# Endowed Polyphenols in Advanced Delivery Systems for Vaginal Infections
###### Abstract  
Vaginal infections (VIs) are the result of the nefarious vaginal polymicrobial universe (i.e., _Garnterella vaginalis_, _Prerotella_ spp., _Staphylococcus_ spp., _Candidia albicans_, etc. ), the inhabitants of which multiply and infect the surface of the vaginal epithelium, which serves as a scaffold for the adhesion of pathogenic poly-complexes with interactive abilities. VIs affect over 1 billion women per year and have a stunning annual relapse rate of 30%. These conditions impact women's quality of life and fertility and cause oncogenic Human Papillomavirus (HPV) persistence. VIs are typically treated with oral (i.e., Flagyi(r)) and localized drug tablets and creams/gels (i.e., Clindesee(r)), with potential leakage from the vaginal tract upon administration leading to the failure of the treatment. This study intends to highlight polyphenols as potential therapeutic agents in terms of their benefits and limitations and suggest strategies to increase their effectiveness. Polyphenols are natural compounds rich in phenolic structures which have an impact on this type of pathology and deserve the utmost attention from researchers. Natural polyphenols have several advantages: renewability, biodegradability, low environmental impact, biocompatibility, application versatility, bioactive properties, and the potential for sustainable applications. These compounds, formulated in advanced delivery systems, may natively exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. The main objective of this review is to highlight the importance of researching new and effective formulations to prevent and treat VIs based on natural, controlled, and sustainable systems. bioactive compounds; sustainability; encapsulation; vaginal infections +
Footnote †: journal: Medical  
and adherence of harmful bacteria in the vaginal environment; (ii) anti-inflammatory properties, which may help modulate the inflammatory process, potentially reducing symptoms associated with VIs; (iii) vaginal microbiota modulation, since polyphenols may influence the composition of the vaginal microbiota by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, which could contribute to restoring a healthier balance in the vaginal microbiota; (iv) immunomodulatory effects, which may contribute to a more effective immune response against bacterial infections, including those associated with VIs [4]; and (v) the prevention of biofilm formation, which may interfere with the formation of bacterial biofilms. Biofilms can protect bacteria from antibiotics and the immune system, so inhibiting their formation may enhance the effectiveness of VI treatments [5]. In recent years, there has been a growing focus on the properties and extraction methods of certain molecules that can be used as safe and cost-effective alternatives to synthetic compounds [6; 7]. This increased attention has resulted in the identification of numerous plant sources rich in polyphenols, including grapes [8], cranberries [9; 10], black currants [11; 12], chokeberries [10; 13], and olives [14], among others. Nevertheless, despite all its benefits and functional activities, the industrial production and commercialization of polyphenol-based products face numerous challenges. Due to the rapid degradation of polyphenols, advanced techniques such as nano- and microencapsulation are required to preserve their health benefits. These challenges are compounded by the high costs of extraction and purification, as well as the limited amount of research on their long-term stability. Additionally, regulatory hurdles stemming from their natural origins further impede market advancement. These factors complicate the commercial development of polyphenol-containing products, despite their recognized health value. However, future advancements in encapsulation technologies and a better understanding of polyphenol bioavailability may offer solutions to these issues.