Search Results (462)

This article presents a prospective analysis of the corn agro-industrial chain in Colombia up until 2035, using a mixed-methods approach that integrates technological surveillance, two rounds of the Delphi method, S-curve analysis, and patent–publication matrices and quadrants. Text-mining analysis was conducted using VantagePoint^® v15.1 software, enabling the generation of multiple analytical outputs, including cluster maps, co-occurrence networks, and relational matrices. The study examines the dynamics of scientific and technological production related to the utilization of corn by-products and residues over the period 2003–2025. A total of 30 Delphi responses were collected from experts representing academia, industry, and government institutions in Argentina, Ecuador, Portugal, and Colombia. Based on expert consensus, the Delphi process identified 23 priority topics and 40 additional topics for discussion. Six priority themes were highlighted: (i) antioxidant and antimicrobial packaging derived from bioactive compounds extracted from corn by-products; (ii) bioethanol production; (iii) biodegradable straw manufactured from basket fibers; (iv) bioactive extracts for application in anti-aging cosmetic formulations; (v) modified biochar for the adsorption of ammonium and phosphate ions from aqueous systems; and (vi) the use of corn stover to enhance soil nitrogen content and grain yield. Finally, patent-based S-curve analysis and patent–publication matrices revealed notable asymmetries between scientific knowledge production and patenting activity, underscoring structural gaps in the translation of research into technological innovation within the corn agro-industrial sector. Full article

Microalgae have emerged as sustainable biofactories producing diverse bioactive compounds with significant applications in nutrition and cosmetics. Their high metabolic versatility makes them promising alternatives to conventional resources for addressing global challenges such as malnutrition, food insecurity, and environmental degradation. This review provides an integrated perspective on microalgal bioactives, highlighting their role in functional foods, dietary supplements, and maternal and infant nutrition, as well as their incorporation into cosmetic formulations for anti-aging, photoprotection, hydration, and microbiome support. Mechanistic insights reveal antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and extracellular matrix-preserving effects, alongside UV absorption and barrier reinforcement. The review also discusses their biochemical diversity, mechanisms of action, safety, regulatory considerations, and emerging technologies for formulation and delivery. AI-driven and machine-learning approaches using microalgae for cosmetic and nutritional applications have also been discussed. Overall, microalgae serve as a cornerstone for next-generation nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals, aligning with sustainability and circular-economy principles. Full article

Background/Objectives: Skin-related disorders such as melanoma, premature aging, and chronic wounds significantly impact individuals’ quality of life and psychological well-being. Melanoma, due to its high metastatic potential and poor response to conventional chemotherapeutic agents, remains a major clinical challenge. Additionally, skin aging and impaired wound healing continue to drive the demand for novel therapeutic strategies and bioactive formulations. Methods: In this study, cinnamic acid (CA), a naturally occurring compound with known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, was incorporated into biocompatible Fmoc-FF dipeptide-based nanogels to improve its stability and therapeutic efficacy. The antitumor effects of CA and CA-loaded nanogels were evaluated using human melanoma (SK-MEL-30) cells, while wound healing activity was assessed on human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells. Results: The results demonstrated that CA exhibited significant activity against melanoma cells and promoted wound healing, with enhanced effects observed when delivered via Fmoc-FF nanogels. Conclusions: These findings suggest that CA-loaded peptide nanogels represent a promising platform for multifunctional treatment approaches targeting various skin disorders. Full article

Plant-based extracts are rich sources of phenolic compounds, which may act as skin antiaging mediators. Herein, Cistus albidus L. (Ca), Cistus ladanifer L. subsp. ladanifer (Cl) and Cistus salviifolius L. (Cs) were selected to test whether their phytochemical profile and bioactive potential align to target human skin aging. Hydroethanolic extracts (HEs) were prepared and characterized using infrared vibrational spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Non-toxic concentrations were screened, and cytoprotective and antioxidant effects were studied in tert-butyl hydroperoxide-stimulated normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). Lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages were used to assess anti-inflammatory activity, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Test Guideline No. 439 was used to assess irritant effects, and the anti-senescence potential was assessed in etoposide-stimulated NHDFs. A series of enzymatic inhibition assays was performed. All extracts comprised ellagic acid derivatives, as well as myricetin and quercetin derivatives in Cs and Ca. The HE of Cs was also markedly composed of ligstroside. At non-toxic concentrations, cytoprotective effects were observed in NHDFs. However, only Cs and Cl exhibited significant antioxidant activity in these cells (p < 0.001 and p < 0.0001, respectively). In addition to that, Cl demonstrated highly significant anti-inflammatory (p < 0.0001) and anti-senescence (p < 0.0001) effects. Cs and Cl showed a remarkable potential to inhibit elastase; in addition, Cs also showed anti-hyaluronidase and anti-tyrosinase activities. Meaningfully, Cs and Cl extracts did not exhibit skin irritant effects. The unveiled potential of Cl in skin aging offset highlights the need to elucidate the detailed mechanisms of action, paving the way for the development of skin anti-aging formulations. Full article

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are a major cause of skin aging, leading to oxidation and cleavage of collagen that supports skin structure. Previous studies have demonstrated that Magnolia officinalis var. officinalis (M. officinalis) dry extract reduces mitochondria-enriched ROS production and improves senescence-related phenotypes in vitro. However, its effects on human skin aging have not been investigated. In this study, we conducted both in vitro and clinical trials using an M. officinalis liquid extract, which can be directly applied to cosmetic formulations. The M. officinalis liquid extract restored mitochondrial function and reduced mitochondria-enriched ROS production. Furthermore, M. officinalis liquid extract activated mitophagy, which removes defective mitochondria, a major source of ROS production. In clinical trials, the M. officinalis liquid extract reduced the mean depth of neck wrinkles by 12.73% and the maximum depth by 17.44%. It also reduced the mean roughness (Ra), root mean square roughness (Rq), and maximum depth of roughness (Rmax) by 12.73%, 10.16%, and 10.81%, respectively. Furthermore, the key to the skin-improving effects of M. officinalis liquid extract lies in its ability to increase skin elasticity by 3.76% and brighten skin tone by 0.76%. In conclusion, this study identified a novel mechanism by which M. officinalis liquid extract rejuvenates skin aging. M. officinalis can be utilized as a cosmetic ingredient to improve skin aging and therapeutic candidate for the development of anti-aging treatments. Full article

Marine plants are a rich source of bioactive compounds with unique properties. The Mediterranean seagrass Posidonia oceanica is particularly abundant in phenolics and flavonoids, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, a phenolic-rich extract (POS) was obtained from beach-cast P. oceanica leaves using supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), an eco-friendly technique that preserves thermolabile compounds and avoids organic solvents. POS was incorporated into a base cream (POS-enriched cream) to evaluate its bioactive potential in topical applications. The antioxidant capacity of POS and the cream formulation was firstly evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, confirming strong radical scavenging activity for the POS (IC₅₀ = 2.32 ± 0.33 mg/mL) and significant activity for the POS-enriched cream (IC₅₀ = 16.76 ± 0.58 mg/mL) compared to a base cream as control (IC₅₀ = 37.62 ± 1.27 mg/mL). The antioxidant and photoprotective effects of POS were investigated in human skin fibroblasts (HS-68) exposed to oxidative stress and UV-induced damage, while anti-melanogenic activity was assessed in human epidermal melanocytes (HEM) by measuring tyrosinase activity and melanin content. POS significantly reduced ROS accumulation and modulated key molecular pathways involved in apoptosis (p-JNK), inflammation (NF-κB), energy balance (p-AMPK), and collagen synthesis (Col1A1) in fibroblasts. In melanocytes, both POS pure extract and POS-enriched cream effectively inhibited tyrosinase activity while maintaining unaltered basal melanin levels, indicating a modulatory rather than fully suppressive effect. These findings highlight the potential of P. oceanica SFE extracts as sustainable natural marine-derived products for photoprotection and anti-melanogenesis, thereby bridging the gap between marine waste stream management and applications in skin health and anti-aging strategies. Full article

Achieving optimal skin penetration with bioactive cosmetic ingredients, such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), presents ongoing challenges. This study introduces a novel elastosome-based EGF delivery system co-loading dexpanthenol, which achieves superior skin penetration and multifunctional cosmetic efficacy compared with a conventional liposome formulation. The EGF FLEXIR-SOME formulation was characterized to determine its physicochemical properties measured for comparison against a conventional liposome control. Efficacy and safety were confirmed through in vitro and in vivo evaluations, including clinical trials of the formulation and primary skin irritation tests. The formulated EGF FLEXIR-SOME particles exhibited an average diameter of 124.8 nm and a zeta potential of −57.53 mV, demonstrating enhanced stability and skin penetration relative to the control. The results of clinical trials confirmed significant efficacy in anti-aging, moisture, skin barrier improvement, and hyperpigmentation reduction. Additionally, primary skin irritation tests classified the product as a non-irritant. In conclusion, an elastosome-based EGF formulation significantly enhances skin penetration and bioavailability. The formulation effectively improves skin elasticity, hydration, and barrier function while simultaneously reducing visible signs of aging and pigmentation. This study successfully developed an innovative formulation utilizing elastosome technology, maximizing the transdermal efficiency and stability of EGF, thereby offering a novel strategy for functional cosmeceutical development. Full article

Balancing high fluidity and stability is a critical challenge in deep-shaft cemented paste backfill (CPB) with high-concentration tailings. This study investigates the synergistic regulation mechanism of a combined admixture system comprising hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) thickener and polycarboxylate (PCE) or Melamine-Formaldehyde Resin (MFR) superplasticizers on CPB rheology, mechanical strength, and microstructure. Results indicate that HPMC significantly enhanced anti-segregation performance via intermolecular bridging, substantially increasing yield stress and plastic viscosity. Upon PCE introduction, the steric hindrance provided by its side chains effectively disrupted HPMC-induced flocs and released entrapped water. Consequently, yield stress and plastic viscosity were reduced by up to 22.1% and 64.3%, respectively, with PCE exhibiting markedly superior viscosity-reducing efficiency compared to MFR. Mechanical testing revealed that PCE co-addition did not compromise early-age strength but enhanced 3, 7, and 28-day unconfined compressive strength (UCS) by refining pore structures and promoting the uniform distribution of hydration products. Microstructural analysis unveiled a competitive adsorption mechanism: preferential PCE adsorption dispersed particle agglomerates, while non-adsorbed HPMC formed a viscoelastic network within the pore solution, constructing a stable “dispersion-suspension” microstructure. This work provides a theoretical basis for optimizing high-performance backfill formulations. Full article

Background: The in vivo accumulation of Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs) is associated with the development of several chronic aging-related and degenerative diseases, as they alter protein structures and activate oxidative and inflammatory processes through interactions with the receptor for AGEs (RAGE). Plant secondary metabolites play a key role in counteracting the glycation process through various mechanisms of action. Therefore, Aloysia citrodora leaf polyphenolic extract could represent a source of anti-glycative compounds. Methods: The methanolic extract was characterized by RP-HPLC-DAD-MSⁿ, and its anti-glycative properties were investigated using several in vitro assays mimicking the different steps of the glycation reaction. In parallel, molecular docking studies were carried out to evaluate potential interactions between the identified metabolites and RAGE. Furthermore, A. citrodora metabolites’ stability under simulated in vitro digestion was assessed, and the anti-glycative activity of the bioaccessible fraction was investigated. Results:A. citrodora extract, rich in iridoid glycosides, phenylethanoid glycosides, and flavones, strongly inhibited AGE formation (from 10% to 100%) in both the middle and end step of the reaction and had high methylglyoxal and glyoxal trapping capacity. However, the digestion process affected extract stability, particularly under intestinal conditions, yielding an overall bioaccessibility of about 40% and leading to a subsequent reduction in anti-glycative properties. Finally, molecular modeling analysis highlighted the ability of the studied metabolites to bind RAGE. Conclusions:A. citrodora represents a promising source of natural anti-glycative agents with potential applications as food ingredients. However, it is essential to improve the extract bioaccessibility and to preserve its anti-glycative properties by developing a suitable formulation. Full article

Opophytum forskahlii has a well-established ethnopharmacological significance. This study aimed to assess the skin anti-aging and hair growth-promoting activities of O. forskahlii seed oil (OFSO) and the underlying mechanism. GC-MS profiling revealed high levels of unsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid (55.46%), and oleic acid (38.54%). The skin anti-aging activity of OFSO (3.125–100 µg/mL) was evaluated in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) using MTT and enzyme inhibition assays. OFSO was non-cytotoxic and enhanced fibroblast proliferation in a dose-dependent manner, reaching 145.5% of control at 100 µg/mL (p < 0.05). OFSO significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited collagenase (48%), hyaluronidase (53%), elastase (57%), and tyrosinase (55%). The oil showed anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2 (0.01–100 µg/mL) with IC₅₀ = 0.125 and 0.014 µg/mL, respectively. The hair growth promoting efficacy was assessed using adult male Wistar rats, randomly divided into control, OFSO-treated, and 2% minoxidil-treated groups (5 rats/group). Hair growth was assessed through visual scoring over 14 days of topical application and confirmed by histological examination and hair follicle counting. On day 14, the OFSO-treated group displayed almost complete hair coverage (score about 5.0), exceeding minoxidil (about 4.0), and significantly increased hair follicle number (14.0 ± 1 vs. 9.2 ± 0.8, p < 0.05). Histology confirmed that OFSO promoted hair follicle growth, differentiation, and transition from the telogen to the anagen phase. Network pharmacology analysis, integrating targets predicted via SwissTargetPrediction and disease-associated genes from GeneCards, identified PPARG, ESR1, and IL6 as key hub genes underlying OFSO’s effects. PPARG enhances antioxidant defenses, anti-inflammatory responses, and sebaceous gland function; ESR1 supports collagen production, skin elasticity, and follicle vascularization; and IL6 modulates inflammation and triggers the anagen phase of hair growth. Functional enrichment revealed modulation of PPAR, estrogen, prolactin, and arachidonic acid metabolism pathways, suggesting that OFSO may regulate lipid metabolism, inflammation, hormonal signaling, and tissue regeneration. OFSO demonstrated promising anti-aging and hair growth activities, supporting further development and testing of cosmetic formulations. Full article

Skin aging is driven largely by oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction, processes closely linked to cellular senescence and declining NRF2 activity. Numerous dietary phytochemicals—such as curcumin (from turmeric), resveratrol (from grapes), sulforaphane (from cruciferous vegetables), zerumbone, and salvianolic acid B—abundant in fruits, vegetables, herbs, and traditional food sources, exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review systematically elucidates the molecular mechanisms by which these compounds mitigate skin aging, primarily through modulating the NRF2 signaling pathway. We further integrate insights from clinical trials of NRF2-targeting agents to inform the translational potential of these dietary bioactives. Molecular docking analyses confirm that these food-derived compounds interact directly with the KEAP1-NRF2 complex, promoting NRF2 activation. Transcriptomic analyses of skin-related datasets (GSE35160, GSE71910, GSE185129) further validate the downregulation of key NRF2-regulated cytoprotective genes (e.g., FTH1, FTL, HMOX1, SLC7A11) involved in antioxidant defense and the suppression of pro-inflammatory mediators. Based on this mechanistic foundation, we discuss the translational potential of these food-derived bioactives and the rationale for their future incorporation into skin-health-promoting nutraceuticals. We highlight how these food-derived phenolics and other bioactives may be incorporated into functional foods or nutraceuticals to support skin health from within, offering a dietary strategy to delay aging. We acknowledge that key translational challenges, such as oral bioavailability and optimal formulation, require further investigation. Further research is warranted to bridge these mechanistic insights into effective human applications. Full article

The pharmaceutical sector has evolved toward innovation-driven and sustainability-oriented development, driven by increasing regulatory pressure and global health challenges. In this context, cork (Quercus suber L.) has emerged as a promising bio-based resource due to its renewable nature, near-zero-waste processing chain, and growing evidence of biological activity. Cork by-products are rich in phenolic compounds, triterpenes, lignin derivatives, and other secondary metabolites exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties, with relevance for pharmaceutical and dermocosmetic applications. These bioactivities are associated with the modulation of oxidative stress, inhibition of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, and support of skin barrier function. This review provides an updated and focused overview of the chemical composition, bioactive potential, and valorization pathways of cork by-products, with particular emphasis on their translation into pharmaceutical and dermocosmetic formulations. Key challenges related to extraction standardization, bioavailability, safety, and clinical validation are critically discussed, highlighting future directions for the sustainable development of cork-derived bioactive ingredients within circular bioeconomy frameworks. Full article

With the aging global population, interest in skin aging and skin health products is increasing. Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (lotus) has been widely used for its pharmacological benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, skin-whitening, and anti-aging properties. In this study, we aimed to develop a safe and biologically active extract by extracting lotus flowers with hot water, followed by sequential fractionation using porous resin chromatography with stepwise ethanol elution (100% water and 30%, 70%, and 100% ethanol). The 30% and 70% ethanol fractions showed the highest total polyphenol and flavonoid contents. Liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry analysis identified major flavonoids, including myricetin and quercetin derivatives, in these fractions. These fractions were combined to formulate a novel Nelumbo nucifera flower extract (NFE), which exhibited potent antioxidant activity confirmed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2′-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays. NFE significantly inhibited nitric oxide and prostaglandin E₂ secretion in lipopolysaccharide-activated murine RAW264.7 macrophages. In human keratinocytes HaCaT cells, NFE reduced tumor necrosis factor-α-induced expression and secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 without cytotoxicity. These findings demonstrate that NFE has strong in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, supporting its potential as a bioactive ingredient for application in improving skin health preparations. Full article

The search for alternatives to animal testing in cosmetics has encouraged the development of in vitro systems capable of evaluating formulation-driven biophysical parameters assessed on human skin. This study presents a cell-free tri-layered chitosan membrane as a material-based model for characterizing the physicochemical anti-aging performance of topical formulations. Three cosmetic products were incorporated either in the top layer (1L_(t)) or across all layers (3L), and key parameters—including pore area, water permeation, firmness, elasticity, swelling and moisture retention—were quantified. VitCOil produced consistent effects across configurations, reducing pore area by 52–56% and decreasing water permeation by 54–61%, while increasing moisture retention by 36–38%. OilSerum showed a marked layer-dependent response, enhancing swelling by +70% in 3L and +35% in 1L_(t), and increasing water permeation by 16% (3L) and 4% (1L_(t)). EyeCr improved firmness and elasticity at low concentration, with stronger elastic response in the top layer (+27% in 3L; +34% in 1L_(t)). Overall, this novel platform strengthens early-stage physicochemical screening by linking formulation-dependent mechanisms with directional biophysical trends observed clinically. Full article

The increasing demand for advanced cosmetic formulations based on natural biopolymers has stimulated the design of multifunctional and sustainable skin care products. Hyaluronic acid (HA) and silk proteins are widely recognized for their hydrating, barrier-supportive, and biocompatible properties. This study aimed to develop a novel topical formulation, integrating low- and medium molecular weight hyaluronic acid (LMW-HA and MMW-HA), encapsulated sodium hyaluronate (NaHA), silk, and hydrolyzed silk as active components, aiming to enhance skin barrier function and biocompatibility. The formulation was subjected to comprehensive physicochemical characterization including evaluation of appearance, odor, color, pH, viscosity, and stability, all assessed over 30 days and microbiological stability testing under controlled storage conditions. Safety evaluation followed a dual-phase strategy: (i) in silico toxicological screening of individual ingredients, including sensitization, and mutagenicity predictions, and (ii) in vivo skin compatibility assessment in 25 human volunteers using a semi-occlusive patch test. The formulation demonstrated good physicochemical stability, as pH remained stable, and viscosity showed no significant changes, confirming structural integrity, indicating preserved structural and microbiological stability throughout the study period. The in silico assessment indicated no mutagenic and/or sensitizing alerts and favorable safety margins for all components, confirming the safety profile of each ingredient, supporting their suitability for dermocosmetic use, while in vivo evaluation revealed no significant adverse effects, with irritation scores indicating no skin reaction (erythema or edema) across the test population. These findings support the potential of this novel biopolymer-based formulation as a safe and well-tolerated dermocosmetic product, aligning with principles of sustainable development and biomimetic design. Full article