more effective and safer medication delivery methods.
A New Direction in Ophthalmic Development: Nanoparticle Drug Delivery Systems.
2016
Current pharmaceutical design
Andonova VY
Plain English This study looks at how tiny drug delivery systems, called nanoparticles and microcarriers, can improve the way medications are delivered to the eye, which is difficult due to its protective structure. The researchers found that these carriers could increase the amount of medicine that reaches the eye tissue effectively and for longer periods. This is important because it could lead to better treatments for eye diseases, especially for conditions affecting the back of the eye where traditional methods often fail.
Who this helps: Patients with eye diseases.
Indomethacin nanoparticles for applications in liquid ocular formulations.
2013
Folia medica
Andonova VY, Georgiev GS, Georgieva VT, Petrova NL, Kasarova M
Plain English This study looked at how to create tiny particles made from poly(vinyl acetate) that can carry the eye medication indomethacin. Researchers found that dialing these particles for about 9 hours helps remove unwanted chemicals while still keeping enough indomethacin for it to work effectively. This is important because it can lead to better treatments for eye disorders with controlled and effective drug delivery.
Who this helps: Patients with eye disorders.
Preparation and study of poly(vinyl acetate) and poly(styrene) nanosized latex with indometacin.
2012
Die Pharmazie
Andonova V, Georgiev G, Toncheva V, Kassarova M
Plain English This study focused on creating tiny particles made from special polymers (poly(vinyl acetate) and poly(styrene)) to deliver the anti-inflammatory drug indometacin, which is often hard to dissolve in water. The researchers found that these tiny particles, about 200 nanometers in size, could release indometacin effectively in a solution simulating the conditions of the eye. This matters because it could lead to more effective eye drops for patients who need relief from inflammation but struggle with traditional forms of the medication.
Who this helps: Patients needing better eye drop treatments for inflammation.