Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
9.2
4.8
Journals
Biomolecules
Special Issues
Bionanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, Toxicity and Biomedical Applications, 3rd Edition
share announcement

Bionanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, Toxicity and Biomedical Applications, 3rd Edition

A special issue of Biomolecules (ISSN 2218-273X). This special issue belongs to the section "Bio-Engineered Materials".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 5220

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Simona Clichici

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Physiology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Interests: carbon nanotubes; liver fibrosis; oxidative stress; nanomaterials’ toxicity; natural compounds; the involvement of oxidative stress; inflammation; apoptosis; autophagy as mechanisms of cell death exposed to bionanomaterials
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Adriana Gabriela Filip

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Physiology Department, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400347 Cluj Napoca, Romania
Interests: the photochemopreventive effect of natural compounds and nanomaterials phyto-reduced with natural extracts in skin tumors; the anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effect of gold and silver nanoparticles and signaling pathways involved in oral carcinogenesis; cytotoxicity of synthetic compounds and natural extracts on fibroblasts and stem cells from the dental follicle; photodynamic therapy in experimental tumors
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Following a very successful previous run, we are pleased to announce the launch of a third edition of the Special Issue “Bionanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, Toxicity and Biomedical Applications”.

For the past decade, nanomaterials have been a topic of interest not only for fundamental research, but also for the development of new technologies. The core reason for the scientific world’s interest regarding nanomaterials is their special properties, which make them promising materials for new applications. In addition to the natural sources of nanoparticles, nanomaterials have been engineered as tools for obtaining certain required properties in order to develop advanced nanotechnologies.

This Special Issue aims to highlight the properties of new synthesized bionanomaterials, their impact—including toxicity aspects—on living organisms and environment, and the possibility of the modulation of their toxicity through “green synthesis”, with the biomedical applications of these materials as an aim. We encourage all researchers interested in this topic to present research articles or reviews concerning bionanomaterials that can be considered attractive for fundamental study and for potential new applications in medicine and biology. This Special Issue hopes to include articles concerning the synthesis and characterization of new bionanomaterials; the modulation of nanomaterials’ toxicity; in vitro and in vivo assessment of nanomaterials’ impact on living organisms; in vitro and in vivo mechanisms of nanomaterials’ toxicity; biological implications of nanomaterials’ toxicity; biomedical applications of bionanomaterials; the role of new nanomaterials as diagnostic and therapeutic platforms; and the involvement of bionanomaterials in carcinogenesis, wound healing, metabolic and endothelial dysfunction, dental and skin pathology, immunomodulation, ischemia–reperfusion injury, age-related diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and neuroprotection. We look forward to your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Simona Clichici
Prof. Dr. Adriana Gabriela Filip
Guest Editors

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. Biomolecules 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 2700 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

  • nanoparticles
  • nano-alloys
  • graphene
  • nanotubes
  • hybrid nanomaterials
  • green synthesis
  • cytotoxicity
  • systemic toxicity
  • modulation of the biological impact
  • nanomaterials as diagnostic and therapeutic platforms
  • potential applications in medicine

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.

Related Special Issue

Published Papers (5 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

21 pages, 3158 KB  
Article
Antimicrobial Properties of Ti- and Zr-Based Nanotextured Thin Film Metallic Glasses Against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
by Chijioke R. Onyeagba, Jonathan M. Harris, Timothy E. Egbo, Cameron Brown, Hongxia Wang and Tuquabo Tesfamichael
Biomolecules 2026, 16(6), 759; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16060759 - 22 May 2026
Viewed by 383
Abstract
Nanotextured thin film metallic glasses (TFMGs) have emerged as promising antimicrobial coatings for biomedical applications; however, systematic comparisons across compositionally distinct Ti- and Zr-based systems, as well as their early-stage bactericidal mechanisms, remain limited. Here, we show, for the first time, a comparative, [...] Read more.
Nanotextured thin film metallic glasses (TFMGs) have emerged as promising antimicrobial coatings for biomedical applications; however, systematic comparisons across compositionally distinct Ti- and Zr-based systems, as well as their early-stage bactericidal mechanisms, remain limited. Here, we show, for the first time, a comparative, compositionally resolved correlation linking alloy chemistry, nanotexture, and bactericidal mechanisms across polymorphic TFMGs. Three co-sputtered biocompatible coatings (Ti47Fe41Cu12, Zr71Fe3Al26, and Zr58W31Cu11) were deposited on medical-grade titanium and stainless steel (SS316L) via magnetron co-sputtering, producing uniform amorphous films (190–298 nm) with nanoscale roughness of 1.6 ± 0.05 to 8.1 ± 0.05 nm. Surface wettability spanned hydrophilic (71.1 ± 5.6°) to hydrophobic (106.5 ± 3.5°), modulating bacterial interactions. Antimicrobial performance against Pseudomonas aeruginosa was evaluated using live/dead fluorescence imaging, quantitative image analysis, and electron microscopy after 2–4 h incubation. All coatings reduced bacterial adhesion and viability relative to bare substrates, with Zr58W31Cu11 achieving >60% reduction in surface-associated bacterial coverage. Time-resolved analysis revealed a rapid transition to predominantly non-viable populations on coated surfaces, in contrast to sustained viability on controls. Mechanistically, bactericidal activity arises from the synergistic coupling of nanotopography-induced membrane stress, wettability-governed adhesion energetics, and in situ formation of CuO, Fe2O3, WO3, and ZrO2 oxides that promote electrostatic interactions and proposed reactive oxygen species generation, driving oxidative membrane damage. These results establish a scalable design framework for TFMGs, while highlighting the need for long-term biofilm and electrochemical validation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bionanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, Toxicity and Biomedical Applications, 3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 38539 KB  
Article
The Development of Squid Ink Melanin Nanoparticles as a Multifunctional Colorant Anchored on Hair Fibers: Preparation, Physicochemical Characterization and Dyeing Performance
by Ao Cai, Hetong Lin, Yushuang Li, Dan Li, Kaikai Bai and Junde Chen
Biomolecules 2026, 16(4), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16040573 - 13 Apr 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 721
Abstract
Traditional chemical hair dyes are associated with potential health risks, while botanical alternatives are often hampered by poor stability and limited color longevity. In this study, discarded squid ink was used to prepare bionic hair colorants of high performance. By synergizing ultrasound disruption [...] Read more.
Traditional chemical hair dyes are associated with potential health risks, while botanical alternatives are often hampered by poor stability and limited color longevity. In this study, discarded squid ink was used to prepare bionic hair colorants of high performance. By synergizing ultrasound disruption with enzymatic hydrolysis, the crude ink aggregates were transformed into highly uniform squid ink melanin nanoparticles (SIMNPs) with size and zeta potential of ~174 nm and −37.5 mV, respectively. This effectively improved the solubility but reduced the steric limitation of natural melanin. To overcome the weak affinity between melanin and human hair, a biomimetic interface where Fe(III) ions act as supramolecular bridges was further engineered to stably bind the SIMNPs to hair keratin. Under optimized conditions (pH 8.0, 45 °C, and 80 min), the dyed hair achieved a natural deep black with a total color difference (ΔE*) of 68.79 ± 0.29, which was maintained at 63.19 ± 0.27 even after 13 consecutive water washing cycles. Unlike destructive oxidative dyes, this SIMNP dyeing system assisted by coordination-driven assembly preserved the native α-helical architecture and disulfide bond networks of hair keratin. Furthermore, the deposited SIMNP layer effectively protected hair fibers from ultraviolet (UV) damage due to its powerful UV-shielding capacity. Crucially, in vitro and in vivo evaluations confirmed the exceptional biosafety of this formulation, demonstrating robust cellular tolerance and absence of murine skin irritation. The work demonstrates a green, low-damage paradigm for the development of bio-based hair colorants of high performance and presents a promising pathway for the high-value utilization of marine by-products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bionanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, Toxicity and Biomedical Applications, 3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 1418 KB  
Article
Characterization of Newly Synthesized Nanobiomaterials for the Treatment of White Spot Lesions
by Andra Clichici, Diana Dudea, Cristina Gasparik, Camelia Alexandra Coadă, Ioana Bâldea, Stanca Cuc and Mărioara Moldovan
Biomolecules 2026, 16(1), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom16010112 - 8 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 521
Abstract
Background: White spot lesions (WSLs) are characterized by enamel demineralization. Minimally invasive treatments using infiltrating resins, such as the commercially available Icon®, are recommended. The need for such treatments justifies ongoing research into developing materials that can address existing limitations regarding [...] Read more.
Background: White spot lesions (WSLs) are characterized by enamel demineralization. Minimally invasive treatments using infiltrating resins, such as the commercially available Icon®, are recommended. The need for such treatments justifies ongoing research into developing materials that can address existing limitations regarding strength, durability, and biocompatibility. Objectives: This study aimed to synthesize and characterize four novel nanobiomaterials by evaluating their physicochemical properties and biocompatibility compared to the commercial material Icon®. Materials and methods: The recipes for the experimental nanobiomaterials NB3, NB6, NB3F, and NB6F contain varying proportions of TEGDMA, UDMA, HEMA, Bis-GMA, and HAF-BaF2 glass. Mechanical and physicochemical characteristics were evaluated, such as flexural strength, measured using the three-point test; water absorption and solubility; fluoride release; polymerization conversion; and residual monomers, assessed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). In vitro cell viability was assessed via colorimetry using human dysplastic oral keratinocytes (DOKs). Results: NB6 and NB6F demonstrated the greatest polymerization potential. NB3 exhibited the lowest water absorption and solubility due to its hydrophobic nature. Additionally, the inclusion of UDMA enhanced the strength and elasticity of NB3 when compared to NB6. Among the samples with fluoride additives (NB3F and NB6F), the highest fluoride release on day 7 occurred with the material lacking UDMA. In contrast, the NB3F sample containing UDMA released the least amount of fluoride on the same day. In quantitative terms, NB3 and NB6F exhibited the lowest levels of residual monomers, whereas NB6 showed the highest levels. Both NB3 and NB6 were significantly better tolerated by the cells, showing higher cell viability compared to the commercial material Icon®. Conclusions: The materials’ mechanical and physicochemical properties varied with component proportions, enabling identification of a suitable formulation for targeted clinical applications. Biocompatibility tests showed that the experimental NB3 and NB6 were better tolerated than Icon®. Furthermore, the incorporation of filler particles improved the mechanical strength of the experimental nanobiomaterials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bionanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, Toxicity and Biomedical Applications, 3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 36719 KB  
Article
The Impact of Hybrid Bionanomaterials Based on Gold Nanoparticles on Liver Injury in an Experimental Model of Thioacetamide-Induced Hepatopathy
by Mara Filip, Simona Valeria Clichici, Mara Muntean, Luminița David, Bianca Moldovan, Vlad Alexandru Toma, Cezar Login and Şoimița Mihaela Suciu
Biomolecules 2025, 15(8), 1068; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15081068 - 24 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1291
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic benefits of a hybrid material based on gold nanoparticles and natural extracts on an experimental model of thioacetamide-induced (TAA) liver injury in rats. The nanomaterials were synthesized using a green method, with Cornus sanguinea L. [...] Read more.
The present study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic benefits of a hybrid material based on gold nanoparticles and natural extracts on an experimental model of thioacetamide-induced (TAA) liver injury in rats. The nanomaterials were synthesized using a green method, with Cornus sanguinea L. extract as a reducing and capping agent (NPCS), and were then mixed with Vaccinium myrtillus L. (VL) extract in order to achieve a final mixture with enhanced properties (NPCS-VL). NPCSs were characterized using UV–vis spectrophotometry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which demonstrated the formation of spherical, stable gold nanoparticles with an average diameter of 20 nm. NPCS-VL’s hepatoprotective effects were evaluated through an analysis of oxidative stress, inflammation, hepatic cytolysis, histology assays, and TEM in comparison to silymarin on an animal model of thioacetamide (TAA)-induced toxic hepatitis. TAA administration determined hepatotoxicity, as it triggered redox imbalance, increased proinflammatory cytokine levels and alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) activity, and induced morphological and ultrastructural changes characteristic of liver fibrosis. In rats treated with NPCS-VL, all these pathological processes were attenuated, suggesting a potential antifibrotic effect of this hybrid bionanomaterial. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bionanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, Toxicity and Biomedical Applications, 3rd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

13 pages, 250 KB  
Review
Nanocomposite Biomaterials for Tissue-Engineered Hernia Repair: A Review of Recent Advances
by Octavian Andronic, Alexandru Cosmin Palcau, Alexandra Bolocan, Alexandru Dinulescu, Daniel Ion and Dan Nicolae Paduraru
Biomolecules 2025, 15(9), 1348; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15091348 - 22 Sep 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1680
Abstract
Hernia repair is among the most frequent procedures in general surgery, traditionally performed with synthetic meshes such as polypropylene. While effective in reducing recurrence, these materials are biologically inert and often trigger chronic inflammation, fibrosis, pain, and impaired abdominal wall function, with a [...] Read more.
Hernia repair is among the most frequent procedures in general surgery, traditionally performed with synthetic meshes such as polypropylene. While effective in reducing recurrence, these materials are biologically inert and often trigger chronic inflammation, fibrosis, pain, and impaired abdominal wall function, with a significant impact on long-term quality of life. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, and relevant preclinical, clinical, and review articles were synthesized within a narrative review framework. Recent advances in tissue engineering propose a shift from passive reinforcement to regenerative strategies based on biomimetic scaffolds, nanomaterials, and nanocomposites that replicate the extracellular matrix, enhance cell integration, and provide controlled drug delivery. Nanotechnology enables localized release of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and pro-angiogenic agents, while electrospun nanofibers and composite scaffolds improve strength and elasticity. In parallel, 3D printing allows for patient-specific implants with tailored architecture and regenerative potential. Although preclinical studies show encouraging results, clinical translation remains limited by cost, regulatory constraints, and long-term safety uncertainties. Overall, these innovations highlight a transition toward personalized and regenerative hernia repair, aiming to improve durability, function, and patient quality of life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bionanomaterials: Synthesis, Characterization, Toxicity and Biomedical Applications, 3rd Edition)
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-5
Back to TopTop