Chitosan@Magnetite composites have gained significant attention in the field of water purification due to their high capacity to absorb contaminants and their ease of separation using magnets. In this review, we reviewed...Chitosan@Magnetite composites have gained significant attention in the field of water purification due to their high capacity to absorb contaminants and their ease of separation using magnets. In this review, we reviewed the latest methods for preparing this material and explained its key properties, particularly its structural shape and the ways of modifying it to be more efficient. One of its most obvious advantages is the increase of surface area, which helps improve absorption. To this end, we mentioned several analytical techniques, such as morphology and structure, to understand how this material works. We also explained how this material can remove heavy metals and organic pollutants from water. Finally, we evaluated its performance in terms of absorption capacity, reaction rate, and its ability to be regenerated and reused, confirming its excellent suitability for practical and sustainable water purification.
A plastic film made from Gum Arabic and sorbitol (BioFilm-EAp) was developed to enhance the stability of bioactive compounds from Argemone platyceras (EAp) and preserve their antimicrobial properties. The EAp compounds i...A plastic film made from Gum Arabic and sorbitol (BioFilm-EAp) was developed to enhance the stability of bioactive compounds from Argemone platyceras (EAp) and preserve their antimicrobial properties. The EAp compounds identified through spectrophotometric methods in ethanolic extracts of leaves and stems included alkaloids (3320 and 1260 cm), flavonoids (1739 cm), and phenols (1260 cm). Additionally, the extracts demonstrated the ability to inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The BioFilm, with and without EAp, was characterized through mechanical tests, revealing that films containing EAp were less resistant (1.07-11.82 N) than those without compounds (23.02 N). Furthermore, these properties depended on the concentration of sorbitol. The presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenols in the BioFilm-EAp was assessed qualitatively using a simple and inexpensive methodology based on UV-Vis spectroscopy. The results indicated that these compounds remained stable within the sorbitol-Gum Arabic biopolymer matrix over 21 days. Finally, a sample of grapes was coated with the BioFilm-EAp films through the solution immersion method. This coating preserved the physical parameters of the grapes stored at room temperature, while the active compounds inhibited the growth of microorganisms on the grapes.
Engineering of biomaterials for advanced skin tissue regeneration requires optimization of critical parameters including interconnected porous structure, biomaterial stability, hydrophilicity, biocompatibility, and bioac...Engineering of biomaterials for advanced skin tissue regeneration requires optimization of critical parameters including interconnected porous structure, biomaterial stability, hydrophilicity, biocompatibility, and bioactivity. These features enable the mimicry of the skin tissue microenvironment and support the key phases of the regeneration process, which are crucial for effective tissue repair. Another important requirement for successful skin tissue regeneration is the modulation of oxidative stress, as excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at the site of the skin lesion can hinder healing and cause chronic inflammation and scarring. To address these challenges, we propose a reductionist therapeutic approach to skin tissue regeneration by developing bio-sourced scaffolds that replicate the native extracellular matrix (ECM), neutralize ROS levels, and actively promote tissue regeneration at both structural and molecular levels. These nano ZnO-embedded gelatin/alginate bioscaffolds were prepared via a simple crosslinking reaction and loaded with carefully selected active agents with antioxidant and skin tissue regenerative potential. Characterization studies of the bioscaffolds confirmed their porous interconnected morphology with tunable porosity (92%-94%), mechanical strength (1.95-3.22 MPa), hydrophilicity, stable adhesion to skin tissue, and ROS-scavenging activity. Additionally, the bioscaffolds demonstrated simultaneous release of quercetin, allantoin, and caffeic acid, and both biocompatibility-in vitro on human fibroblasts (MRC5) and in vivo on Caenorhabditis elegans. Overall, these findings provide valuable insight into the design of multifunctional bioscaffolds as a promising therapeutic platform for skin tissue regeneration application, which simultaneously modulates oxidative stress, replicates ECM architecture, and stimulates the healing cascade, ultimately enhancing skin tissue repair and reducing scarring.
Bujda M, Suchý T, Herynek V
… +6 more, Dušková J, Žaloudková M, Šefc L, Klíma K, Plachý R, Foltán R
Biopolymers
· 2025 Sep · PMID 40820929
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Collagen membranes are widely used in tissue and bone engineering, including guided bone regeneration (GBR). For effective and uninterrupted bone healing, a GBR membrane must maintain its functionality for an initial cri...Collagen membranes are widely used in tissue and bone engineering, including guided bone regeneration (GBR). For effective and uninterrupted bone healing, a GBR membrane must maintain its functionality for an initial critical period of 4 weeks. A novel carp collagen sponge has already shown promise as a wound coating and vascular graft coating, making it a candidate for GBR applications as well. To enhance the mechanical properties and longevity of GBR membranes, we modified the basic carp collagen membrane with combinations of l-lactide, ε-caprolactone, d,l-lactide, and glycolide in various molar ratios. While traditional methods rely on histological evaluation to assess the degradation pattern and therefore suitability of GBR membranes ex vivo, this study employed micro-MRI as an innovative, noninvasive approach to monitor the in vivo degradation of carp collagen membrane and its polymer-modified variants. Our findings demonstrated that micro-MRI is a reliable and effective method for visualizing collagen membrane degradation in vivo, up to scaffold disintegration. Among the variants tested, collagen GBR membrane coated with d,l-lactide and glycolide in a 50:50 M ratio emerged as the most suitable for GBR purposes. However, since this study was conducted in the subcutaneous tissue of a rat model, further research is required to determine the behavior of carp collagen GBR membrane variants on bony surfaces.
Herein, alginate films doped with cerium(III) carbonate were prepared via the casting method. An acid treatment process was applied to the films for cross-linking by free Ce ions. The incorporation of poly(vinyl) alcohol...Herein, alginate films doped with cerium(III) carbonate were prepared via the casting method. An acid treatment process was applied to the films for cross-linking by free Ce ions. The incorporation of poly(vinyl) alcohol into the alginate matrix enhanced the film properties. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry analyses confirmed that PVA did not alter the chemical structure of the Ce/Alg films. Analysis of the morphological characteristics of Ce/Alg films using a scanning electron microscope revealed that porosity existed in the films. Cerium-alginate films rapidly swell in PBS (pH = 7.4) and water within 10 min, demonstrating their potential for effective fluid absorption in wound environments. The water vapor permeability test exhibited that the films have the ability to transmit moisture. This present work reports the formulation of cerium(III) cross-linked alginate films and characterization studies of the films. The films are regarded as subject to efficient wound coverage dressings in future studies with their favorable biomaterial properties.
Biopolymers
· 2025 Sep · PMID 40736166
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In the present study, it was aimed to prepare single and double network chitosan (Ch) cryogels cross-linked with glutaraldehyde (G), which can be recommended for use as model wound dressings and hemostatic agents, and to...In the present study, it was aimed to prepare single and double network chitosan (Ch) cryogels cross-linked with glutaraldehyde (G), which can be recommended for use as model wound dressings and hemostatic agents, and to reveal in vivo studies with Galleria mellonella. An in vivo study about Ch cryogels with these larvae was not declared in the literature, so our study is the first of its kind. G. mellonella was used to determine the effects of cryogels on immunity, oxidative stress, and wound healing. Cinnamic acid (CA) was loaded onto the cryogels, and the percent cumulative release data of CA were found to be in the range of 69%-80%. The results show that loading of CA onto [Ch-3] cryogels considerably improved immune responses; the [Ch-3]-CA group was the most successful in terms of immunological response, oxidative stress balance, and wound healing. In accordance with the 3R principles of ethical animal research, the use of G. mellonella in this study served as a scientifically relevant and ethically responsible alternative model to mammals for preliminary assessment of wound healing potential and innate immune activation. The porous structures, high mechanical strengths, and rapidly swelling-deswelling abilities of [Ch-2@Ch] and [Ch-3] cryogels indicated that these may be suitable for biomedical applications. Analysis of SEM micrographs indicated that the morphology of dual network cryogels prepared in the form of interpenetrating polymeric networks (IPNs) was more regular and homodispersed with respect to single network cryogels. The compressive elasticity modulus (E) values of IPNs cryogels (0.160 N/mm) is approximately 4.6 times that of Ch cryogels with a single network (0.035 N/mm).
Nowadays, the use of 3D printing method in the construction of scaffolds is significantly common for bone tissue engineering applications. Moreover, the addition of nanoparticles and additives can significantly improve t...Nowadays, the use of 3D printing method in the construction of scaffolds is significantly common for bone tissue engineering applications. Moreover, the addition of nanoparticles and additives can significantly improve the mechanical and biological properties of polymeric scaffolds as polymers alone are not able to show enough performances. In this study, composite scaffolds based on polycaprolactone (PCL) containing different amounts of zinc oxide (ZnO) and Baghdadite (B) nanoparticles were fabricated by 3D printing method as novel combinations for bone tissue engineering. Then, their physical, mechanical, and biological properties were investigated. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the composite showed uniform and porous structures with open porosity. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) of the scaffolds confirmed that no reaction occurred between PCL, B, and ZnO nanoparticles during the fabrication of composite scaffolds. The PCL/B/ZnO composite scaffolds showed high compressive strength. They also showed weight loss during 4 weeks, which was related to PCL degradation. The high bioactivity of the composite scaffolds was confirmed by dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS). SEM images showed the formation of calcium phosphate (CaP) layer on scaffolds in simulated body fluid (SBF). Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis confirmed the formation of apatite layer on their surfaces. Based on the results of the (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide) (MTT) test, cell proliferation on the scaffolds increased after 72 h, which shows that the scaffolds are biocompatible and non-toxic. SEM images showed that the cells on the surface of PCL-based nanocomposite scaffolds prepared had a suitable density. The results of alizarin red staining showed a significant amount of calcium deposition on the scaffolds. It has been shown that PCL-based nanocomposite scaffolds containing B and ZnO nanoparticles are suitable candidates for use in bone tissue engineering applications as they have suitable mechanical, biological, and physical properties.
Biopolymers
· 2025 Sep · PMID 40690197
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Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are biomolecules with applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and nutraceutical industries. However, traditional GAG sources, such as animal tissues and marine organisms, present imminent...Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are biomolecules with applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and nutraceutical industries. However, traditional GAG sources, such as animal tissues and marine organisms, present imminent challenges, including structural heterogeneity, contamination risk, and geographical sourcing limitations. This review explores the potential of the eggshell matrix, an abundant yet underutilized by-product of the egg industry, as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative source of GAG production. This review examined the composition of the eggshell matrix, highlighting its rich content of hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and other valuable GAGs, coupled with their extraction and purification techniques. The advantages of eggshell matrix-derived GAGs, including their consistent molecular properties, lower allergenicity, and alignment with circular economy principles, are also discussed. Additionally, this review highlights the industrial scalability of eggshell matrix valorization and its potential to mitigate environmental waste while meeting global GAG demand. The eggshell matrix shows promise for GAG production, with hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and dermatan sulfate already identified, but more work is needed to improve extraction efficiency, broaden industrial uses, and ensure commercial success. This represents the broad areas of process optimization, technological integration, and comprehensive economic evaluation. By addressing current challenges and future research directions, this review underscores the transformative potential of eggshell matrix-derived GAGs for advancing sustainable biomaterial production.
Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) have emerged as promising systems for topical drug delivery due to their enhanced stability and high entrapment efficiency for lipophilic compounds. This study aimed to improve the to...Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) have emerged as promising systems for topical drug delivery due to their enhanced stability and high entrapment efficiency for lipophilic compounds. This study aimed to improve the topical skin permeation of poorly water-soluble Naringin (Nrg) for the treatment of diabetes mellitus (DM) using an NLC-based gel. Nrg-loaded NLCs were prepared via a microemulsion technique followed by homogenization and optimized using a Box-Behnken design. The optimized Nrg-loaded NLCs exhibited a particle size of 212.1 ± 1.8 nm, zeta potential of -23.6 ± 2.8 mV, and entrapment efficiency of 77.47% ± 4.3%. Further, XRD, DSC, and TEM analyses confirmed the crystalline state and nanoscale structure. In vitro release studies revealed a biphasic sustained release profile. The optimized Nrg-NLCs were incorporated into a Carbopol 940 (Cp) gel, which showed 2.36-fold higher skin permeation compared with plain Nrg-Cp gel. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated a 1.56-fold increase in bioavailability versus oral Nrg suspension. No skin irritation was observed in animal models. These findings suggest that Nrg-NLC-Cp gel offers a non-invasive and effective alternative for topical delivery of Nrg with improved permeation and systemic availability that can potentially enhance therapeutic outcomes and patient compliance in DM management.
Biopolymers
· 2025 Jul · PMID 40579949
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The packaging industry remains largely dominated by non-degradable synthetic materials, raising environmental concerns and prompting increased interest in sustainable alternatives. As a result, biopolymers such as starch...The packaging industry remains largely dominated by non-degradable synthetic materials, raising environmental concerns and prompting increased interest in sustainable alternatives. As a result, biopolymers such as starch and cellulose have gained considerable attention. The present study investigates the thermal, mechanical, and hydrophilic properties of regenerated cellulose film as a potential eco-friendly packaging material. The biopolymers utilized in this study were derived from secondary biowaste sources. The presence of transmittance bands corresponding to calcium and phosphate groups in the FTIR spectra, as well as the results of elemental composition analysis (EDX), confirmed the elemental makeup of the particles. FTIR analysis further revealed significant interactive bonding between the hydroxyl groups in the cellulose matrix and the calcium components of the FSHAp fillers. These interactions resulted in shifts in the IR transmittance bands in the biopolymer composite films. The incorporation of FSHAp fillers into the cellulose matrix enhanced the thermal stability of the cellulose films, with an observed improvement of 24%. At a filler concentration of 3 wt%, the char residue was 74.89% higher than that of the unfilled cellulose film. Additionally, the cellulose film containing 2 wt% FSHAp exhibited a tensile strength of 23 MPa, representing a 30% increase compared to the unfilled sample. This study introduces a novel biopolymer composite film as a promising sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional plastic-based packaging materials. Furthermore, it supports the principles of the circular economy by offering a viable solution for managing abundantly available biomass waste.
Chen A, Nguyen MB, Cheng J
… +5 more, Bridgelal BD, Reimold KE, Tesoro J, Encisco-Pelayo E, Christman KL
Biopolymers
· 2025 Jul · PMID 40558083
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Decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM)-based biomaterials have been widely used for their applications in tissue engineering. In particular, pepsin digestion of dECM can be used to generate injectable forms, includin...Decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM)-based biomaterials have been widely used for their applications in tissue engineering. In particular, pepsin digestion of dECM can be used to generate injectable forms, including ECM hydrogels as well as an intravascularly infusible ECM (iECM). However, fundamental materials characterization of these materials has been limited, and thus little is known about what exactly drives gelation of ECM hydrogels or the conditions for fibril assembly and growth. With this study, we sought to answer a fundamental question on how these materials assemble or gel, as well as a translational question on what storage conditions are suitable for these materials. Here, we used second-harmonic generation and transmission electron microscopy to investigate the mechanism of gelation for ECM hydrogels and the nanofibril assembly of the iECM. Overall, these microscopies revealed the origin and morphology of self-assembly and that type I collagen lateral and longitudinal growth drives ECM hydrogel formation. On the contrary, the iECM preserved the same mechanism for nanofiber assembly without gelation. In terms of translation, ensuring the stability after rehydration is critical for therapeutic injection timing since changes in the material could impact both safety and efficacy. Via microscopy in conjunction with bulk material characterization, we found that dECM formulations are best kept at 4°C for a maximum of 24 h after rehydration in order to maintain their original properties. Overall, this work provides evidence for the type I collagen directed self-assembly within heterogeneous, injectable, decellularized ECM biomaterials and also determines clinically relevant material storage conditions.
The development of novel treatment strategies for tuberculosis (TB), including its multidrug-resistant forms, remains a global health priority. Conventional first- and second-line anti-TB drugs are often incorporated int...The development of novel treatment strategies for tuberculosis (TB), including its multidrug-resistant forms, remains a global health priority. Conventional first- and second-line anti-TB drugs are often incorporated into polymer-based delivery systems to improve efficacy and reduce side effects. Among biodegradable, non-toxic, and biocompatible polymers, human serum albumin (HSA) stands out as a highly promising drug carrier. In this study, isoniazid (INH)-loaded human serum albumin nanoparticles were synthesized via the reaction of HSA macromolecules with cysteine in the presence of urea. Key nanoparticles characteristics-including size, polydispersity, drug loading efficiency, and drug binding capacity-were systematically evaluated and optimized. The effects of various formulation parameters, such as solution pH and concentration of urea, cysteine, albumin, and isoniazid, were investigated. Conformational changes in the protein structure were assessed using spectrofluorometric analysis. Additionally, the physicochemical properties and in vitro drug release profiles of HSA-INH nanoparticles were characterized. The antimicrobial activity of the nanoparticles was tested against the wild-type Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv strain at isoniazid concentrations of 5, 25, and 50 mg/mL. The minimum inhibitory concentration of isoniazid when delivered via HSA nanoparticles was also determined.
An obstacle to the commercial application of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and a co-product exopolysaccharide, alginate, is their high production cost. In this study, waste cooking oil (WCO) was used as an inexpensive car...An obstacle to the commercial application of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and a co-product exopolysaccharide, alginate, is their high production cost. In this study, waste cooking oil (WCO) was used as an inexpensive carbon source for biopolymer production by Pseudomonas mendocina PSU. The highest biomass of 4.60 ± 0.06 g/L and PHA concentration of 2.58 ± 0.03 g/L (accounting for about 54% DCW) were achieved with a productivity of 0.072 g/L/h under optimal conditions determined by response surface methodology. Additionally, a maximum alginate yield of 8.85 ± 0.24 g/L was obtained as the co-product. The WCO, which primarily contained oleic acid (C18:1), palmitic acid (C16:0), and linoleic acid (C18:2) influenced the monomer composition of the produced PHA. The results demonstrated the presence of both SCL-PHA monomers such as 3HB (3-hydroxybutyrate) and MCL-PHA monomers including 3HHx (3-hydroxyhexanoate), 3HO (3-hydroxyoctanoate), 3HD (3-hydroxydecanoate), and 3HDD (3-hydroxydodecanoate) in varying molar fractions. Moreover, an average molecular weight of approximately 10 Da and a polydispersity index of 1.58 were determined in the produced PHA, consisting predominantly of 3HB (86 mol%) when the cells were grown in 2.0% (v/v) WCO. Furthermore, the melting temperature (T) and glass transition temperature (T) were around 157°C and -20°C, respectively. Additionally, the produced alginate from P. mendocina PSU exhibited functional acetyl groups, which are a distinguishing feature of bacterial alginate, and showed an apparent viscosity comparable to commercial alginate from brown seaweed. These biopolymer characteristics demonstrate strong potential for biomaterial applications, adding value to WCO and reducing overall production costs.
Karaca MA, Kamali AR, Kamali BE
… +4 more, Temiz B, Özben F, Ege D, Saybaşılı H
Biopolymers
· 2025 Jul · PMID 40467047
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In this study, alginate/gelatin (AL/GEL) spherical beads are prepared and encapsulated with 1 wt % of needle-shaped gallic acid (GA) crystals to develop a drug delivery system. The % encapsulation efficiency of GA into A...In this study, alginate/gelatin (AL/GEL) spherical beads are prepared and encapsulated with 1 wt % of needle-shaped gallic acid (GA) crystals to develop a drug delivery system. The % encapsulation efficiency of GA into AL/GEL beads, its release rate, and the stability of the beads are evaluated, followed by cytocompatibility studies. The interactions between GA, AL, and GEL are examined by using FTIR. Morphological observations reveal that increasing the GEL concentration above 0.4 wt.% possibly hinders the binding of calcium ions with the carboxylate groups of AL, resulting in the formation of beads with larger diameters. In contrast, the bead diameter decreases with the incorporation of GA due to hydrogen bonding. EDX analysis of GA-loaded AL/GEL beads indicated that GA binds to the GEL-rich region. Furthermore, EDX analysis of mineralized beads demonstrated that GA enhanced calcium deposition near the alginate-rich region. In vitro studies demonstrate that AL/GEL beads loaded with ≤ 0.5 (wt.) % GA are cytocompatible and MC3T3-E1 murine pre-osteoblast cells proliferated over a 5-day period. Overall, the prepared beads show potential as a drug delivery system for bone regeneration applications.
Tlegenov O, Reit M, Zarges JC
… +3 more, Liehr A, Niendorf T, Heim HP
Biopolymers
· 2025 Jul · PMID 40449008
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Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is one of the most prominent biopolymers and is considered a viable alternative to petroleum-based polymers. While it exhibits comparable properties to conventional polymers like PET, in certain a...Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is one of the most prominent biopolymers and is considered a viable alternative to petroleum-based polymers. While it exhibits comparable properties to conventional polymers like PET, in certain applications, particularly those involving elevated temperatures, PLA has performance limitations. In addition, the properties of PLA are dependent on the processing parameters in injection molding. Non-optimal process parameters can lead to defects or undesirable effects that cannot be detected immediately after injection molding. This includes orientation and residual stresses, which significantly influence the material and failure properties. The present study investigates the influence of injection molding machine settings on the residual stress state in PLA components. Test specimens were produced using two different mold tools: an ejector pin and a full-surface ejector, while varying key machine settings. Residual stress was assessed using a polariscope and the hole drilling method. The polariscope identified distinct isochromatic fringe patterns, particularly near the sprue, indicating regions of elevated residual stress. The hole drilling method confirmed the presence of high residual stress at the specimen edges, extending to a depth of 600 μm, with a peak stress value of 47 MPa. Results revealed that the ejector pin mold induced both tensile and compressive stress states, whereas the full-surface ejector mold predominantly caused high compressive stresses at the edges. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing injection molding parameters to minimize residual stress and improve the mechanical performance of PLA components.
The latest-generation Poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) based fully bioresorbable stents (BRS) are facing a grave challenge due to their higher clinical risk of post-implantation. There is consensus that the strut thickness of...The latest-generation Poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) based fully bioresorbable stents (BRS) are facing a grave challenge due to their higher clinical risk of post-implantation. There is consensus that the strut thickness of BRS far exceeds that of metal stents; this is the main reason for the poor clinical outcomes. Therefore, overcoming the gap in mechanical properties between PLLA and metal, and effectively reducing the strut thickness of BRS without sacrificing mechanical properties, is a research priority. In this paper, the vital structural weakness of BRS causing the poor mechanical properties was discovered from the preparation process. We proposed the use of an elastomeric coating to alleviate the damage in weakness during deployment. Experiments and numerical simulations conducted on PLLA stents with and without poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL) coating have confirmed that they can reduce stress concentration during deployment. The composite stents exhibit higher radial supporting capability after deployment. Significantly, the radial strength of the 100 μm thin-strut stent increased by 31%, up to 1061.8 mmHg. Moreover, in vivo animal experiments conducted on rabbits show encouraging biocompatibility and effectiveness of the composite stents. Our work provided a pure thin-strut PLLA stent with superior mechanical properties and biocompatibility, which can become a reliable platform for future research and clinical applications of BRS.
Periodontitis is a bacterial infectious disease. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) offers high selectivity, drug-resistance-free treatment, and immune regulation. The second-generation porphyrin photosensitizer Ce6 excels in re...Periodontitis is a bacterial infectious disease. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) offers high selectivity, drug-resistance-free treatment, and immune regulation. The second-generation porphyrin photosensitizer Ce6 excels in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. However, periodontitis pathogens' negative charge limits Ce6's interaction with them. This study prepared a modified cationic cyclodextrin (sPAM) and encapsulated Ce6 in an aqueous medium to create a nano-photodynamic system (Ce6@sPAM), which was characterized. In vitro evaluations assessed Ce6@sPAM's photodynamic performance, safety, antibacterial properties, and effects on immunoregulation. TEM images revealed Ce6@sPAM's irregular spherical shape, with a size of 236 nm by DLS and a Zeta potential of +16.4 mV. Ce6@sPAM exhibits a notably brief light half-life of merely 13 min, facilitating its swift in vivo clearance. SOSG and DCFH-DA fluorescence experiments showed Ce6@sPAM had stronger ROS generation (p < 0.05) and better bacterial penetration (p > 0.05) than Ce6. Co-incubation with Ce6@sPAM reversed bacterial surface potential from negative to positive. Bio-safety tests confirmed its excellent biocompatibility. In antibacterial tests, sPAM showed antibacterial properties, and Ce6@sPAM had a stronger effect than Ce6 under light (p < 0.001). Ce6@sPAM also exhibited high macrophage killing rates (> 90%) without specificity (p > 0.05) and can induce M1 macrophages to M2 polarization. Ce6-loaded modified cyclodextrin nanoparticles hold great promise for synergistic PDT in periodontitis treatment, especially in early stages for optimal immunomodulation.
Biopolymers
· 2025 Jul · PMID 40446082
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Bacterial biofilms are complex, multi-component structures consisting primarily of four key elements: polysaccharides, metal ions, proteins, and extracellular DNA. In our research, we specifically focus on the polysaccha...Bacterial biofilms are complex, multi-component structures consisting primarily of four key elements: polysaccharides, metal ions, proteins, and extracellular DNA. In our research, we specifically focus on the polysaccharide and metal ion components, which play a crucial role in determining the biofilm's mechanical properties. Polysaccharides provide the structural matrix, although metal ions, particularly divalent cations like calcium and cobalt, cross-link with the polysaccharides, thereby modulating the biofilm's rigidity and viscoelastic behavior. By introducing divalent cations into nanocellulose, we can replicate this natural cross-linking process, allowing us to finely tune the material's mechanical properties to more closely resemble those of bacterial biofilms. This approach not only enhances the accuracy of synthetic biofilm models over alginate hydrogels but also provides valuable insights into how biofilms maintain their structural integrity in various environments. Our findings indicate that nanocellulose exhibits mechanical properties closer to biofilms than alginate analogs, making it a suitable non-living control for biofilm studies. Furthermore, divalent nickel, followed by calcium and magnesium, demonstrate a closer mechanical mimicry to biofilms. In conclusion, this research shows the potential of nanocellulose as a versatile material for bacterial biofilm mimicry.
In this study, the effect of microwave (MW) treatment on obtaining barley microfibers and their effect on the chemical, structural, and viscoelastic properties of films based on starch (S) and polyvinyl alcohol (P) was i...In this study, the effect of microwave (MW) treatment on obtaining barley microfibers and their effect on the chemical, structural, and viscoelastic properties of films based on starch (S) and polyvinyl alcohol (P) was inspected. SEM, FTIR, and TGA analysis revealed that MW treatment effectively achieves the defibrillation and the destabilization of hydrogen bonds of the hemicellulose and lignin molecules, resulting in the obtention of barley microfibers (BM). XPS analysis allowed identification of the oxidation and crosslinking mechanism of S, P, and S/P films containing BM during the extrusion process. PBM and SPBM films showed an increase in CC proportions linked to the crosslinking phenomena and promoted stronger OCO interactions, which increased the storage modulus from 195.5 to 380.8 MPa and from 78.0 to 134 MPa, respectively. Conversely, SBM showed lower interactions CC and high COH bonds that reduced the component adhesion. Thus, the matrix type and extrusion process determined the chemical interaction with BM, resulting in films with different rigidity that can be useful in different sustainable packaging solutions.
Skin aging is a multifaceted process marked by the destruction of skin structure and the diminishment of skin function, significantly impacting both physical and mental health. Injectable hydrogels are promising for skin...Skin aging is a multifaceted process marked by the destruction of skin structure and the diminishment of skin function, significantly impacting both physical and mental health. Injectable hydrogels are promising for skin repair, but chemical crosslinking in most hydrogels can cause cytotoxicity, whereas agarose hydrogels avoid crosslinking yet face injectability challenges. We have herein developed green agarose hydrogel implants with high biocompatibility for skin repair and regeneration in photoaged skin. The hydrogel is prepared by utilizing agarose's ability to dissolve at high temperatures and gel at low temperatures. This process yields implants with particle sizes predominantly ranging from 100 to 150 μm. The agarose hydrogel implant exhibits excellent injectability, with a steady injection force curve consistently around 4 N. The agarose hydrogel implant promotes the proliferation of human dermal fibroblasts and does not induce hemolysis or pyrogenic reactions. In a photoaging mouse model, the agarose hydrogel implant improves skin density and hydration, reduces transepidermal water loss, and stimulates collagen regeneration. This agarose hydrogel implant provides a novel approach to repairing aged skin and holds significant potential in the fields of skin health and tissue regeneration.