Search Results (14,884)

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are pivotal microorganisms in the food industry. Current approaches for functional gene validation and trait improvement in LAB primarily rely on traditional gene editing and homologous recombination techniques. These methods are often cumbersome, inefficient, and time-consuming, hindering the rapid and precise customization of strains. This limitation has, to some extent, constrained the rapid selection and industrial application of functional LAB strains. The engineering of LAB through gene editing technologies has significantly advanced both fundamental and applied research. Among these, CRISPR/Cas gene editing has successfully achieved precise modification of multiple genes in various LAB species. Compared to conventional methods, it offers superior editing efficiency and lower operational costs, opening new avenues for functional gene identification and genetic improvement in LAB. However, the application of exogenous CRISPR/Cas systems in LAB faces technical challenges such as high off-target rates, chromosomal abnormalities, and cytotoxicity. The development of endogenous CRISPR/Cas-based editing tools for LAB provides novel pathways for precise regulation, rational design, and flexible application. This paper first outlines the structural components and mechanistic principles of CRISPR/Cas gene editing tools. It then explores the research progress and applications of both endogenous and exogenous CRISPR/Cas systems in LAB. Finally, it provides an outlook on the future application of CRISPR/Cas gene editing technology in LAB, offering a reference for its implementation in this field. The advent of gene editing technologies has significantly propelled functional gene validation and trait improvement in lactic acid bacteria (LAB), thereby advancing both fundamental research and industrial applications. Notably, the CRISPR/Cas system has emerged as a transformative tool enabling precise genetic modification in diverse LAB species, offering marked improvements in editing efficiency and cost reduction relative to conventional approaches. CRISPR/Cas-based editing strategies in LAB are broadly classified into exogenous and endogenous systems. Exogenous systems operate independently of the host’s native immune repertoire, conferring the advantages of broad strain applicability and high editing efficiency. These systems have been successfully deployed for functional gene characterization, metabolic pathway engineering, such as augmenting antimicrobial production, and probiotic safety enhancement via virulence gene deletion. Conversely, endogenous systems leverage the intrinsic CRISPR/Cas machinery of LAB, offering superior biocompatibility and minimized off-target risks. Notable applications include precise gene knockout and integration using the native Type I-E system in Lacticaseibacillus paracasei. This review provides a concise overview of CRISPR/Cas system architecture and mechanisms, followed by a systematic synthesis of research progress and applications for both exogenous and endogenous systems in LAB. Finally, future directions are outlined to guide the continued development and application of CRISPR/Cas technologies in this field. Full article

Titanium alloys, particularly β-type Ti-13Nb-13Zr, are promising biomedical materials due to their low elastic modulus and excellent biocompatibility. However, their bioactivity needs improvement for better bone integration. In this study, a calcium-phosphate (Ca/P) coating was prepared on a Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy via micro-arc oxidation (MAO) in an electrolyte containing calcium acetate and dipotassium hydrogen phosphate. The effect of applied voltage (300 V, 400 V, and 500 V) on the phase composition, surface morphology, and in vitro bioactivity of the coatings was investigated. Surface characterization was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The results show that increasing the voltage increased the surface roughness, average pore size, and rutile TiO₂ content in the coating. The Ca/P ratio in the coating approached 1.67 at 500 V, similar to that of natural bone. After immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 20 days, the coating formed at 500 V induced the highest deposition of hydroxyapatite (HA), completely covering the microporous surface. These findings indicate that MAO treatment at 500 V significantly enhances the bioactivity of the Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy, making it a promising candidate for orthopedic implants. Full article

Silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-based products have been increasingly applied in aquaculture due to their antimicrobial properties and capacity to modulate host immunity. This study investigated the biological activities of synthesized silver nanowires (AgNWs), with particular emphasis on their anti-Vibrio efficacy and immunomodulatory effects, to evaluate their potential application in shrimp aquaculture. Antibacterial activity was assessed using nonlinear regression analysis to determine minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against three major Vibrio pathogens, while cytotoxicity and immune responses were evaluated using white shrimp hemocytes through cell viability assays and in vitro gene expression analysis, respectively. AgNWs exhibited antibacterial effects on Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio alginolyticus, and Vibrio harveyi, with MIC values of 873.7, 58.78, and 672.1 μg/mL, respectively. Hemocyte viability remained above 90% at AgNW concentrations of up to 1000 mg/L, indicating good biocompatibility. AgNWs significantly upregulated immune-related lipopolysaccharide and β-1,3-glucan-binding protein (LGBP) and Toll gene expression at specific concentrations, indicating immunostimulation. These results suggest that AgNWs possess antibacterial activity and immunomodulatory potential with low cytotoxicity, supporting their promise as a novel functional agent for shrimp disease management. Full article

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is widely used in medical, cosmetic, and nutraceutical applications, yet the systemic fate of orally administered HA, particularly non-animal forms, remains poorly characterised. This study investigates the stability, absorption, metabolism, and biological effects of a novel fungal-derived HA extracted from Tremella fuciformis using a sequential in vitro multi-barrier model simulating human physiological compartments, including gastric, intestinal, hepatic, renal, chondrocyte, and keratinocyte environments. Across the gastrointestinal stages, fungal-derived HA demonstrated high structural stability, maintained molecular weight, and exerted superior antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity compared with sodium hyaluronate. It efficiently crossed the intestinal barrier without increasing hyaluronidase activity, indicating protection from premature enzymatic degradation. In hepatic cells, fungal-derived HA exhibited reduced intracellular uptake and greater extracellular persistence, suggesting lower first-pass metabolism and suggesting improved persistence under in vitro conditions. At peripheral targets, it increased the cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) expression and HA internalisation in chondrocytes and keratinocytes, supporting anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative effects. Renal assessments revealed minimal excretion and no cytotoxicity, supporting potential systemic availability. Overall, these results provide the first integrated in vitro evidence describing the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion process of fungal-derived HA. This supports the conclusion that this form of HA is stable, biocompatible, and bioactive with therapeutic potential for joint and skin health, as suggested by the in vitro models. Full article

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising cancer treatment employing photo-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by a photosensitizer (PS). Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is a potential PS due to its superb photocatalytic features and biocompatibility. However, its clinical potential is restricted by its predominant ultraviolet (UV) absorption. To address this limitation, this work introduces TiO₂/carbon dots (CDs) nanohybrid materials for improving the photophysical properties of TiO₂ and its photodynamic performance. TiO₂ and CDs were synthesized through wet chemical and hydrothermal techniques, and subsequently combined via a facile ex situ solvothermal process to produce hybrid materials containing 1–50% w/w CDs. The materials were characterized using XRD, Raman, TEM, FT-IR, zeta potential, TGA, UV-Vis and PL. PDT studies on A431 skin cancer cells indicated improved photosensitizing ability of TiO₂/CDs, with TiO₂/CDs (10%) inducing 47% cell toxicity, versus 20% for TiO₂ after 10 min of red-light irradiation (661 nm, 18 mW/cm², 12.96 J/cm²). Intracellular localization studies revealed enhanced cellular uptake of TiO₂/CDs (10%), compared with TiO₂. In vitro studies on 3T3 healthy fibroblasts confirmed PSs’ safety both with and without light. Overall, this study elucidates the key role of CDs in the photophysical and photodynamic behavior of TiO₂-based systems, providing design guidelines for the next-generation inorganic PSs. Full article

All forms of neural communications, from cognition to emotion, are regulated by neurotransmitters, which are otherwise the chemical language of the brain. Precise detection of these neurotransmitters is essential for the perception of neurophysiology and diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases as well. Among the existing techniques for the detection of these molecules, fluorescence sensing is evolving as a powerful approach in terms of high sensitivity, rapid response, and real-time visualization of the chemical events occurring in the neural system. In recent years, nanomaterials have transformed this field by integrating tunable optical properties, excellent photostability, and modifiable surface chemistry into biocompatible nanostructures. We summarize the recent advances of these architectures to show how the material type and dimensionality, as well as the surface functionality, play roles in sensing through the mechanisms of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), photoinduced electron transfer (PET), inner filter effect (IFE), and aggregation-induced emission (AIE). The discussion has also been extended to the correlation of fluorescence modulation with the selectivity and sensitivity in the mechanism-to-function relationship. The potential utility of such innovative technologies, including artificial intelligence, spectral deconvolution analysis via big data algorithms, and chip-integrated sensing, was explored as a means to enable real-time neurochemical detection. This converging area of nanotechnology and neuroscience leaves a mark not just in analytical accuracy, but also parallels human brain rhythms. Full article

Background: Patients with diabetes mellitus exhibit increased susceptibility to peri-implant inflammation and implant failure due to systemic metabolic dysfunction, impaired immunity, and delayed tissue healing. The oral microbiome is increasingly recognized as a key intermediary in these pathogenic processes. Aims: This review aims to systematically evaluate the available literature examining the relationships among the oral microbiome, biomaterial biocompatibility, and inflammatory changes in peri-prosthetic tissues in insulin-dependent diabetic patients. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed and Scopus databases identified studies published between January 2000 and July 2025. Eligible studies (25 in total) included clinical, histological, microbiological, or immunohistochemical investigations involving diabetic patients rehabilitated with dental implants or prostheses. Study selection and reporting followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Results: Diabetic cohorts showed consistent microbial alterations, including a higher relative abundance of periopathogenic species (P. gingivalis, T. forsythia, and F. nucleatum), lower microbial diversity, and greater biofilm-forming potential. Histological analyses frequently described increased inflammatory infiltrates, higher cytokine expression, and reduced soft-tissue integration. Biomaterial surface characteristics were also associated with differences in microbial adhesion, while hyperglycemia was linked to microbial and host-response patterns suggestive of greater pathogenicity and inflammation. Collectively, these findings suggest that diabetes-associated dysbiosis may be associated with increased peri-implant inflammatory changes and altered peri-implant homeostasis. Conclusions: The oral microbiome may be involved in inflammatory activity and biocompatibility at the tissue–implant interface in diabetic patients. A better understanding of host–microbe–material interactions may support risk assessment and help inform future personalized management strategies, such as targeted antimicrobial approaches, probiotic modulation, and biomaterial surface optimization, although these implications should be interpreted cautiously given the predominantly observational and heterogeneous nature of the available evidence. Full article

Biopolymers such as chitosan are considered important candidates for water purification due to their non-toxicity, biodegradability, natural origin, biocompatibility, and potential for modification to provide additional capabilities, such as incorporating nanomaterials for magnetism to enable rapid separation or adding functional groups to enhance selectivity towards target adsorbates. This study investigated adsorption of Co (II), traced by Co-60 radionuclide, systematically evaluated in natural aquatic matrices selected according to water body type: seawater (Baltic Sea) and freshwater systems further distinguished as lentic (Lake Balsys) and lotic (Neris River) environments, using synthesized magnetite–chitosan nanocomposites (MCNs) with varying loadings of Fe₃O₄ (10–30 wt. %) nanoparticles providing different levels of magnetization. Comprehensive characterization (TEM, FTIR, AFM, XRD, and Mössbauer spectroscopy) confirmed successful integration of magnetite nanoparticles within the chitosan matrix and reproducible structural properties. An optimal magnetization of 11 emu/g was achieved at 20 wt. % Fe₃O₄, enabling rapid magnetic separation within <1 min without compromising sorption capacity. Adsorption isotherm models were applied to investigate the adsorption parameters, and sorption kinetics were studied, yielding a maximum adsorption capacity of 14.93 mg/g for MCN-10 in seawater and 11.95 mg/g for MCN-20 in freshwater with observed equilibrium within 120 min. These promising results indicate that the MCN is a suitable nanocomposite for the removal of Co (II) ions and the Co-60 radionuclide from aquatic media. Full article

Oxidative stress induced by excessive hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is a critical pathological factor in skin aging, inflammatory disorders, and photodamage. While tocopherol (TCP) is a gold-standard antioxidant in cosmetics, its potential in H₂O₂-responsive systems remains underexplored. In this study, we report the design and characterization of ditocopheryl peroxalate (TOT), a novel tocopherol dimer linked via a H₂O₂-cleavable peroxalate linkage. TOT remains chemically stable under physiological conditions but undergoes selective chemiluminescence-like degradation upon exposure to H₂O₂, simultaneously scavenging H₂O₂ and liberating two TCP molecules. Notably, TOT demonstrated superior H₂O₂-scavenging efficiency and enhanced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in H₂O₂-stimulated cells compared to monomeric TCP, while maintaining excellent biocompatibility. Structural analysis revealed that the rigid, linear configuration of TOT facilitates seamless integration into dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) bilayers, yielding highly stable H₂O₂-responsive liposomes. These findings highlight TOT as a sophisticated multifunctional antioxidant platform for advanced cosmeceutical applications targeting photo-induced oxidative damage. Full article

The recent endeavor to establish a sustainable society, with respect to environmental protection and occupational health prevention, necessitates the development of environmentally friendly anodizing electrolytes. In addition, these electrolytes should be composed of biocompatible organic acids derived from renewable sources. In response to these challenges, there is a need to seek environmentally conscious alternatives to the widely used sulfuric acid anodization electrolyte. Accordingly, a comparative study was performed on the anodic polarization of AA2024-T3 aircraft alloy samples for 30 min at 0 or 20 °C. The respective electrolytes were composed of 0.5 M solutions of oxalic, citric, tartaric acids, or glycine. The comparative analysis included optical metallographic microscopy (OMM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), color and wettability characterization, chemical composition analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and assessment of the corrosion-protective properties of the obtained layers. The latter were defined using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization scanning (PDS) after 24 h of exposure to a 0.5% NaCl solution. Among the most important conclusions is that the barrier properties of the layers obtained in citric and tartaric acid electrolytes remarkably exceed those of the film obtained in oxalic acid. The use of glycine does not result in film formation at all. The process temperature had a weaker effect than the electrolyte composition. The recent commitment to building a sustainable society, emphasizing environmental protection and occupational health, requires the development of eco-friendly anodization processes. These electrolytes should use biocompatible organic acids from renewable sources. Meeting these needs demands alternatives to the commonly used sulfuric acid anodization. Therefore, a comparative study was conducted on the anodic polarization of AA2024-T3 aircraft alloy samples for 30 min at 0 or 20 °C. The electrolytes consisted of 0.5 M solutions of oxalic, citric, tartaric acids, or glycine. Analytical methods included optical metallographic microscopy (OMM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), color and wettability assessment, chemical composition analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and evaluation of corrosion resistance. The latter was measured using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization scanning (PDS) after 24 h in 0.5% NaCl solution. Key findings showed that barrier properties of the citric and tartaric acid layers substantially surpassed those of oxalic acid films. Glycine did not produce a film. The electrolyte composition had a greater impact than process temperature. Full article

Hyaluronic acid (HA)–based nanocapsules containing plant-derived bioactives are promising formulations for dermatological applications. In this study, nanocapsules containing extracts of Arnica montana, Calendula officinalis and Aesculus hippocastanum were synthesized and their structural and functional properties were characterized. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the formation of spherical nanostructures with uniform morphology, while rheological analyses demonstrated stable viscoelastic behavior suitable for topical application. Their antimicrobial potential was assessed on microorganisms isolated from multiple regions of healthy human skin and opportunistic pathogens. A diverse panel of approx. 100 bacterial and fungal isolates was identified using MALDI-TOF MS. The antimicrobial activity of formulations was compared with commonly used disinfectants: H₂O₂, octenidine, isopropanol and topical ophthalmic antiseptic. Arnica-based formulations showed the strongest inhibitory effect against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, whereas chestnut extract demonstrated selective activity against Candida spp. Calendula-based formulations exhibited limited antimicrobial activity. These findings demonstrate that plant-extract-loaded HA nanocapsules exhibit selective antimicrobial properties dependent on extract type and microbial group, supporting their potential as multifunctional components of future dermatological formulations. Full article

Children’s skin is uniquely vulnerable, requiring specialised design solutions that transcend traditional aesthetics. This exploratory study investigates the importance of paediatric dermatology in informing functional fashion design through expert medical perspectives. Using a qualitative approach, data were gathered from a purposive cohort of paediatric dermatologists and immunoallergologists and analysed through inductive thematic analysis. Findings identify four core themes: the physiological immaturity of children’s skin (notably the prevalence of atopic dermatitis), clothing’s role as a symptomatic aggravator rather than a primary aetiology, the clinical risks posed by chemical additives in synthetic textile processes, and the therapeutic potential of natural fibres and biofunctional agents. The data also highlights significant diagnostic constraints in paediatric patch testing, emphasising the necessity of proactive material safety. The findings suggest that integrating healthcare expertise into human-centred design may support the development of safer paediatric clothing solutions, ensuring that fashion industry innovation meets the physiological requirements of children. By transitioning from hazardous synthetic processes to biocompatible textiles, such as undyed natural fibres and medicinal plant-derived dyes, the industry can transform apparel from a potential irritant into a secondary protective barrier. This provides initial insights for developing clothing that safeguards the skin barrier and improves the overall wellbeing of vulnerable populations. Full article

Silica-based bioceramics are promising bone substitutes with tunable degradation and mechanical properties. We aimed to assess bone response in critical-size calvarial defects in rats, empty or filled with 3D-printed sphene ceramic (CaTiSiO₅) scaffolds produced using direct ink writing from preceramic polymers and reactive fillers. Scaffold characterization was performed using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, porosity analysis, and compressive strength testing. Bilateral cylindrical 5 mm calvarial defects were created in 20 rats: one was randomly filled with sphene scaffold, while the contralateral remained empty. Ten animals were killed at 4 weeks, the rest at 8 weeks. Specimens were collected for micro-X-ray computed tomography (micro-CT) analysis, followed by undecalcified histology. The scaffolds exhibited porous structure with complete sphene phase purity and compressive strength of 17.91 MPa (SD 4.6). In vivo, no adverse event was noted during healing. Overall bone regeneration—as measured by BV/TV—was comparable between groups: Bone volume/total volume (BV/TV) increased over time in the empty and sphene groups, reaching ~40%, with no significant differences between groups or time points. BV/TV was significantly higher in the external regions of the defects compared to the internal areas in both groups at the two time points. The sphene group showed a significantly greater volume of new bone extending beyond the original cortical boundary at both 4 and 8 weeks (p = 0.013). In the sphene group histology revealed partial bone ingrowth within the scaffold, while bone in the control group was limited to defect edges. After 8 weeks, new bone adjacent to the cortical surface was thicker in the sphene group (p < 0.05). These initial findings are consistent with prior preclinical studies, supporting the biocompatibility and osteoconductive nature of sphene ceramic scaffolds. Full article

Flexible and biocompatible sensors are vital for a wide range of biomedical applications, including real-time health monitoring, intracranial pressure monitoring, knee replacement surgeries, wearables, and smart prosthetics. While various highly sensitive and stable pressure sensors have been demonstrated, they often lack the conformability and biocompatibility crucial for their wider application in various bio-integrated electronic systems. Herein, a piezoelectric pressure sensor is proposed using a hybrid polymer composite by leveraging the unique properties of Chitosan and Parylene C. Various material characterisations, such as XRD and FTIR, were performed to reveal structural and chemical characteristics of the novel composite material. Next, electromechanical characterisations of the pressure sensor were performed to reveal its dynamic sensing properties. The pressure sensor exhibits excellent sensitivity for both pressure and frequency, as well as cyclic stability (10³ cycles), wide pressure range (20–70 kPa), and biocompatibility. Full article

Novel, accurate molecular diagnostics are driving new advances across medicine, public health, and environmental monitoring. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) nanotags are powerful platforms for ultrasensitive, multiplexed, and quantitative detection of molecular targets. This review focuses on indirect sensing strategies, where SERS nanotags act as signal transducers, resulting in enhanced and unique Raman spectra upon binding of target analytes (high specificity) and allowing for ultralow limits of detection. These indirect SERS sensors typically consist of a plasmonic core, a Raman reporter molecule, and a ligand that targets the analyte of interest. Each of these components contributes to the sensitivity, stability, and selectivity of the system. Rational design of SERS nanotags requires balancing enhancement efficiency with reproducibility, biocompatibility, and assay integration. The choice of reporter molecules, for instance, governs spectral uniqueness and enables multiplexed detection of multiple analytes within a single sample. Recent advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning are accelerating nanotag development by enabling predictive control over nanostructure geometry, composition, and optical response. SERS nanotags are increasingly being integrated into diagnostic formats, such as lateral flow assays and microfluidic devices, offering both qualitative and quantitative analysis at the point of care. This review provides an overview of key design principles, common strategies for nanostructure functionalization and stabilization, and emerging biosensing applications, serving as a practical guide for researchers seeking to design and implement SERS nanotags. Full article