Search Results (1,249)

Direct Air Capture (DAC) is gaining worldwide attention as a negative emissions strategy critical to meeting climate targets. Among emerging DAC materials, pyrolysis chars (PCs) and gasification chars (GCs) derived from biomass present a promising pathway due to their tunable porosity, surface chemistry, and low-cost feedstocks. This review critically examines the current state of research on the physicochemical properties of PCs and GCs relevant to CO₂ adsorption, including surface area, pore structure, surface functionality and aromaticity. Comparative analyses show that chemical activation, especially with KOH, can significantly improve CO₂ adsorption capacity, with some PCs achieving more than 308 mg/g (100 kPa CO₂, 25 °C). Additionally, nitrogen and sulfur doping further improves the affinity for CO₂ through increased surface basicity. GCs, although inherently more porous, often require additional modification to achieve a similar adsorption capacity. Importantly, the long-term stability and regeneration potential of these chars remain underexplored, but are essential for practical DAC applications and economic viability. The paper identifies critical research gaps related to material design and techno-economic feasibility. Future directions emphasize the need for integrated multiscale research that bridges material science, process optimization, and real-world DAC deployment. A synthesis of findings and a research outlook are provided to support the advancement of carbon-negative technologies using thermochemically derived biomass chars. Full article

This study investigates the spatial heterogeneity of carbon pools in young Betula sp. stands on former arable lands in the southern Moscow region, Russia. The findings could be useful for the current estimates and predictions of the carbon balance in such forest ecosystems. The research focuses on understanding the interactions between plant cover and the environment, i.e., how environmental factors such as stand density, tree diameter and height, light conditions, and soil properties affect ecosystem carbon pools. We also studied how heterogeneity in edaphic conditions affects the formation of plant cover, particularly tree regeneration and the development of ground layer vegetation. Field measurements were conducted on a permanent 50 × 50 m sampling plot divided into 5 × 5 m subplots, in order to capture variability in vegetation and soil characteristics. Key findings reveal significant differences in carbon stocks across subplots with varying stand densities and light conditions. This highlights the role of the spatial heterogeneity of soil properties and vegetation cover in carbon sequestration. The study demonstrates the feasibility of indirect estimation of carbon stocks using stand parameters (density, height, and diameter), with results that closely match direct measurements. The total ecosystem carbon stock was estimated at 80.47 t ha⁻¹, with the soil contribution exceeding that of living biomass and dead organic matter. This research emphasizes the importance of accounting for spatial heterogeneity in carbon assessments of post-agricultural ecosystems, providing a methodological framework for future studies. Full article

Skeletal muscle regeneration depends on muscle stem cells, which give rise to myoblasts that drive muscle growth, repair, and maintenance. In bats—the only mammals capable of powered flight—these processes must also sustain contractile performance under extreme mechanical and metabolic stress. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying bat muscle physiology remain largely unknown. To enable mechanistic investigation of these traits, we established the first myoblast cell lines from the pectoralis muscle of Pteronotus mesoamericanus, a highly maneuverable aerial insectivore. Using both spontaneous immortalization and exogenous hTERT/CDK4 gene overexpression, we generated two stable cell lines that retain proliferative capacity and differentiate into contractile myotubes. These cells exhibit frequent spontaneous contractions, suggesting robust functional integrity at the neuromuscular junction. In parallel, we performed transcriptomic and metabolic profiling of native pectoralis tissue in the closely related Pteronotus parnellii to define molecular programs supporting muscle specialization. Gene expression analyses revealed enriched pathways for muscle metabolism, development, and regeneration, highlighting supporting roles in tissue maintenance and repair. Consistent with this profile, the flight muscle is triglyceride-rich, which serves as an important fuel source for energetically demanding processes, including muscle contraction and cellular recovery. Integration of transcriptomic and metabolic data identified three key metabolic modules—glucose utilization, lipid handling, and nutrient signaling—that likely coordinate ATP production and support metabolic flexibility. Together, these complementary tools and datasets provide the first in vitro platform for investigating bat muscle research, enabling direct exploration of muscle regeneration, metabolic resilience, and evolutionary physiology. Full article

Tissue-engineered scaffolds, particularly composite scaffolds composed of polymers combined with ceramics, bioactive glasses, or nanomaterials, play a vital role in regenerative medicine by providing structural and biological support for tissue repair. As scaffold designs grow increasingly complex, the need for non-invasive imaging modalities capable of monitoring scaffold integration, degradation, and tissue regeneration in real-time has become critical. This review summarizes current non-invasive imaging techniques used to evaluate tissue-engineered constructs, including optical methods such as near-infrared fluorescence imaging (NIR), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and photoacoustic imaging (PAI); magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); X-ray-based approaches like computed tomography (CT); and ultrasound-based modalities. It discusses the unique advantages and limitations of each modality. Finally, the review identifies major challenges—including limited imaging depth, resolution trade-offs, and regulatory hurdles—and proposes future directions to enhance translational readiness and clinical adoption of imaging-guided tissue engineering (TE). Emerging prospects such as multimodal platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) assisted image analysis hold promise for improving precision, scalability, and clinical relevance in scaffold monitoring. Full article

Cyclodextrins (CDs), cyclic oligosaccharides formed by α-1,4-glycosidic-bonded D-glucopyranose units, feature unique hydrophobic cavities and hydrophilic exteriors that enable molecular encapsulation via host–guest interactions. CDs form supramolecular host–guest complexes with diverse molecular entities, establishing their fundamental role in supramolecular chemistry. This review examines fabrication strategies for CD-based supramolecular hydrogels and their applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with focused analysis on wound healing, corneal regeneration, and bone repair. We critically analyze CD–guest molecular interaction mechanisms and innovative therapeutic implementations, highlighting the significant potential of CD hydrogels for tissue regeneration while addressing clinical translation challenges and future directions. Full article

This review critically examines the recent advancements in the development and application of electrospun molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) nanofiber membranes for environmental remediation. Emphasizing the significance of these materials, the discussion highlights the mechanisms by which electrospun MIPs achieve high selectivity and efficiency in removing various pollutants, including dyes, heavy metals, and pharmaceutical residues such as NSAIDs and antiretroviral drugs. The synthesis methodologies are explored in detail, focusing on the choice of monomers, templates, and polymerization conditions that influence the structural and functional properties of the membranes. Characterization techniques used to assess morphology, surface area, porosity, and imprinting efficacy are also examined, providing insights into how these parameters affect adsorption performance. Furthermore, the review evaluates the performance metrics of electrospun MIPs, including adsorption capacities, selectivity, reusability, and stability in complex environmental matrices. Practical considerations, such as scalability, regeneration, and long-term operational stability, are discussed to assess their potential for real-world applications. The article concludes with an outline of future research directions, emphasizing the need for multi-template imprinting, integration with existing treatment technologies, and field-scale validation to address current limitations. Full article

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) are nanoscale, phospholipid bilayer-enclosed vesicles secreted by living cells through cytokinesis under physiological and pathological conditions. Owing to their high biocompatibility and stability, PDEVs have attracted considerable interest in regenerative medicine applications. They can exhibit the capacity to enhance cellular proliferation, migration, and multi-lineage differentiation through immunomodulation, anti-inflammation effects, antioxidative protection, and tissue regeneration mechanisms. Given their abundant availability, favorable safety profile, and low immunogenicity risks, PDEVs have been successfully employed in therapeutic interventions for skeletal muscle disorders, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative conditions, and tissue regeneration applications. This review mainly provides a comprehensive overview of PDEVs, systematically examining their biological properties, standardized isolation and characterization methodologies, preservation techniques, and current applications in regenerative medicine. Furthermore, we critically discuss future research directions and clinical translation potential, aiming to facilitate the advancement of PDEV-based therapeutic strategies. Full article

Objective: To compare the effect of different bone augmentation procedures, namely, autogenous bone blocks (ABBs) versus guided bone regeneration (GBR), on patient-reported outcomes (PROMs). Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. A MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science search was conducted by two independent reviewers in combination with a free-hand search in relevant journals until June 2025. Outcomes were PROMs to enhance our understanding of the evolution of these procedures. Results: The electronic search yielded 6291 articles. After title screening, 67 articles were further analyzed for abstract review, which resulted in 14 articles eligible for full-text reading. Six articles were finally included based on the exclusion and inclusion criteria with a total of 295 patients. The overall study quality was low, since only two RCTs could be included. One study demonstrated a high risk of bias. Different PROMs were examined and compared such as pain, edema, neurosensory disturbance, Patient-Reported Predominant Symptom, OHIP-14, postoperative analgesic usage, willingness to repeat, and likelihood to recommend. Meta-analysis was not achievable due to a lack of direct comparisons and heterogeneity in terms of PROMs. Evaluation points varied between pretreatment and up to nearly 10-years of follow-up. Conclusions: Despite significant heterogeneity and reporting, this systematic review concluded that ABB and GBR are well-tolerated procedures. Trends such as transient postoperative pain and swelling with a minor occurring of neurosensory disturbances were reported in a few studies. Overall, a good perception of postoperative recovery was reported for both treatment modalities. Good quality of life was noted related to GBR procedures. Patient-reported outcomes were only analyzed for patients who completed the entire follow-up period. This may introduce bias, as patients who dropped out and were more likely to experience complications were not represented, potentially resulting in a more favorable portrayal of the outcomes. Further well-conducted prospective studies with a long follow-up are needed for an evidence-based evaluation and comparison of PROMs for these procedures. Full article

Passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims), belonging to the Passifloraceae family, is an economically important plant in tropical and subtropical regions. The advances in functional genomics research of passion fruit have been significantly hindered by its recalcitrance to regeneration and stable transformation. This study establishes the first efficient Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated hairy root transformation system for passion fruit. Utilizing the eGFP marker gene, transformation efficiencies of 11.3% were initially achieved with strains K599, MSU440, and C58C1, with K599 proving most effective. Key transformation parameters were systematically optimized to achieve the following: OD₆₀₀ = 0.6, infection duration 30 min, acetosyringone concentration 100 μM, and a dark co-cultivation period of 2 days. The system’s utility was further enhanced by incorporating the red visual marker RUBY, enabling direct, instrument-free identification of transgenic roots via betaxanthin accumulation. Finally, this system was applied for functional analysis using PeMYB123, which may be involved in proanthocyanidin accumulation. Overexpression of PeMYB123 produced a higher content of proanthocyanidin in hairy roots. Additionally, the PeANR gene involved in the proanthocyanidin pathway was strongly activated in the transgenic hairy roots. This rapid and efficient visually simplified hairy root transformation system provides a powerful tool for functional gene studies in passion fruit. Full article

Recombinant protein hydrogels have emerged as transformative biomaterials that overcome the bioinertness and unpredictable degradation of traditional synthetic systems by leveraging genetically engineered backbones, such as elastin-like polypeptides, SF, and resilin-like polypeptides, to replicate extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamics and enable programmable functionality. Constructed through a hierarchical crosslinking strategy, these hydrogels integrate reversible physical interactions with covalent crosslinking approaches, collectively endowing the system with mechanical strength, environmental responsiveness, and controlled degradation behavior. Critically, molecular engineering strategies serve as the cornerstone for functional precision: domain-directed self-assembly exploits coiled-coil or β-sheet motifs to orchestrate hierarchical organization, while modular fusion of bioactive motifs through genetic encoding or site-specific conjugation enables dynamic control over cellular interactions and therapeutic release. Such engineered designs underpin advanced applications, including immunomodulatory scaffolds for diabetic wound regeneration, tumor-microenvironment-responsive drug depots, and shear-thinning bioinks for vascularized bioprinting, by synergizing material properties with biological cues. By uniting synthetic biology with materials science, recombinant hydrogels deliver unprecedented flexibility in tuning physical and biological properties. This review synthesizes emerging crosslinking paradigms and molecular strategies, offering a framework for engineering next-generation, adaptive biomaterials poised to address complex challenges in regenerative medicine and beyond. Full article

In recent years, significant progress has been made in breast reconstructive surgery, particularly with the use of three-dimensional (3D) disassemblable scaffolds. Reconstructive plastic surgery aimed at restoring the shape and size of the mammary gland offers medical, psychological, and social benefits. Using autologous tissues allows surgeons to recreate the appearance of the mammary gland and achieve tactile sensations similar to those of a healthy organ while minimizing the risks associated with implants; 3D disassemblable scaffolds are a promising solution that overcomes the limitations of traditional methods. These constructs offer the potential for patient-specific anatomical adaptation and can provide both temporary and long-term structural support for regenerating tissues. One of the most promising approaches in post-mastectomy breast reconstruction involves the use of autologous cellular and tissue components integrated into either synthetic scaffolds—such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and polycaprolactone (PCL)—or naturally derived biopolymer-based matrices, including alginate, chitosan, hyaluronic acid derivatives, collagen, fibrin, gelatin, and silk fibroin. In this context, two complementary research directions are gaining increasing significance: (1) the development of novel hybrid biomaterials that combine the favorable characteristics of both synthetic and natural polymers while maintaining biocompatibility and biodegradability; and (2) the advancement of three-dimensional bioprinting technologies for the fabrication of patient-specific scaffolds capable of incorporating cellular therapies. Such therapies typically involve mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and bioactive signaling molecules, such as growth factors, aimed at promoting angiogenesis, cellular proliferation, and lineage-specific differentiation. In our review, we analyze existing developments in this area and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of 3D disassemblable scaffolds for mammary gland reconstruction, as well as prospects for their further research and clinical use. Full article

Background and Objectives: Nicotine is the most well-studied toxic substance in cigarette smoke and e-cigarette vape. However, smoke and vape are composed of other components that have a negative impact on health. The objective of this study is to investigate whether nicotine has a distinctive impact on molecular mechanisms in stem cells. Methods: The cellular impact of nicotine on the regenerative capacity of human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and the microRNA (miRNA) profile was examined. Bioinformatic analysis was performed to identify miRNA-regulated cellular pathways associated with nicotine exposure. These pathways were then compared to those induced by cigarette smoke condensate (CSC). Results: Prolonged exposure to nicotine significantly impaired the regeneration of DPSCs and changed the expression of miRNAs. Nicotine upregulated the expression of hsa-miR-7977, hsa-miR-3178, and hsa-miR-10400-5p compared to vehicle control. Interestingly, nicotine did not change the expression of hsa-miR-29b-3p, hsa-miR-199b-5p, hsa-miR-26b-5p, or hsa-miR-26a-5p compared to the control. However, the expressions of these miRNAs were significantly altered when compared to CSC treatment. Further analysis revealed that nicotine was distinctively associated with certain miRNA-targeted pathways including apoptosis, ErbB, MAPK signaling, PI3K-Akt, TGF-b signaling, and Wnt signaling. Conclusions: Our work provides evidence on the distinctive miRNA signature induced by nicotine. The information will be important for identifying the unique molecular pathways downstream of nicotine from smoking and vaping in different individuals, providing a new direction for personalized disease prevention, prognosis, and treatment. Full article

Background and Objective: Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a leading cause of lower back pain with limited regenerative treatments. Among emerging regenerative approaches, growth factor-based therapies, such as recombinant human transforming growth factor-beta (Rh-TGF-β), have shown potential for disc regeneration but are hindered by rapid degradation and uncontrolled release by direct administration. Additionally, mechanical stress elevates heat shock protein 90 (HSP-90), impairing cell function and extracellular matrix (ECM) production. This study aimed to investigate a dual self-cross-linked alginate di-aldehyde (ADA) hydrogel system for the sustained delivery of Rh-TGF-β and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) to enhance protein stability, regulate release, and promote disc regeneration by targeting both regenerative and stress-response pathways. Methods: ELISA and UV-Vis spectrophotometry assessed Rh-TGF-β and EGCG release profiles. A rat tail IVDD model was established with an Ilizarov-type external fixator for loading, followed by hydrogel treatment with or without bioactive agents. Disc height, tissue structure, and protein expression were evaluated via radiography, histological staining, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting. Results: The hydrogel demonstrated a biphasic release profile with 100% Rh-TGF-β released over 60 days and complete EGCG release achieved within 15 days. Treated groups showed improved disc height, structural integrity, and proteoglycan retention revealed by histological analysis and elevated HSP-90 expression by immunohistochemistry. In contrast, Western blot analysis confirmed that EGCG effectively downregulated HSP-90 expression, suggesting a reduction in mechanical stress-induced degeneration. Conclusions: ADA hydrogel effectively delivers therapeutic agents, offering a promising strategy for IVDD treatment. Full article

Plant-derived vesicle-like nanoparticles (PDVLNs) are bioactive nanovesicles secreted by plant cells, emerging as a novel therapeutic tool for tissue repair and regeneration due to their low immunogenicity, intrinsic bioactivity, and potential as drug delivery carriers. This review examines PDVLNs’ biogenesis mechanisms, isolation techniques, and compositional diversity, emphasizing their roles in promoting essential regenerative processes—cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, immune modulation, and angiogenesis. We explore their therapeutic applications across multiple tissue types, including skin, bone, neural, liver, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and dental tissues, using both natural and engineered PDVLNs in various disease models. Compared to mammalian exosomes, PDVLNs offer advantages such as reduced immune rejection and ethical concerns, enhancing their sustainability and appeal for regenerative medicine. However, challenges in clinical translation, including scalability, standardization, and safety remain. This paper consolidates current knowledge on PDVLNs, highlighting their versatility and providing insights into engineering strategies to optimize efficacy, ultimately outlining future research directions to advance their clinical potential. Plant vesicle-like nanoparticles (PDVLNs) may become a new avenue for the treatment of tissue injury, promoting tissue repair and regeneration through their intrinsic bioactivity or as drug delivery carriers. In addition, PDVLNs can be engineered and modified to achieve better results. Full article

Since the mid-19th century, researchers have explored the potential of bio-based polymeric materials for diverse applications, with particular promise in medicine. This review provides a focused and detailed examination of natural and synthetic biopolymers relevant to tissue engineering and biomedical applications. It emphasizes the structural diversity, functional characteristics, and processing strategies of major classes of biopolymers, including polysaccharides (e.g., hyaluronic acid, alginate, chitosan, bacterial cellulose) and proteins (e.g., collagen, silk fibroin, albumin), as well as synthetic biodegradable polymers such as polycaprolactone, polylactic acid, and polyhydroxybutyrate. The central aim of this manuscript is to elucidate how intrinsic properties—such as molecular weight, crystallinity, water retention, and bioactivity—affect the performance of biopolymers in biomedical contexts, particularly in drug delivery, wound healing, and scaffold-based tissue regeneration. This review also highlights recent advancements in polymer functionalization, composite formation, and fabrication techniques (e.g., electrospinning, bioprinting), which have expanded the application potential of these materials. By offering a comparative analysis of structure–property–function relationships across a diverse range of biopolymers, this review provides a comprehensive reference for selecting and engineering materials tailored to specific biomedical challenges. It also identifies key limitations, such as production scalability and mechanical performance, and suggests future directions for developing clinically viable and environmentally sustainable biomaterial platforms. Full article