Search Results (483)

Pistacia lentiscus var. chia resin (Chios Mastic Gum—CMG) is a natural aromatic resin that has been utilized in traditional medicine for more than 2.5 millennia, as it exhibits a wide range of pharmacological properties. In this study, various quantities of Chios Mastic Gum (3.5, 6.5, and 10 wt%) were encapsulated in electrospun fibers of poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) to develop functional fibrous mats with multiple potential applications. The morphological analysis of composite membranes was conducted through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealing the formation of uniform fibers and incremental diameter size in samples with a higher concentration of CMG. The encapsulation efficiency was assessed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry and showed an exceptionally high loading efficiency (87–88%). The cytotoxicity of CMG-loaded nanofibers was tested in human embryonic kidney cell line HEK293 and human hepatocarcinoma cell line HepG2 using the MTT assay. In both cases, a high concentration of encapsulated CMG led to a statistically significant reduction in cell viability. Full article

The increasing demand for smart bone substitutes has boosted the implementation of biomaterials possibly endowed with both pro-osteogenic and pro-angiogenic capabilities, among which bioactive glasses hold great potential. Hence, two Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)-based composites were loaded at 10 wt.%, with either pristine (SBA3) or copper-doped (SBA3_Cu) silica-based bioactive glasses, through a solvent casting method with chloroform. Neat PCL was used as a control. Samples produced by 3D printing underwent SEM and EDX analyses, and the following were measured: tensile strength and hardness, surface roughness, ion release through ICP-OES, surface free energy, and optical contact angle. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) and human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1) were used to test the biocompatibility of the materials through cell adhesion, spreading, and viability assays. A significant improvement in tensile strength and hardness was observed especially with Cu-doped composites. Both SBA3 and SBA3_Cu added to the PCL favored the early adhesion and the proliferation of HMEC-1 after 3 and 7 days, while ASCs proliferated significantly the most on the SBA-containing composite, at all the time points. Cellular morphology analysis highlighted interesting adaptation patterns to the samples. Further biological characterizations are needed to understand thoroughly how specific bioactive glasses may interact with different cellular types. Full article

Biodegradable poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) composite films were prepared with a compatibilizer (tributyl citrate, TBC) using a solvent casting method. Incorporation of 5% TBC (w/v, of PCL weight) improved tensile strength and elongation at break (21.93 ± 2.33 MPa and 21.02 ± 1.54%, respectively) and reduced water vapor permeability (from 0.12 ± 0.01 to 0.098 ± 0.01 g·mm·m²·h·kPa), indicating improved compatibility between PLA and PCL. Staphylococcus aureus phage PBSA08 demonstrated rapid and persistent bacteriolytic activity for up to 24 h, suggesting its potential as a promising antibacterial biological agent. To impart antibacterial properties to the developed PLA/PCL/TBC film, PBSA08 was loaded into sodium alginate (SA) and coated on the film surface. The optimal composition was 3% (w/v) SA and 3% (w/v) glycerol, which exhibited suitable dynamic behavior as a coating solution and excellent adhesion to the film surface. The phage-coated antibacterial films demonstrated progressive and significant inhibition against S. aureus starting from 10 to 24 h, with controlled phage-release properties. Overall, the developed active film might exert sustained and remarkable antibacterial effects through controlled release of biological agents (phage) under realistic packaging conditions. Full article

Background: Blackberry seed oil (BSO), obtained from Rubus spp. Xavante cultivar via supercritical CO₂ extraction, contains bioactive lipids and antioxidants, but its cosmetic application is limited by poor solubility and stability. Nanoencapsulation with poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) can overcome these limitations. Methods: BSO was characterized by Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry and incorporated into PCL nanocapsules (NCBSO) using the preformed polymer deposition method. Physicochemical properties, stability (at 4 °C, room temperature, and 37 °C for 90 days), cytotoxicity, and collagen production were assessed in human fibroblasts. Additionally, a predictive in silico analysis using PASS Online, Molinspiration, and SEA platforms was performed to identify the bioactivities of major BSO compounds related to collagen synthesis, antioxidant potential, and anti-aging effects. Results: NCBSO showed a nanometric size of ~267 nm, low polydispersity (PDI < 0.2), negative zeta potential (−28 mV), and spherical morphology confirmed by FE-SEM. The dispersion remained stable across all tested temperatures, preserving pH and colloidal properties. In particular, BSO and NCBSO at 100 µg.mL⁻¹ significantly enhanced in vitro collagen production by 170% and 200%, respectively, compared to untreated cells (p < 0.01). Superior bioactivity was observed for NCBSO. The in silico results support the role of key compounds in promoting collagen biosynthesis and protecting skin structure. No cytotoxic effects were achieved. Conclusions: The nanoencapsulation of BSO into PCL nanocapsules ensured formulation stability and potentiated collagen production. These findings support the potential of NCBSO as a promising candidate for future development as a collagen-boosting cosmeceutical. Full article

Poly(ε-caprolactone)-b-polysarcosine (PCL-b-PSar) block copolymers (BCPs) emerge as a promising alternative to conventional poly(ε-caprolactone)-b-poly(ethylene oxide) BCPs for biomedical applications, leveraging superior biocompatibility and biodegradability. In this study, we synthesized two series of PCL-b-PSar BCPs with controlled polymerization degrees (DP of PCL: 45/67; DP of PSar: 28–99) and low polydispersity indexes (Đ ≤ 1.1) and systematically investigated their crystallization-driven self-assembly (CDSA) in alcohol solvents (ethanol, n-butanol, and n-hexanol). It was found that the limited solubility of PSar in alcohols resulted in competition between micellization and crystallization during self-assembly of PCL-b-PSar, and thus coexistence of lamellae and spherical micelles. To overcome this morphological heterogeneity, we developed a modified self-seeding method by employing a two-step crystallization strategy (i.e., T_c1 = 33 °C and T_c2 = 8 °C), achieving conversion of micelles into crystals and yielding uniform self-assembled structures. PCL-b-PSar BCPs with short PSar blocks tended to form well-defined two-dimensional lamellar crystals, while those with long PSar blocks induced formation of hierarchical structures in the PCL₄₅ series and polymer aggregation on crystal surfaces in the PCL₆₇ series. Solvent quality notably influenced the self-assembly pathways of PCL₄₅-b-PSar₂₈. Lamellar crystals were formed in ethanol and n-butanol, but micrometer-scale dendritic aggregates were generated in n-hexanol, primarily due to a significant Hansen solubility parameter mismatch. This study elucidated the CDSA mechanism of PCL-b-PSar in alcohols, enabling precise structural control for biomedical applications. Full article

The growing demand for sustainable materials has intensified the search for biodegradable polymers. Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), though biodegradable, is fossil-derived. In this study, a novel lignin extracted from pine wood using a green solvent was incorporated into PCL and compared with commercial lignins (dealkaline, alkaline, and lignosulfonate). The lignin additions imparted antioxidant properties, enhanced thermal stability, and promoted circular economy goals through lignin valorization. Notably, the green-extracted lignin showed superior compatibility with PCL when compared with commercial lignins, as evidenced by lower water uptake and solubility, and improved surface hydrophobicity (higher contact angle). Although the addition of lignin reduced the tensile strength and elongation at break, it greatly increased the PCL radical scavenging activity (DPPH) from 8 ± 1% of neat PCL to 94.8 ± 0.3% when 20 wt% of lignin-LA was added. Among the tested lignins, lignin-LA stands out as the most promising candidate to be applied as a functional additive in biodegradable polymer blends and composites for advanced sustainable applications. Not only given its intrinsically higher sustainability but also due to its capacity for improving the thermal properties of PCL–lignin blends. Full article

Three-dimensional (3D) scaffold systems have proven instrumental in advancing our understanding of polymicrobial biofilm dynamics and probiotic interactions within the oral environment. Among oral probiotics, Streptococcus salivarius K12 (Ssk12) has shown considerable promise in modulating microbial homeostasis; however, its long-term therapeutic benefits are contingent upon successful and sustained colonization of the oral mucosa. Despite its clinical relevance, the molecular mechanisms underlying the adhesion, persistence, and integration of Ssk12 into the native oral microbiome/biofilm remain inadequately characterized. In this pilot study, we explored the temporal colonization dynamics of Ssk12 and its impact on the structure and functional profiles of salivary-derived biofilms cultivated on melt-electrowritten poly(ε-caprolactone) (MEW-mPCL) scaffolds, which emulate the native oral niche. Colonization was monitored via fluorescence in situ hybridization (smFISH), confocal microscopy, and RT-qPCR, while shifts in community composition and function were assessed using 16S rRNA sequencing and meta-transcriptomics. A single administration of Ssk12 exhibited transient colonization lasting up to 7 days, with detectable presence diminishing by day 10. This was accompanied by short-term increases in Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium populations. Functional analyses revealed increased transcriptional signatures linked to oxidative stress resistance and metabolic adaptation. These findings suggest that even short-term probiotic colonization induces significant functional changes, underscoring the need for strategies to enhance probiotic persistence. Full article

The development of high-impact denture base formulations that are suitable for digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing is demanding. Indeed, a combination of high flexural strength/modulus and high fracture toughness is required. In this contribution, eight urethane macromonomers (UMs1-8) were synthesized in a one-pot, two-step procedure. Several rigid diols were first reacted with two equivalents of trimethylhexamethylene diisocyanate. The resulting diisocyanates were subsequently end-capped with a free-radically polymerizable monomer bearing a hydroxy group. UMs1-8 were combined with the monofunctional monomer (octahydro-4,7-methano-1H-indenyl)methyl acrylate and a poly(ε-caprolactone)-polydimethylsiloxane-poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL-PDMS-PCL) triblock copolymer (BCP1) as a toughening agent. The double-bond conversion, glass transition temperature (T_g), and mechanical properties (flexural strength/modulus, fracture toughness) of corresponding light-cured materials were measured (cured in a mold using a light-curing unit). The results showed that the incorporation of BCP1 was highly efficient at significantly increasing the fracture toughness, as long as the obtained networks exhibited a low crosslink density. The structure of the urethane macromonomer (nature of the rigid group in the spacer; nature and number of polymerizable groups) was demonstrated to be crucial to reach the desired properties (balance between flexural strength/modulus and fracture toughness). Amongst the evaluated macromonomers, UM1 and UM2 were particularly promising. By correctly adjusting the BCP1 content, light-cured formulations based on those two urethane dimethacrylates were able to fulfill ISO20795-1:2013 standard requirements regarding high-impact materials. These formulations are therefore suitable for the development of 3D printable high-impact denture bases. Full article

Polymeric nanoparticles based on poly(ethyl cyanoacrylate) (PECA) and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) were synthesized via semicontinuous microemulsion polymerization for potential biomedical applications. A systematic evaluation of four surfactants (Tween 80, Alkonat L70, Genapol LRO, and Brij-20) was carried out to determine their effects on micelle formation and particle size. Brij-20 enabled the formation of nanoparticles under 100 nm, with optimal conditions identified at 4% surfactant concentration and pH 1.75. The polymerization process included acid-catalyzed ring-opening of ε-caprolactone, followed by the semicontinuous addition of ethyl-2-cyanoacrylate under an inert atmosphere. Copolymerization was confirmed through FT-IR spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry, revealing a glass transition temperature (T_g) of 110.9 °C, indicating PECA as the dominant phase. Thermogravimetric analysis showed two decomposition events corresponding to each polymer. Transmission electron microscope analysis revealed nanoparticles averaging 51.74 nm in diameter. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of producing PECA-PCL nanoparticles with controlled size and composition, suitable for drug delivery and other biomedical uses. Full article

This study focused on the preparation of poly(ε-caprolactone)/carbon nanotubes (PCL/CNTs) composite membranes via electrospinning technology and investigated their performance in oil–water separation. The effects of varying CNTs contents and spinning parameters on the structure and properties of the membrane materials were systematically studied. A highly uniform diameter distribution of the PCL fiber was achieved by using the dichloromethane/dimethylformamide (DCM/DMF) composite solvent with volume ratio of 7:3, as well as a PCL concentration of ca. 17 wt.%. The optimal electrospinning parameters were identified as an applied voltage of 18 kV and a syringe pump flow rate of 1 mL·h⁻¹, which collectively ensured uniform fiber morphology under the specified processing conditions. The critical threshold concentration of CNTs in the composite system was determined to be 1 wt.%, above which the composite fibers exhibit a significant increase in diameter heterogeneity. Both pristine PCL fibrous membranes and PCL/CNTs composite membranes demonstrated excellent and stable oil–water separation performance, with separation efficiencies consistently around 90%. Notably, no significant attenuation in separation efficiency was observed after ten consecutive separation cycles. Furthermore, when incorporating 0.5 wt.% CNTs, the PCL/CNT composite membranes exhibited a 20% increase in separation flux for heavy oils compared to pristine PCL membranes. Additionally, CNTs, as a prototypical class of nanofillers for polymer matrix reinforcement, can potentially enhance the mechanical properties of composite films, thus effectively prolonging their service life. Full article

Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) is a synthetic plastic known for its excellent physicochemical properties and a wide range of applications in packaging, coatings, foaming, and agriculture. In medicine, its versatility allows it to function as a scaffold for drug delivery, sutures, implants, tissue engineering, and 3D printing. In addition to its biocompatibility, PCL’s most notable characteristic is its biodegradability. However, this property is affected by temperature, microbial activity, and environmental conditions, which means PCL can sometimes remain in nature for long periods. This review shows that various types of microorganisms can efficiently degrade PCL, including different strains of Pseudomonas spp., Streptomyces spp., Alcaligenes faecalis, and fungi like Aspergillus oryzae, Fusarium spp., Rhizopus delemar, and Thermomyces lanuginosus. These microorganisms produce enzymes such as lipases, esterases, and cutinases that break down PCL into smaller molecules that act as substrates. The review also examines the phylogenetic diversity of organisms capable of biodegrading PCL, the biochemical pathways involved in this process, and specific aspects of the genetic framework responsible for the expression of the enzymes that facilitate degradation. Targeted research on microbial PCL biodegradation and its practical applications could significantly aid in reducing and managing plastic waste on a global ecological scale. Full article

This study describes the development, characterization and in vitro evaluation of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) nanoparticles loaded with xanthyletin for the control of Atta sexdens rubropilosa through the inhibition of its symbiotic fungus Leucoagaricus gongylophorus. Nanoparticles were prepared via interfacial polymer deposition, with formulation NC5 selected based on optimal physicochemical properties. NC5 exhibited an encapsulation efficiency of 98.0%, average particle size of 304 nm and zeta potential of −29.3 mV. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed spherical morphology and the absence of crystalline residues. The formulation remained physically stable for four months at 4 °C. In vitro release showed biphasic behavior, with an initial burst followed by sustained release. Under UV exposure, NC5 enhanced xanthyletin photostability by 15.4-fold compared to the free compound. Fungicidal assays revealed 76% inhibition of fungal growth with NC5, compared to 85% with free xanthyletin. These results support the potential application of xanthyletin-loaded PCL nanoparticles as a stable and controlled delivery system for the biological control of leaf-cutting ants by targeting their fungal mutualist. Further in vivo studies are recommended to assess efficacy under field conditions. Full article

Bacterially produced poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate] (P3HB) was subjected to an alcoholysis reaction to produce low-molecular-weight (M_n ≈ 10,000 g mol⁻¹) hydroxy-terminated P3HB (LMPHB). Using diethyl zinc as a catalyst, LMPHB was reacted with the cyclic monomers ε-caprolactone and l-lactide in separate ring-opening polymerization (ROP) reactions to produce PHB-b-PCL (PHBCL) and PHB-b-PLA (PHBLA) AB-type crystalline–crystalline diblock copolymers with varying PCL and PLA block lengths. ¹H NMR and GPC were used to confirm the structure of the polymers. DSC was used to measure the thermal properties as well as assessing crystallization. A single-shifting T_g for PHBLA showed the two blocks to be miscible in the melt. The TGA results indicate enhanced thermal stability over the homopolymer P3HB. A study of the crystallization was undertaken by combining WAXD, a second DSC heating regime, and POM. POM showed that the crystallization in PHBCL to be dependent on the crystallization temperature more so than PHBLA, whose composition appeared to be the more definitive factor determining the spherulitic morphology. The results informed the crystallization temperatures used in the production of the melt-crystallized thin films that were imaged using AFM. AFM images showed unique surface morphologies dependent on the diblock copolymer composition, block length, and crystallization temperature. Finally, the enzymatic degradation studies showed these unique surface morphologies to influence how these block copolymers were degraded by enzymes. Full article

Bone graft substitutes combining the mechanical features of poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) and the bioactivity of β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) have been widely reported in the literature. Surprisingly, however, very little is known about the incorporation of carbonate at a biomimicking level. The authors studied β-TCP/PCL composites at 20 wt.% and 40 wt.%, either enriched or not with sodium bicarbonate (at 2 wt.% and 4 wt.%), through SEM and EDX analyses; surface free energy estimation; pH measurement after 1, 2, and 3 days of incubation in cell media; nanoindentation; and a protein adsorption test with bovine serum albumin. The early biological response was assessed using adipose mesenchymal stem cells, as an established in vitro model, via cellular adhesion (20 min), spreading (24 h), and viability assays (1, 3, 7 days). By increasing the β-TCP content, the composites’ hardnesses and Young’s moduli (EiT) were improved, as well as their protein adsorption compared to neat PCL. Sodium bicarbonate increased the polar component of the surface energy, alkalinized the composite with a higher β-TCP content, and attenuated its early negative cell response. Further investigation is needed to deepen the knowledge of the mechanisms underpinning the mechanical features and long-term biological behavior. Full article

Bioactive glass (BG) is a promising material known for its osteogenic, osteoinductive, antimicrobial, and angiogenic properties. For this reason, melt-quench-derived BG powders embedded into composite electrospun poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) mats represent an interesting option for the fabrication of bioactive scaffolds. However, incorporating BG into nano-/micro-fibers remains challenging. Our research focused on integrating two BG compositions into the mat structure: 45S5 and 45S5_MS (the former being a well-known, commercially available BG composition, and the latter a magnesium- and strontium-enriched composition based on 45S5). Both BG types were added at concentrations of 10 wt.% and 20 wt.%. A careful grinding process enabled effective dispersion of BG into a PCL solution, resulting in fibers ranging from 500 nm to 2 µm in diameter. The mats’ mechanical properties were not hindered by the inclusion of BG powder within the fibrous structure. Furthermore, our results indicate that BG powders were successfully incorporated into the scaffolds, not only preserving their properties but potentially enhancing their biological performance compared to unloaded PCL electrospun scaffolds. Our findings indicate proper cell differentiation and proliferation, supporting the potential of these devices for tissue regeneration applications. Full article