Search Results (5,335)

Hearing loss is a major health burden, often caused by ototoxic drugs such as cisplatin and gentamicin. Effective therapy is limited by the poor penetrability of drugs into inner ear compartments. This study aimed to develop and test magnetic cationic liposomes as nanocarriers for targeted corticosteroid delivery to auditory hair cells. Carboxymethyl chitosan–coated liposomes were prepared by the lipid film hydration method, incorporating magnetic nanoparticles and dexamethasone phosphate in their aqueous core. The optimal liposomal formulation, in terms of size, zeta potential, and drug leakage over time, was selected and tested in an in vitro model of drug-induced ototoxicity. HEI-OC1 cells exposed to cisplatin or gentamicin were co-treated with the liposomal formulations, and viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, and β-galactosidase activity were assessed. The results demonstrated that magnetic, polymer-coated liposomes protected against cytotoxicity by preserving mitochondrial function and significantly reducing senescence. These findings provide a proof of concept for magnetically responsive liposomal systems as potential therapeutic platforms for preventing or treating drug-associated hearing loss. Full article

The immune system is crucial in protecting against disease, but it can also contribute to chronic illnesses when it malfunctions, with different conditions involving either inflammation or immune suppression. Current treatments often fall short due to limited effectiveness and side effects. Nanomedicine, particularly cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria), offers promising potential due to its unique therapeutic properties and role in modulating macrophages. Nanoceria (<5 nm) possess the catalytic ability to mimic natural enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase, enabling effective scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which play a central role in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammation and cancer. This review comprehensively summarizes the current advances in the application of nanoceria for inflammatory and anti-inflammatory therapy, including their modulatory effects on immune cell activation, cytokine production, and resolution of inflammatory responses. We discuss the mechanisms underlying their immunomodulatory actions in various disease contexts, such as rheumatoid arthritis, women’s health conditions (e.g., endometriosis), wound healing, and cancer. Additionally, the review highlights biocompatibility, therapeutic efficacy, adaptability in imaging (theranostics), and challenges in translating nanoceria-based therapies into clinical practice. The multifunctionality of nanoceria positions them as innovative candidates for next-generation immunotherapy aimed at efficiently controlling inflammation and promoting tissue repair. Full article

This research focuses on developing innovative nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems to enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. We engineered biocompatible polymeric nanoparticles capable of encapsulating various therapeutic agents, demonstrating improved stability, prolonged circulation times, and preferential accumulation in target tissues. Surface functionalization with targeting ligands achieved unprecedented specificity in drug delivery. Our nanoparticle formulations exhibited superior tumor accumulation in preclinical cancer models, enhancing therapeutic efficacy and reducing systemic toxicity. Additionally, we developed stimuli-responsive nanoparticles for precise spatiotemporal control over drug release. These advanced delivery systems promise to improve patient outcomes and advance personalized nanomedicine. Full article

In this study, the use of spent coffee waste as a green precursor of polyphenolic compounds, which are subsequently employed as reducing agents for the synthesis of zero-valent iron nanoparticles (nZVI) aimed at the efficient removal of dyes from aqueous systems, has been investigated. The nanoparticles, generated in situ in the presence of controlled amounts of hydrogen peroxide, were applied in the removal of organic dyes—including methylene blue, methyl orange, and orange G—through a heterogeneous Fenton-like catalytic process. The synthesized nZVI were thoroughly characterized by nitrogen adsorption at 77 K, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD). A statistical design of experiments and response surface methodology were employed to evaluate the effect of polyphenol, Fe(III), and H₂O₂ concentrations on dye removal efficiency. Results showed that under optimized conditions, a 100% removal efficiency could be achieved. This work highlights the potential of nZVI synthesized from agro-industrial waste through sustainable routes as an effective solution for water remediation, contributing to circular economy strategies and environmental protection. Full article

Titanium and its alloys are widely used in biomedical implants due to their favorable mechanical properties and corrosion resistance; however, their natural surface lacks sufficient bioactivity and antibacterial performance. Micro-arc oxidation is a promising approach to producing bioactive coatings, and the incorporation of nanoparticles such as TiO₂ may further improve their functionality. This study aimed to determine the optimal TiO₂ nanoparticle concentration in the micro-arc oxidation electrolyte that ensures coating stability and biological safety. Calcium–phosphate coatings were fabricated on commercially pure titanium using micro-arc oxidation with two TiO₂ concentrations: 0.5 wt.% (MAO 1) and 1 wt.% (MAO 2). Surface morphology, porosity, and phase composition were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Corrosion resistance was evaluated via potentiodynamic polarization in NaCl and Ringer’s solutions, while biocompatibility was assessed in vitro using HOS human osteosarcoma cells and MTT assays. Increasing the TiO₂ content to 1% decreased coating porosity (13.7% vs. 26.3% for MAO 1), enhanced corrosion protection, and reduced the friction coefficient compared to bare titanium. However, MAO 2 exhibited high cytotoxicity (81% cell death) and partial structural degradation in the biological medium. MAO 1 maintained integrity and showed no toxic effects (3% cell death). These results suggest that 0.5% TiO₂ is the optimal concentration, providing a balance between corrosion resistance, mechanical stability, and biocompatibility, supporting the development of safer implant coatings. Full article

Ozone (O₃) has re-emerged in periodontology for its antimicrobial, oxygenating, and immunomodulatory actions, yet its role in regeneration remains contentious. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on adjunctive ozone use in periodontal therapy, delineates cellular constraints—especially in periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs)—and explores mitigation strategies using bioactive compounds and advanced delivery platforms. Two recent meta-analyses indicate that adjunctive ozone with scaling and root planing yields statistically significant reductions in probing depth and gingival inflammation, with no significant effects on bleeding on probing, plaque control, or clinical attachment level; interpretation is limited by heterogeneity of formulations, concentrations, and delivery methods. Mechanistically, ozone imposes a dose-dependent oxidative burden that depletes glutathione and inhibits glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase, precipitating lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial dysfunction, ATP depletion, and PDLF apoptosis. Concurrent activation of NF-κB and upregulation of IL-6/TNF-α, together with matrix metalloproteinase-mediated extracellular matrix degradation and tissue dehydration (notably with gaseous applications), further impairs fibroblast migration, adhesion, and ECM remodeling, constraining regenerative potential. Emerging countermeasures include co-administration of polyphenols (epigallocatechin-3-gallate, resveratrol, curcumin, quercetin), coenzyme Q10, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid to restore redox balance, stabilize mitochondria, down-modulate inflammatory cascades, and preserve ECM integrity. Nanocarrier-based platforms (nanoemulsions, polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, hydrogels, bioadhesive films) offer controlled ozone release and co-delivery of protectants, potentially widening the therapeutic window while minimizing cytotoxicity. Overall, current evidence supports ozone as an experimental adjunct rather than a routine regenerative modality. Priority research needs include protocol standardization, dose–response definition, long-term safety, and rigorously powered randomized trials evaluating bioactive-ozone combinations and nanocarrier systems in clinically relevant periodontal endpoints. Full article

This study investigates the structural and magnetic properties of CoFe₂O₄ nanoparticles prepared by five different synthesis methods: coprecipitation, ultrasound-assisted coprecipitation, coprecipitation coupled with mechanochemical treatment, microemulsion and microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis. The produced powders were additionally functionalized with starch to improve biocompatibility and colloidal stability. The starch-coating procedure itself by sonication in starch solution, as well as its result, affects the structural and magnetic properties of functionalized nanoparticles. The resulting changes of properties in the process of ligand addition depend significantly on the starting nanoparticles, or rather, on the method of their synthesis. The structural, magnetic and spectroscopic properties of the resulting materials were systematically investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Mössbauer spectroscopy and magnetic measurements. Taken together, XRD, Raman and Mössbauer spectroscopy show that starch deposition reduces structural disorder and internal stress, resulting in nanoparticles with a more uniform size distribution. These changes, in turn, affect all magnetic properties—magnetization, coercivity and magnetic anisotropy. Magnetic responses are preserved what is desirable for future biomedical applications. This work emphasizes the importance of surface modification for tailoring the properties of magnetic nanoparticles while maintaining their desired functionality. Full article

A key obstacle to the efficacy of cancer drugs is the safe delivery of the drugs to the target site of the disease. Recent advances in nanomedicine have introduced smart hydrogel nanoparticles as promising, efficient, secure, and stimulus-responsive drug carriers. Herein, a bio-safe pH-sensitive nanohydrogel (NG) made of polyaminoethyl methacrylamide (AEMA)-grafted dextran was used as a carrier for liver-targeted doxorubicin (DOX) delivery. Lactobionate (SL) residue was conjugated to the prepared NG as a targeting agent, and DOX was also conjugated via Schiff base linkage. The synthesized structure was analyzed using ¹HNMR, FT-IR, and size exclusion chromatography. DOX release was confirmed through UV-Vis spectroscopy. A pH-responsive manner in the DOX release profile was observed in a simulated medium with pH changes. In vitro toxicity assessment was performed in HepG2 and L929 cell lines, which have demonstrated the biosafety of the prepared hydrogel and its high effectiveness as an anticancer drug delivery system. Full article

Glottic insufficiency, often caused by laryngeal nerve injury, impairs voice quality and breathing. Current treatments, such as hyaluronic acid injection, require frequent reapplication every 3–6 months. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) derived from Wharton’s Jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJMSCs) incorporated into genipin-crosslinked gelatin hydrogels (GCGHs) for promoting vocal fold fibroblast (VFFs) regeneration in vitro. WJMSCs were isolated from umbilical cords, expanded to passage 4, and used for sEV isolation via tangential flow filtration (TFF). The sEVs (585.89 ± 298.93 µg/mL) were characterized using bicinchoninic acid assay (BCA), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Western blot. Seven concentrations of sEVs were tested on VFFs to evaluate cytotoxicity and proliferation, identifying 75 µg/mL as the optimal dose. GCGHs were then combined with WJMSCs and sEVs and evaluated for physicochemical properties, degradation, biocompatibility, and immune response. The hydrogels were injectable within 20 min and degraded in approximately 42 ± 0.72 days. The optimal sEV concentration significantly enhanced VFFs proliferation (166.59% ± 28.11) and cell viability (86.16% ± 8.55, p < 0.05). GCGH-MSCs showed the highest VFFs viability (82.04% ± 10.51) and matrix contraction (85.98% ± 1.25) compared to other groups. All hydrogel variants demonstrated minimal immune response when co-cultured with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). GCGH is a promising scaffold for delivering WJMSCs and sEVs to support VFF regeneration, with demonstrated biocompatibility and regenerative potential. Further in vivo studies are warranted to validate these findings. Full article

The success of mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines has been confirmed in both preclinical and clinical settings. However, the development of safe and efficient mRNA vaccine delivery platforms remains challenging. In this report, PBAE-G-B-SS-modified CaO₂ nanofibers and Au@OVA@Cu@Dendrobium huoshanense polysaccharides were employed to establish novel self-assembling polymeric micelles (CaO₂@Au@OVA@Cu@DHPs) capable of serving as both an adjuvant and a delivery system for mRNA vaccines. In vitro, CaO₂@Au@OVA@Cu@DHPs nanoparticles (NPs) were conducive to effective macrophage antigen uptake and efficient antigen processing. In vivo, P-CaO₂@Au@OVA@Cu@DHPs NP administration was associated with a reduction in the ovalbumin (OVA) release rate that was conducive to the sustained induction of long-term immunity and to the production of higher levels of different IgG subtypes, suggesting that these effects were attributable to enhanced antigen uptake by antigen-presenting cells. Overall, these present data highlight the promise of these P-CaO₂@Au@OVA@Cu@DHPs NPs as an effective and safe platform amenable to vaccine delivery through their ability to provide robust adjuvant activity and sustained antigen release capable of eliciting long-term immunological memory while potentiating humoral and cellular immune responses. Full article

The germination, seedling growth, and crop productivity of maize seeds are significantly impacted by seed aging. This study investigated the efficacy of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a seed priming agent for maize inbred lines exhibiting varying degrees of aging tolerance. Two inbred lines, aging-sensitive I178 and aging-tolerant X178, were used. AgNP treatment significantly promoted the germination of I178 (from 55% to 85%, compared with water treatment). Notable improvements were observed in root length, shoot length, and lateral root formation after AgNP treatment in I178. However, X178 showed no significant changes in germination and seedling growth after the AgNP treatment. Further transcriptomic analysis was performed on X178 and I178 before (water treatment) and after AgNP treatment to study genes and the expression network of the mechanism induced by AgNP promotion. In I178, AgNP treatment led to a substantial increase in differentially expressed genes (DEGs). A total of 800 DEGs were identified, with 517 being upregulated and 283 downregulated. The DEGs in I178 were mainly involved in metabolic processes, stress responses, and membrane repair. For example, genes related to lipid metabolism and membrane integrity were upregulated, along with seven genes associated with antioxidant action and redox metabolism. This indicates that AgNPs might enhance membrane stability and stress tolerance in I178. In contrast, X178 had a limited transcriptomic response to AgNP treatment. Although 874 DEGs were detected, the number of genes related to key processes like those in I178 did not change significantly, which is in line with its inherent aging tolerance. Overall, these results suggest that AgNPs can effectively improve seed vigor and counteract the negative effects of seed aging, especially in aging-sensitive maize lines. The mechanism likely occurs through regulating gene expression related to stress response, metabolic repair, and membrane stability. This study provides new insights into the molecular basis of AgNP-mediated seed vigor enhancement, which has potential implications for improving seed quality in agricultural production. Full article

Equine sarcoids are the most common dermatological neoplasm in horses worldwide, associated with bovine papillomavirus (BPV) infection and characterized by high recurrence rates after conventional therapies. Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy has historically been used for sarcoid treatment, yet its role in contemporary veterinary oncology remains debated. This narrative review critically examines the immunological mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and limitations of BCG in equine sarcoid therapy, while integrating insights from comparative oncology and One Health perspectives. A systematic search following PRISMA-based criteria identified 55 relevant studies published over the past four decades. Evidence indicates that BCG activates innate and adaptive immunity through TLR2/4 signaling, macrophage polarization, and enhanced CD8+ T-cell responses, leading to partial or complete sarcoid regression in select cases. However, therapeutic outcomes are highly variable due to heterogeneity in protocols (dose, strain, adjuvant use) and frequent adverse inflammatory reactions. Comparative analyses highlight that modern alternatives—such as cryotherapy, cisplatin-based protocols, and topical imiquimod—achieve higher efficacy and lower recurrence rates in many clinical settings. Although BCG is now rarely considered a first-line therapy, it remains relevant in resource-limited regions, such as the Amazon Biome, where cost-effectiveness and accessibility are critical. Future directions include randomized controlled trials, standardized protocols, and innovative approaches such as checkpoint inhibition, CRISPR-Cas9 targeting of viral oncogenes, and nanoparticle delivery systems. This review provides a balanced and data-driven synthesis of BCG immunotherapy, clarifying its historical contributions, current limitations, and translational opportunities for advancing equine and comparative oncology. Full article

This work aims to study the effect of the bulk rheology of a complex system on the apparent interfacial viscoelastic response of a rising oil droplet of a paraffinic oil (Indopol) undergoing sinusoidal volume dilatations insidean aqueous phase containing a hydrogel. The modulation of the interfacial viscoelasticity is obtained using Span 80 surfactant or fumed silica nanoparticles. The rheology of the continuous phase is tuned by adding 3 to 5 g/L of κ-carrageenan (KC) to switch the continuous aqueous phase from a liquid to a gel state at 15 °C. When KC is liquid, the presence of Span 80 or nanoparticles at the liquid/liquid interface increases the apparent interfacial elastic modulus. However, when KC becomes a weak gel, the apparent interfacial elastic modulus depends on the nature of the surface-active agents. Indeed, if the presence of silica hard nanoparticles enhances the apparent elasticity of the interface, adding Span 80 weakens the apparent elasticity of the interface. These trends are discussed in terms of the localization of the deformation and slippage at the interfaces. Full article

Gallic acid (GA) exhibits a broad range of biological activities; however, its clinical application is significantly limited by poor stability, rapid degradation, and low bioavailability. Consequently, developing responsive delivery platforms to enhance GA stability and targeted release has become an important research focus. Herein, GA was encapsulated within novel composite hydrogel beads (CMC-SA-Fe₃O₄@GA) prepared via crosslinking carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) and sodium alginate (SA) with Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles (NPs) to facilitate efficient drug delivery. The formulation was characterized and evaluated in terms of drug-loading capacity, controlled-release properties, antioxidant activity, antibacterial performance, and biocompatibility. The results indicated that the GA loading efficiency reached 31.07 ± 1.23%. Application of an external magnetic field accelerated GA release, with the observed release kinetics fitting the Ritger–Peppas model. Furthermore, antioxidant capacity, evaluated by DPPH assays, demonstrated excellent antioxidant activity of the CMC-SA-Fe₃O₄@GA composite beads. Antibacterial tests confirmed sustained inhibitory effects against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In vitro, cellular assays indicated favorable biocompatibility with normal hepatic cells (HL-7702) and effective inhibition of hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2). Overall, the novel pH- and magnetic field-responsive CMC-SA-Fe₃O₄@GA hydrogel system developed in this work offers considerable potential for controlled delivery of phenolic compounds, demonstrating promising applicability in biomedical and food-related fields. Full article

Seedling establishment on reclaimed boreal sites is frequently constrained by drought and other abiotic stresses. Carbon nanomaterials have been shown to influence stress physiology in crops, but their effects on native boreal species are poorly understood. We tested whether carboxylic acid-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) alter drought responses in three shrubs widely used in reclamation: Shepherdia canadensis (L.) Nutt, Cornus sericea L., and Viburnum edule. Seedlings received two irrigations with MWCNTs suspensions (0 (control), 10, or 30 mg L⁻¹) before exposure to well-watered or drought conditions in a greenhouse. Drought reduced photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and transpiration and increased Ci/Ca across species, consistent with declining leaf water potential. MWCNTs did not broadly modify these responses, but the highest concentration (30 mg L⁻¹) further suppressed stomatal conductance in C. sericea and V. edule during mid- to late drought. S. canadensis showed little responsiveness. These effects suggest that MWCNT-associated stomatal closure may limit water loss under stress but also constrain CO₂ uptake, offering no clear photosynthetic benefit. MWCNT impacts were subtle, species- and dose-dependent, and centered on stomatal regulation. Application in reclamation should therefore be approached cautiously, balancing potential water-saving benefits against possible reductions in carbon assimilation and growth. Full article