Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (2,756)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = HeLa

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
21 pages, 1195 KB  
Article
Development and Characterization of Melatonin-Loaded Glycerol–Gelatin-Based Vaginal Suppositories for Localized Delivery
by Regina Julieta Delgadillo Hernández, Gregorio Guadalupe Carbajal Arízaga, José Alfonso Cruz Ramos, Rodolfo Hernández Gutiérrez, José Armando Hernández Díaz, Ana Alejandra Arias García, Norma Morales-Hernández, José Nabor Haro-González, Zaira Yunuen García Carvajal and Moisés Martínez Velázquez
Sci. Pharm. 2026, 94(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm94020031 - 17 Apr 2026
Abstract
This research aimed to develop glycerol–gelatin vaginal suppositories loaded with melatonin to enhance the localized effects of antineoplastic agents. The solubility of melatonin in different solvents was determined, and glycofurol, which is approved for pharmaceutical use, presented the highest solubilizing capacity. Furthermore, the [...] Read more.
This research aimed to develop glycerol–gelatin vaginal suppositories loaded with melatonin to enhance the localized effects of antineoplastic agents. The solubility of melatonin in different solvents was determined, and glycofurol, which is approved for pharmaceutical use, presented the highest solubilizing capacity. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity of melatonin incorporated into suppositories against HeLa cells was evaluated using MTT assays, individually and in combination with cisplatin. The results indicate that melatonin enhances the cytotoxic effects of cisplatin. The optimal formulation obtained from an experimental design was 33% gelatin, 1% PVA, 1% PEG 6000, 10% glycerol, 15% glycofurol, and 40% water. To ensure that the vaginal suppositories presented the necessary physical properties for optimal handling and application, tests were performed to determine weight uniformity, texture, surface features and disintegration time. Vaginal suppositories weighted around 1.43 g, showed Young’s modulus values of 7389.6 N/m2 and hardness around 1100 gf, and they disintegrated after 30 min at pH 4.2. Additionally, for in vitro melatonin release, FTIR and XRD tests confirmed the presence of melatonin in the formulation. It is concluded that the developed vaginal suppositories can be explored as potential vehicles for localized delivery of melatonin to the tumor site to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Full article
22 pages, 2972 KB  
Article
Innovative Approximate Solution for Jerk Model of Non-Newtonian Bio-Nanofluid in Fractal Space via Highly Efficient Linear Approximation
by Nasser S. Elgazery and Taghreed H. Al-Arabi
Fractal Fract. 2026, 10(4), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/fractalfract10040255 - 13 Apr 2026
Viewed by 146
Abstract
In this article, we present a new approximate solution for blood nanofluid having gold nanoparticles as it flows near a stretching porous cylinder in fractal space. A Casson non-Newtonian magneto-bio-nanofluid flowing through a porous medium is considered a potential application in chemotherapy for [...] Read more.
In this article, we present a new approximate solution for blood nanofluid having gold nanoparticles as it flows near a stretching porous cylinder in fractal space. A Casson non-Newtonian magneto-bio-nanofluid flowing through a porous medium is considered a potential application in chemotherapy for eradicating cancer cells. Without the need for the nonperturbative approach, the proposed solution uses an alternative approach to dealing with nonlinear problems. This approach transforms the nonlinear cubic jerk model resulting from the simplification of the governing fractional partial differential equations into an equivalent linear formula. This approach is known as highly efficient linear approximation (HELA) or non-perturbation technique (NPT), and this represents a significant advancement over traditional perturbation methods in the analysis of non-linear systems. As a robust mathematical approach, it excels at handling a wide range of coefficient values, particularly in cases of clear nonlinearity. This study also utilized the masking technique simultaneously with HELA, which played a crucial role, as they simplify the complex dynamics of the system, making it more amenable to analysis. The numerical solution by the Runge–Kutta fourth-order (RK-4) method integrated with a shooting technique compared favorably with graphs drawn for the analytical solution from the proposed strategy HELA. The current results show that an increase in the fractal factors enhances the resistance to fluid motion, leading to a suppression of the velocity field. Physically, this often relates to the complexity of the medium or the fractal nature of the transport process, where higher fractal dimensions or factors can lead to slower diffusion or flow rates, like the role of porous media. Therefore, the current study has significant implications in the promotion of nanotechnology fields in medicine, particularly the use of gold nanoparticles in chemotherapy for the eradication of cancerous cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mathematical Physics)
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 4530 KB  
Article
Granulate-to-Filament: An Extrusion-Mixed PLA–Human Bone Material System for 3D-Printed Bone Scaffolds
by Jonas Neijhoft, Hela Weslati, Volker Eras, Jan Brune, Maximilian Leiblein, Santiago Bianconi, Nicolas Söhling, Lewin Busse, René Verboket, Johannes Frank, Ingo Marzi and Dirk Henrich
J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(4), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17040187 - 11 Apr 2026
Viewed by 273
Abstract
Fused filament fabrication (FFF) enables patient-specific scaffolds for critical-size bone defects, but most filaments are bioinert and difficult to functionalize at high particulate loadings due to segregation, agglomeration, clogging, and diameter instability. We developed a mechanism-guided extrusion toolkit to stabilize polylactic acid (PLA) [...] Read more.
Fused filament fabrication (FFF) enables patient-specific scaffolds for critical-size bone defects, but most filaments are bioinert and difficult to functionalize at high particulate loadings due to segregation, agglomeration, clogging, and diameter instability. We developed a mechanism-guided extrusion toolkit to stabilize polylactic acid (PLA) filaments containing human demineralized bone matrix (DBM) or cortical granulate (CG) up to 70 wt%. PLA was ground, dried, silicone pre-coated, and compounded with DBM or CG (25/40/70 wt%) using starve-fed extrusion, sequential extrusion, and post-die mixing to maintain stable diameters. FFF produced disks and tubes. MSC adhesion was assessed by SEM. qPCR (control vs. osteogenic medium) quantified RUNX2, ALP, BGLAP, COL1A, VEGF, IL-6, MAPK8. Tubes underwent three-point bending. The toolkit yielded printable, dimensionally stable filaments at 25–70 wt% with uniform dispersion and surface-exposed filler. Both composites increased early mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) adhesion versus PLA. RUNX2 was increased on DBM40 versus PLA. VEGF was elevated on CG25 (DBM40 trend). Under osteogenic medium, IL-6 and MAPK8 were generally reduced. Mechanics were loading-dependent: CG25 exceeded CG70 and DBM25, while DBM40/70 recovered stiffness versus DBM25. A mechanism-guided extrusion toolkit enables high-loading PLA–DBM/CG filaments with excellent printability and material-specific biological and mechanical advantages over PLA. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

23 pages, 3790 KB  
Article
CrystalCells: An Open-Source Modular Bioprinting Platform with Automated Tool Exchange, High-Performance Extruding, Thermal Control, and Microscopic Imaging
by Shuang Liang, Silas Habimana and Feiyang Zheng
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(8), 3727; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16083727 - 10 Apr 2026
Viewed by 306
Abstract
Open-source bioprinting can broaden access to biofabrication, enabling existing systems to perform high-resolution tissue manufacturing. However, most of these focus on low cost, easy assembly, or specific biomaterial ink rather than making a robust standardized and modularized multifunction platform. In this study, we [...] Read more.
Open-source bioprinting can broaden access to biofabrication, enabling existing systems to perform high-resolution tissue manufacturing. However, most of these focus on low cost, easy assembly, or specific biomaterial ink rather than making a robust standardized and modularized multifunction platform. In this study, we present CrystalCells, a user-friendly modular open-source bioprinting system centered on the TridentExtruder, a high-performance syringe extruder with extrusion/retraction capability and tool-free automated syringe coupling. The system enables the automated exchange of syringe, temperature-controlling, microscope, and pipette modules. Repeated syringe return-and-pickup cycles showed repositioning errors within ±20 μm, while the extruder generated pressures above 950 kPa and exhibited lower elastic deformation than the Replistruder 4 under the same pressure conditions. CrystalCells supported the extrusion of pre-crosslinked alginate, FRESH printing, and dual-biomaterial inks printing with automated exchange. A microscope module resolved stained HeLa cells and enabled layer-by-layer imaging for defect detection during printing. A thermoelectric module maintained the syringe barrel below 6 °C during the printing of an alginate–collagen biomaterial ink at 23 °C (room temperature), and a pipette module transferred 2–10 μL volumes with errors within ±0.5 μL. These results show that CrystalCells is an open-source modular biofabrication platform integrating printing, imaging, temperature control, and liquid handling within a single workflow. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

27 pages, 1870 KB  
Review
Spirulina and Its Bioactive Compounds as Multi-Target Anticancer Agents: Mechanisms, Immune Modulation, and Translational Potential
by Rym Akrout, Khouloud Ayed, Hela Mrizak, Ludovic Leloup, Orace Mathieu Kenou, Fidèle Fassinou, Dhouha Bacha, Rahma Boughriba, Hanen Attia, Hervé Kovacic, Wassim Y. Almawi and Asma Gati
Med. Sci. 2026, 14(2), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci14020189 - 10 Apr 2026
Viewed by 202
Abstract
Marine-derived natural products are increasingly recognized for their therapeutic potential in cancer and other chronic diseases. Despite significant advances, current cancer treatments remain challenged by toxicity, drug resistance, and limited survival benefits. Natural compounds offer promising alternatives due to their multi-target mechanisms and [...] Read more.
Marine-derived natural products are increasingly recognized for their therapeutic potential in cancer and other chronic diseases. Despite significant advances, current cancer treatments remain challenged by toxicity, drug resistance, and limited survival benefits. Natural compounds offer promising alternatives due to their multi-target mechanisms and favorable safety profiles. Among them, Spirulina, a filamentous cyanobacterium, stands out for its rich composition and diverse biological activities. Its anticancer effects involve apoptosis induction via intrinsic and extrinsic pathways, cell cycle arrest at G1/S or G2/M phases, inhibition of angiogenesis through the VEGF/VEGFR2 axis, and suppression of epithelial–mesenchymal transition. These activities are mainly attributed to C-phycocyanin, allophycocyanin, phenolic compounds, and immunomodulatory polysaccharides. Spirulina also exhibits potent immunomodulatory effects by enhancing natural killer cell activity, promoting M1 macrophage polarization, and regulating Th1 and Th17 cytokine responses, highlighting its potential as both an immunotherapeutic and chemoprotective agent. Moreover, preclinical findings suggest it may reduce chemotherapy-associated side effects. However, translation into clinical therapy remains limited by low bioavailability, lack of standardized extracts, and scarce clinical evidence. This review summarizes current mechanistic and immunological insights and highlights the need for optimized formulations, defined dosing strategies, and well-designed clinical trials to validate Spirulina’s potential in cancer treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Section “Cancer and Cancer-Related Research”)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 2842 KB  
Article
ATG7 Limits Basal Antiviral Gene Expression and Moderately Promotes VSV Replication in Mammalian Non-Immune Cells
by Xiaohan Tong, Ruixue Wang, Yaxin Liu, Malia B. Potts, Shondra M. Pruett-Miller, Michael A. Whitt, Weikuan Gu and Kui Li
Pathogens 2026, 15(4), 404; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens15040404 - 8 Apr 2026
Viewed by 356
Abstract
The autophagy regulator ATG7 helps maintain cellular homeostasis and has been suggested to modulate aspects of antiviral immune responses. In Drosophila, ATG7-dependent autophagy contributes to host resistance to vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), a negative-strand RNA virus of family Rhabdoviridae that is widely used [...] Read more.
The autophagy regulator ATG7 helps maintain cellular homeostasis and has been suggested to modulate aspects of antiviral immune responses. In Drosophila, ATG7-dependent autophagy contributes to host resistance to vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), a negative-strand RNA virus of family Rhabdoviridae that is widely used for studying viral biology and developing vaccines and virotherapy. However, the role of ATG7 in mammalian cells, especially non-immune cell types, remains unclear. Herein, we systematically examined the impact of ATG7 on VSV infection using CRISPR-edited cell lines derived from murine embryonic fibroblast (MEF), HeLa, and Huh7.5 cells, in relation to its effect on the expression of antiviral interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). We found that ATG7 deficiency blocked basal as well as VSV-induced LC3B lipidation, concomitant with moderate reductions in progeny virus yields, while the reconstitution of ATG7 reversed the phenotypes. Mechanistically, ATG7 did not affect viral entry but rather was associated with moderate upregulation of VSV RNA replication. Intriguingly, ATG7 inhibited baseline ISG expression, and this correlated with its pro-VSV effect in all three cell types, while its suppression of innate immune responses elicited post-VSV infection did not. Altogether, these data provide new insights into the role of ATG7 in regulating VSV replication and innate immunity and have implications for developing VSV-based prophylaxis/therapeutics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Viral Pathogens)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4333 KB  
Article
Pathogenicity of Brucella sp. ST27 Kogia sima Isolates in Murine and Cell Models
by Andrea Romero-Magaña, Carlos Chacón-Díaz, Alejandro Alfaro-Alarcón, Marcela Suárez-Esquivel, Esteban Chaves-Olarte, Gabriela Hernández-Mora, Edgardo Moreno and Elías Barquero-Calvo
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2026, 11(4), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed11040098 - 7 Apr 2026
Viewed by 439
Abstract
Members of the genus Brucella are bacterial pathogens of global importance, and their increasing detection in marine mammals has raised concerns for wildlife conservation and public health. In this study, we evaluated the biological and pathogenic characteristics of two Brucella sp. sequence type [...] Read more.
Members of the genus Brucella are bacterial pathogens of global importance, and their increasing detection in marine mammals has raised concerns for wildlife conservation and public health. In this study, we evaluated the biological and pathogenic characteristics of two Brucella sp. sequence type 27 (ST27) isolates obtained from a dwarf sperm whale (Kogia sima). We compared them with terrestrial and marine Brucella reference strains. We assessed resistance to polymyxin B and human serum complement, intracellular infection dynamics in HeLa epithelial cells, persistence in a murine model, and associated hematological and histopathological changes, and analyzed lipopolysaccharide (LPS) profiles. The Kogia isolates exhibited resistance to polymyxin B and serum complement, comparable to that of B. abortus 2308W and marine mammal Brucella strains. In HeLa cells, the isolates displayed distinct, strain-specific intracellular infection dynamics. In the murine model, both isolates persisted in the spleen and induced granulomatous lesions. However, splenic bacterial loads and histopathological scores were generally lower than those observed with B. abortus 2308W, which exhibited the highest virulence among the strains evaluated. Hematological alterations associated with Kogia isolates were also less pronounced than those induced by B. abortus 2308W, indicating an intermediate and strain-dependent virulence phenotype without evidence of enhanced virulence relative to the terrestrial reference strain. Western blot analyses showed that Brucella sp. ST27 isolates were not recognized by anti-B. abortus or anti-O-antigen monoclonal antibodies, while exhibiting a distinct recognition pattern with anti-B. canis serum, indicating differences in surface antigen composition. Comparative whole-genome analysis identified a limited number of isolate-specific variants affecting coding and intergenic regions. Collectively, these findings highlight phenotypic and genetic features of Brucella sp. ST27 from Kogia sima, which distinguishes it from other marine and terrestrial Brucella strains and supports further investigation into its biological behavior and potential public health relevance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Brucella Infections)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1175 KB  
Article
Diels–Alder Adducts from Maytenus chiapensis
by Ulises G. Castillo, Morena L. Martínez, Marvin J. Núñez, Aday González-Bakker, José M. Padrón, Nathália Nocchi, Eduardo Hernández-Álvarez, Ignacio A. Jiménez and Isabel L. Bazzocchi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(7), 3318; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27073318 - 7 Apr 2026
Viewed by 467
Abstract
Natural products from plants have played an important role in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In this context, the root bark of Maytenus chiapensis (Celastraceae) was investigated to examine its chemical constituents and potential biological activities. Chromatographic separation of the root bark extract yielded [...] Read more.
Natural products from plants have played an important role in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In this context, the root bark of Maytenus chiapensis (Celastraceae) was investigated to examine its chemical constituents and potential biological activities. Chromatographic separation of the root bark extract yielded a new Diels–Alder adduct (morenine) formed by a triterpenophenolic moiety derived from tingenone and a bicyclic guaiane-type sesquiterpene linked through a 1,4-dioxane bridge. In addition, eight previously reported Diels–Alder adducts—retusonine and cheiloclines A–D and F–H—were isolated, together with their biosynthetic precursors, the quinone-methide triterpenoids (QMTs) pristimerin and tingenone. Structural elucidation was achieved through detailed 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analyses. The adducts were tested for cytotoxicity against six cancer cell lines (A549, SW1573, MIA PaCa-2, T-47D, HeLa, and WiDr cell lines), showing moderate-to-low activity compared with their precursors. Continuous live cell imaging identified apoptosis and vacuole formation as the main modes of action of pristimerin in SW1573 cells. Moreover, acetylcholinesterase inhibition assays revealed that cheiloclines B–D, F, and H exhibited up to 50% inhibition. These findings reinforce the potential of Celastraceae species as a source of unique and complex compounds and enhance our understanding of their therapeutic potential. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 5031 KB  
Article
Comparative Metabolite Profiling and Antiproliferative Characterization of Lab-Acclimatized and Wild Green Seaweed Acrosiphonia orientalis to Reveal Its Nutraceutical Potential
by Deepesh Khandwal, Jalak N. Maniar, Shruti Kumari, Pratishtha Menaria and Avinash Mishra
Foods 2026, 15(7), 1252; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15071252 - 6 Apr 2026
Viewed by 435
Abstract
The increasing demand for different value-added products from natural seaweeds requires a sustainable cultivation method for the regular supply of biomass and to safeguard the natural ecosystem from overexploitation. This study evaluated laboratory acclimatization of the green seaweed Acrosiphonia orientalis (DGR: 2.71 ± [...] Read more.
The increasing demand for different value-added products from natural seaweeds requires a sustainable cultivation method for the regular supply of biomass and to safeguard the natural ecosystem from overexploitation. This study evaluated laboratory acclimatization of the green seaweed Acrosiphonia orientalis (DGR: 2.71 ± 0.21%; GPP: 12.55 ± 0.1 mg O2 L−1 day−1), followed by a comparative evaluation of its physicochemical and biochemical characteristics, metabolite profile, and antiproliferative activity compared with naturally harvested seaweed. Metabolite profiling identified 47 compounds exhibiting differential accumulation patterns, with the natural specimens enriched in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid, and the laboratory-acclimatized specimens exhibited elevated arachidonic acid levels. Amino acid profiling revealed higher concentrations of essential and non-essential amino acids in the natural specimens, with prominent levels of phenylalanine and aspartic acid, while the lab-acclimatized specimens were enriched in isoleucine, methionine, proline, and cysteine. The lab-acclimatized specimens exhibited significantly enhanced water absorption (WSC: 6 ± 0.25 mL/g DW; WHC: 2.68 ± 0.11 g/g DW) and higher total sugar (47.11 ± 0.52% Glc eq. DW) and phenolic contents (51.28 ± 0.54 mg GAE g−1 extract), while the natural specimens had a superior oil-holding capacity (OHC: 1.8 ± 0.12 g/g DW); higher total flavonoid (123.62 ± 2.97 mg Q g−1 extract), protein (5.11 ± 0.36 µg BSA eq/mg DW), and chlorophyll contents (8.82 ± 0.58 mg/L); and higher antioxidant activities (ABTS-EC50: 67.33 ± 0.97 μg/mL extract). The mineral analysis revealed distinct elemental profiles, with enrichment of sodium, magnesium, and calcium in the lab-acclimatized specimens and a more favorable Na/K ratio (0.14 vs. 0.78) in the natural specimens. Of note, extracts from both seaweeds exhibited significant dose-dependent antiproliferative activity against HeLa cervical cancer cells (Wild EC50: 118.63 ± 14.14 µg/mL extract; lab EC50: 153.35 ± 10.18 µg/mL extract), suppressed colony formation in soft agar assays, induced nuclear condensation (based on Hoechst staining), and modulated the expression of key oncogenes (upregulating NDRG1, TP53, and CASP3 and downregulating BCL2, MYC, and CCND1). Collectively, this study provides an approach to acclimatize A. orientalis that may be utilized for developing a cultivation method. Moreover, this green seaweed has a great potential to be used for nutraceutical and functional food applications. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 7990 KB  
Article
In Vitro Doxorubicin Delivery Using TPP–Folate-Dendrimer-Functionalized Gold Nanoclusters
by Mkhuseli Zenze and Moganavelli Singh
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(4), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19040572 - 2 Apr 2026
Viewed by 287
Abstract
Background: Cancer is a major health concern that significantly impacts the global population. Selective chemotherapeutic delivery is needed to improve the efficacy of cancer therapy while minimizing side effects in healthy cells. This study investigated the potential of gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) functionalized [...] Read more.
Background: Cancer is a major health concern that significantly impacts the global population. Selective chemotherapeutic delivery is needed to improve the efficacy of cancer therapy while minimizing side effects in healthy cells. This study investigated the potential of gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) functionalized with poly(amidoamine) dendrimers (PAMAM) and folic acid (FA) to selectively deliver doxorubicin (DOX) to cancer cells that express the folate receptor (FR). Methods: AuNC synthesis was confirmed via UV–visible and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. Folic acid (FA) was incorporated for cell surface receptor targeting, while the triphenylphosphonium cation (TPP+) was added to improve mitochondrial localization. Cytotoxicity (MTT), apoptosis, caspase 3/7, mitopotential, and oxidative stress assays were assessed using human MCF-7 (breast adenocarcinoma), HeLa (cervical carcinoma), Caco-2 (colon adenocarcinoma), MDA-MB-231 (epithelial breast cancer), and the embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. Results: Favorable DOX loading (>78%), with more than 90% of the drug released at pH 4.5, was achieved. A dose-dependent increase in cytotoxicity was observed, with IC50 values lower in cancer cells than HEK293 cells, indicating selective toxicity and minimal off-target effects. Targeting nanocomplexes produced the best responses in the mitopotential, caspase, and oxidative stress assays in HeLa and MCF-7 cells. Conclusions: The improved cytotoxicity in cancer cells may be due to folate-receptor-mediated cellular uptake, as well as the mitochondrial uptake of TPP+ nanocomplexes. This highlighted the potential of the drug–AuNC nanocomplexes to limit systemic side effects, proposing a potential novel strategy for drug delivery to cancer cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

20 pages, 5419 KB  
Article
Preparation of PSA-DOX/ICG-Lip and Evaluation of Its Efficacy Against Cervical Cancer
by Jingya Bai, Jiamin Huang, Qian Zhang, Wenjun Su, Xiaohui Tang, Mukadaisi Amuti, Guorui Zhu, Qi Shen, Jian Yang and Mei Wang
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(4), 434; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18040434 - 31 Mar 2026
Viewed by 356
Abstract
Objectives: To fabricate polysialic acid (PSA)-modified liposomes co-loaded with doxorubicin (DOX) and indocyanine green (ICG) for synergistic chemotherapy and photothermal therapy, and to enhance the anti-cervical cancer efficacy of liposomes via neutrophil targeting. Methods: PSA-DOX/ICG liposomes (PSA-DOX/ICG-Lip) were prepared by microfluidic [...] Read more.
Objectives: To fabricate polysialic acid (PSA)-modified liposomes co-loaded with doxorubicin (DOX) and indocyanine green (ICG) for synergistic chemotherapy and photothermal therapy, and to enhance the anti-cervical cancer efficacy of liposomes via neutrophil targeting. Methods: PSA-DOX/ICG liposomes (PSA-DOX/ICG-Lip) were prepared by microfluidic technology. The physicochemical properties, including drug encapsulation efficiency (EE), loading capacity (LC), particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and stability, were systematically characterized. The in vitro anti-tumor activity was evaluated using cellular uptake, apoptosis assays, reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection, and a cell scratch test in HeLa and C33a cells. The in vivo therapeutic efficacy was verified using a nude mouse xenograft model of cervical cancer combined with histopathological analysis. Results: Microfluidic preparation yielded PSA-DOX/ICG-Lip with favorable physicochemical properties: the EE and LC of DOX were 96.52 ± 0.43% and 8.70 ± 0.04%, respectively, while those of ICG were 90.72 ± 1.10% and 0.82 ± 0.02%. The average particle size was 92.68 ± 1.14 nm with a PDI of 0.04 and a zeta potential of −9.66 ± 0.46 mV. The liposomes maintained good stability in terms of EE, particle size, PDI, and zeta potential after 28 days of storage at 4 °C and room temperature, with PSA modification significantly reducing the drug leakage rate. In vitro drug release studies showed that 808 nm laser irradiation triggered a significant increase in drug release from the liposomes. ICG encapsulated in liposomes mediated localized photothermal heating, and PSA targeting precisely confined the therapeutic effect to the tumor site, minimizing damage to adjacent normal tissues. In vitro experiments demonstrated that PSA-DOX/ICG-Lip, combined with laser irradiation, significantly enhanced cellular uptake, elevated intracellular ROS levels, inhibited cancer cell migration, and induced apoptosis. In vivo studies confirmed that this formulation markedly suppressed tumor growth in nude mice, with a tumor inhibition rate of 81.5%, and exhibited good biocompatibility without obvious organ toxicity. Conclusions: The microfluidically prepared PSA-DOX/ICG-Lip possesses high drug encapsulation efficiency, uniform particle size, good stability and sustained drug release properties. It can efficiently convert light energy into thermal energy, target neutrophils to enhance the affinity for cervical cancer cells, and exert a synergistic anti-tumor effect via the combination of chemotherapy and photothermal therapy, which provides a promising nanoplatform for the precise treatment of cervical cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drug Delivery and Controlled Release)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

27 pages, 5945 KB  
Article
Selective Cytotoxicity of Sodium Enone Salts Through Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Cell Cycle Arrest in Human Cancer Cells
by Nikola Mirković, Marina Mitrović, Mirela Jevtić, Katarina Pantić, Petar Čanović, Ivana Nikolić, Stefan Jakovljević, Marina Kostić, Jelena Živić, Jelena Nešić, Nenad Zornić, Stevan Erić, Jovana Muškinja, Marija Šorak and Marija Anđelković
Molecules 2026, 31(7), 1141; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31071141 - 30 Mar 2026
Viewed by 288
Abstract
Recent advances in enone chemistry have enabled the development of structurally optimized derivatives with improved anticancer selectivity. In this study, the cytotoxic activity and underlying mechanisms of sodium salts of four α,β-unsaturated enones (ES1–ES4), synthesized from vanillin-based scaffolds, were evaluated in human colorectal [...] Read more.
Recent advances in enone chemistry have enabled the development of structurally optimized derivatives with improved anticancer selectivity. In this study, the cytotoxic activity and underlying mechanisms of sodium salts of four α,β-unsaturated enones (ES1–ES4), synthesized from vanillin-based scaffolds, were evaluated in human colorectal carcinoma (HCT-116), cervical adenocarcinoma (HeLa), and normal lung fibroblast (MRC-5) cell lines. All compounds exhibited concentration- and time-dependent cytotoxicity, with ES2 showing the highest potency (IC50 = 14.25 μM in HCT-116 and 18.12 μM in HeLa at 72 h) and minimal toxicity toward MRC-5 cells (IC50 > 90 μM). Although cisplatin demonstrated greater overall cytotoxicity, the enone salts displayed significantly higher selectivity indices, indicating a more favorable therapeutic window. Phase-contrast microscopy revealed characteristic morphological features of apoptosis, including cell rounding and membrane blebbing. Mechanistic investigations confirmed mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, evidenced by increased early and late apoptotic populations, Bax upregulation, Bcl-2 downregulation, and caspase-3 activation. JC-10 staining demonstrated mitochondrial membrane depolarization accompanied by cytochrome c release. In addition, cell cycle analysis revealed pronounced G2/M phase arrest, particularly in HCT-116 cells. Collectively, these findings indicate that vanillin-derived enone sodium salts exert selective anticancer effects through mitochondrial apoptosis and cell cycle disruption, supporting their potential as low-toxicity anticancer candidates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

53 pages, 12137 KB  
Article
A Multi-Target Nitrogen-Fused Azole Drug Platform Derived from a Pyrazoline-Thiadiazole Moiety: In Vivo Antimicrobial Validation and Comprehensive Anticancer Investigation Supported by Computational Studies
by Hagar S. El-Hema, Marwa A. Abed, Mohamed A. Hawata, Eman S. Nossier, Najla A. Altwaijry, Asmaa Saleh, Mariam Hassan, Rasha A. Hashem, Modather F. Hussein, Ahmed T. Elhendawy and Adel A.-H. Abdel-Rahman
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(4), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18040424 - 30 Mar 2026
Viewed by 647
Abstract
Background: Cancer patients are highly susceptible to microbial infections due to immune suppression, necessitating therapeutic strategies that integrate anticancer efficacy with effective antimicrobial intervention. Chalcone-derived nitrogen-fused heterocycles represent a promising platform for developing multi-target agents with relevance to antimicrobial drug delivery, particularly for [...] Read more.
Background: Cancer patients are highly susceptible to microbial infections due to immune suppression, necessitating therapeutic strategies that integrate anticancer efficacy with effective antimicrobial intervention. Chalcone-derived nitrogen-fused heterocycles represent a promising platform for developing multi-target agents with relevance to antimicrobial drug delivery, particularly for localized infections. Methods: A series of chalcone-based pyrazoline-thiadiazole nitrogen-fused azole hybrids was synthesized via thiosemicarbohydrazide-functionalized intermediates and fully characterized. Antiproliferative activity was evaluated against MCF-7, HepG-2, HeLa, and HCT-116 cell lines, alongside selectivity toward WI-38 normal fibroblasts. Antibacterial, antibiofilm, and in vivo efficacy were assessed against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA USA300) and Acinetobacter baumannii AB5057. Mechanistic investigations included cell-cycle analysis, apoptosis assays, ERK2, RIPK3, p53, BAX/Bcl-2 quantification, DNA gyrase inhibition, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and density functional theory calculations. Results: Compound 13 exhibited potent cytotoxicity, particularly against MCF-7 (IC50 = 3.87 ± 0.2 µM), outperforming doxorubicin (IC50 = 4.17 ± 0.2 µM), with high selectivity indices (SI = 10.7 for MCF-7). Mechanistically, compound 13 induced G2/M arrest (40.16% vs. 14.15% control), increased apoptosis to 32.89%, up-regulated ERK2 (3.17-fold), RIPK3 (11.97-fold), and p53 (3.54-fold), and markedly increased the BAX/Bcl-2 ratio (~42-fold). Compounds 7 and 13 displayed bactericidal activity against MRSA and A. baumannii (MIC/MBC = 10 mg/mL), potent antibiofilm effects, and significant in vivo efficacy in an MRSA skin infection model. Compound 13 reduced bacterial load by ~5 log units, outperforming vancomycin. DNA gyrase inhibition (IC50 = 17.10 ± 0.17 µM) and computational studies supported target engagement. Conclusions: Pyrazoline-thiadiazole-based nitrogen-fused azole hybrids, particularly compound 13, demonstrated quantifiable anticancer and antimicrobial efficacy with strong in vivo validation, supporting their potential as multi-target candidates relevant to antimicrobial drug delivery in infection-prone cancer patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Antimicrobial Drug Delivery)
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 1163 KB  
Article
Bioactivities of Alchemilla alpina L. Extract on Women’s Reproductive and Metabolic Health: Antioxidant, Enzyme Inhibitory, Receptor Modulatory Properties and Potential Cytotoxic Effects
by Sanja Krstić, Sofija Bekić, Nemanja Živanović, Andrea Pirković, Jovana Vuković, Rudolf Bauer and Milena Rašeta
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(7), 3025; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27073025 - 26 Mar 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 500
Abstract
Alchemilla alpina L. (Rosaceae), belongs to a genus well recognized in traditional medicine for treating gynecological disorders and hormonal imbalance; however, the specific bioactivity of A. alpina itself remains poorly characterized. This study aimed to elucidate the phenolic composition and the biological potential [...] Read more.
Alchemilla alpina L. (Rosaceae), belongs to a genus well recognized in traditional medicine for treating gynecological disorders and hormonal imbalance; however, the specific bioactivity of A. alpina itself remains poorly characterized. This study aimed to elucidate the phenolic composition and the biological potential of the methanolic (MeOH) extract of A. alpina. LC–MS/MS analysis identified 39 phenolic compounds, with rutin, catechin, kaempferol-3-O-glucoside, and caffeic acid being the dominant constituents. The extract exhibited high total phenolic and flavonoid contents, consistent with strong antioxidant capacities. It demonstrated notable α-glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities, indicating its potential relevance for metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders. The extract effectively reduced AAPH-induced ROS levels in MRC-5 fibroblasts, indicating cytoprotective and antioxidative effects. The cytotoxicity toward cervical cancer cells HeLa and ovarian cancer cells A2780 was moderate and concentration dependent. A yeast-based fluorescent screen revealed a strong and selective binding affinity toward estrogen receptor α (ERα) and selective inhibition of human recombinant AKR1C3 (59.5%), without affecting AKR1C4. Additionally, high COX-1/COX-2 inhibition (>70%) supported its anti-inflammatory potential. Collectively, these findings provide the first integrated evidence of A. alpina’s phenolic richness and multifunctional bioactivity, scientifically supporting its potential in managing hormone-dependent and oxidative stress-related disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Natural Products in Health and Diseases)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 2307 KB  
Article
S-Doped Carbon Dot Treatment Alters RNA Processing, Translation, and Protein Degradation Pathways in HeLa Cells
by Katarina Davalieva, Vanja Ralić, Gjorgji Bozhinovski, Branislava Gemović, Maja D. Nešić, Lela Korićanac, Tanja Dučić, Manuel Algarra, Iva A. Popović, Milutin Stepić and Marijana Petković
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(4), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48040349 - 26 Mar 2026
Viewed by 349
Abstract
Carbon dots offer excellent physico-chemical properties and biocompatibility for cancer theranostics systems, either as therapeutic agents themselves, or as potential drug carriers. It is, however, postulated that the drug carrier affects the mechanism of action and intracellular target molecules of a drug. Therefore, [...] Read more.
Carbon dots offer excellent physico-chemical properties and biocompatibility for cancer theranostics systems, either as therapeutic agents themselves, or as potential drug carriers. It is, however, postulated that the drug carrier affects the mechanism of action and intracellular target molecules of a drug. Therefore, in the present study, we systematically evaluated protein alterations in HeLa cervical cancer cells after treatment with sulfur-doped carbon dots (S-CDs). Synchrotron Radiation μFTIR spectroscopy and label-free LC–MS/MS proteomics integrated with bioinformatics were used to assess molecular changes. μFTIR revealed a shift and increased intensity of α-helices, indicating structural changes in proteins as a result of the interaction between S-CDs and cells. Proteomic analysis identified 122 statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05) proteins with increased abundance and 61 with decreased abundance following S-CD exposure, many of which possess high α-helix content, consistent with μFTIR findings. Functional analyses showed that up-regulated proteins were enriched in molecular adaptor, transporter, and transcription regulator activities, particularly those involved in RNA metabolism and translation. Down-regulated proteins were dominated by protein-modifying enzymes and cytoskeletal components. Pathway enrichment analysis indicated alterations in mRNA processing, ribosomal pathways, translation factors, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, and proteasome degradation. Key hub proteins included ribosomal proteins and translation initiation factors. S-CD treatment led to opposite regulation of many proteins compared to their regulation in untreated HeLa cells including down-regulation of ribosomal proteins (RPS27L, RPS19, and RPS5), aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis proteins (IARS1, LARS1, and MARS1), and proteasome degradation proteins (PSMD2, PSMD3, and PSMD11), which aligns with the observed cytotoxic effect of S-CDs on cervical cancer cells. Overall, these results highlight significant proteomic and structural protein changes induced by S-CDs and support their potential for cervical cancer treatment, warranting further investigation of this nanomaterial’s biological applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanotechnology‑Enhanced Precision Therapeutics)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop