Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
12.4
6.6
Journals
Antioxidants
Special Issues
Recent Trends in Nanoantioxidants—2nd Edition
share announcement

Recent Trends in Nanoantioxidants—2nd Edition

A special issue of Antioxidants (ISSN 2076-3921).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 August 2026 | Viewed by 6320

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Maria Letizia Manca

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy
Interests: cosmetics and cosmeceuticals; phytochemicals delivery; liposomes; phospholipid vesicles; antioxidants; antiaging; regenerative treatments; polyphenols; natural chemicals from agri-food by-products; keratinocytes; fibro-blasts; macrophages; in vitro testing; skin hydration; skin elasticity; in vivo clinical trials
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Matteo Perra

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor Assistant
Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
Interests: drug delivery; nano carriers; antioxidants; pharmaceutical technology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

It is well known that certain lifestyle choices and the intake of unhealthy chemicals contribute to an overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which play a key role in the development of acute or chronic inflammatory diseases, as well as cancer. Their overproduction can lead to oxidative damage, triggering inflammation, DNA damage and other complications.

Antioxidants have the potential to counteract oxidative damage by scavenging a wide range of reactive oxygen species. However, both natural and synthetic compounds, but especially those of natural origin, face significant stability challenges, including photosensitivity, poor water solubility and low bioavailability, limiting their in vivo efficacy.

To overcome these limitations, recent research aims to develop the most suitable systems to deliver antioxidant compounds to the organism by improving their properties. Among these, nanotechnology has emerged as a promising approach. Nano-drug delivery systems reduce the particle size of the active compounds to the nanometer scale, improving their solubility and facilitating absorption. Further formulation strategies include the development of more complex systems such as liposomes or liposome-like systems, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), nanoemulsions and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), which can circulate in the body, promoting and improving their bioavailability.

This Special Issue, “Recent Trends in Nanoantioxidants—2nd Edition”, aims to provide an overview of the recent advances in nano-drug delivery compounds with antioxidant properties, including, but not necessarily restricted to, natural molecules.

Dr. Maria Letizia Manca
Guest Editor

Dr. Matteo Perra
Guest Editor Assistant

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Antioxidants is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • nanocarriers
  • liposomes
  • nanocrystals
  • oxidative stress
  • inflammation
  • antioxidant
  • cosmeceuticals
  • nutraceuticals
  • ROS
  • liposomes
  • nanosystems

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (4 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

30 pages, 9530 KB  
Article
Liposomal Myricetin Nanoantioxidants Attenuate Methotrexate-Induced Hepatotoxicity by Modulating Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Apoptosis in Rats
by Fahad Alshammari, Ekramy M. Elmorsy, Abdulrahman S. Aldaghmi, Fahd Alaajam, Eida M. Alshammari, Mona M. Elghareeb, Manal S. Fawzy and Noha M. Abd El-Fadeal
Antioxidants 2026, 15(4), 452; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15040452 - 4 Apr 2026
Viewed by 631
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX) is widely used for its chemotherapeutic and immunosuppressive properties, but is limited by oxidative stress-mediated hepatotoxicity. Nanoantioxidant delivery systems can enhance the stability, solubility, and in vivo efficacy of natural antioxidants. This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of myricetin (MYR), a [...] Read more.
Methotrexate (MTX) is widely used for its chemotherapeutic and immunosuppressive properties, but is limited by oxidative stress-mediated hepatotoxicity. Nanoantioxidant delivery systems can enhance the stability, solubility, and in vivo efficacy of natural antioxidants. This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of myricetin (MYR), a flavonoid with potent antioxidant activity, and its liposomal nanoantioxidant formulation (MYR-loaded liposomal nanoparticles, MYR-LNPs) against MTX-induced liver injury in male albino Sprague Dawley rats. Sixty rats were randomly allocated to six groups: control, MTX, MYR, MYR-LNPs, and combinations of MTX with MYR-LNPs. MYR-LNPs were successfully formulated and physicochemically characterized, exhibiting a mean particle size of 95.6 nm, a zeta potential of −32 mV, and a narrow polydispersity index, collectively confirming their colloidal stability and suitability for hepatic delivery. MTX markedly disrupted liver function, increasing serum AST, ALT, ALP, and bilirubin and decreasing total protein, albumin, and globulin, whereas co-treatment with MYR-LNPs substantially restored these parameters and outperformed free MYR. MTX-induced oxidative stress, reflected by depleted hepatic GSH and antioxidant enzymes (GPx, SOD, CAT, GST), elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and protein carbonyls and downregulated NRF2/HO-1, was significantly counteracted by MYR-LNPs. In addition, MYR-LNPs mitigated MTX-evoked inflammation and nitrosative stress by reducing NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β, nitric oxide, and iNOS expression. They corrected apoptotic imbalance by lowering Bax and caspase 3 while increasing Bcl-2. Histopathological and ultrastructural assessments confirmed that MYR-LNPs preserved hepatic architecture and mitochondrial integrity. These findings indicate that MYR-loaded liposomal nanoantioxidants provide superior protection against MTX-induced hepatotoxicity by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, supporting their potential as an advanced nanodrug delivery strategy for antioxidant therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Trends in Nanoantioxidants—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

22 pages, 2149 KB  
Article
Liposomal Delivery of a Biotechnological Lavandula angustifolia Miller Extract Rich in Rosmarinic Acid for Topical Herpes Simplex Therapy
by Federica Fulgheri, Fabrizio Angius, Matteo Perra, Ilenia Delogu, Silvia Puxeddu, Milen I. Georgiev, Renáta Novotná, Jana Franková, Misia Lobina, Aldo Manzin, Maria Manconi and Maria Letizia Manca
Antioxidants 2025, 14(7), 811; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14070811 - 30 Jun 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1889
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a widespread pathogen responsible for recurrent infections, primarily affecting the skin and mucous membranes. With the aim of targeting both the viral infection and the associated inflammatory response, biotechnologically produced Lavandula angustifolia Miller (L. angustifolia [...] Read more.
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a widespread pathogen responsible for recurrent infections, primarily affecting the skin and mucous membranes. With the aim of targeting both the viral infection and the associated inflammatory response, biotechnologically produced Lavandula angustifolia Miller (L. angustifolia) extract, rich in rosmarinic acid, was incorporated into liposomal formulations intended for topical application. Lavender is known for its strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, wound-healing, and antiviral properties. However, its low stability under certain conditions limits its therapeutic potential. Four different formulations were developed: conventional liposomes, glycerosomes, hyalurosomes, and glycerohyalurosomes. The vesicles were characterized for size, stability, and entrapment efficiency. Glycerosomes were the smallest (~58 nm), while the other formulations ranged around 77 nm, all maintaining a highly negative surface charge, ensuring stability and reduced aggregation. Glycerol-containing formulations demonstrated superior stability over 12 months, while liposomes and hyalurosomes increased their size after only two months. Entrapment efficiency reached up to 100% for most vesicles, except for glycerohyalurosomes (~54%). In vitro studies on Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts (NHDFs) demonstrated that all formulations were biocompatible and enhanced cell viability under oxidative stress. Glycerosomes, hyalurosomes, and glycerohyalurosomes exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity by reducing MMP-1 and IL-6 levels in LPS-stimulated fibroblasts. Furthermore, these preliminary results highlighted promising antiviral activity against HSV-1 of the obtained formulations, particularly when applied during or post-infection. Overall, these phospholipid vesicles offer a dual therapeutic approach, combining antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral effects, positioning them as promising candidates for the treatment of HSV-induced skin lesions and related inflammatory conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Trends in Nanoantioxidants—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1240 KB  
Article
Inulin Improves the Redox Response in Rats Fed a Diet Containing Recommended Copper Nanoparticle (CuNPs) Levels, While Pectin or Psyllium in Rats Receive Excessive CuNPs Levels in the Diet
by Aleksandra Marzec, Ewelina Cholewińska, Bartosz Fotschki, Jerzy Juśkiewicz and Katarzyna Ognik
Antioxidants 2025, 14(6), 695; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14060695 - 8 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1105
Abstract
The study aimed to determine the effect of dietary inclusion of the recommended (6.5 mg Cu/kg diet) or double the recommended (13.0 mg Cu/kg diet) levels of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) in combination with different types of dietary fibre on selected redox status indicators [...] Read more.
The study aimed to determine the effect of dietary inclusion of the recommended (6.5 mg Cu/kg diet) or double the recommended (13.0 mg Cu/kg diet) levels of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) in combination with different types of dietary fibre on selected redox status indicators in the blood and tissues of male Wistar rats. Control groups were fed diets containing cellulose and a mineral mixture with standard or enhanced content of CuCO3. The experimental groups were fed a diet supplemented with CuNPs (6.5 or 13 mg/kg) and combined with various fibre types—cellulose, pectin, inulin, or psyllium. After the feeding period, rats’ organs were collected to assess selected indicators of redox status. The obtained results suggest that the addition of dietary fibre in the form of inulin may beneficially stimulate the response of the redox system in the conditions of CuNPs nutrition at the recommended dose, pectin, or psyllium in the case of an excessive supply of CuNPs in the diet. Thus, selecting the appropriate type of dietary fibre based on the CuNPs’ level in the diet may effectively protect the organism from the potentially harmful prooxidative effect of CuNPs, ultimately contributing to a favourable regulation of their metabolic impact in the body. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Trends in Nanoantioxidants—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

21 pages, 1293 KB  
Review
Green-Synthesized Copper and Copper Oxide Nanoparticles: Structural Characterization and Evaluation of Biological Activity
by Ionut Iulian Lungu, Alina Stefanache, Nicoleta Anton, Andreea Lungu, Vera-Maria Platon, Andreea-Maria Mitran, Oana Cioanca, Cornelia Mircea and Monica Hancianu
Antioxidants 2026, 15(3), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15030339 - 7 Mar 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2030
Abstract
Copper-based nanoparticles, especially metallic copper (Cu NPs) and copper oxide (CuO NPs), have attracted increasing attention due to their redox activity, biological efficacy, and technological applications. However, conventional chemical synthesis often involves toxic reagents, limiting their biomedical applicability. In this context, plant-mediated green [...] Read more.
Copper-based nanoparticles, especially metallic copper (Cu NPs) and copper oxide (CuO NPs), have attracted increasing attention due to their redox activity, biological efficacy, and technological applications. However, conventional chemical synthesis often involves toxic reagents, limiting their biomedical applicability. In this context, plant-mediated green synthesis has evolved and has become a sustainable and cost-effective alternative. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the biosynthesis of Cu and CuO nanoparticles using plant extracts. The main synthesis pathways are examined, with emphasis on the role of phytochemicals as reducing, stabilizing, and capping agents, as well as the influence of reaction parameters on nanoparticle yield. The review highlights the diversity of plant species and extract types used and clarifies their effects on nanoparticle size, morphology, oxidation state, and surface chemistry. Key physicochemical characterization techniques (ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron microscopy, and zeta potential analysis) are systematically discussed. Moreover, a summary of in vitro and in vivo biological activities is provided, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, anticancer, wound-healing, and plant-growth-promoting effects. Overall, plant-mediated copper-based nanoparticles demonstrate significant potential as biofunctional nanomaterials. Nevertheless, challenges concerning reproducibility, mechanistic understanding, standardization and toxicological evaluation must be addressed to facilitate reliable translation into biomedical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Trends in Nanoantioxidants—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-4
Back to TopTop