Search Results (270)

Casein, the main phosphoprotein in milk, has a multifaceted molecular structure and unique physicochemical properties that make it a viable candidate for biomedical use, particularly in wound healing. This review presents a concise analysis of casein’s structural composition that comprises its hydrophobic and hydrophilic nature, calcium phosphate nanocluster structure, and its response to different pH, temperature, and ionic conditions. These characteristics have direct implications for its colloidal stability, including features such as gelation, swelling capacity, and usability as a biomaterial in tissue engineering. This review also discusses industrial derivatives and recent advances in casein biomaterials based on different fabrication types such as hydrogels, electrospun fibres, films, and advanced systems. Furthermore, casein dressings’ functional and biological attributes have shown remarkable exudate absorption, retention of moisture, biocompatibility, and antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity in both in vivo and in vitro studies. The gathered evidence highlights casein’s versatile bioactivity and dynamic molecular properties, positioning it as a promising platform to address advanced wound dressing challenges. Full article

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a predominant cause of global cancer-related mortality, highlighting the pressing demand for innovative therapeutic strategies. Natural polysaccharides have emerged as promising candidates in cancer research due to their multifaceted anticancer mechanisms and tumor-suppressive potential across diverse malignancies. In this study, we enzymatically extracted a polysaccharide, named ERPP, from Ruditapes philippinarum and comprehensively evaluated its anti-colorectal cancer activity. We conducted in vitro assays, including CCK-8 proliferation, clonogenic survival, scratch wound healing, and Annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis staining, and the results demonstrated that ERPP significantly inhibited HT-29 cell proliferation, suppressed colony formation, impaired migratory capacity, and induced apoptosis. JC-1 fluorescence assays provided further evidence of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) depolarization, as manifested by a substantial reduction in the red/green fluorescence ratio (from 10.87 to 0.35). These antitumor effects were further validated in vivo using a zebrafish HT-29 xenograft model. Furthermore, ERPP treatment significantly attenuated tumor angiogenesis and downregulated the expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor A (Vegfaa) gene in the zebrafish xenograft model. Mechanistic investigations revealed that ERPP primarily activated the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. RT-qPCR analysis showed an upregulation of the pro-apoptotic gene Bax and a downregulation of the anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2, leading to cytochrome c (CYCS) release and caspase-3 (CASP-3) activation. Additionally, ERPP exhibited potent antioxidant capacity, achieving an 80.2% hydroxyl radical scavenging rate at 4 mg/mL. ERPP also decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels within the tumor cells, thereby augmenting anticancer efficacy through its antioxidant activity. Collectively, these findings provide mechanistic insights into the properties of ERPP, underscoring its potential as a functional food component or adjuvant therapy for colorectal cancer management. Full article

Aim: To prepare two different kinds of wound care creams containing plant extracts and examine their effectiveness in comparison with a placebo cream and a commercial wound care cream, Madecassol^®. Methods: The two cream formulations were developed using the same placebo cream (PC) as base cream. One formulation contained balsam of oriental sweet gum, or Levant storax, named as Levant Storax Cream (LSC); the other contained oil of Calendula, extract of St. John’s Wort, aescin (an extract of horse chestnut), and freeze-dried powder from Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. leaf juice, designated as Complex Cream (CC). In the characterization of the creams, organoleptic properties, pH, viscosity, size distribution, and zeta potential of oil globules were measured. Furthermore, the stability of the creams was assessed under different environmental conditions. In vitro studies were performed by using an excisional wound model in rats to assess the potential of the creams for stimulating wound healing. The efficacy of LSC and CC was compared with a commercial reference cream, Madecassol^® (M), and the placebo control. The study was also designed with a negative control group of rats that were not treated but handled the same way as the other treatment groups. The wound contraction rate, total skin thickness recovery, and results of histopathological parameter examinations were used to compare the effectiveness of the treatments. Results: The stability of formulated creams confirmed that they were stable for the duration of the study. In vivo studies showed that rats treated with LSC achieved the highest wound healing rates when compared with the other groups. A better response was recorded for the CC-treated population when compared to both control and placebo groups, but there was no significant difference seen in healing score between CC and M groups. Full article

Wound healing is a complex biological process that involves the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which play a critical role in cellular signaling and tissue repair. While the dual nature of ROS means that maintaining controlled levels is essential for effective wound healing, excessive ROS production can hinder the recovery process. Bioactive compounds represent promising therapeutic candidates enriched with polyphenols, which are known for their high therapeutic properties and minimal adverse effects, and are thus highlighted as promising therapeutic candidates for wound healing due to their antioxidant properties. However, their clinical application is often limited due to challenges such as poor solubility and low bioavailability. To overcome this, the encapsulation of these compounds into nanocarriers has been proposed, which enhances their stability, facilitates targeted delivery, and allows for controlled release. The present review highlights emerging innovations in nanomedicine-based drug delivery of natural antioxidants for precise modulation of ROS in wound healing. Moreover, the review elaborates briefly on various in vitro and in vivo studies that assessed the ROS levels using different fluorescent dyes. By modulating ROS levels and improving the local microenvironment at wound sites, these bioactive-nanomedicine formulations can significantly accelerate the healing process of wounds. The review concludes by advocating for further research into optimizing these nano-formulations to maximize their potential in clinical settings, thereby improving therapeutic strategies for wound care and regeneration. Full article

Background/Objectives: Thymol, one of the main compounds of thyme essential oil, has shown promising effects in treating various skin disorders owing to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidative activities. Due to its limited solubility in water, thymol is commonly used in higher concentrations to achieve a suitable therapeutic effect, which can consequently lead to skin irritation. To overcome these limitations, we incorporated thymol into a vesicular phospholipid gel (VPG), a novel semisolid dermal vehicle consisting of highly concentrated dispersion of phospholipid vesicles (liposomes). Methods: Thymol was successfully loaded into two VPGs differing in bilayer fluidity, which were characterized for the physicochemical and rheological properties, storage stability, in vitro release, ex vivo skin permeability, in vitro compatibility with epidermal cells, wound healing potential, and antibacterial activity against skin-relevant bacterial strains. Results: High pressure homogenization method enabled preparation of VPG-liposomes of neutral surface charge in the size range 140–150 nm with polydispersity indexes below 0.5. Both types of VPGs exhibited viscoelastic solid-like structures appropriate for skin administration and ensured skin localization of thymol. Although both types of VPGs enabled prolonged release of thymol, the presence of cholesterol in the VPG increased the rigidity of the corresponding liposomes and further slowed down thymol release. Conclusions: Loading of thymol into VPGs significantly reduced its cytotoxicity toward human keratinocytes in vitro even at very high concentrations, compared to free thymol. Moreover, it facilitated in vitro wound healing activity, proving its potential as a vehicle for herbal-based medicines. However, the antibacterial activity of thymol against Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus was hindered by VPGs, which represents a challenge in their development. Full article

Hamamelis virginiana L. (witch hazel) is a traditionally used medicinal plant, well-known for its dermatological applications. The plant’s bark and leaves contain a rich array of bioactive compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, catechins, proanthocyanidins, and tannins, many of which exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. These activities have been verified by numerous in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as limited clinical trials. The H. virginiana extracts have demonstrated effectiveness against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. Moreover, the extracts exert anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine expression and NF-κB signaling, improve skin regeneration, and protect against UV-induced damage and pollution. This review highlights H. virginiana as a complex botanical resource to be used in dermatology and cosmetology and shows that current research offers encouraging results for its future therapeutic use, especially in skin treatment. Full article

Prebiotic oligosaccharides have attracted significant interest in dermatology and skin health due to their ability to modulate the skin microbiome and microbiota–host interactions. This review offers a novel dual perspective, systematically examining the benefits of both oral intake and topical application of prebiotic oligosaccharides, including well-established prebiotics (e.g., human milk oligosaccharides, galacto- and fructo-oligosaccharides) and emerging prebiotic candidates (e.g., gluco-oligosaccharides, chitosan-oligosaccharides, agaro-oligosaccharides). First, cutting-edge synthetic processes for producing diverse oligosaccharides and their structural chemistry are introduced. Then, we discuss in vitro studies demonstrating their efficacy in promoting skin commensals, inhibiting pathogens, and conferring protective effects, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-melanogenic, and wound-healing properties. Furthermore, we emphasize in vivo animal studies and clinical trials revealing that prebiotic oligosaccharides, administered orally or topically, alleviate atopic dermatitis, enhance skin hydration, attenuate acne, and protect against photo-aging by modulating skin–gut microbiota and immune responses. Mechanistically, we integrate genetic and molecular insights to elucidate how oligosaccharides mediate these benefits, including gut–skin axis crosstalk, immune regulation, and microbial metabolite signaling. Finally, we highlight current commercial applications of oligosaccharides in cosmetic formulations while addressing scientific and practical challenges, such as structure–function relationships, clinical scalability, and regulatory considerations. This review bridges mechanistic understanding with practical applications, offering a comprehensive resource for advancing prebiotic oligosaccharides-based skincare therapies. Full article

Objectives: Nasal mucosa wound healing faces challenges such as acidic microenvironments and bacterial proliferation. Persistent mucosal defects predispose to complications such as nasal septal perforation. Conventional drug delivery systems suffer from nonspecific release and short-term efficacy. This study aimed to develop a pH-responsive liposome-hydrogel composite (HYD-Lip/DXMS@HG) to integrate pH-triggered dexamethasone (DXMS) delivery, antifouling properties, and mechanical support for refractory injuries. Methods: The composite combined acylhydrazone-modified liposomes with a hydrogel synthesized from hydroxyethylacrylamide (HEAA) and diethylacrylamide (DEAA). In vitro assays evaluated DXMS release kinetics, RPMI 2650 cell migration/proliferation, and antibacterial properties. In vivo rabbit nasal mucosal injury models assessed healing efficacy via histology analyses. RNA sequencing was performed to identify key signaling pathways. Results: HYD-Lip/DXMS@HG exhibited sustained DXMS release in acidic conditions, accelerating cell migration/proliferation in vitro. In rabbits, the composite reduced TNF-α expression and CD45+ leukocyte infiltration, while enhancing collagen alignment and epithelial thickness. RNA sequencing identified upregulated ECM receptor interaction, Hippo, TGF-β, and PI3K-Akt pathways, linked to collagen remodeling, anti-apoptosis, and angiogenesis. Conclusions: This multifunctional platform synergizes pH-triggered drug delivery, mechanical support, and antibacterial activity, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for refractory nasal mucosal injuries and postoperative recovery. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the potential of a polysaccharide (PCS) extracted from the brown alga Cystoseira spinosa as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Collected off the coast of Alkhoms, Libya, PCS was investigated for its wound-healing and pro-angiogenic properties, addressing the need for natural bioactive compounds in therapeutic applications. Methods: The monosaccharide composition of PCS was analyzed using HPLC-RID, identifying glucuronic acid and xylose as major components. In vitro tests assessed antioxidant activity, while in vivo experiments on 24 rats evaluated wound healing. Rats were divided into four groups: control (saline), standard drug (CYTOL CENTELLA cream), glycerol, and glycerol+PCS. Wound healing was analyzed macroscopically, histologically, and biochemically. The chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model assessed pro-angiogenic effects, and computational analyses explored COX-2 and VEGF pathways. Pharmacokinetic properties were also evaluated. Results: PCS demonstrated significant antioxidant activity and accelerated wound healing after 16 days, with improved wound appearance scores and increased collagen content. Histological analysis confirmed PCS outperformed the standard drug. The CAM model showed PCS increased blood vessel density, length, and junctions while reducing lacunarity. Computational analyses supported involvement of COX-2 and VEGF pathways. Pharmacokinetic assessments indicated good bioavailability, non-inhibition of CYP enzymes, and favorable skin permeability. Conclusions: PCS shows promise as a natural bioactive polymer for wound healing and tissue regeneration. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pro-angiogenic properties, combined with favorable pharmacokinetics, highlight its therapeutic potential. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms of C. spinosa polysaccharides and their application in promoting tissue repair. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cirsium setosum (commonly known as thistle) is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant with significant therapeutic potential, exhibiting hemostatic, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. Electrospinning offers a versatile platform for fabricating nanoscale scaffolds with tunable functionality, making them ideal for drug delivery and tissue engineering. Methods: In this study, a bioactive extract from thistle was obtained and incorporated into a thermosensitive triblock copolymer (PNNS) and polycaprolactone (PCL) to develop a multifunctional nanofibrous scaffold for enhanced wound healing. The prepared nanofibers were thoroughly characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), contact angle measurements, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and tensile fracture testing to assess their physicochemical properties. Results: Notably, the inclusion of PNNS imparted temperature-responsive behavior to the scaffold, enabling controlled deformation in response to thermal stimuli—a feature that may facilitate wound contraction and improve scar remodeling. Specifically, the scaffold demonstrated rapid shrinkage at a physiological temperature (38 °C) within minutes while maintaining structural integrity at ambient conditions (20 °C). In vitro studies confirmed the thistle extract’s potent antioxidant activity, while in vivo experiments revealed their effective hemostatic performance in a liver bleeding model when delivered via the composite nanofibers. Thistle extract and skin temperature-responsive contraction reduced the inflammatory outbreak at the wound site and promoted collagen deposition, resulting in an ideal wound-healing rate of above 95% within 14 days. Conclusions: The integrated strategy that combines mechanical signals, natural extracts, and electrospinning nanotechnology offers a feasible design approach and significant technological advantages with enhanced therapeutic efficacy. Full article

The aim of this study was to achieve the high secretion and expression of thymosin β4 derived from Pinctada fucata in Pichia pastoris, as well as to investigate its antibacterial properties and biological effects in promoting wound healing. The recombinant thymosin β4 protein (rTβ4) exhibited no hemolytic activity on rabbit red blood cells and demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 25 μg/mL. It effectively inhibited bacterial growth and disrupted the cell wall and membrane structure of the bacteria. In the Sprague Dawley (SD) rat wound healing model, the wound healing rate in the rTβ4 treatment groups (at concentrations of 12.5 and 25 μg/mL) was significantly higher than that in the control group (p < 0.05), and the healing effect was comparable to that of the positive control group (Kangfu Xin solution, KFX). The histopathological study demonstrated that rTβ4 could reduce the infiltration of inflammatory cells and promote the proliferation and re-epithelialization of granulation tissue. In conclusion, this study successfully achieved the high expression of thymosin β4 derived from Pinctada fucata in Pichia pastoris and validated its antibacterial and wound healing potential through both In vitro and In vivo experiments. Full article

Scar formation and delayed wound healing pose significant challenges in treating skin injuries, especially in severe cases like burns and diabetic wounds. This study investigates the effectiveness of novel Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/Gentamicin (Gent) and PVA/Chitosan (CHI)/Gent hydrogels in promoting healing of second-degree burn wounds in a rat model. Following in vitro testing, these hydrogels were deemed non-toxic and suitable for in vivo analysis. Clinical evaluations were conducted on the 3rd, 7th, 14th, and 21st post-injury days, assessing parameters such as blistering, edema, redness, crust, bleeding, secretion, scar tissue formation, and wound contraction percentage. Histological analyses focused on re-epithelization and dermal evaluation at specific time points. Results showed that both hydrogels significantly reduced inflammation, particularly redness, by the 14th day and improved re-epithelization, with the PVA/CHI/Gent group outperforming on the 14th day and the PVA/Gent group excelling on the 21st day. Histological findings indicated increased fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition in treated groups, suggesting enhanced dermal healing. The PVA/CHI/Gent hydrogel demonstrated notable antibacterial properties, likely due to the synergistic effects of CHI and Gent, leading to reduced inflammation and edema. Overall, both hydrogels show promise as effective wound dressings, facilitating faster healing and improved tissue recovery in burn injuries. This study supports the use of biomimetic scaffolds for enhanced wound management in clinical practices. Full article

Background/Objectives: Chronic wounds represent a significant socioeconomic burden, affecting 1–2% of the global population. Wound healing is a complex process involving inflammation, cell proliferation, and tissue remodeling, but factors such as infections, diabetes, aging, and poor nutrition can impair recovery, leading to chronic wounds. Given these challenges, researchers have explored topical probiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics as alternatives strategies. Strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium contribute to skin restoration by producing antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory compounds, offering a novel approach to cutaneous restoration. Our study aims to address the potential effects of topical probiotic, synbiotic, and postbiotic formulations for wound healing applications by means of a broad scoping review and evidence-gap mapping. Methods: A systematic literature search of preclinical studies (in vitro and in vivo) was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (January 2025), yielding 3052 articles after duplicates removal, of which 44 met the inclusion criteria. Results: These studies were published between 1986 and 2024, mostly by China (27.3%) and Iran (25.0%). Probiotics were frequently evaluated among the studies included (47.7%) (with Lactobacillus plantarum being the most assessed strain), followed by postbiotics (36.4%) (with predominant use of cell-free supernatants) and synbiotics (15.9%) (especially fructooligosaccharides). Dosage forms included gels (44.4%), films (15.6%), and ointments (13.3%). Conclusions: Most studies indicate that probiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, while promoting angiogenesis, tissue regeneration, and skin barrier restoration. The use of different delivery systems may additionally enhance therapeutic outcomes by accelerating wound closure, reducing bacterial load, and modulating immune response. However, methodological limitations in animal studies highlight the need for greater experimental rigor. Further robust clinical trials are essential to confirm efficacy and safety before clinical application of these formulations. Full article

Background/Objectives: Due to the challenges faced by anticancer therapeutics, such as poor selectivity and metabolic degradation, novel delivery systems are needed to mitigate the adverse effects of chemotherapy. The management of chronic wounds is often overlooked and affects patients mentally and physically. The application of hydrogels can reduce deficiencies in drug delivery and wound healing due to their similarity to the extracellular matrix and stimuli-responsive properties. Methods: A chitosan (CS) hydrogel, cross-linked to gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), followed by the encapsulation of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), was formulated. The physicochemical properties, drug release profiles, cytotoxicity, and wound healing in vitro were analyzed. Results: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and a UV-visible peak at 530 nm confirmed their successful synthesis. Transmission electron microscopy revealed spherical NPs of 89.31 nm, while scanning electron microscopy confirmed the porous network surface of the hydrogels. The thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated enhanced stability for the CS-Au hydrogel, while a non-Newtonian shear-thinning property was evident from rheology. Drug release showed a sustained, pH-dependent release with specificity for the acidic cancer microenvironment. The cytotoxicity assay demonstrated a specificity of the CS-Au-5-FU hydrogel for the cancer cells (HeLa and MCF-7) and diminished cytotoxicity in the non-cancer cells (HEK293). The scratch assay illustrated a complete closure of the wounds in HEK293 cells at low concentrations (15.63 and 31.25 µg/mL). Conclusions: The positive findings from this study confirm the potential of these CS-Au hydrogels to function as smart in vitro delivery systems and scaffolds for wound healing, warranting additional optimizations and in vivo studies. Full article

Melanoma is one of the deathliest cancers worldwide and its incidence is reaching epidemic proportions. It is characterized by intrinsic chemo-resistance, low response rates to treatment and high metastatic potential. Because of this, new therapeutic options are permanently required. Tessaria absinthioides (Hook. & Arn.) DC. is a traditional medicinal plant, with antioxidant, selective cytotoxicity and anti-colorectal cancer evidence-based properties. This study aims to demonstrate the antitumoral and antimetastatic effects of T. absinthioides decoction (DETa), correlating in vitro and in vivo activities in a murine melanoma model. DETa was assayed on B16F0 murine non-metastatic cells to determine cytotoxicity and clonogenicity; while, in the B16F10 metastatic siblings, adhesion, wound healing migration and Boyden chamber invasion were studied. The ex vivo intestinal-sac model was used to quantify DETa bioavailability. Meanwhile, in C57BL6/wt mice, DETa was orally administered to evaluate its antitumoral and antimetastatic activities. DETa induced cytotoxicity in a dose- and time-dependent manner, affecting the long-term clonogenic survival, as well as the processes of adhesion and migration. Then, the intestinal absorption of DETa phenolics was proven, while the systemic anti-tumoral and anti-metastatic activities of DETa were confirmed. Results demonstrated that DETa has antimelanoma activity promoting this botanical compound as a relevant agent for cancer research and treatment. Full article