Colloids and Interfaces

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17 pages, 2350 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Viral Clearance of Cupric-Modified Phyllosilicate Minerals Against Enveloped and Non-Enveloped Viruses

by Vaishali Sharma, Sneha Singh, Natalie M. Nold, Supreet Kaur, Bowen Li and Caryn L. Heldt

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9010013 - 14 Feb 2025

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Abstract

The effectiveness of copper-based composites, specifically cupric ion (Cu²⁺)-modified phyllosilicate minerals, was evaluated in reducing the concentration of infectious agents in the environment while minimizing metal ion release. The phyllosilicate minerals, vermiculite, exfoliated and unexfoliated, and sepiolite, all modified with Cu [...] Read more.

The effectiveness of copper-based composites, specifically cupric ion (Cu²⁺)-modified phyllosilicate minerals, was evaluated in reducing the concentration of infectious agents in the environment while minimizing metal ion release. The phyllosilicate minerals, vermiculite, exfoliated and unexfoliated, and sepiolite, all modified with Cu²⁺, were compared with copper oxide for their antiviral activity against non-enveloped porcine parvovirus (PPV) and enveloped human coronavirus 229E (HCoV). Sepiolite effectively removed PPV and HCoV from the solution, regardless of Cu²⁺ presence, while vermiculite showed substantial viral clearance only when Cu²⁺ was present. The kinetics of viral clearance was fast, with complete clearance within one hour in many cases. To better understand the mechanism of virus clearance, EDTA was added at different times during the clearance study for PPV. EDTA prevented virus clearance in all vermiculite samples, whereas sepiolite containing copper still demonstrated substantial virus clearance. The addition of BSA before the virus binding was able to block binding in all cases. It was determined that binding is the key mechanism, and PPV can be eluted from the minerals with EDTA and still be infectious. This study provides the potent antiviral mechanisms of Cu²⁺-modified phyllosilicate minerals, offering insights for designing paints and plastics for high-touch surfaces to reduce viral transmission and enhance public health significantly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces: 2nd Edition)

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11 pages, 2190 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Transient Electroosmosis on a Soft Surface

by Hiroyuki Ohshima

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9010012 - 4 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 920

Abstract

A general theory was developed for the time-dependent transient electroosmosis on a planar soft surface, i.e., a polyelectrolyte-coated solid surface in an electrolyte solution, when an electric field is suddenly applied. This serves as a simple model for the time-dependent electrokinetic phenomena occurring [...] Read more.

A general theory was developed for the time-dependent transient electroosmosis on a planar soft surface, i.e., a polyelectrolyte-coated solid surface in an electrolyte solution, when an electric field is suddenly applied. This serves as a simple model for the time-dependent electrokinetic phenomena occurring at biointerfaces. A closed-form approximate expression is derived for the electroosmotic velocity distribution within the polyelectrolyte layer as a function of both position and time. This analysis reveals that the temporal and spatial variations in the electroosmotic flow caused by the surface charges of the solid surface is confined to the region near the solid surface. In contrast, the variations due to the fixed charges within the polyelectrolyte layer extend over a wider region inside the polyelectrolyte layer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces: 2nd Edition)

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10 pages, 1873 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

An Imine-Based Two-Dimensional Covalent Organic Framework for Gemcitabine Delivery

by Kajal Kaliya, Neha Bhardwaj, Ruchika and Ankit Saneja

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9010008 - 21 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1002

Abstract

A 2D imine-linked covalent organic framework (COF) with good biocompatibility was synthesized using o-Dianisidine and 1,3,5-Triformylbenzene. The synthesized COF was characterized by using the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The synthesized COF [...] Read more.

A 2D imine-linked covalent organic framework (COF) with good biocompatibility was synthesized using o-Dianisidine and 1,3,5-Triformylbenzene. The synthesized COF was characterized by using the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The synthesized COF was subsequently utilized for the delivery of gemcitabine (Gem), an FDA-approved drug for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. The COF demonstrated a remarkable drug loading of 30 µg/mg and better drug release at pH 5.0. The biocompatibility of the COF was evaluated in the L929 (mouse fibroblast) cell line, while the cytotoxicity of the Gem-loaded COF (COF-Gem) was evaluated against the MIA-PaCa-2 and PANC-1 (pancreatic cancer) cell lines using MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. The results indicated that the COF was safe at concentrations up to 200 µg/mL, while the COF-Gem led to superior cytotoxicity as compared to native Gem, with IC₅₀ values of 8.1 ± 1.2 µM in MIA-PaCa-2 cells and 6.0 ± 1.3 µM in PANC-1 cells after 48 h. This study offers a new perspective of utilizing COF as a promising delivery system for Gem delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces: 2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 1177 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transient Diffusiophoresis of a Spherical Colloidal Particle

by Hiroyuki Ohshima

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9010007 - 19 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1239

Abstract

A general theoretical approach is introduced to analyze the time-dependent, transient diffusiophoresis of a charged spherical colloidal particle in a symmetrical electrolyte solution when an electrolyte concentration gradient is suddenly applied. We derive a closed-form approximate expression for the relaxation function R( [...] Read more.

A general theoretical approach is introduced to analyze the time-dependent, transient diffusiophoresis of a charged spherical colloidal particle in a symmetrical electrolyte solution when an electrolyte concentration gradient is suddenly applied. We derive a closed-form approximate expression for the relaxation function R(t), which describes the time course of the diffusiophoretic mobility of a weakly charged spherical colloidal particle possessing a thin electrical double layer. The relaxation function depends on the mass density ratio of the particle to the electrolyte solution and the kinematic viscosity. However, it does not depend on the type of electrolyte (e.g., KCl or NaCl). It is also found that the expression for the relaxation function in transient diffusiophoresis of a weakly charged spherical colloidal particle with a thin electrical double layer takes the same form as that for its transient electrophoresis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces: 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 1257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Potential of Colloidal Systems Based on Carbamate-Containing Hexadecylpiperidinium Surfactants in Biomedical Applications

by Rushana Kushnazarova, Alla Mirgorodskaya, Dmitry Bekrenev, Denis Kuznetsov, Anna Lyubina, Alexandra Voloshina and Lucia Zakharova

Colloids Interfaces 2024, 8(5), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids8050057 - 17 Oct 2024

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Abstract

New hexadecylpiperidinium surfactants, containing one or two butylcarbamate fragments, were synthesized. The antimicrobial activity, toxicity, aggregation behavior in aqueous solutions, and solubilization capacity of these surfactants towards the hydrophobic drug ibuprofen were characterized. These surfactants demonstrated a high antimicrobial activity against a wide [...] Read more.

New hexadecylpiperidinium surfactants, containing one or two butylcarbamate fragments, were synthesized. The antimicrobial activity, toxicity, aggregation behavior in aqueous solutions, and solubilization capacity of these surfactants towards the hydrophobic drug ibuprofen were characterized. These surfactants demonstrated a high antimicrobial activity against a wide range of pathogenic bacteria, including both Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, as well as fungi. By forming mixed-micellar compositions of the cationic surfactant 1-CB(Bu)-P-16 and the nonionic surfactant Brij^®35, highly functional and low-toxic formulations were obtained. Furthermore, the transition from mixed micelles to niosomes was accomplished, enhancing their potential as drug delivery systems. Niosomes were found to be less toxic compared to mixed micelles, while also increasing the solubility of ibuprofen in water. The modification of niosomes with cationic surfactants made it possible to increase the stability of the system and improve the solubility of the drug. The data obtained indicate that these new carbamate-containing hexadecylpiperidinium surfactants have significant potential in biomedical applications, particularly in the formulation of advanced drug delivery systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces: 2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 19550 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bio-Pesticidal Potential of Nanostructured Lipid Carriers Loaded with Thyme and Rosemary Essential Oils against Common Ornamental Flower Pests

by Alejandro Múnera-Echeverri, José Luis Múnera-Echeverri and Freimar Segura-Sánchez

Colloids Interfaces 2024, 8(5), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids8050055 - 12 Oct 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2056

Abstract

The encapsulation of essential oils (EOs) in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) represents a modern and sustainable approach within the agrochemical industry. This research evaluated the colloidal properties and insecticidal activity of NLCs loaded with thyme essential oil (TEO-NLC) and rosemary essential oil (REO-NLC) [...] Read more.

The encapsulation of essential oils (EOs) in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) represents a modern and sustainable approach within the agrochemical industry. This research evaluated the colloidal properties and insecticidal activity of NLCs loaded with thyme essential oil (TEO-NLC) and rosemary essential oil (REO-NLC) against three common arthropod pests of ornamental flowers: Frankliniella occidentalis, Myzus persicae, and Tetranychus urticae. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis identified the major chemical constituents of the EOs, with TEO exhibiting a thymol chemotype and REO exhibiting an α-pinene chemotype. NLCs were prepared using various homogenization techniques, with high shear homogenization (HSH) providing the optimal particle size, size distribution, and surface electrical charge. A factorial design was employed to evaluate the effects of EO concentration, surfactant concentration, and liquid lipid/solid lipid ratio on the physicochemical properties of the nanosuspensions. The final TEO-NLC formulation had a particle size of 347.8 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.182, a zeta potential of −33.8 mV, an encapsulation efficiency of 71.9%, and a loading capacity of 1.18%. The REO-NLC formulation had a particle size of 288.1 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.188, a zeta potential of −34 mV, an encapsulation efficiency of 80.6%, and a loading capacity of 1.40%. Evaluation of contact toxicity on leaf disks showed that TEO-NLC exhibited moderate insecticidal activity against the western flower thrips and mild acaricidal activity against the two-spotted spider mite, while REO-NLC demonstrated limited effects. These findings indicate that TEO-NLCs show potential as biopesticides for controlling specific pests of ornamental flowers, and further optimization of the administration dosage could significantly enhance their effectiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces: 2nd Edition)

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Review

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26 pages, 1518 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Mini-Review on Enhancing Solubility in Topical Hydrogel Formulations Using Solid Dispersion Technology for Poorly Water-Soluble Drugs

by Zaid Dahma, Covadonga Álvarez-Álvarez and Paloma Marina de la Torre-Iglesias

Colloids Interfaces 2025, 9(2), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids9020017 - 21 Mar 2025

Viewed by 504

Abstract

The solubility behavior of drugs is a critical factor in formulation development. Approximately 40–45% of new drugs face market entry challenges due to low water solubility. Enhancing drug bioavailability is thus essential in developing pharmaceutical dosage forms. Many biopharmaceutical class II and IV [...] Read more.

The solubility behavior of drugs is a critical factor in formulation development. Approximately 40–45% of new drugs face market entry challenges due to low water solubility. Enhancing drug bioavailability is thus essential in developing pharmaceutical dosage forms. Many biopharmaceutical class II and IV drugs are commonly prescribed to treat inflammations, infections, and pain from various pathologies. Their oral administration has several drawbacks, including significant first-pass liver effects, low bioavailability, and adverse gastrointestinal effects. Topical application has gained relevance due to its advantages in delivering drugs directly to the target site, avoiding gastrointestinal irritation, and increasing their effectiveness. However, topical hydrogel formulations with poorly water-soluble drugs face challenges related to the skin’s permeability. Therefore, preparing topical hydrogels using solid dispersions (SDs) is an effective strategy to enhance the dissolution rate of poorly soluble drugs, thereby improving their topical bioavailability. In this review, the concepts of SDs, topical delivery systems, and topical hydrogel formulations incorporating SDs, as well as their preparation methods, characterization, and applications, will be discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces: 2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 11733 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Potentiating Virus-like Particles for Mucosal Vaccination Using Material Science Approaches

by Milad Radiom

Colloids Interfaces 2024, 8(6), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/colloids8060068 - 12 Dec 2024

Viewed by 1271

Abstract

Virus-like particles (VLPs) exhibit such unique colloidal and structural properties that make them ideal candidates for various bio-nanotechnology applications, among which mucosal vaccination is particularly promising. However, since mucosal surfaces present harsh environments to VLPs, stabilization of VLP capsids or alternative delivery strategies [...] Read more.

Virus-like particles (VLPs) exhibit such unique colloidal and structural properties that make them ideal candidates for various bio-nanotechnology applications, among which mucosal vaccination is particularly promising. However, since mucosal surfaces present harsh environments to VLPs, stabilization of VLP capsids or alternative delivery strategies are necessary. Addressing these challenges requires interdisciplinary research, and the intersection of material science and immunology is presented in this review. Approaches such as crosslinking capsid coat proteins, incorporating VLPs in polymer matrices and hydrogels, or forming crystalline nano-/micro-structures show potential for developing muco-stable VLP vaccines or for delivering these vaccines in a sustainable manner. This review explores recent material science approaches that leverage VLPs as nanotools for various applications and with the potential for translation to mucosal vaccination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocolloids and Biointerfaces: 2nd Edition)

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