Search Results (5,658)

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the long-term degradation behavior, biostimulatory effects, and biocompatibility of a novel poly-L-lactic acid-block-polyethylene glycol/hyaluronic acid (PLLA–b–PEG/HA) composite filler for soft tissue augmentation. Methods: PLLA–b–PEG/HA microsphere properties were characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen spectroscopy (¹H NMR), thermogravimetry (TG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). A 104-week in vivo rabbit model was established to systematically observe filler degradation and tissue responses. Ultrasound monitoring, histological staining, ELISA and RT-PCR were performed to assess volumetric changes, inflammatory reactions and collagen synthesis-related signaling. Results: Physicochemical property tests demonstrated that PLLA–b–PEG retains the fundamental physicochemical properties of pristine PLLA while exhibiting enhanced hydrophilicity. B-ultrasound demonstrated a presented uniform in vivo distribution without displacement or diffusion over time, confirming steady and predictable degradation. SEM verified progressive morphological degradation and porous evolution of the microspheres. The filler induced a mild, balanced inflammatory microenvironment with early expression of both pro-inflammatory (IL-12, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory (IL-4) cytokines, which resolved gradually over time. Sustained TGF-β upregulation persisted throughout the 104-week observation period, driving continuous neocollagenesis and prominent neoelastogenesis, thereby achieving favorable and long-term tissue remodeling with excellent biocompatibility. Conclusions: The PLLA–b–PEG/HA composite filler exhibits controllable degradation properties and homeostatic regulatory effects, along with outstanding long-term biosafety and tissue integration capacity. As an ideal biostimulatory filler for soft tissue augmentation, it can effectively facilitate the regeneration of high-quality functional extracellular matrix rich in collagen fibers and elastic fibers, and holds promising clinical prospects for natural and long-lasting soft tissue filling applications. Full article

Nyaope, a highly addictive high-grade heroin mixture combined with various adulterants, presented a severe socio-economic and public health crisis in South Africa. The administration of chronic exposure to nyaope induces systemic neurobehavioral alterations, including severe anxiety, motor deficits, cognitive impairment, and profound withdrawal-induced behavioral dysregulation. Moringa oleifera (MO), a botanical resource rich in bioactive flavonoids, alkaloids, and antioxidants, exhibits significant neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic properties. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of MO leaf extracts to reverse nyaope-induced systemic behavioral patterns using an in vivo rodent model. In the project, both male and female Wistar rats were monitored over nine (9) weeks in the Wits animal care center. The behavioral patterns that might be altered were investigated using the for-locomotor activity (Open Field Test), spatial working memory (Y-Maze), anxiety-like behavior (elevated plus maze) and cognitive memory (novel object recognition). The data were analyzed on a GraphPad Prism (Version 9.02) using repeated measures two-way and one-way ANOVAs, followed by appropriate post-hoc tests (p-value < 0.05). Most behavioral assessment tests demonstrated improved behavioral responses in the animal models following treatment with Moringa oleifera (MO). Overall, these findings suggest that MO treatment may have exerted beneficial effects on the behavioral outcomes assessed in the animal models. These findings demonstrate that administration of MO possesses potent neuroprotective properties. Crucially, treatment with MO significantly attenuated nyaope-induced behavioral alterations, restoring normal locomotor patterns and reducing anxiety-like traits. The findings indicate that MO exerts potential neuroprotective effects capable of mitigating and reversing systemic neurobehavioral disruptions caused by nyaope. Consequently, MO represents a promising naturally derived therapeutic candidate for mitigating neurochemical dysregulation and behavioral addiction patterns associated with nyaope abuse. There is a need for further research to assess the morphological modifications in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Full article

Betanin is the main betacyanin and major pigment extracted from red beets (Beta vulgaris). While its applications as food colorant, color-based sensors, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial traits are well-known, this natural dye is underestimated and underexploited in the field of light- and electric-responsive materials and devices. This comprehensive review describes the optical properties and molecular orbitals of this chromophore, along with its excited-state relaxation dynamics and emission quantum yields. Other relevant and basic behaviors of its excited-state features, such as cis-trans-photoisomerization, singlet–singlet energy transfer, photo-induced electron transfer, photosensitization of ¹O₂, and relative photo-instability are also presented in some relevant details. Photoconductive materials based on betanin and their related devices such as organic light emitting diodes, and dye-sensitized solar cells, are also surveyed. Other visible light-driven processes such as photodynamic processes and heterogeneous catalysis based on betanin-containing assembly/composites are demonstrated. Finally, the use of betanin as nonlinear optical materials is addressed. Full article

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are characterized by the progressive loss of specific neuronal cell populations and are associated with protein aggregates. Current therapeutic approaches are still limited due to the complexity and heterogeneity of these diseases, which points toward an urgent need to discover and develop new therapeutic agents. Natural compounds are a promising source of novel bioactive agents targeting multiple mechanisms of action implicated in neurodegeneration. Andrographolide (ANDRO) is a natural compound extracted from Andrographis paniculata, a traditional Chinese herb known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which has emerged as a potential neuroprotective agent due to its ability to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB). ANDRO can exert neuroprotective effects by modulating numerous transcription factors and signaling pathways across different cell types in the central nervous system (CNS). It has been described that ANDRO reverses cognitive and/or motor impairments in AD and PD study models. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind these protective effects are still being elucidated. In this review, we analyze the most recent findings on ANDRO, a neuroprotective agent with multiple biological targets that could reduce the progression of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases, AD and PD. Full article

Standard pharmacotherapy for mental disorders, including depression and anxiety, is supported by extensive clinical validation and international treatment guidelines. However, it is frequently associated with limitations such as adverse side effects, low patient adherence, and the risk of relapse. Conventional approaches rely primarily on antidepressants, anxiolytics, mood stabilizers, neuroleptics, and stimulants, which modulate monoaminergic, GABAergic, and dopaminergic neurotransmission. Recently, preclinical and emerging clinical studies have suggested that selected natural substances—specifically mushroom-derived compounds and well-established medicinal plants—may offer complementary therapeutic pathways. This narrative review critically evaluates the pharmacological efficacy, mechanisms of action, and safety profiles of selected natural compounds, including psilocybin-related tryptamines, Hericium erinaceus, ibotenic acid/muscimol from Amanita muscaria, ergothioneine, as well as notable botanical agents (e.g., Hypericum perforatum, Valeriana officinalis). We systematically distinguish between robust human clinical data (e.g., psilocybin-assisted therapy) and preliminary in vitro/in vivo findings. Particular attention is paid to their neurotrophic, anti-inflammatory, and neuromodulatory properties, while emphasizing substantial safety concerns, including intoxication risks associated with isoxazole derivatives, and potentially severe cytochrome P450-mediated drug–drug interactions. Ultimately, while certain natural compounds show promise as adjunctive interventions, most remain strictly investigational and cannot replace evidence-based conventional pharmacotherapy without further long-term, large-scale randomized controlled trials. Full article

Flavonoids are a diverse group of naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds found in plant-based foods and are known for their broad-spectrum biological activities. Among them, nobiletin, a polymethoxylated flavone derived from citrus peels, has gained attention for its multifaceted role in promoting healthy ageing and mitigating age-related diseases. This review explores the chemical properties, mechanisms of action, therapeutic potential, and challenges related to nobiletin. The focus is placed on its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and metabolic regulatory effects, as well as its capacity to enhance mitophagy, modulate circadian rhythms, and prevent ferroptosis. Despite promising preclinical results across various models, including in vitro cell lines, C. elegans, and mice, the clinical translation of nobiletin is hindered by poor oral bioavailability, complex extraction, and limited human data. Novel delivery systems, such as nanoemulsions and phospholipid-based carriers, offer potential solutions to enhance its bioavailability. As research advances, nobiletin emerges as a promising candidate for geroprotective therapy, warranting further investigation through well-designed clinical trials to extend healthspan and prevent age-associated pathologies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative condition characterised by cognitive impairment, cholinergic deficiency and neuroinflammation. Carvacrol and thymol are two related natural monoterpenes with reported antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and cholinesterase-inhibiting properties. This scoping review aims to map the current evidence regarding the effects of carvacrol and thymol on AD-related pathologies and identify their mechanisms of action. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in February 2026 across PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. This review included original, English-language primary research articles investigating the effects of carvacrol and thymol on AD using in vitro, in vivo, or in silico models. Results: From an initial pool of 87 unique records, 30 primary studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing direct AD pathology models (e.g., amyloid-beta), AD-associated risk models (e.g., metabolic or hypertensive impairment), and general cognitive impairment models. Both carvacrol and thymol reduced escape latency during spatial learning acquisition training and increased time spent in the target quadrant during probe trials, indicating improvements in both learning and memory retention, although several studies reported non-linear relationships. At the cellular level, carvacrol and thymol modulated distinct redox and inflammatory pathways, including nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 upregulation and tumour necrosis factor-alpha suppression. Synthetic derivatives and nanocarrier formulations (e.g., liposomes, nanoemulsions) demonstrated enhanced acetylcholinesterase inhibition and biological stability relative to parent monoterpenes. No clinical trials were identified, and formal critical appraisal was not performed. Conclusions: Preclinical evidence indicates that carvacrol and thymol show potential multi-targeted neuroprotective activity across diverse models of cognitive dysfunction. However, clinical translation remains unproven due to heterogeneous experimental designs, pharmacokinetic limitations, a lack of human trials, and unassessed study quality. Full article

Resveratrol (RSV) is a naturally occurring polyphenol with well-documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, photoprotective, wound-healing, depigmenting, and anticancer properties, making it an attractive candidate for dermocosmetic and dermatological applications. However, its clinical translation into effective topical products remains limited by poor aqueous solubility, chemical instability, photoisomerization, rapid cutaneous metabolism, and restricted skin penetration, all of which compromise local bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. This narrative review critically examines the molecular mechanisms underlying the cutaneous effects of RSV and discusses how its physicochemical and pharmacokinetic characteristics influence topical performance. Particular emphasis is placed on advanced delivery strategies developed to overcome these limitations, including lipid-based nanocarriers, polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), nanofibers, inorganic nanocarriers, microneedles, hydrogels, and other emerging delivery platforms. The mechanisms by which these systems improve RSV solubility, stability, controlled release, skin retention, and dermal penetration are critically evaluated together with their reported therapeutic outcomes. Although advanced delivery systems have consistently improved the topical performance of RSV in preclinical studies, clinical evidence remains limited. To date, only one published placebo-controlled clinical trial has specifically evaluated topical RSV as the active ingredient, and none of the advanced RSV-nanocarrier platforms discussed in this review has undergone clinical evaluation. Bridging this substantial translational gap will require not only further optimization of formulation design but also scalable manufacturing, rigorous clinical validation, and regulatory pathways capable of supporting the development of safe, effective and evidence-based next-generation dermocosmetic and dermatological products. Full article

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have long been recognized as key mediators of tumor invasion and metastasis due to their capacity to degrade extracellular matrix components. However, clinical failure of broad-spectrum MMP inhibitors has revealed a more complex and context-dependent role for these proteases in cancer. Among them, macrophage metalloelastase, MMP-12, has emerged as a particularly intriguing enzyme with both tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressive functions. Predominantly expressed by tumor-associated macrophages, MMP-12 occupies a unique position at the interface of proteolysis, inflammation, and immune regulation within the tumor microenvironment. Accumulating evidence from experimental models and clinical studies demonstrates that MMP-12 can exert potent anti-tumorigenic effects, primarily through inhibition of angiogenesis. Mechanistically, MMP-12 generates angiostatin and other anti-angiogenic fragments, suppresses vascular endothelial growth factor signaling, and reduces tumor vascularization, thereby limiting tumor growth and metastatic expansion. In several cancer types, including lung, colorectal, and hepatocellular carcinoma, elevated MMP-12 expression has been associated with reduced tumor progression and improved patient outcomes. Conversely, MMP-12 can also promote tumor progression through extracellular matrix remodeling, facilitation of invasion, and modulation of inflammatory pathways, particularly in environments characterized by chronic inflammation or immunosuppressive macrophage phenotypes. These seemingly contradictory roles are governed by multiple context-dependent factors, including macrophage polarization, tumor type, disease stage, and microenvironmental cues such as hypoxia and cytokine signaling. In this review, we comprehensively examine the molecular regulation, functional mechanisms, and clinical relevance of MMP-12 in cancer. We highlight the dualistic nature of MMP-12 activity and discuss its implications for therapeutic strategies, emphasizing the need for selective and context-aware targeting approaches rather than broad inhibition of MMP activity. Full article

Glycyrrhiza glabra is an herbaceous plant native to Eurasia, living in mild climates, and spread worldwide. Liquorice serves as a vital resource for human health, used as medicinal plants in feed and food, with anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. To the best of our knowledge, no genetic studies on Italian populations of this species have been reported so far. This study investigated for the first time the genetics of the Mediterranean G. glabra samples found in small natural meadows in Agrigento and Trapani provinces (Sicily, Italy). To assess possible genetic differences among samples, two molecular markers were employed, ribosomal DNA-Internal Transcribed Spacer (rDNA-ITS) regions and Inter-Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSRs), both widely used for evaluating intra- and interspecific variability. Partial sequencing of the rDNA-ITS region was performed on five samples collected from two distinct locations in Agrigento and Trapani provinces, revealing complete sequence identity among them. ISSR analysis further confirmed the genetic conservation of samples. We also compared, by multiple alignment and phylogenetic analysis, the Sicilian rDNA/ITS sequences with G. glabra sequences coming from other countries, and with other species of Glycyrrhiza such as G. uralensis, G. inflata, G. aspera, G. echinata, and G. pallidiflora. The results revealed a high similarity among all analyzed sequences. Studying the genetic diversity of liquorice is important in preserving its medicinal properties, supporting plant conservation programs, and in expanding its applications in the healthcare field. Full article

Skin aging is a complex process influenced by oxidative stress, protein glycation, chronic inflammation, and increased extracellular matrix remodeling. Intensive research is underway on new anti-aging substances with multi-target mechanisms of action while maintaining safety and efficacy. Ergothioneine, selenoneine, and ovothiol A are natural histidine derivatives of marine origin, in which the oxygen atom of the hydroxyl group has been replaced with sulphur or selenium. In recent years, a broad spectrum of their biological activity has been demonstrated. Despite the well-documented antioxidant potential of these compounds, their anti-aging effects, particularly in terms of antiglycation and anti-inflammatory activity, remain insufficiently understood. This study presents the current state of knowledge regarding the biological activity of ergothioneine, selenoneine, and ovothiol A, and discusses available cosmetic preparations and dietary supplements containing these compounds. Meanwhile, significant research gaps have been identified regarding their potential use in the prevention and treatment of skin aging. Full article

Animal-processing by-products contain collagen, myofibrillar proteins, blood proteins, whey proteins, and egg proteins that can be converted into peptide-rich food ingredients. Within a single application-oriented framework, this review integrates source heterogeneity, process control, peptide-profile characterization, tiered functional evidence, food-matrix performance, and regulatory substantiation. Evidence is evaluated for antioxidant, ACE-inhibitory, antimicrobial, DPP-IV-inhibitory, anti-inflammatory, mineral-binding, and taste-modulating functions, while distinguishing chemical assays, cell models, animal studies, human interventions, and tests in real-food matrices. Potential applications include functional foods, dietary supplements, natural preservation, flavor systems, texture modification, active packaging, and oral delivery. Translation remains limited by raw-material heterogeneity, batch variability, sensory defects, processing and gastrointestinal instability, uncertain bioavailability, incomplete safety assessment, and poorly defined regulatory claims. Future work should prioritize source traceability, peptide fingerprints, food-matrix validation, human exposure data, and scalable food-grade production. Compositionally defined peptide mixtures with reproducible functionality may be more practical than single highly purified sequences. Full article

Population aging has intensified the search for natural compounds capable of promoting healthy aging and preventing age-related diseases. Among medicinal plants, species of the genus Crataegus (hawthorn) have attracted increasing attention because of their rich phytochemical composition and broad spectrum of biological activities. This review summarizes and critically evaluates current evidence on the geroprotective potential of Crataegus species, integrating data from phytochemical, pharmacological, and mechanistic studies. Particular attention is given to the major bioactive constituents of Crataegus, including flavonoids, oligomeric proanthocyanidins, phenolic acids, and triterpenoids, which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, metabolic, and anticancer properties. We discuss the growing evidence that these phytochemicals target multiple hallmarks of aging by modulating oxidative stress, chronic low-grade inflammation (inflammaging), mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Their biological effects are mediated through key signaling pathways involved in cellular homeostasis and longevity, including Nrf2/ARE, NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, AMPK, and SIRT1. The review also critically examines findings from in vitro, in vivo, and available clinical studies, highlighting both the therapeutic potential and current limitations of Crataegus-based interventions for age-related disorders. Although preclinical evidence strongly supports the multi-target geroprotective properties of Crataegus species, clinical validation remains limited. Overall, Crataegus represents a promising source of natural geroprotective agents with the potential to promote healthy aging through the modulation of multiple aging-related molecular pathways. Future well-designed clinical studies are essential to establish their efficacy, safety, optimal dosage, and long-term therapeutic value in humans. Full article

Pharmaceutical-contaminated wastewater from medical facilities and households can cause ecological damage. In this study, 100% natural fruit peels, namely lime (LP), orange (OP), kiwi (KP), fig (FP), and pomegranate (PP) peels, were investigated as low-cost adsorbents for the removal of diclofenac (DCF), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and amoxicillin (AMX), an antibiotic, from aqueous solution. The goal of this study was to use food waste as a source for wastewater treatment. According to the results, natural fruit peels were effective for DCF removal (C₀ = 100 mg/L), with KP achieving a high removal efficiency (98.9%, 345.18 mg/g) at pH 3.0). The most promising materials (OP, KP, and FP) were further modified using MgO suspension followed by alkaline treatment with NaOH (OP-Mg, KP-Mg, and FP-Mg), resulting in enhanced performance for AMX removal (65.1%, 286.61 mg/g at pH 3.0, C₀ = 50 mg/L). The maximum short-term uptake capacity was reached within 15 min, and kinetic and isotherm models were applied to describe the adsorption data. The Langmuir expression gave the better description of the concentration dependence for both pharmaceuticals, at equilibrium for DCF and at a fixed contact time of 15 min for AMX. SEM, FTIR and XRD characterization techniques provided information on the adsorption mechanisms, as well as confirming the successful modification with Μg. In conclusion, the results demonstrate that natural fruit peels were effective in the removal of pharmaceuticals and at the same time offer potential cost and environmental advantages through waste valorization and relatively simple preparation, supporting the principles of the circular economy, through the utilization of food waste as sustainable materials for water treatment. Full article