Search Results (261)

Periodontitis is a chronic, multifactorial inflammatory disease characterized by the progressive destruction of the tooth-supporting structures. Conventional therapeutic approaches, including mechanical debridement and systemic antibiotics, often fall short in achieving complete bacterial eradication or tissue regeneration, particularly in deep periodontal pockets. Nanotheranostics—an integrated platform combining diagnostics and therapeutics within a single nanosystem—holds promise in advancing periodontal care through targeted delivery, real-time disease monitoring, and site-specific therapy. This narrative review examines the potential of various nanomaterials for building nanotheranostic systems to overcome current clinical limitations, including non-specific drug delivery, insufficient treatment monitoring, and delayed intervention, and their functionalization and responsiveness to the periodontal microenvironment are discussed. Their application in targeted antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative therapy is discussed in terms of real-time monitoring of disease biomarkers and pathogenic organisms. Although nanoparticle-based therapeutics have been extensively studied in periodontitis, the integration of diagnostic elements remains underdeveloped. This review identifies key translational gaps, evaluates emerging dual-function platforms, and discusses challenges related to biocompatibility, scalability, and regulatory approval. In particular, inorganic nanomaterials exhibit potential for theranostic functions such as antimicrobial activity, biofilm disruption, immunomodulation, tissue regeneration, and biosensing of microbial and inflammatory biomarkers. Finally, we propose future directions to advance nanotheranostic research toward clinical translation. By consolidating the current evidence base, this review advocates for the development of smart, responsive nanotheranostic platforms as a foundation for personalized, minimally invasive, and precision-guided periodontal care. Full article

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a highly prevalent vaginal infection characterized by a dysbiotic shift in the vaginal microbiota, with Gardnerella vaginalis acting as a principal pathogen. Despite its association with adverse reproductive outcomes, BV remains underexplored from both mechanistic and therapeutic standpoints. Standard antibiotic regimens frequently fail due to high recurrence rates driven by multidrug-resistant (MDR) G. vaginalis strains and biofilm formation. In response, natural compounds and nutraceuticals, owing to their intrinsic antibacterial, antibiofilm, and immunomodulatory properties, have emerged as promising candidates for alternative BV therapies. In this paper, we first compile and critically evaluate preclinical and clinical evidence on the efficacy of plant extracts, essential oils (EOs), probiotics, vitamins, proteins, fatty acids, and enzymes against G. vaginalis, emphasizing their mechanistic insights in restoring vaginal microbial balance. Next, we focus on the integration of these bioactive agents into engineered nanosystems, such as lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs), polymeric carriers, and inorganic nanostructures, to overcome limitations related to solubility, stability, and targeted delivery. Nonetheless, comparative studies, combination therapies, and recent patent developments are discussed to highlight how naturally derived molecules can enhance antimicrobial potency and reduce cytotoxicity. In conclusion, these platforms demonstrate superior in vitro and in vivo efficacy, offering a paradigm shift in the management of BV. Key challenges include scalable manufacturing, regulatory approval, and comprehensive safety assessment. Future research should prioritize standardized nanoparticle (NP) synthesis, detailed pharmacokinetic and toxicity profiling, and well-designed clinical trials to validate nature-inspired, nanoengineered therapies against G. vaginalis-induced BV. Full article

UV radiation is responsible for acute and chronic adverse effects on the skin. In recent years, it has been shown that various phenolic acids, particularly cinnamic acid derivatives, prevent some of these effects. In the present study, the design and synthesis of three esters of ferulic acid, analogues of the octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), one of the most commercially used filters, are presented. The esters were evaluated for their photoprotective activity against UVA and UVB radiation. The ester 3b exhibited an SPF of 9.22 and a λ_c value of 343.9, higher than the values of OMC (SPF value: 8.19, λ_c value: 337.7). The development and optimization of a novel encapsulation process of the synthesized esters in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) and coating of the NLCs with chitosan was also performed. The optimization of the coating processes was performed using a Box–Behnken experimental design. The optimal nanosystems exhibited a size of 117.0 ± 5 nm, enhanced stability in dispersion, and 78% encapsulation efficiency. The nanoparticles were characterized by ATR/FT–IR, TGA, and TEM. Incorporation of the nanoparticle dispersions in a sunscreen formulation increased the SPF factor of the formulation up to 48%. The esters and nanosystems also showed a satisfactory ability to inhibit the peroxidation of linoleic acid (AAPH induced lipid peroxidation assay) (74–91% inhibition). Full article

This study explores an innovative delivery strategy for the management of skin conditions: lipid nanosystems incorporated into a gel matrix. Echinacea purpurea extract, known for its antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties, was encapsulated into lipid-based nanosystems and subsequently incorporated into Carbopol-based gel. The extract, rich in chicoric and caftaric acids, exhibited strong antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 56.9 µg/mL). The resulting nanosystems showed nanometric size (about 200 nm), high entrapment efficiency (63.10–75.15%), and excellent short-term stability. Superior biocompatibility of the nanosystems, compared to the free extract, was demonstrated using an MTS assay on L-929 fibroblasts. Moreover, the cytoprotective potential of the lipid carriers was evident, as pre-treatment significantly increased cell viability under H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress. These findings suggest that lipid-based encapsulation enhances the therapeutic profile of E. purpurea. The optimal lipid formulation was incorporated into a Carbopol-based gel, which demonstrated an appropriate pH (5.15 ± 0.75), favorable textural properties, sustained polyphenol release, and overall good stability. This research highlights the potential of plant-derived bioactives in the development of dermatocosmetic products, aligning with current trends in eco-conscious and sustainable skincare. Full article

Background/Objectives: Malignant neoplasms in children include leukemias. The main types are B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Treatments are expensive, which is a particular problem in low-income countries. The main objective of this work was to develop specific nanosystems with small amounts of drug, allowing for affordable treatments. To this end, we designed ternary gold nanosystems (Au@16-Ph-16/DNA–Dauno) composed of daunomycin, a DNA biopolymer as a stabilizer, and the cationic surfactant gemini (TG) as a compacting agent for the DNA–daunomycin complex. Methods: Fluorescence, UV–visible, and CD spectroscopy, DLS and zeta potential, cell viability assays, TEM, AFM, and confocal microscopy were used to characterize and optimize nanocomposites. Results: The nanoparticles (Au@TG) obtained were small, stable, and highly charged in solution, allowing for optimal absorption and efficacy, capable of inducing the aggregation of the ternary nanosystem upon entering the cell, further enhancing its anticancer effect. Using nanoparticles, treatments can be redirected to the site of action, increasing the solubility and stability of the drug, minimizing the side effects of traditional treatments, and helping to overcome resistance to chemotherapy Conclusions: A significant decrease in the growth of pediatric B-ALL-derived cell lines (SEM and SUP-B15), constituting a potential and more affordable therapy for this type of pathology. Full article

Chitosan (CS) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-based nanoparticles (NPs) are promising carriers for drug delivery due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and intrinsic antimicrobial properties. This study explores CS-PVP NPs for the encapsulation and controlled release of synthetic compounds (bis-THTT, JH1, JH2) and natural antimicrobials (honey and propolis). NPs were synthesized via ionic gelation, optimizing CS:PVP and CS-PVP:sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) ratios. The optimal formulation (CS:PVP 1:0.5) produced stable, homogeneous NPs. Characterization was performed using FTIR, TGA, XRD, and AFM. Encapsulation efficiencies ranged from 44–60%. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, showing significant inhibition for JH1-, JH2-, honey-, and propolis-loaded NPs against E. coli. Cytotoxicity assays on 3T3 fibroblasts confirmed the biocompatibility of all formulations at 5 and 10 µg/mL. In vitro release studies in artificial gastric fluid (pH 1.78) demonstrated sustained drug release over 180 min. These results confirm that CS-PVP NPs can effectively encapsulate and protect both synthetic and natural bioactive compounds, enhancing their therapeutic potential. The developed nanosystems represent a versatile and safe platform for antimicrobial drug delivery and may support future applications in biomedical therapies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Recent advancements in innovative drug delivery nanosystems have significantly impacted wound healing, particularly through the incorporation of natural products. This study aimed to develop and characterize a Phlomis crinita extract-loaded nanostructured formulation (PCE-NF) as a topical therapy for skin wounds. Methods: This study involved the incorporation of P. crinita extract in a nanoemulsion by the high-energy emulsification method. This formulation was subjected to physicochemical and biopharmaceutical characterization, and a physical stability study over 30 days. Biocompatibility, tolerability, and irritant effects were assessed, while the wound healing potential was evaluated using in vitro skin models of fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Results: PCE-NF showed a homogeneous appearance with nanometric-sized spherical droplets of 212.27 nm and Newtonian behavior. This formulation showed a sustained release of its majority component (luteonin 7-(6″-acetylglucoside)), which followed a hyperbolic kinetic while showing high permeation, through healthy human skin, with 22.01 µg after 27 h. There were no cytotoxic effects of PCE-NF with improvements in skin barrier function and hydration levels. The wound healing potential of PCE-NF at 3.125 µg/mL was evidenced by enhanced cell migration and accelerated wound closure in 3T3-L1 and HaCaT cells, with values of 94.24 and 92.41%, respectively. Conclusions: These results suggest that this formulation could be used as an effective wound healing treatment. Full article

Nanotechnology has been widely employed in the field of cosmeceuticals, promoting the development of innovative cosmetic formulations characterized by notable pharmacological activity. The use of nanocosmeceuticals allows for better skin penetration of active compounds, their controlled release over time, and greater physico-chemical stability. Chitosan nanoparticles have generated significant interest in the scientific community as dermal and transdermal delivery systems for natural compounds. In particular, the encapsulation of polyphenols within chitosan nanosystems has been proposed as a method to enhance the effectiveness of bioactives in cosmeceutical formulations. This review discusses the most relevant scientific literature on the topic, with particular attention to studies published in recent years. Chitosan-based nanosystems improve the stability, bioavailability, and skin compatibility of polyphenols, offering promising solutions for the prevention and treatment of skin disorders due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review provides a comprehensive update on the development of chitosan nanoparticles containing polyphenols and their potential clinical applications, highlighting the role of these systems as nanocosmeceuticals. Full article

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

Background/Objectives: Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), human serum albumin (HSA) and folic acid (FA) are prospective components for hybrid nanosystems for various biomedical applications. The magnetic nanosystems FA-HSA@IONPs (FAMs) containing IONPs, HSA, and FA residue are engineered in the study. Methods: Composition, stability and integrity of the coating, and peroxidase-like activity of FAMs are characterized using UV/Vis spectrophotometry (colorimetric test using o-phenylenediamine (OPD), Bradford protein assay, etc.), spectrofluorimetry, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and electron magnetic resonance (EMR). The selectivity of the FAMs accumulation in cancer cells is analyzed using flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Results: FAMs (d_N~55 nm by DLS) as a drug delivery platform have been administered to cancer cells (human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines) in vitro. Methylene blue, as a model photosensitizer, has been non-covalently bound to FAMs. An increase in photoinduced cytotoxicity has been found upon excitation of the photosensitizer bound to the coating of FAMs compared to the single photosensitizer at equivalent concentrations. The suitability of the nanosystems for photodynamic therapy has been confirmed. Conclusions: FAMs are able to effectively enter cells with increased folate receptor expression and thus allow antitumor photosensitizers to be delivered to cells without any loss of their in vitro photodynamic efficiency. Therapeutic and diagnostic applications of FAMs in oncology are discussed. Full article

Local temperature measurement is crucial for understanding nanoscale thermal transport and developing nanodevices for biomedical, photonic, and optoelectronic applications. The rise of photothermal therapy for cancer treatment has increased the demand for high-resolution nanothermometric techniques capable of non-contact intracellular temperature measurement and modification. Raman spectroscopy meets this need: the ratio of anti-Stokes to Stokes Raman intensities for a specific vibrational mode correlates with local temperature through the Boltzmann distribution. The present study proposes a novel photothermal therapy agent designed to advance the current state of the art while adhering to green chemistry principles, thereby favoring low-temperature synthesis involving limited energy consumption. A key challenge in this field is to achieve close contact between plasmonic nanosystems, which act as nanoheaters, and local temperature sensors. This is achieved by employing silver nanoparticles as a heat release agent, coated with anatase-phase titanium dioxide, as a local temperature sensor. The proposed synthesis, which combines refluxing and subcritical solvothermal treatments, enables direct anatase formation, despite its metastability under standard conditions, thus eliminating the need for a calcination step. Structural characterization through SAED-HRTEM and Raman spectroscopy confirms the successful crystallization of the desired phase. Moreover, the nanothermometry measurements conducted at various wavelengths ultimately demonstrate both the effectiveness of these nanomaterials as thermometric probes, with a relative sensitivity of about 0.24 K⁻¹%, and their capability as local heaters, with a release of a few tens of degrees. This work demonstrates a new synthetic strategy for these nanocomposites, which offers a promising pathway for the optimization of nanosystems in therapeutic applications. Full article

This study introduces an innovative analytical solution to the time-fractional Cattaneo heat conduction equation, which models photothermal transport in metallic thin films subjected to short laser pulse irradiation. The model integrates the Caputo fractional derivative of order 0 < p ≤ 1, addressing non-Fourier heat conduction characterized by finite wave speed and memory effects. The equation is nondimensionalized through suitable scaling, incorporating essential elements such as a newly specified laser absorption coefficient and uniform initial and boundary conditions. A hybrid approach utilizing the finite Fourier cosine transform (FFCT) in spatial dimensions and the Laplace transform in temporal dimensions produces a closed-form solution, which is analytically inverted using the two-parameter Mittag–Leffler function. This function inherently emerges from fractional-order systems and generalizes traditional exponential relaxation, providing enhanced understanding of anomalous thermal dynamics. The resultant temperature distribution reflects the spatiotemporal progression of heat from a spatially Gaussian and temporally pulsed laser source. Parametric research indicates that elevating the fractional order and relaxation time amplifies temporal damping and diminishes thermal wave velocity. Dynamic profiles demonstrate the responsiveness of heat transfer to thermal and optical variables. The innovation resides in the meticulous analytical formulation utilizing a realistic laser source, the clear significance of the absorption parameter that enhances the temperature amplitude, the incorporation of the Mittag–Leffler function, and a comprehensive investigation of fractional photothermal effects in metallic nano-systems. This method offers a comprehensive framework for examining intricate thermal dynamics that exceed experimental capabilities, pertinent to ultrafast laser processing and nanoscale heat transfer. Full article

Neohesperidin (NH), a bioactive flavanone glycoside, exhibits multifaceted pharmacological properties including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. However, its clinical application is severely constrained by inherent physicochemical limitations such as poor aqueous solubility and instability under physiological conditions. To address these challenges, this study developed a dual-carrier nano-liposomal system through the synergistic integration of phospholipid complexation and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) inclusion technologies. Two formulations—NH-PC (phospholipid complex) and NH-PC-CD (phospholipid/HP-β-CD hybrid)—were fabricated via ultrasonication-assisted ethanol precipitation. Comprehensive characterization using FTIR and PXRD confirmed the amorphous dispersion of NH within lipid bilayers, with complete elimination of crystalline diffraction peaks, indicative of molecular-level interactions between NH’s hydroxyl groups and phospholipid polar moieties. The engineered nanosystems demonstrated remarkable solubility enhancement, achieving 321.77 μg/mL (NH-PC) and 318.75 μg/mL (NH-PC-CD), representing 2.01- and 1.99-fold increases over free NH. Encapsulation efficiencies exceeded 95% for both formulations, with sustained release profiles revealing 60.81% (NH-PC) and 80.78% (NH-PC-CD) cumulative release over 72 h, governed predominantly by non-Fickian diffusion kinetics. In vitro gastrointestinal simulations highlighted superior bioaccessibility for NH-PC-CD (66.35%) compared to NH-PC (58.52%) and free NH (20.85%), attributed to enhanced stability against enzymatic degradation. Storage stability assessments further validated the robustness of HP-β-CD-modified liposomes, with NH-PC-CD maintaining consistent particle size (<3% variation) and encapsulation efficiency (>92%) over 30 days. Antioxidant evaluations demonstrated concentration-dependent DPPH radical scavenging, wherein nanoencapsulation significantly amplified NH’s activity compared to its free form. This study establishes a paradigm for dual-functional nanocarriers, offering a scalable strategy to optimize the delivery of hydrophobic nutraceuticals while addressing critical challenges in bioavailability and physiological stability. Full article

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor, characterized by rapid progression and a median survival of no more than 12–18 months. Fluorescence-guided surgery is crucial, as it allows for tumor visualization and aids in its complete removal, which is essential for improving survival rates. We conducted a literature review to identify fluorescent agents that have been utilized in the removal of GBM and to assess their benefits in achieving maximum tumor resection. Our analysis focuses on their advantages, limitations, and potential impact on improving surgical precision and patient outcomes. We searched the PubMed database for studies published on fluorescence-guided resection of GBM and evaluated the utility of each agent in terms of outcomes, gross total resection (GTR), and their sensitivity and specificity for the tumor. The literature review revealed that the three agents successfully utilized are 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), sodium fluorescein, and indocyanine green. In addition to these, a variety of dyes have been investigated in studies, including peptides, lipids, and nanosystems, which appear to be very promising. To date, numerous fluorescent agents have been proposed for the surgical resection of GBM. However, 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) remains the only agent widely adopted in clinical practice, as its safety and efficacy have been well-established. Further clinical trials and studies are necessary to assess the utility, effectiveness, and potential advantages of emerging fluorescent dyes in enhancing GBM resection and improving patient outcomes. Full article

The peculiar electronic properties of graphene, including the universal dc conductivity and the pseudodiffusive shot noise, are usually found in a small vicinity close to the charge neutrality point, away from which the electron’s effective mass raises, and nanostructures in graphene start to behave similarly to familiar Sharvin contacts in semiconducting heterostructures. Recently, it was pointed out that as long as abrupt potential steps separate the sample area from the leads, some graphene-specific features can be identified relatively far from the charge neutrality point. These features include greater conductance reduction and shot noise enhancement compared to the standard Sharvin values. The purpose of this paper is twofold: First, we extend the previous analysis based on the effective Dirac equation, and derive the formulas that allow the calculation of the arbitrary charge transfer cumulant for doped graphene. Second, the results of the analytic considerations are compared with numerical simulations of quantum transport on the honeycomb lattice for selected nanosystems for which considerations starting from the Dirac equation cannot be directly adapted. For a wedge-shaped constriction with zigzag edges, the transport characteristics can be tuned from graphene-specific (sub-Sharvin) values to standard Sharvin values by varying the electrostatic potential profile in the narrowest section. A similar scenario is followed by the half-Corbino disk. In contrast, a circular quantum dot with two narrow openings showing a mixed behavior appears: the conductance is close to the Sharvin value, while the Fano factor approaches the value characterizing the symmetric chaotic cavity. Carving a hole in the quantum dot to eliminate direct trajectories between the openings reduces the conductance to sub-Sharvin value, but the Fano factor is unaffected. Our results suggest that experimental attempts to verify the predictions for the sub-Sharvin transport regime should focus on systems with relatively wide openings, where the scattering at the sample edges is insignificant next to the scattering at the sample–lead interfaces. Full article