Search Results (559)

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

Background: Fanconi Anemia (FA) is a rare disorder, characterized by chromosomal instability, congenital abnormalities, progressive bone marrow failure, and predisposition to cancer. FA is caused by pathogenic variants in any of the 23 (FANCA-FANCY) linked genes. Procedure: Retrospective analysis of 13 FA patients with a causative variant was performed. Patients (6 boys and 7 girls) aged from 9 to 26 years old, (mean age of 7.3 years), at diagnosis. Results: Phenotype evaluation demonstrated in 11/13 patients’ congenital anomalies, with pigmentary changes and short stature, present in 90% of cases. Hematological abnormalities were present in 10/11 patients, with thrombocytopenia being the prominent finding. Genetic analysis for the most common complementation group FA-A revealed that 12/13 patients belonged to this group and only one patient was found to be FA-E. Exon deletions, single nucleotide variations, and duplications were identified. Familial patterns, due to consanguinity, were evident in one case. Twelve patients underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), with variable pre-HSCT supportive treatments. Post-HSCT data showed that 9 out of 10 patients for whom follow up data was available, survived for a median time of 5.4 years. Complications like acute graft-versus-host disease were noted. Conclusions: Our study highlights the importance of genotype towards tailored monitoring for children and families with FA. Full article

Periodontitis is a chronic, multifactorial inflammatory disease characterized by the progressive destruction of the periodontal supporting tissues, including alveolar bone, potentially resulting in tooth loss. Etiopathogenesis involves a dysbiotic shift in the subgingival microbiota where the presence of pathogenic species such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and Treponema denticola has been documented. This disbalance is combined with an inadequate host immune response, often exacerbated by other systemic comorbidities including diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases. Conventional therapy typically comprises mechanical debridement and adjunctive local or systemic antimicrobials, but emerging antibiotic resistance highlights a need for alternative adjuvant therapeutic strategies. The present descriptive analysis of microbiome and clinical trends study evaluated the adjuvant effects of a clinoptilolite-based zeolite material, namely PMA-zeolite, with professional prophylaxis on clinical and microbiological parameters in patients with chronic periodontitis over a 10-week period. Clinical assessment revealed significant reductions in bleeding on probing (BoP) and periodontal pocket depth (PD), indicating improved inflammatory status. Microbiome profiling demonstrated a marked decrease in key periodontal pathogens, suggesting that PMA-zeolite can help rebalance the oral microbiome. These findings suggest that the combined therapy exhibits promising anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, indicating its role in promoting microbial homeostasis and reducing periodontal inflammation. However, further investigation through larger, controlled clinical trials is needed to validate the efficacy of the therapy. Full article

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) establishes lifelong latency in the host, with the bone marrow (BM) CD34+ cells serving as a key reservoir. To investigate tissue-specific immune responses to CMV, we analysed paired peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) from HCMV-seropositive donors using multiparametric flow cytometry and cytokine FluroSpot assays. We assessed immune cell composition, memory T cell subsets, cytokine production, cytotoxic potential, activation marker expression, and checkpoint inhibitory receptor (CIR) profiles, both ex vivo and following stimulation with lytic and latent HCMV antigens. BMMNCs were enriched in CD34+ progenitor cells and exhibited distinct T cell memory subset distributions. HCMV-specific responses were compartmentalised: IFN-γ responses predominated in PBMCs following lytic antigen stimulation, while IL-10 and TNF-α responses were more prominent in BMMNCs, particularly in response to latent antigens. US28-specific T cells in the BM showed elevated expression of CD39, PD-1, BTLA, CTLA-4, ICOS, and LAG-3 on CD4+ T cells and increased expression of PD-1, CD39, BTLA, TIGIT, LAG-3, and ICOS on CD8+ T cell populations, suggesting a more immunoregulatory phenotype. These findings highlight functional and phenotypic differences in HCMV-specific T cell responses between blood and bone marrow, underscoring the role of the BM niche in shaping antiviral immunity and maintaining viral latency. Full article

Tissue engineering is a growing field with multidisciplinary players in cell biology, engineering, and medicine, aiming to maintain, restore, or enhance functions of tissues and organs. The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays fundamental roles in tissue development, maintenance, and repair, providing not only structural support, but also critical biochemical and biomechanical cues that regulate cell behavior and signaling. Although its specific composition varies across different tissue types and developmental stages, matrix molecules influence various cell functional properties in every tissue. Given the importance of ECM in morphogenesis, tissue homeostasis, and regeneration, ECM-based bioscaffolds, developed through tissue engineering approaches, have emerged as pivotal tools for recreating the native cellular microenvironment. The aim of this study is to present the main categories of these scaffolds (i.e., natural, synthetic, and hybrid), major fabrication techniques (i.e., tissue decellularization and multidimensional bioprinting), while highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each category, focusing on biological activity and mechanical performance. Scaffold properties, such as mechanical strength, elasticity, biocompatibility, and biodegradability are essential to their function and integration into host tissues. Applications of ECM-based bioscaffolds span a range of engineering and regenerative strategies, including cartilage, bone, cardiac tissue engineering, and skin wound healing. Despite promising advances, challenges remain in standardization, scalability, and immune response modulation, with future directions directed towards improving ECM-mimetic platforms. Full article

Background: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease influenced by host aging, yet the specific effects of aging on disease susceptibility remain unclear. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate whether aging increases susceptibility to Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis)-induced periodontitis in a murine model. We formulated the null hypothesis that age does not affect susceptibility to periodontal bone loss. Methods: Young (8 weeks) and aged (78 weeks) male C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned into four groups: young control, young infected, old control, and old infected (n = 8 per group, except for old control, where n = 7). Experimental periodontitis was induced by oral application of P. gingivalis suspended in 5% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), administered every other day, for a total of three applications. Alveolar bone loss was assessed 39 days after the last inoculation using histomorphometric measurement of buccal distance from the cemento-enamel junction to the alveolar bone crest (CEJ–ABC distance) and micro-computed tomography (μCT) at mesial and distal interdental sites. Bonferroni’s correction was applied to the Mann–Whitney U Test to determine statistical significance. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Morphometric analysis showed significantly greater buccal bone loss in infected mice versus controls in both age groups (young: 0.193 mm vs. 0.100 mm, p < 0.01; old: 0.262 mm vs. 0.181 mm, p < 0.01). μCT analysis revealed that interdental bone loss was significant only in aged infected mice (mesial: 0.155 mm vs. 0.120 mm, p < 0.05; distal: 0.185 mm vs. 0.100 mm, p < 0.01), and not significant in young infected mice. Conclusions: Aging significantly exacerbates P. gingivalis-induced alveolar bone loss, particularly in interdental regions. These results allowed us to reject the null hypothesis. This study validates a clinically relevant murine model for analyzing age-related periodontitis and provides a foundation for investigating underlying molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions. Full article

Optimal dietary calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) requirements remain undetermined for Ningxiang pigs, a valuable indigenous Chinese breed. This study conducted a continuous feeding trial with two growth phases (grower: 30–50 kg; finisher: 50–80 kg) using fixed Ca/P ratios to systematically evaluate the effects of Ca/P levels on growth performance and mineral metabolism. A total of 180 pigs per phase were allocated to four Ca/P levels. During the grower phase, a dietary regimen of 0.83% Ca/0.67% P significantly increased the average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG), and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of energy and P. In the finisher phase, 0.60/0.48% Ca/P showed optimal growth performance, upregulated jejunal mineral transporters (CaSR and SLC34A2), enhanced bone mineralization (metatarsal ash content), and improved intestinal morphology (duodenal and jejunal villus height, jejunal villus surface area). This regimen also selectively enriched Peptostreptococcaceae abundance, indicating improved host–microbe interactions. Based on these findings, stage-specific nutritional strategies were recommended: 0.83% Ca/0.67% P during the grower phase and 0.60% Ca/0.48% P during the finisher phase. These protocols synergistically improve microbial ecology, intestinal function, and bone metabolism, thereby maximizing the growth potential of Ningxiang pigs. Full article

Infections with the protozoan Neospora caninum cause abortion in cattle, likely due to the parasite’s replication and excessive inflammation in the placenta. Cathelicidins are host defense peptides known for their antimicrobial and immunomodulatory functions, but their role in N. caninum infections remains elusive. Using bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) isolated from mice expressing (wild-type, Camp^+/+) and lacking (Camp^−/−) cathelicidins, we investigated the role of endogenous cathelicidin in infections with N. caninum. We show that Camp^−/− macrophages primed with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) had an increased number of intracellular N. caninum tachyzoites, and these macrophages released higher amounts of IL-1β and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), a marker of cytotoxicity. These findings indicate that cathelicidins contribute to intracellular N. caninum control and inflammation by limiting the activation of the inflammasome, particularly under LPS-induced conditions. This insight reveals the immunomodulatory role of cathelicidins in controlling N. caninum-associated pathologies. Full article

For many years, staphylococci have been detected mainly in infections of the skin and soft tissues, organs, bone inflammations, and generalized infections. Thromboembolic diseases have also become a serious plague of our times, which, as it turns out, are closely related to the toxic effects of staphylococci. Staphylococcus aureus, because of the presence of many different kinds of virulence factors, is capable of manipulating the host’s innate and adaptive immune responses. These include toxins and cofactors that activate host zymogens and exoenzymes, as well as superantigens, which are highly inflammatory and cause leukocyte death. Coagulases and staphylokinases can control the host’s coagulation system. Nucleases and proteases inactivate various immune defense and surveillance proteins, including complement components, peptides and antibacterial proteins, and surface receptors that are important for leukocyte chemotaxis. On the other hand, secreted toxins and exoenzymes are proteins that disrupt the endothelial and epithelial barrier as a result of cell lysis and disintegration of linking proteins, which ultimately increases the risk of thromboembolism. In this review, we discuss various virulence factors and substances that may inhibit their activity. Full article

Fanconi anemia (FA) is characterized by faulty DNA repair and is associated with bone marrow failure, acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Because of the more widespread use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) and increased testing for germline mutations in young patients with MDS and AML, FA is increasingly being first diagnosed in adults, many of whom lack classical physical stigmata. Hematopoietic stem cell transplant is the only cure for the hematologic manifestations of FA but there are several unique considerations in FA patients, including first maintaining a high index of suspicion for the diagnosis in patients with minimal phenotypic abnormalities, second an exaggerated sensitivity to alkylating agents and radiation, precluding the use of standard myeloablative conditioning regimens despite the young age of most of the patients, and lastly a marked propensity for squamous cell cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract and anogenital region, likely further increased by the drugs used in conditioning and by chronic inflammation in patients who develop graft-versus-host disease. Despite a growing number of FA patients surviving into adulthood or first being diagnosed with FA as an adult, there is minimal literature describing transplant methodology and outcomes. In the following case-based review of a patient, we incorporate recent findings from the literature on the care of this challenging patient population. Full article

Cancer patients use cannabis for medicinal purposes; however, few studies have examined hematology patients’ use of cannabis and no research to our knowledge has investigated the use of cannabis amongst hematology patients before and after hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT). The purpose of this longitudinal survey study was to assess aspects of cannabis use in patients who underwent HCT. Eligible patients (N = 30) completed two surveys before and 90 days following their HCT. The surveys inquired about several aspects of cannabis (e.g., rate of use, beliefs and attitudes, access to information) and physical and psychological outcomes (e.g., anxiety, comorbidities, graft-versus-host-disease). Rates of cannabis use decreased following HCT (n = 14, 46% to n = 11, 40%). Conversations on cannabis that were initiated by an oncology health care provider increased post-transplant (n = 3, 10% to n = 11, 37%). This coincided with fewer who were smoking cannabis as a primary consumption method (n = 5, 38 to n = 2, 18) and an increase in the use of pharmaceutical cannabinoid products (n = 4, 13% to n = 6, 21%) as well as oils and topicals. Of the total sample, 63% (n = 17) experienced post-treatment complications and 33% (n = 10) developed GVHD, six of whom where recent cannabis users. This study provided insight into cannabis use amongst HCT patients and warrants further research with this population, including more exploration of the relationship between GVHD and cannabis. Full article

Advancements in load-bearing tissue repair increasingly demand biomaterials that not only support structural integrity but also interact dynamically with the physiological environment. This review examines the latest progress in smart biomaterials designed for skeletal reconstruction, with emphasis on mechanoresponsive scaffolds, bioactive composites, and integrated microsensors for real-time monitoring. We explore material formulations that enhance osseointegration, resist micromotion-induced loosening, and modulate inflammatory responses at the bone–implant interface. Additionally, we assess novel fabrication methods—such as additive manufacturing and gradient-based material deposition—for tailoring stiffness, porosity, and degradation profiles to match host biomechanics. Special attention is given to sensor-augmented platforms capable of detecting mechanical strain, biofilm formation, and early-stage implant failure. Together, these technologies promise a new class of bioresponsive, diagnostic-capable constructs that extend beyond static support to become active agents in regenerative healing and post-operative monitoring. This multidisciplinary review integrates insights from materials science, mechanobiology, and device engineering to inform the future of implantable systems in skeletal tissue repair. Full article

Osteoporosis is a systemic bone disorder characterized by decreased bone mass and deteriorated microarchitecture, leading to an increased risk of fractures. Recent studies have revealed that its pathogenesis involves complex biological processes beyond bone remodeling, including oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, cellular senescence, osteoimmunology, gut microbiota alterations, and epigenetic modifications. Oxidative stress disrupts bone homeostasis by promoting excessive free radical production and osteoclast activity. Chronic inflammation and the accumulation of senescent cells impair skeletal repair mechanisms. Advances in osteoimmunology have highlighted the critical role of immune–bone crosstalk in regulating bone resorption and formation. Moreover, the gut–bone axis, mediated by microbial metabolites, influences bone metabolism through immune and endocrine pathways. Epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation and histone modification, contribute to gene–environment interactions, affecting disease progression. Multi-omics approaches (genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) systematically identify molecular networks and comorbid links with diabetes/cardiovascular diseases, revealing pathological feedback loops that exacerbate bone loss. In conclusion, osteoporosis pathogenesis extends beyond bone remodeling to encompass systemic inflammation, immunometabolic dysregulation, and gut microbiota–host interactions. Future research should focus on integrating multi-omics biomarkers with targeted therapies to advance precision medicine strategies for osteoporosis prevention and treatment. Full article

Background: Alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) following tooth extraction plays a vital role in maintaining ridge dimensions and supporting subsequent implant therapy. Objectives: This study histologically and radiographically evaluates the efficacy of techBiomat bone^®—a deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM)—for alveolar ridge preservation (ARP), comparing the results of bone formation, residual graft particles, and nonmineralized tissue to those of spontaneous healing in human tooth sockets. Methods: A split-mouth study was conducted to evaluate the radiographic and histologic outcomes in human sockets with and without ARP. Results: A significant improvement in bone fill was observed compared to untreated sockets. Radiographically, 87% of the treated sockets demonstrated more than 75% bone fill, whereas only 7% of the untreated sockets did. Histologically, the percentage of new bone formation was greater in treated sockets (42%) than in untreated sockets (25%). The findings also highlighted a lower proportion of nonmineralized tissue in grafted sites, suggesting improved healing over spontaneous healing. The residual graft material in the treated sockets had a moderate resorption rate, with almost complete replacement by the host bone after six months. The use of techBiomat bone^® demonstrated promising results, with a resorption rate conducive to optimal bone regeneration, with less than 9% residual graft material remaining after six months. Conclusions: This study supports the efficacy of techBiomat bone^® graft material for ARP, highlighting its potential in maintaining ridge volume. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these findings. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural substance in the human body with anti-inflammatory and healing properties that help repair bone by supporting cell growth, blood vessel formation, and tissue structure. A common complication after minimally invasive surgery is delayed bone healing in osteotomies. HA may offer a useful treatment to support faster recovery. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines and was pre-registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD420250654929). Searches were conducted in PubMed, EbscoHost, Web of Science, and Scopus up to 25 January 2025. Studies from the last five years on HA and bone healing were included. The main outcomes were faster bone repair and improved regeneration. Study quality was assessed using the OCEBM, ROBINS-I, and GRADE tools. Results: Out of 96 studies, 9 met the inclusion criteria. HA, especially when combined with other materials or stem cells, helped bone repair by supporting new bone formation. Materials like 3D-printed scaffolds, hydrogels, and meshes showed good results in bone healing. However, differences in the study design made direct comparison difficult. Conclusions: Hyaluronic acid shows promise for bone repair, especially in combination with other materials. More standardized clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness and define how best to use it in minimally invasive surgeries. Full article