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Rationally Designed Dual Kinase Inhibitors for Management of Obstructive Sleep Apnea—A Computational Study -
Therapeutic Exosomes Carrying VEGFA siRNA Inhibit Pathological Corneal Angiogenesis via PI3K–Akt–Caspase-3 Signaling -
Albumin-Bound Fatty Acids Modulate Endogenous Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibition -
Most Promising Emerging Therapies for Pulmonary Fibrosis: Targeting Novel Pathways -
The Natural History of Prediabetes and Cardiovascular Disease in the Pediatric Population
Journal Description
Biomedicines
Biomedicines
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on biomedicines published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Pharmacology and Pharmacy) / CiteScore - Q1 (Medicine (miscellaneous))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 21 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2025).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Biomedicines include: IJTM, BioMed, Anesthesia Research and Emergency Care and Medicine.
Impact Factor:
3.9 (2024);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.2 (2024)
Latest Articles
Preliminary Genotoxicity Assessment of Calcium Phosphate Cement Incorporated with Palm Tocotrienol Using Bacterial Reverse Mutation Assay
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1095; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051095 - 12 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) is extensively utilised in bone repair owing to its biocompatibility, osteoconductivity, and compositional similarity to native bone. Functionalisation of CPC with palm tocotrienol may enhance its regenerative potential. However, the incorporation of phytochemicals requires safety evaluation to
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Background/Objectives: Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) is extensively utilised in bone repair owing to its biocompatibility, osteoconductivity, and compositional similarity to native bone. Functionalisation of CPC with palm tocotrienol may enhance its regenerative potential. However, the incorporation of phytochemicals requires safety evaluation to exclude potential genotoxic risks. This study investigated the mutagenic potential of CPC and tocotrienol-enriched CPC (CPC-T3) using the bacterial reverse mutation assay. Methods: Mutagenicity was evaluated in five bacterial strains, including Salmonella typhimurium TA100, TA98, TA1535, TA1537, and Escherichia coli WP2 trp uvrA, under both non-metabolic and metabolic activation conditions. Revertant colonies were quantified at multiple concentrations and mutagenicity ratios were calculated relative to the negative control. Results: Across all strains and metabolic conditions, neither CPC nor CPC-T3 induced reproducible or concentration-dependent increases in revertant colony numbers. Although isolated elevations were detected at certain concentrations, these findings lacked dose–response relationships and did not meet the criteria for a positive mutagenic response according to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Test Guideline No. 471. The performance of negative and positive controls confirmed the validity and sensitivity of the assay. Notably, the inclusion of palm tocotrienol did not alter the overall mutagenicity profile of CPC. Conclusions: CPC and CPC-T3 demonstrated no evidence of mutagenic activity under the conditions of the bacterial reverse mutation assay. These findings represent preliminary genotoxicity screening. Further mammalian genotoxicity and in vivo studies are warranted to support future translational development as implantable medical devices.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbiology in Human Health and Disease)
Open AccessArticle
Exosomal CNP and CNP-Related microRNAs: An Open Window into Brugada Syndrome?
by
Manuela Cabiati, Federico Vozzi, Elisa Persiani, Marcello Piacenti, Andrea Rossi, Agnese Sgalippa, Antonella Cecchettini, Gianluca Solarino, Giulio Zucchelli, Lorenzo Mazzocchetti, Pasquale Notarstefano, Letizia Guiducci, Maria Aurora Morales and Silvia Del Ry
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1094; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051094 - 12 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Brugada Syndrome (BrS) is a cardiac arrhythmia associated with an increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest. Although the arrhythmic substrate is traditionally localized to the ventricles, atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequently observed, suggesting a shared molecular substrate between atrial
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Background: Brugada Syndrome (BrS) is a cardiac arrhythmia associated with an increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest. Although the arrhythmic substrate is traditionally localized to the ventricles, atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequently observed, suggesting a shared molecular substrate between atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) and related microRNAs (miRNAs) modulate atrial and ventricular physiology, but their roles in exosomes in BrS have not been investigated. Objectives: To investigate alterations in CNP mRNA expression and changes in the expression of selected CNP-associated miRNAs implicated in AF, both analyzed in exosomes isolated from individuals with BrS and from healthy controls. Methods: Exosomes were isolated from the plasma of BrS patients without a history of overt AF and from healthy controls. In silico analyses identified CNP-targeting miRNAs implicated in AF. Exosomal CNP and CNP-related miRNAs were analyzed using Droplet Digital PCR. Results: BrS patients exhibited a significant increase in exosomal CNP mRNA expression levels compared with controls. MiR-138-5p was selectively downregulated, whereas other AF-related CNP-targeting miRNAs (miR-4443, miR-206, miR-142-5p, miR-223-5p) showed comparable levels between groups. A positive correlation between exosomal CNP and miR-223-5p and miR-4443 suggests shared regulatory pathways. Conclusions: these findings indicate that exosomal profiling may provide a more sensitive approach than conventional circulating measurements to detect molecular remodeling in BrS. The observed alterations highlight a potential shared molecular substrate between atrial and ventricular arrhythmias and may inform future studies aimed at refining diagnostics and developing targeted therapeutic strategies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)
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Open AccessReview
Hepatocarcinogenesis in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): Emerging Roles of Interleukin-10 and Transcriptomic Insights into IL-10 Signaling Rewiring
by
Helena Solleiro-Villavicencio, Lucía Angélica Méndez-García, Itzel Baltazar-Pérez, Pablo Fernando Pineda-Pérez and Ana Alfaro-Cruz
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1093; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051093 - 12 May 2026
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and its progressive inflammatory form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), are increasingly recognized as key drivers of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Unlike HCC caused by viral infections or alcohol, MASLD/MASH-related liver cancer develops within a chronic immunometabolic environment characterized
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Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and its progressive inflammatory form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), are increasingly recognized as key drivers of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Unlike HCC caused by viral infections or alcohol, MASLD/MASH-related liver cancer develops within a chronic immunometabolic environment characterized by lipotoxicity, sterile inflammation, fibrogenesis, and remodeling of the microenvironment. In this setting, interleukin-10 (IL-10) has attracted growing attention due to its complex, context-dependent roles in immune regulation and tumor immune tolerance. This review explores IL-10 biology and its connection to MASLD/MASH-associated HCC, emphasizing the paradox that IL-10 may diminish harmful inflammation in early stages while promoting immunosuppressive conditions in advanced disease. To supplement existing research, we performed an exploratory reanalysis of publicly available bulk liver RNA-seq data from a mouse model that progresses from MASLD/MASH to HCC. The reanalysis revealed a receptor- and effector-specific rewiring of the IL-10 pathway: while the expression of canonical signaling genes (Stat3, Jak1, Jak2, Tyk2, Socs3) showed minimal changes across stages, receptor subunits (Il10ra, Il10rb) and IL-10-responsive effectors (such as Scd2, related to lipid metabolism, and Ddit4, involved in mTOR and glycolysis regulation) displayed strong stage-dependent induction. This was accompanied by a decrease in hepatocyte signature profiles and an increase in stromal and immune signatures. These results generate new hypotheses and raise key questions—particularly whether a large portion of IL-10 modulation originates from peripheral or non-parenchymal sources, and whether the transcriptional patterns observed reflect protein-level changes—that will require stage-specific, cell-focused human studies incorporating proteomic and cytokine measurements.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Cytokines in Health and Disease: 3rd Edition)
Open AccessArticle
D-Pinitol Mitigates Renal Senescence via Targeting the SARM1-cGAS-STING Signaling Axis to Restore Mitochondrial Function and Dampen Inflammatory Responses
by
Xiaofan Yin, Kaizhi Wen, Kena Yu, Zhengxin Liu and Weiming He
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1092; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051092 - 12 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Renal aging represents a pivotal contributor to the pathogenesis and progression of age-related kidney disorders. D-Pinitol (DP), a bioactive cyclitol naturally present in food plants, exhibits multiple beneficial biological activities. Nevertheless, its role in counteracting renal aging remains unclear. Methods:
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Background: Renal aging represents a pivotal contributor to the pathogenesis and progression of age-related kidney disorders. D-Pinitol (DP), a bioactive cyclitol naturally present in food plants, exhibits multiple beneficial biological activities. Nevertheless, its role in counteracting renal aging remains unclear. Methods: This study employed both in vitro (HK-2 cells) and in vivo (C57BL/6J mice) models of D-galactose (DG)-induced renal aging. A panel of experimental approaches was applied to characterize the protective effects and molecular mechanisms of DP against renal aging, including Western blot, qPCR, ELISA, transcriptomic profiling, transmission electron microscopy, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence staining. Results: DP significantly attenuated DG-induced renal aging-like changes in vitro and in vivo by preserving mitochondrial function and alleviating inflammatory responses. Transcriptomic analysis suggested SARM1 as a potential key target responsible for the beneficial effects of DP. In DG-induced aging models, SARM1 was remarkably upregulated in a tubule-specific pattern and acted as a critical mediator of mitochondrial dysfunction. Damaged mitochondria released mtDNA, which further activated the cGAS–STING innate immune signaling pathway, consequently promoting the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and renal inflammation. Mechanistically, molecular docking and related assays suggested that DP may stabilize the auto-inhibitory conformation of SARM1, thereby potentially preventing its activation. Conclusions: DP attenuates DG-induced renal aging-like changes via suppressing the SARM1–cGAS–STING axis, thereby restoring mitochondrial homeostasis and mitigating inflammation. Given the lack of effective interventions targeting renal aging, these findings suggest SARM1 as a novel potential therapeutic target for renal aging and highlight DP as a promising food-derived anti-aging ingredient for renal protection.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Product for the Interventions of Chronic Diseases: From Source to Therapy—2nd Edition)
Open AccessReview
Heat Shock Protein 27 in Radiation-Induced Trismus: Mechanistic Insights and a Hypothesis-Generating Framework
by
Erkan Topkan, Efsun Somay, Doga Topkan, Sukran Senyurek, Duriye Ozturk and Ugur Selek
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1091; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051091 - 12 May 2026
Abstract
Radiation-induced trismus (RIT) is a common and function-limiting late complication of radiotherapy for head and neck cancers, particularly when the masticatory muscles and temporomandibular joint receive high doses. Despite advances in intensity-modulated radiotherapy, RIT remains a significant survivorship problem, and robust biological biomarkers
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Radiation-induced trismus (RIT) is a common and function-limiting late complication of radiotherapy for head and neck cancers, particularly when the masticatory muscles and temporomandibular joint receive high doses. Despite advances in intensity-modulated radiotherapy, RIT remains a significant survivorship problem, and robust biological biomarkers capable of predicting individual susceptibility are lacking. Heat shock protein 27 (HSP27; HSPB1) is a small heat shock protein that regulates multiple cellular stress responses, including proteostasis, cytoskeletal dynamics, redox homeostasis, apoptosis, and inflammatory signaling. In head and neck malignancies, HSP27 overexpression has been associated with treatment resistance and fibrosis-prone tissue remodeling. Experimental studies further demonstrate that HSP27 promotes transforming growth factor-β-mediated myofibroblast differentiation and extracellular matrix deposition, whereas pharmacologic or genetic inhibition attenuates radiation- or bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. Evidence from skeletal muscle biology also indicates that HSP27 modulates muscle integrity, denervation-associated atrophy, inflammatory signaling, and cytoskeletal stability. Although HSP27 has been widely investigated in radiation responses, fibrosis, and skeletal muscle stress adaptation, its potential involvement in the pathogenesis of RIT has not been systematically examined. This review proposes a conceptual framework in which HSP27 functions as an integrative molecular mediator linking radiation-induced oxidative stress, endothelial injury, and fibro-atrophic remodeling within the masticatory apparatus. By integrating current evidence on the epidemiology, dosimetric determinants, imaging correlates, and pathophysiology of RIT with the structural and functional biology of HSP27, this review provides the first tissue-specific synthesis of molecular stress signaling and clinical mechanisms relevant to RIT susceptibility. We further suggest that HSP27 signaling may influence susceptibility to fibro-neuromuscular injury in irradiated masticatory tissues. Given the absence of direct experimental or clinical evidence in this setting, these considerations are derived from mechanistic convergence across related biological systems and should be interpreted as biologically plausible but unproven, with potential implications for future biomarker development and biologically informed prevention strategies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oral Oncology and Potentially Malignant Disorders)
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Open AccessArticle
Machine Learning-Based Identification of Immune Inflammation-Related Genes as Shared Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Atopic Dermatitis
by
Ruiling Yang, Fushen Zhang and Jufang Huang
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1090; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051090 - 12 May 2026
Abstract
Background: ASD is a class of neurodevelopmental disorders with onset in early childhood, whereas AD is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease. An increasing number of studies suggest that immune dysregulation and inflammatory responses play important roles in the onset and progression
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Background: ASD is a class of neurodevelopmental disorders with onset in early childhood, whereas AD is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease. An increasing number of studies suggest that immune dysregulation and inflammatory responses play important roles in the onset and progression of both conditions; however, their shared molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: First, ASD-related and AD-related datasets were obtained from the GEO database. After removal of batch effects, the common DEGs between the two diseases were identified. Subsequently, 107 machine learning-based model configurations were employed to screen for key genes. Functional enrichment analyses and PPI network construction were performed to systematically explore their potential functions. Finally, the CIBERSORT was applied to analyze immune cell infiltration and to assess the correlation between hub gene expression and immune cell infiltration. Results: 164 common genes between ASD and AD were identified. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that these shared differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched in pathways related to immune regulation and inflammatory responses, suggesting that immuno-inflammatory processes may constitute an important biological basis linking ASD and AD. Further screening and validation using machine learning identified BEX4, BIN2, BNIP3L, CCNO, JAK2, SLC39A7, and WASF3 as hub genes serving as common potential biomarkers for both diseases. Among them, BIN2, SLC39A7, and JAK2 may represent key shared genes and demonstrated good diagnostic value in ROC curve and nomogram analyses. In addition, immune infiltration analysis indicated that these key genes were significantly correlated with the infiltration levels of multiple immune cell types, further supporting their potential roles in immune regulation. Conclusions: This study reveals potential shared immuno-inflammatory molecular mechanisms between ASD and AD. Genes screened based on 107 machine learning models were verified as potential diagnostic biomarkers for both diseases after integrated analysis, providing a theoretical basis for further investigation of their immune-related pathogenesis and early clinical diagnosis.
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(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology and Pathology)
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Open AccessReview
Diet, Metabolism and Synaptic Function: Integrating Evidence Across Models in Neurodegeneration Research
by
Imogen L. Targett, John T. Hancock and Tim J. Craig
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1089; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051089 - 12 May 2026
Abstract
The brain has a higher energy demand per unit weight than any other organ in the body; however, links between metabolism, diet and neurological function have historically been underexplored. This partly stems from early assumptions that brain metabolism is primarily dependent on glucose
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The brain has a higher energy demand per unit weight than any other organ in the body; however, links between metabolism, diet and neurological function have historically been underexplored. This partly stems from early assumptions that brain metabolism is primarily dependent on glucose and ketone bodies, whereas more recent evidence indicates broader metabolic flexibility and complex cell-type specialisation. In the past few decades, brain metabolism has become increasingly recognised as relevant to neurological and mental health, and many neurodegenerative disorders are accompanied by changes in brain energy utilisation. In parallel, epidemiological studies associate hypercaloric dietary patterns and metabolic disorders—particularly type-2 diabetes mellitus—with increased risk of later cognitive decline and sporadic Alzheimer’s disease, although causal pathways remain difficult to establish in humans. In this narrative review, we summarise selected findings linking “unhealthy” diets to synaptic function, focusing on synaptic plasticity, neuroinflammation and adult hippocampal neurogenesis, and we distinguish between evidence from human observational studies and mechanistic insights from animal and cellular models. We also discuss candidate mechanisms—including insulin resistance-linked signalling changes, lipid-driven inflammatory amplification, oxidative stress, and altered lipid handling—that may contribute to synaptic vulnerability. Finally, we outline translational considerations and key knowledge gaps (including physiological exposure levels and heterogeneity of experimental paradigms) that currently limit inference from preclinical models to clinical intervention.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synaptic Function and Modulation in Health and Disease)
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Open AccessArticle
Volumetric and Functional Features of Left Atrium in Chronic Schizophrenia—Detailed Analysis from Three-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Echocardiographic MAGYAR-Path Study
by
Attila Nemes, Renáta Halcsik, Árpád Kormányos, Nándor Gyenes, Ashgar Keifari, Bence András Lázár, Csaba Lengyel and János Kálmán
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1088; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051088 - 12 May 2026
Abstract
Introduction: Health problems related to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality are overrepresented in patients with schizophrenia (SCH) and their rates have not declined in parallel with those of the general population. Cardiovascular diseases in patients with SCH are less likely to be diagnosed
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Introduction: Health problems related to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality are overrepresented in patients with schizophrenia (SCH) and their rates have not declined in parallel with those of the general population. Cardiovascular diseases in patients with SCH are less likely to be diagnosed and treated, and data regarding structural and functional cardiac abnormalities—particularly those involving the left atrium (LA)—remain limited in this population. The present study is the first to provide a detailed three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (3DSTE)-derived volumetric and functional evaluation of LA properties in patients with chronic SCH compared with age-, gender- and body mass index (BMI)-matched healthy controls (HCs). Methods: A total of 36 patients with SCH were initially enrolled, from which 19 subjects (53%) were excluded due to inferior image quality. Ultimately, 17 SCH patients (mean age: 45.2 ± 7.7 years; 9 males, 53%) were compared with 40 age- and gender-matched HCs (mean age: 42.5 ± 5.7 years; 23 males, 58%). All participants underwent comprehensive two-dimensional Doppler echocardiography and 3DSTE. Results: LA volumes respecting the cardiac cycle were lower in SCH patients compared with controls. Among LA volume-derived functional properties, total and active LA stroke volumes were reduced in patients with chronic SCH, whereas passive LA emptying fraction was increased. All global and mean segmental peak LA strain parameters tended to be increased in SCH patients, with global and mean segmental LA area strain (AS) and mean segmental LA radial strain (RS) reaching statistical significance. Regarding regional peak LA strains, basal LA circumferential strain (CS) and LA-AS, as well as superior LA longitudinal strain (LS), LA-CS, and LA-AS, differed significantly between the groups. All global and mean segmental LA strain parameters measured at atrial contraction tended to be increased in chronic SCH patients, with global and mean segmental LA-AS and mean segmental LA-RS and LA-LS reaching statistical significance. Regional LA strains during atrial contraction demonstrated increased superior LA-RS, LA-CS, LA-LS and LA-AS, along with elevated mid-atrial LA-RS, LA-AS and LA-3D strain. All these abnormalities suggest reduced LA volumes in all phases of LA function, accompanied by overcompensating functional alterations. Conclusions: Chronic schizophrenia is associated with marked volumetric and functional abnormalities of the left atrium. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive cardiac functional evaluation extending beyond left ventricular-centered analysis in patients with this severe mental illness.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)
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Open AccessArticle
Efficacy and Safety of a Bioinspired Chitosan–Catechol/Gelatin Hemostatic Patch vs. TachoSil in Hepatectomy: A Randomized Noninferiority Trial
by
Seoung Hoon Kim, Keumyeon Kim, Kyoungok Yun and Gyu-Seong Choi
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1087; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051087 - 12 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Topical hemostatic biomaterials are used to control diffuse parenchymal bleeding during hepatectomy. TachoSil is a widely used standard fibrin sealant patch. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of InnoSEAL Plus DL, a novel bioinspired absorbable chitosan–catechol/gelatin hemostatic patch, compared with TachoSil.
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Background/Objectives: Topical hemostatic biomaterials are used to control diffuse parenchymal bleeding during hepatectomy. TachoSil is a widely used standard fibrin sealant patch. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of InnoSEAL Plus DL, a novel bioinspired absorbable chitosan–catechol/gelatin hemostatic patch, compared with TachoSil. Methods: This multicenter, randomized, single-blind, active-controlled, parallel-group noninferiority trial enrolled adults undergoing hepatectomy who had persistent oozing from the hepatic transection surface despite primary hemostasis. Participants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive InnoSEAL Plus DL or TachoSil. The primary endpoint was hemostatic success within 3 min of application, with a prespecified noninferiority margin of −19.4 percentage points (pp). Safety was assessed up to 30 days postoperatively. Results: Ninety patients were randomized (45 per group). In the per-protocol population, 3 min hemostatic success was achieved in 100.0% of both the InnoSEAL Plus DL (43/43) and TachoSil (41/41) groups. The risk difference was 0.0 pp, and the lower bound of the one-sided 97.5% confidence interval was −8.2 pp, confirming noninferiority. The mean time to hemostasis was similar between groups (1.2 vs. 1.3 min), and no intraoperative rebleeding occurred. Adverse events were reported in 78/90 patients (86.7%) and serious adverse events in 6/90 (6.7%); the latter were typical post-hepatectomy events unrelated to the study devices. No deaths were reported. Conclusions: InnoSEAL Plus DL was noninferior to TachoSil for achieving rapid intraoperative hemostasis during hepatectomy, with no unexpected safety concerns. This bioinspired hemostatic patch is an effective alternative to fibrin sealant, without the use of human-derived proteins.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Biomedical Engineering and Biomaterials in Human Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Exploratory Analysis of Plasma Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 and Angiotensin Peptides as Candidate Discriminatory Signals in Breast Cancer: A Pilot Case–Control Study
by
Biwash Ghimire, Pradeep Giri, Susan Tavernier, Sarah E. Hobdey and Ali Aghazadeh-Habashi
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1086; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051086 - 12 May 2026
Abstract
Background: The renin-angiotensin system (RAS), traditionally known for its role in cardiovascular regulation, has also emerged as a key regulator of tumor progression and metastasis. Dysregulation of the RAS components has been implicated in breast cancer due to the significant presence of the
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Background: The renin-angiotensin system (RAS), traditionally known for its role in cardiovascular regulation, has also emerged as a key regulator of tumor progression and metastasis. Dysregulation of the RAS components has been implicated in breast cancer due to the significant presence of the RAS-related proteins in the breast tissue. This study aims to identify the dysregulated RAS components and investigate their potential as candidate biomarkers. Methods: A pilot case–control study was carried out with 21 treatment-naïve breast cancer patients and 17 healthy controls. Plasma levels of Ang 1-7, Ang II, ACE2 and selected cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IFN-γ) were measured using LC-MS/MS and ELISA. ROC curves were used to assess changes in biomarker levels across the RAS components. Results: This pilot cohort showed evidence of altered circulating RAS-related analytes and IL-10 in treatment-naïve breast cancer patients compared with controls. The ratio of Ang 1-7/Ang II was reduced by over two-fold in breast cancer patients (p = 0.0442). While plasma ACE2 was significantly elevated in breast cancer patients (p = 0.0005), IL-10 was significantly suppressed (p = 0.0420). In exploratory logistic regression analysis, ACE2 showed potential as a classifier with improved discrimination when combined with Ang 1-7 and Ang II (AUC = 0.9396 [95% bootstrap CI: 0.84–1.00], accuracy = 92.59% at the Youden-optimized threshold). However, due to the small sample size and methodological limitations, these findings require further validation. Conclusions: In this exploratory pilot study, plasma ACE2, the Ang 1-7/Ang II ratio, and IL-10 showed promising discriminatory performance. However, these findings are hypothesis-generating and require external validation in larger, prospectively enrolled cohorts before any clinical inference can be drawn.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment: Third Edition)
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Open AccessArticle
Procalcitonin Elevation in Intoxication- and Immobilization-Related Non-Traumatic Rhabdomyolysis: Association with Muscle Injury Severity and Renal Dysfunction
by
Linas Zdanavičius, Gabija Laubner Sakalauskienė, Viktorija Antonova Šiaudvytė and Robertas Badaras
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1085; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051085 - 11 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Procalcitonin (PCT) is widely used as a biomarker of bacterial infection, but it may also increase in non-infectious inflammatory states. This study investigated the association of PCT with muscle injury severity and renal dysfunction in patients with non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis. Methods: We prospectively
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Background: Procalcitonin (PCT) is widely used as a biomarker of bacterial infection, but it may also increase in non-infectious inflammatory states. This study investigated the association of PCT with muscle injury severity and renal dysfunction in patients with non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis. Methods: We prospectively enrolled 39 adults with non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis (n = 39). Admission and longitudinal laboratory data included creatine kinase (CK), myoglobin, PCT, C-reactive protein (CRP), creatinine, and urea. Associations were assessed using Spearman correlation analysis with false-discovery-rate correction for multiple comparisons. Independent predictors of admission PCT were evaluated using linear regression with PCT (log10) as the dependent variable. Longitudinal dynamics were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models and a generalized mixed-effects sensitivity model. Results: At admission, after false-discovery-rate correction, PCT remained positively correlated with creatinine, CK, urea, and CRP; the weaker correlation with myoglobin did not remain significant after correction. In the primary admission model, both creatinine (log10) and CK (log10) were independently associated with PCT (log10), whereas infection status was not. In the broader sensitivity model, only creatinine (log10) remained significant. Longitudinal analyses showed that CK (log10) remained independently associated with PCT over time, including in the gamma mixed-effects sensitivity model; in that model, infection status was not independently associated with PCT. Conclusions: In this exploratory single-centre cohort of patients with predominantly intoxication- or immobilization-related “found-down” non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis, PCT elevation was associated with markers of muscle injury and renal dysfunction. Infection status was not independently associated with PCT in the fitted models; however, the modest sample size means that smaller infection-related effects cannot be excluded. These findings should therefore be interpreted cautiously and require confirmation in larger, more etiologically diverse rhabdomyolysis cohorts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)
Open AccessReview
The Gastrointestinal Barrier—Mechanisms of Barrier Dysfunction in Liver Cirrhosis and Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis
by
Catalina Olaru-Stavila, Sara Martina Steinmann, Patricia Mester, Martina Müller, Eugen Tcaciuc and Karsten Gülow
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1084; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051084 - 11 May 2026
Abstract
The gastrointestinal (GI) barrier is a highly coordinated, multilayered defence system that maintains intestinal homeostasis by separating the luminal microbiota from the internal milieu. In liver cirrhosis, this barrier undergoes profound structural and functional disruption, emerging as a central driver of bacterial translocation
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The gastrointestinal (GI) barrier is a highly coordinated, multilayered defence system that maintains intestinal homeostasis by separating the luminal microbiota from the internal milieu. In liver cirrhosis, this barrier undergoes profound structural and functional disruption, emerging as a central driver of bacterial translocation and infection-related complications. Among these, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) represents a major determinant of morbidity, mortality, and disease progression. Barrier failure in cirrhosis is not attributable to a single defect but results from the convergence of multiple interconnected mechanisms. Structural alterations include disruption of epithelial tight junctions and deterioration of the mucus layer, leading to increased intestinal permeability and loss of spatial compartmentalisation. These changes are compounded by microbial dysbiosis, characterised by reduced diversity, depletion of short-chain fatty acid-producing taxa, and expansion of pathobionts. In parallel, cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction impairs both mucosal and systemic antimicrobial defences, while gut–vascular barrier disruption facilitates systemic dissemination of bacteria and microbial products. The resulting increase in bacterial translocation plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of SBP and contributes to systemic inflammation, circulatory dysfunction, and acute decompensation. Importantly, this process establishes a self-amplifying pathogenic loop in which barrier dysfunction, dysbiosis, and immune dysregulation mutually reinforce each other. Recent advances have identified key molecular pathways involved in barrier regulation, including bile acid–FXR signalling and microbiome-derived metabolites, providing novel targets for therapeutic intervention. While current management relies largely on antibiotics and supportive care, emerging strategies aim to restore barrier integrity and modulate the gut–liver axis. A deeper understanding of GI barrier dysfunction offers new opportunities to prevent bacterial translocation and improve clinical outcomes in patients with liver cirrhosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Hepatic and Gastrointestinal Diseases in Germany (2nd Edition))
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Open AccessArticle
Adipose Stem Cell-Derived Apoptotic Vesicles Attenuate Hypertrophic Scarring by Targeting the CDC20/WNT Signaling Pathway
by
Mengyuan Jiang, Liying Cheng, Xiyuan Mao and Lu Zhang
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1083; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051083 - 11 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Apoptotic vesicles (ApoVs) derived from adipose stem cells (ASCs) have recently emerged as important mediators of tissue repair and are implicated in pathways relevant to hypertrophic scar (HS). Although ASCs exhibit potential in scar modulation, the therapeutic value of their apoptotic
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Background: Apoptotic vesicles (ApoVs) derived from adipose stem cells (ASCs) have recently emerged as important mediators of tissue repair and are implicated in pathways relevant to hypertrophic scar (HS). Although ASCs exhibit potential in scar modulation, the therapeutic value of their apoptotic clearance products remains largely unexplored. Methods: In this study, we investigated the efficacy and mechanism of staurosporine (STS)-induced adipose stem cell derived apoptotic vesicles (ASCs-ApoVs) in mitigating HS. Western blot, RT-qPCR, and immunofluorescence were used to assess fibrotic markers including α-SMA, COL1A1, and COL3A1 and so on in hypertrophic scar derived fibroblasts (HS-fibroblasts). Results: ASCs-ApoVs significantly reduced profibrotic marker expression in HS-fibroblasts without short-term cytotoxicity. CDC20 down-regulation was identified as a critical target, through which ASCs-ApoVs suppressed Wnt/β-catenin signaling, as evidenced by the downregulation of β-catenin, c-MYC, Cyclin D1, and AXIN2. The efficacy of ASCs-ApoVs in hypertrophic scar regulation was also confirmed by the rabbit ear scar model. Furthermore, ASCs-ApoVs demonstrated notable structural and functional stability. Conclusions: In summary, our results established STS-induced ASCs-ApoVs as a potent multi-target strategy for hypertrophic scar regulation. Besides, the scalable production, functional stability, and favorable safety profile of ASCs-ApoVs underscore a strong promise for clinical translation.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wound Healing: From Mechanisms to Therapeutic Approaches (2nd Edition))
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Open AccessReview
Diagnosis and Management of Sarcoidosis-like Reaction in Adjuvant Immunotherapy: A Comprehensive Review and Clinical Implications
by
Matthew Lee, Qi Cai and Jue Wang
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1082; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051082 - 10 May 2026
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed oncologic care and are increasingly used as adjuvant therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence. However, this shift has introduced immune-related adverse events (irAEs) to patients who may otherwise be clinically disease-free after definitive therapy. Sarcoidosis-like reaction
[...] Read more.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have transformed oncologic care and are increasingly used as adjuvant therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence. However, this shift has introduced immune-related adverse events (irAEs) to patients who may otherwise be clinically disease-free after definitive therapy. Sarcoidosis-like reaction (SLR) is an uncommon but important irAE characterized by non-necrotizing granulomatous inflammation. In the adjuvant setting, SLR is uniquely consequential because it can closely mimic recurrent malignancy on surveillance imaging and thereby prompt unnecessary diagnostic procedures, treatment interruption, or escalation of care. This review summarizes the current evidence on ICI-associated SLR with an emphasis on adjuvant immunotherapy, where practical guidance remains limited. We integrate evidence from clinical trials, real-world cohorts, and published case series to summarize the reported incidence of SLR, proposed immunologic mechanisms, clinical and radiographic presentation, pathology, differential diagnosis, and management. Particular attention is given to the problem of distinguishing SLR from recurrence, when tissue confirmation should be prioritized, and how management should be individualized according to clinical severity and organ involvement. Common radiographic features include bilateral mediastinal and hilar lymphadenopathy and pulmonary nodules, but tissue confirmation remains the diagnostic gold standard when feasible. Many cases are low grade and may be managed conservatively. Greater recognition of ICI-associated SLR is critical to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary escalation of care while preserving the therapeutic benefit of adjuvant immunotherapy.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on Genitourinary Cancer)
Open AccessArticle
Revealing the Potential Associations of Mutation-Related Genes with Lymph Node Metastasis in Gallbladder Cancer Through Transcriptome and Exome Sequencing
by
Qi Li, Qingyu Tang, Dong Xue, Hengchao Liu, Zhenqi Tang, Dong Zhang, Chen Chen and Zhimin Geng
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1076; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051076 - 10 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is an aggressive biliary tract malignancy with poor prognosis. Lymph node metastasis is a major determinant of adverse outcome in patients with GBC. Gene mutations play an essential role in tumorigenesis; however, it remains uncertain whether genetic mutations
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Background/Objectives: Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is an aggressive biliary tract malignancy with poor prognosis. Lymph node metastasis is a major determinant of adverse outcome in patients with GBC. Gene mutations play an essential role in tumorigenesis; however, it remains uncertain whether genetic mutations play a substantial role in lymph node metastasis in GBC. Methods: In this study, transcriptome and whole-exome sequencing (WES) were used to analyze gene mutations and expression in GBC tissues, focusing on lymph node metastasis. Bioinformatics tools identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and significantly mutated genes (SMGs), followed by pathway enrichment and survival analyses. Results: In total, 669 DEGs were identified between metastatic and non-metastatic GBC tissues. Through protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis of these DEGs, GPT and NR1I2 were identified as candidate genes associated with metabolic reprogramming in lymph node metastasis. Prognostic analysis revealed 22 DEGs associated with patient survival, and significant differences in overall survival, clinicopathological features (e.g., N-stage and positive lymph node count) were observed between cluster 1 and cluster 2. Mutation analysis identified 55 SMGs, primarily related to immune and inflammatory responses. By integrating DEGs and SMGs, PLCL2 was identified as a candidate gene potentially associated with both lymph node metastasis and prognosis. GSEA enrichment analysis suggested that PLCL2 was potentially linked to immunity, inflammation, and cellular processes, which may imply its possible involvement in GBC metastasis pending experimental validation. Conclusions: Based on integrative transcriptomic and exomic analyses, we identified PLCL2 as a candidate gene potentially associated with lymph node metastasis in GBC. These hypothesis-generating findings provide a preliminary basis for future mechanistic validation and biomarker exploration.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pathogenesis and Therapeutics of Gastrointestinal Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Comparing the Effects of Glyphosate and Mycotoxins in the Human Follicular Microenvironment: An Exploratory Exposome Study
by
Apolka Szentirmay, Márkó Unicsovics, Eszter Ruff, Bernadett Csókay, Katalin Sára-Popovics, Dóra Holéci, Tímea Buzder, Miklós Sipos, Attila Martonos, Attila Sajgó, Natália Szeőcs, György Nagyéri, Levente Sára and Zsuzsanna Szőke
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1081; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051081 - 9 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Exposure to anthropogenic and/or natural (e.g., herbicides or mycotoxins) endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) has been linked to several reproductive disorders. Glyphosate (GLY), a common agricultural agent, is a potential element of the exposome that bioaccumulates and has potential endocrine and oxidative
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Background: Exposure to anthropogenic and/or natural (e.g., herbicides or mycotoxins) endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) has been linked to several reproductive disorders. Glyphosate (GLY), a common agricultural agent, is a potential element of the exposome that bioaccumulates and has potential endocrine and oxidative stress-related effects. However, data on its presence in the human ovarian microenvironment remain limited. Our study examined GLY levels in follicular fluid (ff) and serum and their relationships with oxidative stress markers, reproductive hormones, and stress hormones in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Methods: 50 women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation participated. Serum and ff samples were routinely collected during oocyte retrieval. GLY, related hormones (e.g., cortisol, estradiol-E2, anti-Müllerian hormone-AMH, and melatonin-MT), an oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA), antioxidant enzyme activities, total antioxidant capacity, and co-occurring natural pollutant mycotoxin levels were measured. Relationships between GLY levels and these mediators were assessed using correlation and regression analyses. Results: GLY was detected in both serum and ff at similar concentrations (0.038 ± 0.006 ng/mL vs. 0.045 ± 0.006 ng/mL; p = 0.414). Follicular GLY levels showed a positive association with MDA (Spearman’s r = 0.4487, p < 0.001), explaining 28.6% of the variability in follicular MDA. Serum GLY was positively associated with serum (β = 40.26, p = 0.0058) and follicular E2 (r = 0.29, p = 0.042). Serum GLY levels were negatively correlated with cortisol (β = −0.0188, p = 0.020). A slight correlation between follicular GLY and MT was observed (p = 0.03). No associations were found between GLY levels and age, body mass index, AMH, the recombinant gonadotropin dose used, antioxidant enzyme activities, follicle count, oocyte yield, or embryo viability. Conclusions: This study might be the first to demonstrate the presence of GLY of exposome in human ff, indicating that environmental exposure to GLY may reach the oocyte microenvironment. The correlation with lipid peroxidation suggests GLY could contribute to follicular oxidative stress. The associations with E2 and cortisol point to potential endocrine-disrupting effects. While no direct impact on IVF outcomes was observed, findings suggest low-level exposure to GLY could influence ovarian physiology through specific biochemical mechanisms.
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(This article belongs to the Section Drug Discovery, Development and Delivery)
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Open AccessArticle
Quantifying the Silent Selection Pressure: Antimicrobial Stewardship and Gut Microbiome Integrity in the NICU and PICU
by
Fauna Herawati, Faathimah Az’zahra, Maria Anggeraini, Nur Palestin Ayumuyas, Kevin Kantono, Eko Setiawan and Rika Yulia
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1080; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051080 - 9 May 2026
Abstract
Background: Antimicrobial stewardship in Neonatal (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs) is complicated by rapid physiological maturation and the high vulnerability of the developing gut microbiome. Traditional metrics fails to capture the true utilization density of antibiotics in these settings. This
[...] Read more.
Background: Antimicrobial stewardship in Neonatal (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs) is complicated by rapid physiological maturation and the high vulnerability of the developing gut microbiome. Traditional metrics fails to capture the true utilization density of antibiotics in these settings. This study evaluated antimicrobial consumption patterns and alignment with the WHO AWaRe framework in two Indonesian hospitals and its impact towards patients’ length of stay. Methods: A retrospective multicenter study was conducted at a public hospital (Haji Hospital) and a private university hospital (HU Hospital) across 2024–2025. The study population includes all admitted patients (n = 315 in NICU and n = 12 in PICU) to calculate utilization density. Consumption was quantified using Defined Daily Dose (DDD)/100 bed-days, and qualitative assessment was performed using the WHO AWaRe classification. Results: Generalized linear modeling revealed that appropriate antibiotic therapy was significantly associated with a 17% reduction in hospital length of stay (β = −0.187, p = 0.035). At HU Hospital, PICU exhibited a seven-fold higher antimicrobial density (37.56 DDD/100) compared to NICU (5.22 DDD/100). At Haji Hospital, NICU density was 4.95 DDD/100 bed-days. Weight-normalized simulations revealed weight-based dosing disparity with low absolute DDD values in neonates mask a significant biological burden and intense selection pressure on the gut resistome due to immature renal clearance. While Haji Hospital maintained high “Access” category adherence (92.21%), HU Hospital’s PICU showed a high reliance on “Watch” agents (71.27%), specifically Ceftriaxone and Meropenem, which are known drivers of multidrug resistance. Conclusions: Low absolute dosing in neonates does not equate to low therapeutic density or reduced environmental pressure. The heavy use of broad-spectrum agents in the PICU acts as a primary driver for microbiome disruption. To mitigate the emergence of multidrug-resistant organisms, stewardship must transition from adult-indexed metrics (DDD) to more precise measures like Days of Therapy (DOT) and prioritize “Access” protocols to preserve microbiome integrity.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug-Resistant Bacterial Infections and Alternative Therapies—2nd Edition)
Open AccessArticle
VeritaCell-Derived Autologous Skin Cell Suspensions Enhance Wound Closure Dynamics and Tissue Architecture in a Rat Excisional Wound Model
by
Michael Peake, Olafs Volrāts, Vladimirs Pilipenko, Jolanta Upīte, Arseniy Sergeyev, Baiba Jansone and Nikolaos T. Georgopoulos
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1079; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051079 - 9 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Autologous cell suspension (ACS)-based therapy is a promising strategy to enhance wound healing, yet limitations in current methodologies hinder clinical efficacy. We have previously developed VeritaCell, a rapid isolation method that yields highly viable skin cell populations, including epidermal stem cells,
[...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Autologous cell suspension (ACS)-based therapy is a promising strategy to enhance wound healing, yet limitations in current methodologies hinder clinical efficacy. We have previously developed VeritaCell, a rapid isolation method that yields highly viable skin cell populations, including epidermal stem cells, and demonstrated their wound healing-enhancing biological properties in vitro (such as acceleration of keratinocyte proliferation and suppression of scarring-associated molecular responses). In the present study, we have assessed the efficacy of VeritaCell-derived ACS cell populations in enhancing both the rate and quality of healing using an in vivo rat excisional wound model. Methods: Full-thickness wounds were treated with ACS at donor-to-wound area ratios of 1:1, 1:10, and 1:20. Wound progression was monitored by standardised image-based quantification of percentage wound closure and healing quality was evaluated by histological assessment of tissue architecture. Results: ACS-treated wounds demonstrated improved early healing dynamics, with enhanced wound closure evident by Day 6 across all ACS treatment groups. Histological assessment revealed improved neo-epithelial organisation and reduced scarring-associated epidermal thickening in the 1:10 and 1:20 groups, with the 1:10 group exhibiting tissue architecture most closely resembling unwounded skin. Conclusions: Collectively, these findings provide preclinical validation that ACS isolates generated using the VeritaCell methodology exhibit functional activity in vivo and support improved tissue-level repair at clinically relevant donor-to-wound coverage ratios. Our observations offer insights into the strong potential of our ACS approach in providing a practical and cost-effective medical solution that will facilitate more aesthetically favourable healing outcomes.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Cell and Tissue Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
New Insights into the Antimicrobial and Wound-Healing Properties of Turmeric-Powder-Derived Curcuma longa Extracts for Oral-Health-Oriented Applications
by
Dana-Emanuela Pitic (Coţ), Andreea Kiş, Ciprian Stroia, Ioana-Cristina Talpoş-Niculescu, Ramona-Amina Popovici, Codruţa-Eliza Ille, Alfred Mark Sallai, Alina Anton, Elena-Alina Moacă, Emilia Daliana Muntean and Maria Suciu
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1078; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051078 - 9 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Curcuma longa is widely recognized for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound-related biological effects. The present study aimed to compare two extracts prepared from organic turmeric powder (Curcuma longa), using distilled water (CUR-H2O) and 96% ethanol (CUR-EtOH), in
[...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Curcuma longa is widely recognized for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound-related biological effects. The present study aimed to compare two extracts prepared from organic turmeric powder (Curcuma longa), using distilled water (CUR-H2O) and 96% ethanol (CUR-EtOH), in terms of extraction yield, phytochemical profile, antimicrobial activity, and in vitro biological behavior relevant to future oral-health-oriented applications. Methods: The extracts were prepared by maceration followed by ultrasound-assisted processing, concentration, and lyophilization. Their antioxidant potential (AOP) was evaluated by DPPH assay, total phenolic content (TPC) by the Folin–Ciocalteu method, and targeted polyphenolic profile by UHPLC-MS. Antimicrobial activity was assessed by broth microdilution against Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus oralis, and Candida albicans. In vitro biological activity was investigated on HaCaT keratinocytes. Results: CUR-EtOH extract showed a higher extraction yield than CUR-H2O (5.13% vs. 2.01%), higher AOP (69.54 ± 0.49% vs. 53.35 ± 0.30%), and a higher TPC (163.87 ± 0.32 vs. 78.05 ± 0.28 mg GAE/g dry extract). Consistent with these TPC results, UHPLC-MS revealed a richer targeted polyphenolic profile in CUR-EtOH extract, particularly in terms of p-coumaric and ferulic acid derivatives. CUR-EtOH extract was more active against the tested oral streptococci, especially S. mutans (MIC 10 µL vs. 60 µL for CUR-H2O), whereas CUR-H2O extract showed a slightly better antifungal effect against C. albicans (MIC 60 µL vs. 80 µL). In HaCaT cells, CUR-H2O extract exhibited the more favorable compatibility profile, while CUR-EtOH extract showed stronger cytotoxicity, despite promoting faster wound-gap closure at 10 µg/mL. Conclusions: The extraction solvent strongly influenced both the chemical profile and biological behavior of the turmeric-powder-derived extracts. These findings suggest that solvent selection may be used to tailor the balance between antimicrobial efficacy and epithelial compatibility in future turmeric-powder-derived preparations intended for oral-health-oriented applications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbiology in Human Health and Disease)
Open AccessArticle
4-Hexylresorcinol Attenuates Ethanol-Induced Hepatic and Pancreatic Injury by Modulating Metabolic Dysfunction and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
by
Horațiu Rotar, Soon-Young Kang, Hyun-Seung Kim, Seung-Ki Hong, Yoon-Jo Lee, Ji-Hyeon Oh, Suyeon Park, Jongho Choi, Xiangguo Che, Seong-Gon Kim and Je-Yong Choi
Biomedicines 2026, 14(5), 1077; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14051077 - 9 May 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Chronic ethanol (EtOH) consumption is a major cause of metabolic dysfunction and multi-organ injury, particularly in the liver and pancreas. Because oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress are central mechanisms in both organs, this study evaluated the protective efficacy of
[...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Chronic ethanol (EtOH) consumption is a major cause of metabolic dysfunction and multi-organ injury, particularly in the liver and pancreas. Because oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress are central mechanisms in both organs, this study evaluated the protective efficacy of 4-hexylresorcinol (4HR) against EtOH-induced hepato-pancreatic injury. Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice (6 weeks old) were assigned to four groups (n = 10/group): control, EtOH, EtOH + 4HR (5 mg/kg), and EtOH + 4HR (10 mg/kg). After a 1-week adaptation period, mice were fed a liquid EtOH diet for 5 weeks. Glucose tolerance, fasting glucose, serum insulin, and insulinogenic index were assessed. Liver and pancreas were analyzed by histology, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, periodic acid-Schiff staining, Oil Red O staining, and malondialdehyde assay. Results: Chronic EtOH exposure impaired glucose homeostasis, reduced the insulinogenic index, increased hepatic inflammation and ALT levels, depleted hepatic glycogen, elevated pancreatic lipid peroxidation, and upregulated GADD153 (CHOP) expression in both the liver and pancreas. 4HR administration, particularly at 10 mg/kg, attenuated several of these alterations. 4HR treatment was associated with reduced hepatic inflammatory changes and ALT elevation, decreased pancreatic malondialdehyde levels, and suppressed GADD153 expression in both organs. Although PAS staining in the 4HR-treated group showed a qualitative tendency toward increased hepatic glycogen deposition, quantitative analysis did not demonstrate significant recovery relative to the EtOH group. Conclusions: 4HR showed protective effects against several aspects of chronic EtOH-induced hepatic and pancreatic injury, including hepatic inflammation, pancreatic lipid peroxidation, and ER stress-related GADD153 expression. However, quantitative PAS analysis did not support significant restoration of EtOH-induced hepatic glycogen depletion by 4HR. These findings suggest that 4HR may serve as a potential multi-organ protective agent against alcohol-induced inflammatory, oxidative stress-, and ER stress-related injury, although its effect on hepatic glycogen metabolism remains limited under the present experimental conditions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)
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