Search Results (122)

Background/Objectives: This study investigates the physical, rheological, and antioxidant properties of nano-liposomal formulations encapsulating Fumaria officinalis L. (fumitory) extract, focusing on their stability and performance under ultraviolet (UV) exposure, as well as polyphenol release within simulated skin conditions in a Franz diffusion cell. Methods: Liposomal formulations, composed of phospholipids with or without β-sitosterol or ergosterol, were evaluated for their encapsulation efficiency, liposome size, size distribution, zeta potential, viscosity, surface tension, density, oxidative stability, antioxidant capacity, and polyphenol recovery. Results: Encapsulation efficiency was the highest in phospholipid liposomes (72.2%) and decreased with the incorporation of sterols: 66.7% for β-sitosterol and 62.9% for ergosterol liposomes. Encapsulation significantly increased viscosity and reduced surface tension compared to the plain liposomes, suggesting modified interfacial behavior. The inclusion of fumitory extract significantly increased the viscosity of liposomes (from ~2.5 to 6.09–6.78 mPa × s), consistent with the observed reduction in particle size and zeta potential. Antioxidant assays (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances—TBARS, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid—ABTS, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl—DPPH) confirmed enhanced lipid peroxidation inhibition and radical scavenging upon encapsulation, with ABTS activity reaching up to 95.05% in sterol-containing liposomes. Release studies showed that the free extract exhibited the fastest polyphenol diffusion (5.09 × 10⁻⁹ m²/s), while liposomes demonstrated slower/controlled release due to bilayer barriers. UV-irradiated liposomes released more polyphenols than untreated ones, particularly in the sterol-containing formulations, due to oxidative destabilization and pore formation. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential of fumitory extract-loaded liposomes as stable, bioactive carriers with tunable polyphenol antioxidant release properties for dermal applications. Overall, liposomal formulations of fumitory extract exhibit significant potential for further development as a pharmaceutical, cosmetic, or dermo-cosmetic ingredient for use in the prevention and treatment of various skin disorders. Full article

As a surface-located molecule in biological membranes, cholesterol sulphate (CholS) plays a major role in membrane-driven cell–cell processes and events including platelet-cell adhesion, T-cell receptor signalling, sperm–egg interaction, membrane fusion, and skin differentiation. Despite this, little is known about the biophysical implications of CholS at the membrane in cells and organelles. In this study, we investigate the effect of increasing the content of CholS on the biophysical properties in cholesterol-poor and cholesterol-rich biomimetic models. Data obtained show that increasing amounts of CholS result in a slight increase in anisotropy, evidence for decreased membrane fluidity at higher CholS content (10 mol%) in cholesterol-poor systems but only negligible in rigidified epithelial-like cholesterol-rich systems. On the other hand, incorporation of CholS has an overall increasing ordering effect on membrane organisation and on-surface potential that is influenced by the lipid composition and cholesterol content. Though further research is needed to gain better insights on the (patho)physiological levels of CholS in cells and organelles, our findings are discussed in the context of diet–microbiota–host interactions in membrane-driven events in inflammatory-related disorders. Full article

Background/Objectives: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoscale, membrane-enclosed structures that play key roles in intercellular communication and biological regulation. Among them, Lactobacillus paracasei-derived EVs (Lp-EVs) have attracted attention for their anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties, making them promising candidates for therapeutic and cosmetic use. However, methods for specific detection and quantitative evaluation of Lp-EVs are still limited. This study aims to develop a surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based sensor system for the precise and selective detection of Lp-EVs. Methods: Anti-p40 antibodies were immobilized on gold thin films to construct an SPR sensing platform. The overexpression of the p40 protein on Lp-EVs was confirmed using flow cytometry and Western blotting. For functional evaluation, Lp-EVs were applied to an artificial skin membrane mounted on a Franz diffusion cell, followed by SPR-based quantification and fluorescence imaging to assess their skin penetration behavior. Results: The developed SPR sensor demonstrated high specificity and a detection limit of 0.12 µg/mL, with a linear response range from 0.1 to 0.375 µg/mL. It successfully discriminated Lp-EVs from other bacterial EVs. In the skin diffusion assay, Lp-EVs accumulated predominantly in the epidermal layer without penetrating into the dermis, likely due to their negative surface charge and interaction with the hydrophobic epidermal lipid matrix. Fluorescence imaging confirmed this epidermal confinement, which increased over 24 h. Conclusions: This study presents a sensitive and selective SPR-based platform for detecting Lp-EVs and demonstrates their potential for targeted epidermal delivery. These findings support the use of Lp-EVs in skin-focused therapeutic and cosmetic applications. Future studies will explore strategies such as microneedle-assisted delivery to enhance transdermal penetration and efficacy. Full article

Background: Scald burns pose significant morbidity, and effective topical treatments remain a clinical priority. Burn injuries pose a significant clinical challenge due to the prolonged inflammation and high infection risk. Traditional treatments focus on moisture retention and infection prevention, but biocompatible formulations such as hydrogels and oleogels offer advantages. Hydrogels hydrate, cool, and promote epidermal regeneration, while oleogels form a lipid barrier that enhances the absorption of lipophilic bioactive compounds. There is an increasing demand for novel topical alternatives that can effectively improve wound healing by modulating the inflammatory cascade, accelerating epithelial and dermal regeneration, and restoring barrier function. Objective: This study aimed to determine the most effective plant-based topical formulations for enhancing second-degree scald burn wound healing. Methods: Utilizing a standardized rat model, we compared 21 distinct topical formulations, consisting of oleogel and hydrogel bases enriched with extracts from Boswellia serrata (frankincense), Ocimum basilicum (basil), Sambucus nigra flower (elderflower), and Galium verum (lady’s bedstraw). Second-degree burns were uniformly induced in 24 Wistar rats using boiling water (100 °C for 8 s) using the RAPID-3D device, a validated 3D-printed tool that ensures reproducible burns through controlled exposure to boiling water. Post-burn, rats were divided into three equal subgroups, and topical formulations were applied daily. Wound healing efficacy was evaluated through wound surface area measurements, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration, sebum production, pigmentation, inflammation (erythema), skin perfusion, and histological parameters at multiple timepoints (days 1, 4, 9, 14, and 21 post-burn induction). Results: Statistical analyses indicated significant advantages of oleogel-based formulations over hydrogel-based formulations. Specifically, formulations containing Boswellia serrata and Ocimum basilicum extracts significantly reduced wound size and inflammation, improved skin hydration, and decreased melanin production by days 9 and 21 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings underscore the potential clinical value of oleogel-based topical preparations containing specific plant extracts for improving scald burn wound healing outcomes, warranting further clinical evaluation. Full article

The inherent acidic nature of the stratum corneum (SC), the so-called “acid mantle”, has a multitude of effects on skin barrier integrity owing to its (patho)physiological role in skin homeostasis, antimicrobial defense, and inflammation. Several salient SC acidifying mechanisms, including the breakdown of FLG (filaggrin) protein, lipid processing, and the activity of the sodium proton pump SLC9A1/NHE1, are indispensable for the structural and functional integrity and cohesion of the SC as they contribute immensely to the origin, generation, maintenance, and overall SC acidification of the skin surface pH (pHss). As many endogenous and exogenous factors can affect the pHss, the pHss can inevitably deviate from its optimum. The elevation of the pHss is often accompanied by abnormalities in SC lipid metabolism and organization, SC cohesion, and SC integrity and is commonly observed in eczema, which is associated with symptoms of dry skin, inflammation, pruritus, and infection. In psoriasis, it seems that the pHss is altered as well; however, in this case, it is likely to be lower than the physiological pHss. Due to the negative effects of an altered pHss in both eczema and psoriasis, it has been suggested to maintain the pHss at physiological levels by utilizing pH-balanced topical cleansers and moisturizers that can improve the skin’s structural and functional integrity by benefiting skin moisturization and the regeneration and organization of the SC barrier. The principal aim of this review is to gather an understanding of the existing research and to stimulate critical thinking and inspire innovative ideas about ‘known unknowns’, considering the origin, intricate nature, and prime role of the pHss in human skin health, as well as the pathogenesis of eczema and psoriasis. Full article

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a widespread gastric infectious disease, posing significant challenges due to the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to evaluate the synergistic antibacterial activity of Takifugu obscurus skin peptides (TSPs) and the cell-free supernatant of Lactobacillus plantarum WUH3 (LCFS) in developing a potential green and efficient dietary supplement therapy. Using enzymatic hydrolysis and ultrafiltration techniques, the most bioactive peptide fraction, TSPb (1–3 kDa), was identified. The effects of TSPb and LCFS—both individually and in combination—on H. pylori biofilm function, membrane morphology, and internal structure were systematically analyzed using urease activity, N-phenyl naphthylamine (NPN) uptake, nucleic acid leakage, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The results showed that both LCFS and TSPb significantly inhibited H. pylori urease activity, with inhibition rates of 53.60% and 54.21% at 24 h, respectively, and the highest inhibition rate of 74.64% was observed with their combined treatment. SEM, NPN fluorescence, and nucleic acid leakage analyses revealed distinct mechanisms of action for each treatment. LCFS treatment caused membrane surface loosening and morphological deformation, while TSPb induced the formation of localized membrane pores. IR spectroscopy further confirmed that the combined treatment led to a more severe disruption of the lipid and protein structure within the bacterium. Overall, compared to individual treatments, the combination of TSPb and LCFS exhibited enhanced intracellular penetration and a more significant effect on bacterial viability. This study successfully identified TSPb as a highly bioactive peptide and elucidated its potential synergistic antibacterial mechanism with LCFS. These findings provide scientific evidence for the development of functional antimicrobial foods and gastric health dietary supplements, offering a promising strategy for the prevention and management of H. pylori infections. Full article

Background: UPLC-Q-TOF-MS (Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography–Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry) is a high-precision, high-density technology for lipid analysis. Sensitive skin is a sub-stable condition, and it has been reported that the population of sensitive skin in China is predominantly female. Meanwhile, women with sensitive skin have different physiological parameters as well as lipid compositions at different ages. The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine states that the number of women’s life cycles is seven, that major changes are manifested every 7 years, and that aging begins at age 35. At present, the correlation between facial lipid composition and aging indicators of sensitive skin in women aged 36–42 and 43–49 years has not been reported. Objective: This study reveals the relationship between key lipid composition of the facial skin and the aging of sensitive skin in women aged 36–42 and 43–49 years. Methods: We used UPLC-Q-TOF-MS technology to study the changes in lipid composition in the sensitive skin of woman aged 36–42 and 43–49 years, using a multi-probe adapter system with different types of skin-testing probes to test physiological parameters. Three types of multivariate data—questionnaires, physiological indicators, and lipid composition—were used together to assess differences in aging in a population of women with sensitive skin at different ages. Results: 1. In the questionnaire part, the T1 group was more susceptible to sunburn and the T2 group was more susceptible to tanning. 2. In the physiological index part, the aging characteristics of facial skin in the T2 group were obvious, with the b-value, as well as the brown area size, being significantly higher than the T1 group, while the TWEL, sebum, R2 value, ITA value, pore count, and concentration of the red area were significantly lower than the T1 group. 3. In the lipid part, the total facial lipid content was higher in the T2 group, with a significantly higher GP lipid, and the 47 VIP lipids obtained were analyzed by ROC curves, narrowing down to six lipids, PS(2-OMe-21:0/0:0), PS(O-18:0/20:5 (5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z)), PA(O-16:0/20:5 (5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z)), PS (P-16:0/12:0, PA (O-16:0/22:2 (13Z,16Z)), and PC (19:3 (10Z,13Z,16Z)/0:0)), and all six lipids were higher in the T2 group. 4. In Spearman correlation analysis, PS(O-18:0/20:5(5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z)), PS(P-16:0/12:0), PS(2-OMe-21:0/0:0), PA(O-16:0/20:5(5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z)), and PC(19:3( 10Z,13Z,16Z)/0:0), which are five lipids and skin aging indicators (TWEL, sebum, ITA value, b-value, pore count, concentration of red area, and brown area size) were significantly correlated. Conclusions: Through correlation analysis, it was found that changes in the composition of skin surface lipids (SSLs) in both age groups have an important influence on facial physiological indicators (aging manifestations) and played an important role in furthering the understanding of sensitive skin aging. Therefore, these lipid components also provide theoretical support for the development of cosmetic ingredients that slow down the aging of sensitive skin. Full article

Background/Objectives: Skin wrinkles result from a myriad of multifaceted processes involving intrinsic and extrinsic aging. To combat this effect, plant stem cells offer a renewable and eco-friendly source for various industries, including cosmeceuticals. Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM), which contains the bioactive compound Rosmarinic acid (RA) and has been proposed for its anti-wrinkle effect. Methods: In the present study, calli from SM were cultured and Quality by Design (QbD) was implemented to investigate the effect of different types and concentrations of elicitors; jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA). Both raised RA levels yet, jasmonic acid (50 µM) has resulted in the highest yield for RA, at 16 mg/g. A nanofiber patch was prepared and characterized in-vitro by the release percentage, drug content, swelling degree, scanning electron microscope, and surface roughness. Then, the anti-wrinkle effect of the patch was tested in a UV wrinkle-induced mouse model. Results: Interestingly, after treatment, there were visibly fewer wrinkles, and the skin was softer than in the untreated control group. This study suggests that the treatment exerted its effect through the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway, which plays a crucial role in cellular antioxidant protective processes. By activating this pathway through boosting Nrf2 and diminishing Keap1 cellular content, the nanofiber patch enhances the production of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, enhancesglutathione, and reduces the skin lipid peroxidation, collectively indicating enhanced skin quality. Conclusions: In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of this formula as an anti-wrinkle treatment, and future clinical studies are recommended to further unveil the potential of this formula. Full article

Background: Circadian rhythms are driven by the biological clock, an endogenous oscillator that generates approximately 24 h cycles in mammals. The circadian regulation of the lipid metabolism plays a crucial role in overall metabolic health. An analysis of the correlation between the skin’s physiological parameters and skin lipids can provide a better insight into the rhythmic changes in skin condition. Objectives: The aim was to reveal how skin surface lipids (SSLs) participate in the regulation of circadian rhythms in the skin and the importance of the circadian oscillation of facial lipid molecules in maintaining epidermal homeostasis. Methods: Changes in SSLs were assessed using UPLC-QTOF-MS. The skin’s physiological parameters were quantified using non-invasive instruments. Multivariate data analysis was employed to evaluate the differences. Results: Both skin surface lipids and physiological parameters exhibited certain circadian variation patterns. Four major lipid classes (fatty acids, glycerophospholipids, prenol lipids, saccharolipids) exhibited circadian rhythmic trends, with seven lipid subclasses contributing most significantly to the overall patterns observed. Among the physiological parameters assessed, sebum secretion, transepidermal water loss, moisture measurement value, and skin surface temperature exhibited sinusoidal circadian rhythms. Further analysis revealed significant correlations between fatty acids and saccharolipids with moisture measurement values, and between glycerolipids and pH value. In addition, lipids closely associated with the barrier such as unsaturated fatty acids and ceramide chain lengths correlated significantly with moisture measurement values. Conclusions: Through correlation analysis, the study elucidates the influence of diurnal fluctuations in skin surface lipids on skin barrier function. These findings hold significant implications for understanding skin barrier impairment associated with circadian rhythm disruptions. Full article

The skin hydration level is a key factor that influences the physical and mechanical properties of the skin. The stratum corneum (SC), the outermost layer of the epidermis, is responsible for the skin’s barrier function. In this study, we investigated the role of a unique composition of Viola yedoensis extract for its ability to activate CD44, a cell-surface receptor of hyaluronic acid, and aquaporin-3, a water-transporting protein, in human keratinocytes (HaCaT). An ELISA assay evaluating the protein expression levels of CD44, aquaporin-3 (AQP3), filaggrin, and keratin-10 revealed that V. yedoensis extract upregulated the levels of CD44 and AQP3 by 15% and 78%, respectively. Additionally, V. yedoensis extract demonstrated a comparative effect on water vapor flux in TEWL and lipid perturbation in DSC versus the reference, glycerin. In light of this new biological efficacy, a detailed phytochemical characterization was undertaken using an integrated LC-HRMS/MS-based metabolomics approach, which provided further insights on the chemistry of V. yedoensis. This led to the identification of 29 secondary metabolites, 14 of which are reported here for the first time, including esculetin, aesculin, apigenin and kaempferol C-glycosides, megastigmane glycosides, roseoside, platanionoside B, and an eriojaposide B isomer, along with the rare, calenduloside F and esculetin diglucoside, which are reported for the first time from the genus, Viola. Notably, two active components identified in the V. yedoensis extract, namely, aesculin and schaftoside, showed an upregulation of the protein expression of CD44 in HaCaT cells by 123% and 193% within 24 h of treatment, respectively, while aesculin increased AQP3 levels by 46%. Aesculin and schaftoside also significantly upregulated the expression of K-10 levels by 299% and 116%, which was considerably higher than sodium hyaluronate, the positive control. The rationale used to characterize the new structures is outlined along with the related biosynthetic pathways envisioned to generate roseoside and Eriojaposide B. These findings provide new molecular insights to deepen the understanding of how V. yedoensis extract, along with the biomarkers aesculin and schaftoside, restores the skin barrier and skin hydration benefits. Full article

Oleogels are structured materials formed by immobilizing oil within a polymer network. This study aimed to synthesize bilayer foamed oleogels using Ecogel™ as an emulsifier—a natural gelling and emulsifying agent commonly used to stabilize emulsions. Ecogel™ is multifunctional, particularly in cosmetic formulations, where it aids in creating lightweight cream gels with a cooling effect. However, the specific goal of this study was to investigate the physicochemical properties of oleogels formed with Ecogel™, Tween 80, gelatin, and glycerin. The combination of these ingredients has not been studied before, particularly in the context of bilayer foamed oleogels. The biphasic nature of the resulting materials was explored, consisting of a uniform lower phase and a foamed upper layer. Several analytical techniques were employed, including FT-IR spectrophotometric analysis, moisture content evaluation, surface wettability measurements, microscopic imaging, and rheological studies, in addition to surface energy determination. The results demonstrated that the addition of Tween 80 significantly improved the stability and rigidity of the oleogels. Furthermore, storage at reduced temperatures after synthesis enhanced the material’s stabilizing properties. These materials also showed an affinity for interacting with non-polar compounds, indicating potential applications in skincare, especially for interaction with skin lipids. Full article

Dermatoses are among the most prevalent non-fatal conditions worldwide. Given this context, it is imperative to introduce safe and effective dermatological treatments to address the diverse needs and concerns of individuals. Transdermal delivery technology offers a promising alternative compared to traditional administration methods such as oral or injection routes. Therefore, this review focuses on the recent achievements of nanocarrier-based transdermal delivery technology for dermatological therapy, which summarizes diverse delivery strategies to enhance skin penetration using various nanocarriers including vesicular nanocarriers, lipid-based nanocarriers, emulsion-based nanocarriers, and polymeric nanocarrier according to the pathogenesis of common dermatoses. The fundamentals of transdermal delivery including skin physiology structure and routes of penetration are introduced. Moreover, mechanisms to enhance skin penetration due to the utilization of nanocarriers such as skin hydration, system deformability, disruption of the stratum corneum, surface charge, and tunable particle size are outlined as well. Full article

The analysis of skin surface lipid-RNAs (SSL-RNAs) provides a non-invasive method for understanding the molecular pathology of atopic dermatitis (AD), but its relevance to asthma remains uncertain. Although dupilumab, a biologic drug approved for both asthma and AD, has shown efficacy in improving symptoms for both conditions, its impact on SSL-RNAs is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the impact of dupilumab treatment on SSL-RNA profiles in patients with severe asthma. An SSL-RNA analysis was performed before and after administering dupilumab to asthma patients requiring this intervention. Skin samples were collected non-invasively from patients before and after one year of dupilumab treatment. Although 26 patients were enrolled, an SSL-RNA analysis was feasible in only 7 due to collection challenges. After dupilumab treatment, improvements were observed in asthma symptoms, exacerbation rates, and lung function parameters. Serum levels of total IgE and periostin decreased. The SSL-RNA analysis revealed the differential expression of 218 genes, indicating significant down-regulation of immune responses, particularly those associated with type 2 inflammation, suggesting potential improvement in epithelial barrier function. Dupilumab treatment may not only impact type 2 inflammation but also facilitate the normalization of the skin. Further studies are necessary to fully explore the potential of SSL-RNA analysis as a non-invasive biomarker for evaluating treatment response in asthma. Full article

This study explores the incorporation of 10% 3-O-ethyl L-ascorbic acid (ETVC), a derivative of vitamin C, into two lipid gel systems: a hydrogel (HG) consisting exclusively of lipids and water and a bigel (BG) combining the hydrogel with an oleogel made from olive oil and beeswax. We investigated the ETVC release profiles from both materials using synthetic membranes and measured their permeation through porcine skin in vitro. Additionally, the interaction of these lipid gel systems with the stratum corneum (SC) was determined. Results from the release study indicate that the BG exhibited slower ETVC release compared to the HG. The permeation experiments showed that the presence of lipids in the formulations enhanced ETVC retention in the skin. The HG delivered a higher amount to the SC, while the BG achieved greater retention in the epidermis. This difference is attributed to the different lipophilic nature of each material. The structural analysis of SC lipids revealed that the organization of surface lipids remained unaltered by the application of the gels. Finally, an in vitro efficacy test in porcine skin using methylene blue indicated that our ETVC gels exhibited antioxidant activity. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential of lipid-based gels for topical applications. Full article

Among sixty-eight pseudomonads, isolate QCS59 from the rhizosphere of H. schimperi was selected based on its siderophore level. Production was optimal in Kings B supplemented with 2% peptone and 0.5% fructose at pH 6.5 and 25 °C for 72 h. Additionally, the threshold potential of iron was found at a concentration of 10 µM. After purification, the acidified siderophore presented a maximum absorption peak of 360 nm, while the neutral form presented a maximum of 414 nm, confirming its pyoverdine (PVD) nature. Furthermore, a major peak appeared at a retention time (RT) of 27.5 min during RP-HPLC, confirming its homogeneity. Interestingly, it demonstrated effective antibacterial activity, especially against Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 6.3 µg/mL and a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 12.5 µg/mL. At ½ the MIC value, it inhibited 82.1% of well-established biofilms of Salmonella enterica. There was an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidative enzymes, especially catalase (CAT) in the treated bacteria because of the peroxidation of membrane lipids and oxidative stress, respectively. SEM proved cellular lysis and surface malformation in most of the treated bacteria. This study concludes that QCS59 siderophore is a promising antibacterial candidate for treating wastewater bacteria and skin pathogens. Full article