Search Results (634)

Objectives: Skin wound repair has long remained a crucial clinical challenge, in response to which, in this study, we propose a novel injectable hydrogel delivery system. In particular, we focus on the efficient delivery of bioactive factors and modulation of the local wound microenvironment. Methods: The hydrogel integrates selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), which serve as key therapeutic components in the proposed system, and are additionally co-integrated with oxidized hyaluronic acid (OHA) and heparin-grafted carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS-g-Hep) to construct a multifunctional SeNPs/bFGF-loaded CMCS-g-Hep/OHA hydrogel network. Accordingly, this proposed hydrogel was systematically evaluated using chemical synthesis, physicochemical characterization, in vitro cellular assays, and C57BL6J mice studies, which we used to jointly assess the biocompatibility and wound-healing efficacy of the proposed system. Results: The results demonstrated that the hydrogel enabled sustained bFGF release and was capable of significantly enhancing fibroblast proliferation, migration, and collagen deposition. In a mouse skin defect model, treatment with the loaded hydrogel markedly accelerated wound closure. Additionally, we conducted mechanistic investigations to further illustrate that the hydrogel can modulate the wound microenvironment by regulating inflammatory and chemotactic signaling pathways. Conclusions: These findings suggest a promising therapeutic pathway for chronic wound repair. Full article

Heterogeneous hydrogels capable of complex, programmable deformation are highly desirable for soft actuators, yet general strategies that simultaneously impart structural anisotropy, rapid responsiveness, and mechanical robustness remain limited. Here, a gradient anisotropic natural rubber-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (NR-PNIPAM) composite hydrogel is developed through a simple one-pot polymerization strategy by coupling pH-regulated colloidal stability with gravity-directed redistribution of natural rubber latex particles. Under an optimized pH window, NR nanoparticles gradually migrate during gelation and are fixed as a continuous gradient within the PNIPAM network, generating built-in structural asymmetry for nonuniform deformation. Meanwhile, NR nanoparticles act as soft reinforcing domains to improve mechanical strength, while water-soluble graphene nanosheets provide efficient photothermal conversion for remotely-controlled near-infrared (NIR)-responsive actuation. Benefiting from this synergistic design, the hydrogel exhibits programmable bending and localized folding with high actuation rates of 129° s⁻¹ and 46° s⁻¹, respectively, along with a tensile strength of 0.32 MPa and an active lifting capability exceeding 70 times its own weight. The material further enables biomimetic gripping and lifting under NIR stimulation. This work establishes a general route to robust gradient hydrogels by integrating colloidal regulation, structural anisotropy, and photothermal actuation, offering a versatile platform for high-performance soft intelligent systems. Full article

Pigment implantation (semi-permanent make-up, microblading and cosmetic tattooing) introduces complex pigment mixtures into the dermis, resulting in direct exposure of keratinocytes, fibroblasts and resident immune cells to metals, organic dyes and nanoparticles. Within Somatology and Somatic therapy practice, an allied health discipline concerned with evidence-based care of the skin and body, Somatic Therapists operate at the interface of dermal intervention, molecular exposure and occupational health, underscoring the relevance of mechanistic toxicology for risk-informed professional practice. This PRISMA-guided systematic review synthesises molecular toxicology and omics-based evidence, emphasising oxidative stress generation, inflammatory signalling via NF-κB/MAPK pathways, apoptosis and genotoxicity, T-cell-mediated type IV hypersensitivity reactions associated with modern red azo pigments, and dermal-to-lymphatic transport of particulate matter. Transcriptomic and metabolomic studies consistently demonstrate pigment-specific inflammatory responses and wound-healing gene signatures, supporting mechanism-driven biocompatibility profiling. Regulatory frameworks, including EU REACH Annex XVII Entry 75 and recent FDA guidance on microbial contamination, have strengthened compliance requirements; however, surveillance continues to identify mislabelling, restricted pigments and microbial contamination in some inks. For Somatology and Somatic therapy practice, these findings highlight the importance of evidence-based pigment selection, traceable sourcing, aseptic technique, ventilation, personal protective equipment and informed consent addressing pigment migration and delayed adverse reactions. The integration of molecular outcomes with omics technologies and regulatory oversight provides a next-generation risk assessment framework to advance safe cosmetic practice and public health. Full article

Achieving efficient demulsification of water-in-heavy oil (W/HO) emulsions remains a critical issue that urgently needs to be addressed in the heavy oil industry. Despite being a new generation of green demulsification materials, magnetic carbon nanoparticles still suffer from low demulsification efficiency when applied to water-in-heavy oil emulsions. Herein, polyethyleneimine-modified magnetic carbon nanoparticles (P-MCNs) were successfully prepared via a surface functionalization strategy. The demulsification performance of P-MCN in water-in-heavy oil (W/HO) emulsions was evaluated via the standard bottle test. The results demonstrated that P-MCN (500 ppm) achieved effective water removal within 60 min at 50 °C. Microscopic visualization characterization revealed that the efficient water removal from W/HO emulsions by P-MCN is attributed to its high interfacial activity. Specifically, P-MCN can rapidly migrate to the heavy oil–water interface and effectively disrupt the interfacial film through electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding, thereby achieving efficient demulsification of W/HO emulsions. This study provides a solid theoretical foundation for the further development of magnetic carbon nanoparticles with higher demulsification efficiency for applications in the petroleum industry. Full article

Magnetic fields (MFs) represent an emerging modality in cancer therapy, encompassing static, low-frequency, pulsed, and nanoparticle-mediated alternating fields. These interventions have demonstrated the capacity to modulate proliferation, apoptosis, ferroptosis, migration, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in tumor cells, often through reactive oxygen species (ROS) modulation, ion channel regulation, membrane receptor dynamics, and lysosomal membrane permeabilization. Magnetic nanoparticle hyperthermia (MHT) has reached clinical application, showing promising outcomes in glioblastoma and prostate cancer, while pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) and magneto-mechanical approaches are under preclinical investigation. The mechanistic diversity of MFs allows synergistic combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. However, parameter sensitivity, field standardization, and long-term safety remain challenges. Here, we review mechanistic insights, signaling pathways, and experimental and clinical evidence for MF-based cancer therapies, highlighting translational potential and the need for rigorous optimization to realize clinical efficacy. Full article

This research is based on the eco-friendly biogenic synthesis of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and manganese oxide (MnO) nanoparticles using Lawsonia inermis (henna) leaf extract. The biosynthesized NPs were examined via UV–visible spectroscopy, FTIR, FESEM, EDX, TGA, Zeta potential, and DLS to study their optical characteristics, functional group, structural nature, surface morphology, elemental composition, thermal stability, and surface charge. FTIR peaks confirmed the functional groups responsible for nanoparticle formation. FESEM micrographs indicated spherical TiO₂ nanoparticles and irregular MnO nanoparticles. The biosynthesized nanoparticles revealed antibacterial activity against pathogens, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Bacillus subtilis. Antioxidant potential was demonstrated using the DPPH assay, with MnO nanoparticles exhibiting higher activity (IC50: 30 µg/mL) than TiO₂ nanoparticles. Cytotoxicity studies on L929 cell lines revealed dose-dependent effects, while wound-healing assays indicated enhanced cell migration, particularly with MnO nanoparticles. This study highlights the L. inermis-mediated nanoparticles as sustainable and biocompatible with biomedical and environmental applications. Full article

Multilayer packaging—engineered by integrating complementary materials such as plastics, paper, and aluminum—has become a cornerstone technology for enhancing shelf life, minimizing spoilage, and reinforcing the mechanical integrity of packaging formats including films, pouches, and bottles. In this study, a laminate was developed by thermally bonding polylactic acid (PLA) with a poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)/thermoplastic starch (TPS) matrix embedded with silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) at 0–3 wt.%. The resulting structures were systematically evaluated for their barrier performance, physicochemical characteristics, and antimicrobial functionality. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the absence of chemical interactions between Ag-NPs and the polymer matrix, indicating physical dispersion rather than chemical bonding. However, at higher loading (3 wt.%), scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) revealed notable nanoparticle aggregation. Functionally, the multilayer films demonstrated markedly improved water vapor barrier properties compared to single-layer PBAT/TPS films. Migration studies showed that silver release increased with nanoparticle concentration and was significantly enhanced under acidic conditions relative to distilled water. Importantly, Ag-NP-incorporated laminates exhibited pronounced antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Collectively, these findings highlight the potential of Ag-NP-enriched, starch-based multilayer laminates as next-generation active packaging systems that combine with effective microbial control. Full article

Background/Objectives: Burn injuries represent a global public health concern, accounting for approximately 265,000 deaths annually and often leading to severe infections. With the increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, innovative therapeutic strategies such as nanoparticle-based topical formulations have gained attention. This study proposed the development of a hydrogel for burn treatment containing biogenic silver nanoparticles (BioAgNPs), hyaluronic acid (HA), and allantoin (AL). Methods: BioAgNPs were previously characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and incorporated into a hydrogel containing HA and AL, which was physicochemically characterized by pH, spreadability, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Antibacterial activity was evaluated by broth microdilution, agar diffusion, and time–kill assays against standard and MDR bacterial strains. Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay in L929 cells, and wound-healing potential was investigated through an in vitro scratch assay to evaluate cell migration and proliferation. Results: BioAgNPs exhibited antibacterial activity against reference strains and MDR isolates, determining the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC). HA and AL were non-toxic, while BioAgNPs demonstrated low cytotoxic activity. Although HA and AL did not exhibit antibacterial properties, they promoted cell migration and proliferation. The formulation exhibited physicochemical and pharmaceutical stability, showing suitable properties for topical use, and presented significant antimicrobial action, with bacterial elimination occurring within 2 h of contact, except for S. aureus. Conclusions: Thus, the hydrogel presents a promising alternative for the topical treatment of infected burns, with potential application in combating multidrug-resistant bacteria, being able to eliminate MDR Acinetobacter baumannii. Full article

Wound healing remains a persistent health problem with no definitive solution. It is crucial to characterize the complex wound healing process and the various growth factors, cytokines, and polypeptides involved. Transforming growth factor beta1 (rhTGF-β1) stimulates different cell types, providing multifunctionality in the wound healing process. Since proteins are sensitive to proteases, drug delivery systems are needed. Developed polymeric carrier systems are as important as the active substance. The carrier systems used in our study aim to contribute to wound healing in addition to the rhTGF-β1. We hypothesized that PLGA nanoparticles embedded in PVA/Chitosan (PVA/Chi) hydrogels could enhance the therapeutic effect of rhTGF-β1. PVA/Chitosan hydrogels were prepared by the freezing/thawing method. Several characterization studies (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), texture analysis, and cell culture) were performed to investigate the potential of the prepared formulations to enhance the therapeutic effect of rhTGF-β1. Hydrogel formulations reduced the inhibitory effect of rhTGF-β1 on keratinocytes. The H5 hydrogel exhibited a proliferative effect on fibroblast cells, which play a crucial role in wound healing, resulting in a 78.8% increase compared to the control. As the PVA content in the hydrogel formulations increased, bioadhesion and viscosity also increased. Although TGF-β1 inhibited keratinocytes, it induced migration of both NIH-3T3 and HACAT cell lines. The formulations developed exhibit the potential to improve the therapeutic efficacy of rhTGF-β1 in wound healing. A small amount of the protein can have the same therapeutic efficacy and fewer side effects because the developed polymeric carrier systems contribute to the therapeutic efficacy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Stroke remains the second leading cause of death worldwide, and cell therapy is among the most actively investigated strategies for its treatment. Recent transcriptomic evidence has revealed that 293T cells—the most widely used transient transfection model—possess a neural crest/neuronal lineage, making them a candidate for acute neural tissue engineering. Methods: We implanted iron oxide nanoparticle-labeled 293T cells (293T-ION) into an ischemic rat brain and monitored them longitudinally by 7T MRI, using ION-labeled bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (rMSC-ION) as a direct comparison. Functional recovery was assessed via mNSS and corner test scores, and infarct size was quantified by MRI. Results: 293T-ION cells showed no migration throughout the 40-day observation period, and functional recovery plateaued early compared with the progressive improvement seen with rMSC-ION. 293T cell implantation provoked pronounced, localized CD68-positive microglial hyperactivation at both implantation and ischemic sites, without migration toward the choroid plexus (CP). In contrast, rMSC-ION actively migrated to the CP and drove superior neuroplasticity marker expression (Ki67, Nestin, NeuN). Conclusions: 293T cells produce transient localized microglial activation and limited brain plasticity, whereas rMSCs drive sustained neurorestoration. Synergistic co-administration of these cell types may represent a future therapeutic strategy bridging hyper-acute and chronic recovery phases. Full article

Water contaminated by textile dyes is a tremendous risk to human health and the environment due to its toxic and carcinogenic nature, thus requiring advanced and efficient removal strategies. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the photo-oxidation performance of few- and multi-layer Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets (MXenes) decorated with TiO₂ nanoparticles for methyl orange removal from synthetic solutions. The quantification of photogenerated hydroxyl radicals by fluorescence revealed much higher OH^• production for TiO₂-decorated samples, especially for multi-layer MXene, in which it was 2.8 times higher than that of few-layer MXene. However, photocatalysis was morphology-controlled: despite lower OH^•, the few-layer MXene achieved the highest dye conversion (~45% after 5 h), attributed to shorter charge migration distances and more accessible TiO₂ active sites, enabling effective h⁺ and superoxide-driven pathways. Moreover, the detected -OH surface terminations verified on MXenes promoted a notable adsorption capacity, especially for the multi-layer samples (~31%) via interlayer trapping and H-bonding. Therefore, our results demonstrate that few-layer MXenes are promising candidates for the efficient removal of methyl orange and highlight the potential of TiO₂-decorated MXenes as promising photocatalysts for environmental remediation. Full article

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂-NPs) are widely produced and persist in aquatic ecosystems, yet their indirect effects on host–microbe interactions remain poorly defined. By using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a sentinel species, this study investigated the effects of subchronic 5 mg/L TiO₂-NP exposure. Dynamic light scattering was utilized to characterize the bimodal aggregates (peaks at 917 and 46,841 nm; surface charge: +22.08 mV) that define the environmental state of TiO₂-NPs. Parallel 16S rRNA metagenomic profiling on Day 6, prior to mortality, revealed profound gut dysbiosis. A marked increase in Chao1 richness (p < 0.01), alongside a catastrophic 333-fold reduction in beneficial Cetobacterium and an 856-fold enrichment of pathogenic Mycobacterium, was observed. Beta-diversity and hierarchical clustering analyses revealed a striking convergence between gut and gill microbial signatures, supporting a gut-to-gill translocation model. These results suggest that TiO₂-NPs exposure induces intestinal dysbiosis, facilitating opportunistic bacterial migration via internal (gut–blood–gill) or external (fecal–water–gill) pathways. This study identifies dysbiosis-driven secondary infection as a novel, overlooked mechanism of nanoparticle toxicity, necessitating a shift in ecological risk assessments toward host–microbe interactions. Full article

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, with more than 90% patients dying from metastasis due to limited treatment options. Although miRNA-based therapeutics represent a promising strategy, their clinical application has been hindered by poor stability in vivo and the lack of efficient organ-specific delivery systems. Methods: In this study, we developed a lung-targeted lipid nanoparticle (LuT-LNP) platform for the delivery of a chemically modified miRNA, AM22, which demonstrated enhanced tumor-suppressive activity. By replacing cholesterol and helper lipids with 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC), the most abundant lipid in pulmonary surfactant, and systematically optimizing the ratios of ionizable and cationic lipids, we obtained a LuT-LNP formulation with superior lung tropism. Results: The resulting LuT-LNPs exhibited excellent stability, biocompatibility, and efficient encapsulation and protection of AM22. Both in vitro and in vivo, AM22-loaded LuT-LNP (AM22@LuT-LNP) significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of CRC cells and markedly suppressed lung metastasis in a mouse model. Mechanistic studies revealed that AM22 acts by targeting Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1), inducing DNA damage, and inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Conclusions: These findings established a lung-targeted delivery platform for miRNA-based therapy, offering a promising strategy for the treatment of colorectal cancer pulmonary metastasis (CRPM). Full article

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) remains a lethal malignancy due to temozolomide (TMZ) resistance and limited drug penetration across the blood–brain barrier, largely driven by hyperactive DNA damage repair mechanisms such as poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). To address these challenges, we developed folic acid-targeted PLGA–zein hybrid core–shell nanoparticles for the codelivery of the alkylating agent TMZ and the natural PARP inhibitor Ellagic acid (FA-TMZ/EA-PZ-CS NPs), thereby enabling simultaneous enhancement of drug delivery and suppression of chemoresistance pathways. Methods and Results: The dual-drug nanoplatform was fabricated using a double-emulsion solvent evaporation method and functionalized via EDC/NHS-mediated folic acid conjugation to promote receptor-mediated uptake. Physicochemical characterisation confirmed uniform spherical morphology, high colloidal stability, efficient drug encapsulation, and sustained biphasic drug release consistent with a core–shell diffusion mechanism. In LN229 glioblastoma cells, folic acid conjugation significantly enhanced cellular internalisation and cytotoxic efficacy compared to free drugs and non-targeted nanoparticles. Combination index analysis revealed strong synergism between TMZ and ellagic acid, resulting in markedly reduced IC₅₀ values. Mechanistic studies demonstrated apoptosis induction, increased DNA damage, inhibition of cell migration at sub-cytotoxic concentrations, and downregulation of PARP gene expression. Conclusion: Overall, this study establishes a targeted core–shell nanotherapeutic strategy that integrates chemotherapy with DNA repair inhibition to overcome TMZ resistance, offering a mechanistically sound strategy that serves as a foundational framework for future translational research. Full article

Cell-based immunotherapies require noninvasive tools that can quantify the migration, biodistribution, and persistence of administered immune cells. This review focuses primarily on oncologic immune cell therapy, while also considering selected inflammatory disease models in which immune-cell trafficking is biologically relevant. We critically compare direct radionuclide labeling, sodium iodide symporter (NIS)-based reporter gene imaging, radionuclide-integrated nanoplatforms, and Cerenkov-based hybrid optical conversion strategies. Direct labeling with agents such as [⁸⁹Zr]Zr-oxine, [¹¹¹In]In-oxine, and [⁹⁹ᵐTc]Tc-HMPAO enables early positron emission tomography (PET)/single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) biodistribution assessment, usually within hours to several days after cell administration. NIS reporter imaging with [¹²⁴I]NaI, [¹²³I]NaI, [⁹⁹ᵐTc]TcO₄⁻, or [¹⁸F]TFB supports repeated viability-dependent imaging, because signal generation depends on active transporter expression in living engineered cells. Radionuclide-integrated gold nanoplatforms can improve intracellular retention and offer theranostic potential through combined imaging, photothermal, radiotherapeutic, or immunomodulatory functions. We further discuss PET/SPECT balance, radiopharmaceutical nomenclature, nanoparticle stabilization, ethical aspects of genetic modification, tumor-on-a-chip systems for preclinical testing, and limitations of narrative evidence synthesis. Together, these platforms provide complementary strategies for image-guided immune cell therapy, with translational relevance for patient selection, treatment optimization, safety monitoring, and oncology practice. In conclusion, NIS-centered nuclear imaging and radionuclide-integrated nanoplatforms represent complementary, clinically actionable tools for quantitative immune-cell tracking, therapeutic optimization, and safety monitoring in translational oncology and inflammatory disease research. Full article