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Search Results (651)

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Keywords = human keratinocyte HaCaT cell

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18 pages, 2852 KiB  
Article
Fe3O4@β-cyclodextrin Nanosystem: A Promising Adjuvant Approach in Cancer Treatment
by Claudia Geanina Watz, Ciprian-Valentin Mihali, Camelia Oprean, Lavinia Krauss Maldea, Calin Adrian Tatu, Mirela Nicolov, Ioan-Ovidiu Sîrbu, Cristina A. Dehelean, Vlad Socoliuc and Elena-Alina Moacă
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(15), 1192; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15151192 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The high incidence of melanoma leading to a poor prognosis rate endorses the development of alternative and innovative approaches in the treatment of melanoma. Therefore, the present study aims to develop and characterize, in terms of physicochemical features and biological impact, an aqueous [...] Read more.
The high incidence of melanoma leading to a poor prognosis rate endorses the development of alternative and innovative approaches in the treatment of melanoma. Therefore, the present study aims to develop and characterize, in terms of physicochemical features and biological impact, an aqueous suspension of magnetite (Fe3O4) coated with β-cyclodextrin (Fe3O4@β-CD) as a potential innovative alternative nanosystem for melanoma therapy. The nanosystem exhibited physicochemical characteristics suitable for biological applications, revealing a successful complexation of Fe3O4 NPs with β-CD and an average size of 18.1 ± 2.1 nm. In addition, the in vitro evaluations revealed that the newly developed nanosystem presented high biocompatibility on a human keratinocyte (HaCaT) monolayer and selective antiproliferative activity on amelanotic human melanoma (A375) cells, inducing early apoptosis features when concentrations of 10, 15, and 20 μg/mL were employed for 48 h and 72 h. Collectively, the Fe3O4@β-CD nanosystem reveals promising features for an adjuvant approach in melanoma treatment, mainly due to its β-cyclodextrin coating, thus endorsing a potential co-loading of therapeutic drugs. Furthermore, the intrinsic magnetic core of Fe3O4 NPs supports the magnetically based cancer treatment strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthesis of Functional Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications)
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23 pages, 5771 KiB  
Article
Photobiomodulation of 450 nm Blue Light on Human Keratinocytes, Fibroblasts, and Endothelial Cells: An In Vitro and Transcriptomic Study on Cells Involved in Wound Healing and Angiogenesis
by Jingbo Shao, Sophie Clément, Christoph Reissfelder, Patrick Téoule, Norbert Gretz, Feng Guo, Sabina Hajizada, Stefanie Uhlig, Katharina Mößinger, Carolina de la Torre, Carsten Sticht, Vugar Yagublu and Michael Keese
Biomedicines 2025, 13(8), 1876; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13081876 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 133
Abstract
Background: Blue light (BL) irradiation has been shown to induce photobiomodulation (PBM) in cells. Here, we investigate its influence on cell types involved in wound healing. Methods: Cellular responses of immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaTs), normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs), and human [...] Read more.
Background: Blue light (BL) irradiation has been shown to induce photobiomodulation (PBM) in cells. Here, we investigate its influence on cell types involved in wound healing. Methods: Cellular responses of immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaTs), normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs), and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) after light treatment at 450 nm were analyzed by kinetic assays on cell viability, proliferation, ATP quantification, migration assay, and apoptosis assay. Gene expression was evaluated by transcriptome analysis. Results: A biphasic effect was observed on HaCaTs, NHDFs, and HUVECs. Low-fluence (4.5 J/cm2) irradiation stimulated cell viability, proliferation, and migration. mRNA sequencing indicated involvement of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), ErbB, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathways. High-fluence (18 J/cm2) irradiation inhibited these cellular activities by downregulating DNA replication, the cell cycle, and mismatch repair pathways. Conclusions: HaCaTs, NHDFs, and HUVECs exhibited a dose-dependent pattern after BL irradiation. These findings broaden the view of PBM following BL irradiation of these three cell types, thereby promoting their potential application in wound healing and angiogenesis. Our data on low-fluence BL at 450 nm indicates clinical potential for a novel modality in wound therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cell Biology and Pathology)
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18 pages, 2876 KiB  
Article
The Secretome of Human Deciduous Tooth-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Enhances In Vitro Wound Healing and Modulates Inflammation
by Thais Simião Payão, Vanessa Pellegrini, Joseane Morari, Gisele Mara Silva Gonçalves, Maria Carolina Ximenes de Godoy, Alessandra Gambero, Leonardo O. Reis, Lício Augusto Velloso, Eliana Pereira Araújo and Lívia Bitencourt Pascoal
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 961; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17080961 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 342
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Chronic wounds represent a significant clinical and public health challenge due to impaired tissue repair and high associated morbidity. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of the secretome derived from human mesenchymal stem cells obtained from the pulp of deciduous teeth (hDP-MSCs) [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Chronic wounds represent a significant clinical and public health challenge due to impaired tissue repair and high associated morbidity. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of the secretome derived from human mesenchymal stem cells obtained from the pulp of deciduous teeth (hDP-MSCs) in promoting skin wound healing. Methods: After confirming the mesenchymal identity and multipotent differentiation potential of hDP-MSCs by using flow cytometry and histological staining, the effects of the secretome on human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cultures were evaluated. Results: Scratch assays, performed under high- and low-glucose conditions, demonstrated that the secretome significantly promoted keratinocyte migration and wound closure without compromising cell viability. Additionally, the secretome modulated the expression of key genes involved in inflammation and tissue regeneration, including IL-1β, TNF-α, TGF-β1, and VEGF-α, in a time-dependent manner. Under inflammatory conditions induced by lipopolysaccharide, co-treatment with the secretome significantly reduced TNF-α expression and increased TGF-β1 expression, suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect. Conclusions: These findings indicate the potential of the hDP-MSC-derived secretome as a promising cell-free therapeutic strategy capable of accelerating skin regeneration and modulating the inflammatory response during the wound healing process. Full article
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26 pages, 4733 KiB  
Article
Structural Characterization and Anti-Ultraviolet Radiation Damage Activity of Polysaccharides from Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) Receptacles
by Xiaochun Chen, Zhiying Wei, Xiaoying Mo, Yantong Lu, Guangjuan Pan, Zhenzhen Pan, Yaohua Li, Hui Tian and Xiaojiao Pan
Molecules 2025, 30(14), 2943; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30142943 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 332
Abstract
Helianthus annuus L. (H. annuus) receptacles, a major agricultural by-product generated during seed processing, are currently underutilized. This study aimed to explore the valorization potential of this by-product by extracting H. annuus receptacles total polysaccharides (HRTP) and characterizing their potential [...] Read more.
Helianthus annuus L. (H. annuus) receptacles, a major agricultural by-product generated during seed processing, are currently underutilized. This study aimed to explore the valorization potential of this by-product by extracting H. annuus receptacles total polysaccharides (HRTP) and characterizing their potential as natural ingredients in ultraviolet (UV)-protective cosmetics. A new purified polysaccharide named H. annuus receptacles polysaccharide-1 (HRP-1) was isolated, likely exhibiting a backbone of alternating →4)-α-D-GalA-(1→ and →4)-α-D-GalA(6-OCH3)-(1→ units, with a weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of 163 kDa. HRTP demonstrated significant protective effects against UV-induced damage in human immortalized keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells by suppressing intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and downregulating MAPK-p38/ERK/JNK pathways, thereby inhibiting inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-9). Additionally, HRTP exhibited moisturizing properties. These findings highlight H. annuus receptacle polysaccharides as sustainable, bioactive ingredients for eco-friendly sunscreen formulations, providing a practical approach to converting agricultural by-products into high-value industrial biomaterials. Full article
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13 pages, 1243 KiB  
Article
Is Ozonation Treatment Efficient to Provide Safe Reclaimed Water? Assessing the Effects of Synthetic Wastewater Effluents in Human Cell Models
by Ana Teresa Rocha, Fátima Jesus, Helena Oliveira, João Gomes and Joana Luísa Pereira
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 7784; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15147784 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 261
Abstract
Ozonation has been promoted as a successful methodology for recovering effluents from wastewater treatment plants, with special emphasis on wastewater contaminated with pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs). Still, ozonation reactions may generate potentially toxic by-products, jeopardizing human health safety, a critical aspect [...] Read more.
Ozonation has been promoted as a successful methodology for recovering effluents from wastewater treatment plants, with special emphasis on wastewater contaminated with pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs). Still, ozonation reactions may generate potentially toxic by-products, jeopardizing human health safety, a critical aspect considering the use of reclaimed water. We aimed at understanding the potential impacts of ozonation on the quality of reclaimed water for human use through cell viability assays with human skin keratinocytes (HaCaT cell line). Under this context, the cytotoxicity of synthetic effluents contaminated with methyl- and propylparaben, paracetamol, sulfamethoxazole, and carbamazepine, both individually and in mixtures, was assessed before and after ozonation. The viability of HaCaT cells decreased after exposure to untreated synthetic effluents, denoting the cytotoxicity of the tested PPCPs singly and more prominently in mixtures (especially in those combining two and three PPCPs). A similar pattern was observed when testing effluents treated with ozonation. Since the parent contaminants were fully removed during ozonation, the observed cytotoxicity relates to degradation by-products and interactive effects among them. This study suggests that ozonation is poorly efficient in reducing cytotoxicity, as required for the safe use of ozone-treated reclaimed water in activities involving direct contact with human skin. Full article
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23 pages, 3707 KiB  
Article
Structural and Functional Profiling of Water-Extracted Polypeptides from Periplaneta americana: A Multifunctional Cosmetic Bioactive Agent with Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
by Xinyu Sun, Zhengyang Zhang, Jingyao Qu, Deyun Yao, Zeyuan Sun, Jingyi Zhou, Jiayuan Xie, Mingyang Zhou, Xiaodeng Yang and Ling Wang
Molecules 2025, 30(14), 2901; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30142901 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 441
Abstract
Low-molecular-weight polypeptides (<3 kDa) were prepared from Periplaneta americana via enzymatic hydrolysis and ultrafiltration, yielding 3.53 ± 0.01 mg/g of peptide-rich extract. The extract was primarily composed of peptides, proteins, polysaccharides, phenolics, and flavonoids. HPLC-MS analysis identified 1402 peptide sequences, 80.51% of which [...] Read more.
Low-molecular-weight polypeptides (<3 kDa) were prepared from Periplaneta americana via enzymatic hydrolysis and ultrafiltration, yielding 3.53 ± 0.01 mg/g of peptide-rich extract. The extract was primarily composed of peptides, proteins, polysaccharides, phenolics, and flavonoids. HPLC-MS analysis identified 1402 peptide sequences, 80.51% of which were below 1000 Da, predominantly consisting of tri-, tetra-, and octapeptides. Monosaccharide profiling detected D-(+)-galactose, and quantitative assays determined the contents of total phenolics (12.28 mg/g), flavonoids (15.50 mg/g), proteins (85.84 mg/g), and total sugars (17.62 mg/g). The biological activities of the extract were systematically evaluated. The peptide fraction inhibited hyaluronidase activity by 58% at 5 mg/mL, suggesting protection of extracellular matrix integrity. In HaCaT keratinocytes, it promoted cell proliferation by 62.6%, accelerated scratch wound closure by 54%, upregulated Wnt-10b and β-catenin expression, and reduced intracellular ROS levels under oxidative stress. In LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, the extract decreased TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β production by 30%, 25%, and 28%, respectively, reduced MDA levels by 35.2%, and enhanced CAT and SOD activities by 12.3% and 60.3%. In vivo, complete closure of full-thickness skin wounds in mice was achieved by day 14. Safety evaluations using the chick chorioallantoic membrane assay and human patch tests confirmed the extract to be non-irritating and non-toxic. These findings highlight Periplaneta americana extract as a promising multifunctional bioactive ingredient for cosmetic and dermatological applications. Further studies on its active components, mechanisms of action, and clinical efficacy are warranted to support its development in skin health and aesthetic medicine. Full article
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11 pages, 2796 KiB  
Article
In Vitro and Ex Vivo Evaluation of Rifampicin Cytotoxicity in Human Skin Models
by Marcel Nani Leite, Natália Aparecida de Paula, Leandra Náira Zambelli Ramalho and Marco Andrey Cipriani Frade
Antibiotics 2025, 14(7), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14070691 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 351
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Drugs for human use require several studies for the assessment of their efficacy and safety. An important property is cytotoxicity, which should be tested in different environments and models in closer proximity to the final use of the drug, with greater [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Drugs for human use require several studies for the assessment of their efficacy and safety. An important property is cytotoxicity, which should be tested in different environments and models in closer proximity to the final use of the drug, with greater reliability. Thus, we proposed to evaluate the toxicity of rifampicin, the only bactericidal drug in the anti-leprosy multidrug therapy, using skin cells and skin explant cultures. Methods: Cell viability was tested by the MTT method using primary keratinocytes and fibroblasts and immortalized skin cells (HaCaT and 3T3) at 24, 48, and 72 h of treatment. For the skin explant, we used the TTC assay to determine viability (24, 48, 72, and 96 h), hematoxylin and eosin staining to analyze the structure and architecture of the tissue, and TUNEL to assess apoptotic cells at 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. Results: Regarding the toxicity of primary and immortalized cells, viability was above 70% up to a concentration of 50 μg/mL at 24, 48, and 72 h, and at the concentration of 200 μg/mL, all cells showed greater sensitivity, especially at 72 h. Tissue viability analysis revealed a high percentage (above 96%) of viable tissue at the concentrations of 100, 150, and 200 μg/mL at the time points studied. Histological analysis showed that tissue architecture was maintained, with no apoptotic cells being observed. Conclusions: Thus, our results showed the importance of evaluating drug toxicity using different cell types, with the ex vivo skin model proving to be an alternative to animal use. Full article
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16 pages, 1584 KiB  
Article
Cytotoxic Activity of Essential Oils from Middle Eastern Medicinal Plants on Malignant Keratinocytes
by Rima Othman, Vanessa Moarbes, Muriel Tahtouh Zaatar, Diane Antonios, Rabih Roufayel, Marc Beyrouthy, Ziad Fajloun, Jean-Marc Sabatier and Marc Karam
Molecules 2025, 30(13), 2844; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30132844 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 887
Abstract
Skin cancer, including melanoma and non-melanoma cancers (basal and squamous cell carcinomas), is the most common type of cancer. UV radiation, family history, and genetic predisposition are the main risk factors. Although surgical excision is the standard treatment, essential oils are attracting growing [...] Read more.
Skin cancer, including melanoma and non-melanoma cancers (basal and squamous cell carcinomas), is the most common type of cancer. UV radiation, family history, and genetic predisposition are the main risk factors. Although surgical excision is the standard treatment, essential oils are attracting growing interest for their anti-cancer effects. This study tested the effects of Juniperus excelsa M. Bieb. (Cupressaceae), Lavandula vera DC. (Lamiaceae), and Salvia fruticosa (Mill). (Lamiaceae) essential oils extracted from Middle Eastern medicinal plants on HaCaT (normal), A5 (benign), and II4 (low-grade malignant) keratinocytes. Essential oils were extracted from Juniperus excelsa, Lavandula vera, and Salvia libanotica using steam distillation and then were chemically analyzed. The oils were sterilized, dissolved in DMSO, and prepared at concentrations of 0.75, 0.5, and 0.25 mg/mL. Human keratinocyte (HaCaT), benign (A5), and malignant (II4) cell lines were cultured in DMEM and treated with the essential oils for 24 or 48 h. Cell viability was assessed using the Trypan Blue Exclusion Test, while cell proliferation was evaluated using the MTT assay. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA with appropriate post hoc tests, considering p < 0.05 as significant. The results show that J. excelsa is cytotoxic but lacks selectivity, limiting its efficacy. In contrast, L. vera and S. fruticosa preferentially target malignant cells, particularly at low concentrations, while sparing normal cells. These oils have dose-dependent anticancer effects, with L. vera efficacy increasing as the concentration increases. In conclusion, L. vera and S. fruticosa are promising candidates for the treatment of skin cancer, although further in vivo studies are required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Plant-Sourced Natural Compounds as Anticancer Agents)
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17 pages, 1587 KiB  
Article
Triazole-imidazo[1,2-b]pyrazoles Able to Counteract Melanoma Cell Survival Without Compromising the Viability of Healthy Keratinocytes
by Chiara Brullo, Barbara Marengo, Cinzia Domenicotti, Matteo Lusardi, Elena Cichero, Annalisa Salis, Debora Caviglia, Eleonora Russo and Andrea Spallarossa
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 6312; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26136312 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 317
Abstract
To further extend the structure–activity relationships on previously identified anti-proliferative imidazo-pyrazoles, a novel series of compounds was designed and synthesized. In the obtained derivatives (1), the imidazo-pyrazole scaffold was formally condensed with a substituted triazole moiety, known for its biological properties. [...] Read more.
To further extend the structure–activity relationships on previously identified anti-proliferative imidazo-pyrazoles, a novel series of compounds was designed and synthesized. In the obtained derivatives (1), the imidazo-pyrazole scaffold was formally condensed with a substituted triazole moiety, known for its biological properties. All derivatives were tested for anti-proliferative activity on a panel of 60 different cancer cell lines and compound 1h was identified as the most promising derivative, being highly effective against melanoma cells. Additional investigations demonstrated a cytotoxic and pro-oxidant action of the compound 1h on human metastatic melanoma cell lines (MeOV and MeTA) but not on healthy keratinocytes (HaCAT), confirming the selective activity of the compound. In silico calculations predicted favorable drug-like and pharmacokinetic properties and pre-formulation studies evaluated the effect of Tween 80 on 1h solubility. Overall, the collected data confirmed the pharmacological potential of the imidazo-pyrazole scaffold and indicated 1h as an interesting lead structure for the development of novel anti-melanoma agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pharmacology)
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19 pages, 2063 KiB  
Article
Inhibition of the MRSA Biofilm Formation and Skin Antineoplastic Activity of Ethyl Acetate Roots and Aerial Parts Extracts from Geum urbanum L.
by Lyudmila Dimitrova, Maya M. Zaharieva, Lilia Tserovska, Milena Popova, Vassya Bankova and Hristo Najdenski
Antibiotics 2025, 14(7), 627; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14070627 - 20 Jun 2025
Viewed by 567
Abstract
Background: The opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus aureus causes skin and soft tissue infections that are associated with biofilm formation, and in immunocompromised patients can progress to surgical site infections, pneumonia, bacteremia, sepsis, and even death. Most antibiotics actively damage living, dividing cells on the [...] Read more.
Background: The opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus aureus causes skin and soft tissue infections that are associated with biofilm formation, and in immunocompromised patients can progress to surgical site infections, pneumonia, bacteremia, sepsis, and even death. Most antibiotics actively damage living, dividing cells on the surface of the biofilm, where there is a high concentration of nutrients and oxygen, while in the depths, where these factors are scarce, slowly growing cells remain. Objectives: The aim of our study was to evaluate the antibiofilm potential of ethyl acetate roots (EtOAcR) and aerial parts (EtOAcAP) extracts from the perennial Bulgarian plant Geum urbanum L. against methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) NBIMCC 8327. Methods: The effects of both extracts on the expression of biofilm-related genes, icaA and icaD, were investigated. The cytotoxicity of EtOAcR and EtOAcAP on A-375 (human melanoma), A-431 (epidermoid skin cancer) and HaCaT (normal keratinocytes) cell lines, and the induction of apoptosis were determined. Finally, the in vivo skin irritation potential of the most active extract was studied. Results: Both tested extracts inhibited biofilm formation at concentrations that did not affect bacterial growth. Interestingly, the expression of icaA and icaD was upregulated, although the biofilm development was inhibited 72.4–90.5% by EtOAcAP and 18.9–20.4% by EtOAcR at sub-MICs. EtOAcAP extract showed a more favorable cytotoxic profile on non-tumorigenic cells and stronger antineoplastic activity (IC50 = 6.7–14.68 µg/mL) as compared to EtOAcR extract (IC50 = 8.73–23.67 µg/mL). Therefore, a skin irritation test was performed with the EtOAcAP extract at ten-times higher concentrations than the minimum inhibitory one, and, resultantly, the primary irritation index was equal to zero (no skin irritation observed). Conclusions: The EtOAcAP extract was proven to be an effective antistaphylococcal agent with favorable skin tolerance. The extract showed strong antineoplastic activity and antibiofilm effect at sub-MICs, which outlines new prospects for its development as a natural product for specific skin applications in medical practice. Full article
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16 pages, 7578 KiB  
Article
Brianolide from Briareum stechei Attenuates Atopic Dermatitis-like Skin Lesions by Regulating the NFκB and MAPK Pathways
by Chia-Chen Wang, Kang-Ling Wang, Yu-Jou Hsu, Chao-Hsien Sung, Mei-Jung Chen, Meng-Fang Huang, Ping-Jyun Sung and Chi-Feng Hung
Biomolecules 2025, 15(6), 871; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom15060871 - 14 Jun 2025
Viewed by 624
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic skin disease affecting both children and adults. Currently lacking a clinical cure, AD presents significant physical and emotional challenges for patients and their families, substantially impacting their quality of life. This underscores significant unmet needs in [...] Read more.
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic skin disease affecting both children and adults. Currently lacking a clinical cure, AD presents significant physical and emotional challenges for patients and their families, substantially impacting their quality of life. This underscores significant unmet needs in AD management and highlights the necessity for developing effective therapeutic applications. Recently, several chlorine-containing active substances with promising pharmacological activity have been discovered in soft corals cultivated through coral farming. Among these, brianolide, isolated from the soft coral Briareum stechei, has shown promising potential. This study investigated brianolide’s regulatory effects on the inflammatory response in atopic dermatitis and its underlying mechanisms. Using an in vitro human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)/interferon-γ (IFN-γ) to mimic AD inflammation, brianolide was found to inhibit cytokine and chemokine expression via the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NFκB)-signaling pathways. In an in vivo animal model of 2,4-Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced AD, brianolide demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), ear thickness, erythema, and epidermal blood flow. These findings provide new insights into brianolide’s activity against AD-related inflammation, elucidate potential mechanisms, and contribute to understanding the pharmacological potential of natural coral products for AD treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms and Signaling Pathways in Autoimmune Diseases)
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20 pages, 4491 KiB  
Article
Hydroxyapatite-Complexed Type I Collagen and Fibrinogen-Modified Porous Titanium Alloy Scaffold: Promoting Osteogenesis and Soft Tissue Integration
by Wenhao Tao, Gang Tian, Xu Han, Jianyong Gao, Yingchun Zhu and Xiaogang Xu
Micromachines 2025, 16(6), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16060692 - 9 Jun 2025
Viewed by 569
Abstract
Titanium and its alloy scaffolds are widely utilized in clinical settings; however, their biologically inert surfaces and inherent mechanical characteristics impede osteogenesis and soft tissue integration, thereby limiting their application. Selective laser melting (SLM) was employed to fabricate scaffolds with matched cortical bone [...] Read more.
Titanium and its alloy scaffolds are widely utilized in clinical settings; however, their biologically inert surfaces and inherent mechanical characteristics impede osteogenesis and soft tissue integration, thereby limiting their application. Selective laser melting (SLM) was employed to fabricate scaffolds with matched cortical bone mechanical properties, achieving a composite coating of hydroxyapatite complexed with trace elements of silicon, strontium, and fluoride (mHA), along with type I collagen (Col I) and fibrinogen (Fg), thus activating the scaffold surface. Initially, we utilized the excellent adhesive properties of dopamine to co-deposit mHA and polydopamine (PDA) onto porous Ti-6Al-4V scaffolds, which was followed by immobilization of type I collagen and fibrinogen onto PDA. This bioinorganic/bioprotein composite coating, formed via PDA bonding, exhibits excellent stability. Moreover, in vitro cell experiments demonstrate excellent biocompatibility of the porous Ti-6Al-4V scaffold with composite bioactive coatings on its surface. Preosteoblasts (MC3T3-E1) and human keratinocytes (HaCaT) exhibit enhanced adhesion and proliferation activity, and the osteogenic performance of the scaffold is significantly improved. The PDA-mHA-Col I-Fg composite-coated porous titanium alloy scaffold holds significant promise in enhancing the efficacy of percutaneous bone transplantation and requires further investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section B2: Biofabrication and Tissue Engineering)
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23 pages, 3875 KiB  
Article
Chemical Composition, Quality, and Bioactivity of Laurus nobilis L. Hydrosols from the Adriatic Regions of Croatia: Implications for Dermatological Applications
by Lea Juretić, Valerija Dunkić, Ivana Gobin, Suzana Inić, Dario Kremer, Marija Nazlić, Lea Pollak, Silvestar Mežnarić, Ana Barbarić and Renata Jurišić Grubešić
Antioxidants 2025, 14(6), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14060688 - 5 Jun 2025
Viewed by 633
Abstract
Laurus nobilis L., Lauraceae, bay laurel, has been traditionally used for its various therapeutic properties, and in recent years has been gaining interest for its potential applications in skincare products. However, the biological effects of bay laurel, particularly its hydrosols, a water fraction [...] Read more.
Laurus nobilis L., Lauraceae, bay laurel, has been traditionally used for its various therapeutic properties, and in recent years has been gaining interest for its potential applications in skincare products. However, the biological effects of bay laurel, particularly its hydrosols, a water fraction obtained during essential oil production, remain unexplored. The objective of this study was to identify the volatile compounds in L. nobilis hydrosols (LnHYs) from different coastal regions of Croatia (north, middle, and south Adriatic) and to evaluate their potential safety and efficacy for dermatological applications. Upon isolating LnHYs using microwave-assisted extraction, LnHY volatiles were identified and quantified using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Oxygenated monoterpenes were the dominant compounds in all LnHYs (61.72–97.00%), with 1,8-cineole being the most abundant component (52.25–81.89%). The physical and chemical parameters of LnHYs were investigated to assess their purity and quality. Biological activity (cytotoxicity and wound-healing effect) was tested on the human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT), selected as the experimental model due to its relevance to skin biology. Additionally, contents of polyphenolic substances, antioxidative effects using the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) methods, and the antimicrobial activity of LnHYs toward five skin microorganisms were determined. All tested hydrosols showed similar biological activity, with only minor differences. Cytotoxicity studies indicated the safety of the dermatological application of LnHYs, and the results of the wound-healing assay showed their neutral to mildly positive effect. Considering the growing use of bay laurel preparations in pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications, extensive studies on their biological activity, quality, and safety are essential to either support or regulate their use in humans. Full article
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22 pages, 4409 KiB  
Article
Newly Synthesized CoFe2−yPryO4 (y = 0; 0.01; 0.03; 0.05; 0.1; 0.15; 0.2) Nanoparticles Reveal Promising Selective Anticancer Activity Against Melanoma (A375), Breast Cancer (MCF-7), and Colon Cancer (HT-29) Cells
by Slaviţa Rotunjanu, Roxana Racoviceanu, Armand Gogulescu, Alexandra Mioc, Andreea Milan, Narcisa Laura Marangoci, Andrei-Ioan Dascălu, Marius Mioc, Roxana Negrea-Ghiulai, Cristina Trandafirescu and Codruţa Șoica
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(11), 829; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15110829 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 2980
Abstract
In this study, praseodymium-doped cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (CoFe2−yPryO4, y = 0–0.2) were synthesized via sol-gel auto-combustion and systematically characterized to assess their structural, morphological, magnetic, and biological properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed single-phase cubic cobalt ferrite formation [...] Read more.
In this study, praseodymium-doped cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (CoFe2−yPryO4, y = 0–0.2) were synthesized via sol-gel auto-combustion and systematically characterized to assess their structural, morphological, magnetic, and biological properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed single-phase cubic cobalt ferrite formation for samples with y ≤ 0.05 and the emergence of a secondary orthorhombic PrFeO3 phase at higher dopant concentrations. FTIR spectroscopy identified characteristic metal–oxygen vibrations and revealed a progressive shift of absorption bands with increasing praseodymium (Pr) content. Vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) demonstrated a gradual decline in saturation (Ms) and remanent (Mr) magnetization with Pr doping, an effect further intensified by cyclodextrin surface coating. TEM analyses revealed a particle size increase correlated with dopant level, while SEM images displayed a porous morphology typical of combustion-synthesized ferrites. In vitro cell viability assays showed minimal toxicity in normal human keratinocytes (HaCaT), while significant antiproliferative activity was observed against human cancer cell lines A375 (melanoma), MCF-7 (breast adenocarcinoma), and HT-29 (colorectal adenocarcinoma), particularly in Pr 6-CD and Pr 7-CD samples. These findings suggest that Pr substitution and cyclodextrin coating can effectively modulate the physicochemical and anticancer properties of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles, making them promising candidates for future biomedical applications. Full article
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23 pages, 5089 KiB  
Article
Integrated In Silico and In Vitro Assessment of the Anticancer Potential of Origanum vulgare L. Essential Oil
by Gabriel Mardale, Florina Caruntu, Alexandra Mioc, Marius Mioc, Alexandra Teodora Lukinich-Gruia, Maria-Alexandra Pricop, Calin Jianu, Armand Gogulescu, Tamara Maksimovic and Codruța Șoica
Processes 2025, 13(6), 1695; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13061695 - 28 May 2025
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Abstract
Oregano essential oil (OEO) has gained attention for its broad pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. This study aimed to analyze the phytochemical composition and biological activity of OEO obtained from wild-growing Origanum vulgare L. in Romania. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry [...] Read more.
Oregano essential oil (OEO) has gained attention for its broad pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. This study aimed to analyze the phytochemical composition and biological activity of OEO obtained from wild-growing Origanum vulgare L. in Romania. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis identified p-cymene (43.98%), γ-terpinene (22.16%), and thymol (11.46%) as major constituents, with notable differences from previously reported chemotypes. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH, ABTS radical scavenging assay, and TPC. OEO has a moderate antioxidant activity, with IC50 values of 134.67 ± 1.32 µg/mL (DPPH) and 88.15 ± 0.045 Inh% (ABTS) and a TPC of 159.63 mg GAE/g extract. The cytotoxicity of the simple water dispersion of OEO, OEO solubilized with polyethylene glycol 400 (OEO-PEG), and that solubilized with Tween 20 (OEO-Tw) was evaluated on human melanoma (A375) and human colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT-29) cancer cell lines, as well as on the normal human immortalized keratinocytes (HaCaT) cell line. The results demonstrated a significant inhibition of cancer cell viability with no recorded cytotoxic effect on normal cells. The highest inhibition of cell viability was recorded for OEO-PEG 200 µg/mL (7.22% ± 6.51 in A375 cell line and 22.25% ± 10.08 in HT-29 cell line). In cancer cells, OEO and its formulations significantly reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (up to 41.24% in A375 cells and up to 48.58% in HT-29 cells), suggesting potent antioxidant activity. Moreover, treatment with OEO increased caspase 3/7 activation two-fold in treated A375 cells, while high-resolution respirometry studies revealed that OEO induces mitochondrial dysfunction by acting as a potential uncoupling agent. Molecular docking analysis suggested that β-caryophyllene oxide (CPO), a minor constituent of OEO, may act as a potential inhibitor of 3-phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase-1 (PDPK1), indicating a possible mechanism of anticancer activity. Our findings highlight the potential of OEO as a natural anticancer agent, emphasizing the need for further investigations to elucidate its exact molecular mechanisms and therapeutic applicability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Separation, and Medicinal Analysis of Natural Products)
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