Non-invasive ultrasonic debridement of implant biofilms via hydrogen-sulfide releasing peptide nanoemulsions

Implant contamination by bacterial biofilms remains a significant healthcare burden, often necessitating revision surgeries due to biofilm-enabled antibiotic resistance. Physical debridement, in combination with chemical antiseptics, is a simple and effective therapeutic strategy, but requires highly invasive surgical procedures and risks secondary infection events. Herein, we report a non-invasive, nanoparticle-enabled ultrasonic debridement strategy that exerts synergistic physical and chemical antiseptic effects to rapidly and efficiently clear implant-associated biofilms in situ. This approach is realized through the development of hydrogen sulfide releasing peptide nanoemulsions that preferentially target bacterial biofilms and can be vaporized via diagnostic ultrasound to spatiotemporally clear methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. Biophysical studies elucidate the mechanistic basis for the platform's anti-biofilm activity, and in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo experiments confirm efficacy in the context of MRSA-infected titanium implants. By exploiting the portable, low cost and safe nature of low intensity diagnostic ultrasound, this non-invasive approach avoids the collateral tissue damage associated with current surgical and high intensity acoustic ablative modalities.

Influences and strategies for bone regeneration based on microenvironment pH adjustment

Bone possesses remarkable endogenous regenerative capacity. Bone regeneration is typically divided into three stages: inflammation, bone formation, and bone remodeling, during which pH is a critical variable. The influence of pH on the bone regeneration process depends on three main factors: (1) the activity and differentiation of cells involved in bone regeneration are affected by pH; (2) protein activity is regulated by pH; and (3) extracellular calcium phosphate precipitates in a pH-dependent manner. The aim of this study is to review the mechanisms by which microenvironment pH affects bone regeneration and to explore specific sites and signaling pathways involved in pH regulation during the bone regeneration process. Therapeutic approaches aimed at enhancing bone regeneration via modulation of microenvironment pH are discussed, including pH adjustment via biological implant materials, pH-responsive material setting, and pH stabilization through anti-inflammatory therapy. Investigating the impact of microenvironment pH on bone regeneration is of considerable clinical importance, as it provides valuable insights for improving the success rates of bone implants and promoting bone healing. This review offers insights into regulatory mechanisms, establishes theoretical foundations, and presents new perspectives for current research on bone defect repair.

Discovery of structurally diverse diazatricyclododecenes as lysosomotropic autophagy inhibitors

Lysosomotropic autophagy inhibitors were identified from a structurally diverse library of diazatricycloundecanes. Structure activity relationship (SAR) studies on the three side chain substituents (R1-R3) of diazatricycloundecane identified compound 1e as the most potent inducer of LC3-II protein accumulation. Mechanistic analysis revealed that compound 1e functions as a lysosomotropic agent, increasing lysosomal pH and inhibiting autophagy through lysosomal dysfunction. Furthermore, compound 1e was less cytotoxic compared to previously reported lysosomotropic agents and exhibited excellent drug-like physicochemical properties, surpassing those of classical lysosomotropic agents such as chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine.

Advanced nanoparticle engineering for precision therapeutics of brain diseases

Despite the increasing global prevalence of neurological disorders, the development of nanoparticle (NP) technologies for brain-targeted therapies confronts considerable challenges. One of the key obstacles in treating brain diseases is the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which restricts the penetration of NP-based therapies into the brain. To address this issue, NPs can be installed with specific ligands or bioengineered to boost their precision and efficacy in targeting brain-diseased cells by navigating across the BBB, ultimately improving patient treatment outcomes. At the outset of this review, we highlighted the critical role of ligand-functionalized or bioengineered NPs in treating brain diseases from a clinical perspective. We then identified the key obstacles and challenges NPs encounter during brain delivery, including immune clearance, capture by the reticuloendothelial system (RES), the BBB, and the complex post-BBB microenvironment. Following this, we overviewed the recent progress in NPs engineering, focusing on ligand-functionalization or bionic designs to enable active BBB transcytosis and targeted delivery to brain-diseased cells. Lastly, we summarized the critical challenges hindering clinical translation, including scalability issues and off-target effects, while outlining future opportunities for designing cutting-edge brain delivery technologies.

Bi-phasic integrated silk fibroin/polycaprolactone scaffolds for osteochondral regeneration inspired by the native joint tissue and interface

Osteochondral scaffolds designed with bi-phasic and multi-phasic have typically struggled with post-implantation delamination. To address this issue, we developed a novel integrated scaffold with natural and continuous interface and heterogeneous bilayer structure. Through layer-by-layer wet electrospinning, two-dimensional (2D) bi-layer integrated membranes of silk fibroin (SF) and polycaprolactone (PCL) were fabricated. These membranes were then transformed into three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds using a CO2 gas foaming technique, followed by gelatin coating on the osteogenic layer to afford final bi-phasic porous scaffolds. In vitro studies indicated that the 3D scaffolds better-maintained cell phenotypes than conventional 2D electrospun films. Additionally, the 3D scaffolds showed superior cartilage repair and osteoinductivity potential, with increased subchondral bone volume and reduced defect area in rat osteochondral defects models at 12 weeks. Taken together, these gas-foamed scaffolds were a promising candidate for osteochondral regeneration.

Injectable hydrogel microsphere orchestrates immune regulation and bone regeneration via sustained release of calcitriol

Repairing bone defects in inflammatory conditions remains a significant clinical challenge. An ideal scaffold material for such situations should enable minimally invasive implantation and integrate capabilities for immunomodulation, anti-infection therapy, and enhanced bone regeneration. In this study, we developed injectable calcitriol@polydopamine@gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel microspheres (CAL@PDA@GMs) using microfluidic technology. This system facilitates the sustained release of calcitriol, which features excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, promotes osteogenesis, scavenges excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), and induces the polarization of macrophages from the M1 to M2 phenotype, thereby mitigating lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation. These mechanisms work synergistically to create an optimal immune microenvironment for bone regeneration in inflammatory conditions. RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) analyses revealed that immunomodulation is achieved by regulating macrophage phenotypes, inhibiting the nuclear transcription factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and ROS signaling pathways, and reducing the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This study proposes a novel method to enhance tissue regeneration by remediating the damaged tissue microenvironment and presents a potential clinical therapeutic strategy for large-scale bone injuries.

Hydrogel-integrated exosome mimetics derived from osteogenically induced mesenchymal stem cells in spheroid culture enhance bone regeneration

Exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) offer a promising alternative to traditional cell-based therapies for tissue repair by mitigating risks associated with the transplantation of living cells. However, insufficient osteogenic capacity of exosomes diminishes their potential in bone tissue regeneration. Here, we report novel osteogenically induced exosome mimetics (EMs) integrated into injectable hydrogel carriers for improved bone regeneration. EMs were produced by a serial extrusion of MSCs cultured as spheroids during osteogenic induction. The prepared EMs were chemically anchored on a self-healing hydrogel assembled by guanidinylated hyaluronic acid and silica-rich nanoclays for sustained release of EMs. The administration of hydrogel-integrated EMs into mouse calvarial defects resulted in robust bone tissue regeneration. miRNA sequencing revealed altered expression of specific miRNAs in the EMs related to Wnt/β-catenin and Notch signaling pathways. Our study provides new insights into the development of advanced exosome-based cell-free therapies for bone tissue engineering.

Halogen Bond-Driven Ligand Displacement: Co-Crystal Lattice Versus Coordination Bonds

Coordination bonds are generally stronger than halogen bonds; however, the Jahn-Teller effect in d⁹ Cu(II) and the trans influence of the oxo-ligand in vanadyl (V═O) acetylacetonates can weaken N→Cu/V bonds, bringing them closer to the upper range of halogen bond strength. The study investigates the interactions between transition metal acetylacetonate complexes, M(acac)2(L) (M─Cu(II), V(IV) = O; L = amine ligands), and halogen bond (XB)-donor co-formers, particularly 1,4-diiodotetrafluorobenzene (1,4-DITFB). The co-crystallization experiments reveal an unusual ligand displacement phenomenon wherein the expected M(acac)2(L)·1,4-DITFB complexes fail to form, instead yielding separate M(acac)2·1,4-DITFB and L·1,4-DITFB co-crystals. Computational studies reveal that while XB interactions alone may be insufficient to disrupt the M─N coordination bond, they can induce ligand displacement when amplified by the lattice stabilization of the resulting halogen-bonded co-crystals, particularly in Jahn-Teller distorted d⁹ Cu(II) and trans-influenced V(IV) = O complexes interacting with halogen bond donors.

A biomimetic therapeutic nanovaccine based on dendrimer-drug conjugates coated with metal-phenolic networks for combination therapy of nasopharyngeal carcinoma: an in vitro investigation

Developing a minimally invasive and potent therapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma is still challenging. In this study, we report a photothermal nanovaccine based on phenylboronic acid (PBA)-modified poly(amidoamine) dendrimers of generation 5 (G5) attached with indocyanine green (ICG) as a photothermal agent, toyocamycin (Toy) as an endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) drug, and Mn2+-coordinated metal-phenolic networks. The developed nanocomplexes are camouflaged with homologous apoptotic cancer cell membranes, leveraging membrane proteins as an antigenic reservoir and incorporating the immune adjuvant cytosine-guanine (CpG) oligonucleotide to obtain the final nanovaccine formulation. The prepared nanovaccine with a size of 72.4 nm displays satisfactory colloidal stability and photothermal conversion efficiency (36.7%), and is capable of targeting cancer cells and inducing apoptosis under laser irradiation through combined ICG-mediated photothermal therapy, Toy-enabled chemotherapy and Mn2+-mediated chemodynamic therapy. Meanwhile, the combined therapeutic effects can elicit immune responses to mature dendritic cells through the immunogenic cell death of cancer cells and the inserted CpG adjuvant/apoptotic cancer cell membranes, and polarize tumor-associated macrophage cells to the antitumor M1 phenotype. The antitumor efficacy of the nanomedicine platform was proven by the test of the penetration and therapeutic inhibition of 3-dimensional tumor spheroids in vitro. The developed functional nanomedicine integrated with different therapeutic modes may be developed as a biomimetic therapeutic nanovaccine for nasopharyngeal carcinoma treatment.

Cationic Azobenzene Tag to Enhance Liposomal Prodrug Retention and Tumor-Targeting Prodrug Activation for Improved Antitumor Efficacy

In this study, we reported a cationic azobenzene (Azo) tag to increase the retention of camptothecin (CPT) prodrugs in liposomes driven by π-π stacking interaction between Azo. Compared with a cationic CPT prodrug without Azo, the liposome-encapsulating Azo-linked CPT prodrugs (AzoCPT-Lips) exhibited slower prodrug leakage in plasma and a longer blood circulation time in mice. The AzoCPT-Lips had a high encapsulation efficiency (95%), loading capacity (20%, by weight), and good storage stability. The AzoCPT was efficiently taken up by 4T1 tumor cells (100-fold higher than CPT) and readily converted into active CPT in the cytoplasm to exert 10-fold higher cytotoxicity than free CPT. More importantly, AzoCPT-Lips resulted in 5-20 times higher tumor distribution of active CPT than that of CPT solution or those in other tissues, which further led to more potent antitumor activity and lower toxicities in the 4T1 breast cancer xenograft. Such a cationic Azo tag represents an effective strategy for developing liposomal antitumor drugs with improved antitumor efficacy.

Sarin simulants show limited representativeness

In this study, we conducted colorimetric gas-phase tests on real sarin and compared the results with the most commonly used simulants under identical test conditions. Our findings indicated that reactivity extrapolation was not a reliable approach and that validation using the real toxic gas remained essential for a fair assessment of sarin sensors.

Recent advances in organic fluorescent probes for detecting phosgene, mustard gas, nerve agents and their mimics

Chemical warfare agents (CWAs) have been notorious for a century, especially sarin and mustard gas, which have produced intolerable menace to civilian lives and environmental security. As a result, developing simple, rapid, portable, sensitive, and selective detection technologies for CWAs is critical. This review primarily covered the recent progress in developing organic fluorescent probes for detecting phosgene, mustard gas, and nerve agents and their mimics. The review mainly discussed various sensing reactions utilized in the covalent strategies like cyclization, elimination, phosphorylation, alkylation, and sprioring-opening reaction, as well as the supramolecular approaches. The comparison of these probes highlighted the successful development of fluorescent probes for CWAs, some with detection limits in nano mol/L in solution and ppb scale in vapor state within seconds. These will contribute to a more effective system for detecting and monitoring CWAs in the future and improve the ability to respond to chemical attacks. Finally, the review discussed the limitations of current probes, emphasizing the need for on-site and real-time detection. It also called for research into new mechanisms and kits for rapid early warning of various CWAs to facilitate emergency handling and decontamination.

X-ray-Responsive Semiconducting Polymer siRNA Nanosystems for Orthotopic Glioma Treatment via Silencing the Immunosuppressive Signal

Gliomas are the most lethal types of adult brain tumors with a devastating prognosis, but many therapies have failed to exert good therapeutic benefits because of the extremely hypoxic and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. To address these challenges, we herein present a semiconducting polymer (SP)-based small interfering RNA (siRNA) nanosystem with the loading of oxygen self-supplying perfluorohexane (PFH) and conjugation of siRNA via a singlet oxygen (1O2)-cleavable linker. The nanosystems are further camouflaged with a macrophage membrane to obtain the final RM@SPN-siRNA. RM@SPN-siRNA displays an enhanced enrichment at the orthotopic glioma site due to surface cell membrane camouflaging. PFH provides sufficient oxygen to relieve tumor hypoxia, which boosts the production of 1O2 by the SP working as the radiosensitizer under external X-ray irradiation. The generated 1O2 destroys the 1O2-cleavable linker and disrupts the membrane structure to enable in situ siRNA release at the tumor site and subsequent activatable programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) silencing for tumor cells. As a consequence, an immunological effect is triggered to effectively inhibit tumor growths in an orthotopic glioma mouse model. This study offers an X-ray-responsive siRNA nanosystem for precise protein silencing and treatment of deep-seated orthotopic tumors.

Impact of biodegradation on the mechanical and fatigue properties of 3D-printed PLA bone scaffolds

A proper degradation rate of bone scaffolds ensures optimal mechanical support and effective tissue regeneration. The present study examines the degradation effects of simulated body fluids (SBF) on the compressive and fatigue strength of 3D-printed PLA bone scaffolds. Scaffolds with varying surface-to-volume (S/V) ratios and identical porosity (60 %) were immersed in Hanks' solution for a maximum period of 30 days. Static and dynamic compression tests were performed at different immersion times to assess how S/V ratio influences the degradation process. CT images showed that scaffold pore structure remained interconnected after biodegradation, with no significant change in strut thickness or dry weight. Results also indicated that while the compressive strength and modulus of scaffolds remained largely unchanged during biodegradation, their fatigue resistance reduced significantly. This reduction in fatigue resistance was attributed to the embrittlement of PLA material caused by crystalline phase changes during degradation. Microscopic images and X-ray analysis revealed the brittle fracture of scaffolds at the diagonal shear plane and the presence of SBF's salts within the scaffold material. Scaffolds with higher S/V ratios exhibited a greater decrease in fatigue resistance. The failure cycle of scaffolds with S/V ratios of 3.4, 2.4, and 1.9 mm-1 decreased by 77 %, 76 %, and 60 %, respectively after 30 days of biodegradation. Higher S/V ratios increased the surface exposure to the corrosive media. This resulted in higher water absorption, which subsequently intensified the embrittlement of the scaffolds.

Insight of action mechanism of Astragaloside IV for relieving of cerebral ischemic injury in a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion reperfusion via proteomics and network pharmacology

Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is the principal active component of Astragalus membranaceus (fisch.) Bge. var. mongholicus (Bge.) Hsiao. This study aims to explore action mechanism of AS-IV for relieving of cerebral ischemic injury in a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion reperfusion (MCAO) via proteomics and network pharmacology. Pharmacodynamics experiments showed that AS-IV could effectively alleviate MACO-induced cerebral infarction, preserve the structural integrity of neurons, and promote the formation of Sol bodies. In addition, TMT quantitative proteomics revealed differential proteins (DEPs), e.g., DGKQ, PPT1, Gnai3, Gnal, PLA2G4A, and Ppp2ca. These DEPs might be closely related to AS-IV for the therapeutic effects on ischemic stroke. In combination with network pharmacology, the PLA2G4A was further identified as key target protein of AS-IV ascribed to its involvement in the regulation of inflammatory mediators in the TRP pathway. Ultimately, in vitro validation demonstrated that AS-IV offers neuroprotective effects by targeting the PLA2G4A, reducing the release of arachidonic acid (AA) and COX-2, and facilitating Ca2+ inflow into cells. This study provided a scientific basis on development and application of AS-IV for treating ischemic stroke.

Single-molecule resolution of the conformation of polymers and dendrimers with solid-state nanopores

Polymers and dendrimers are macromolecules, possessing unique and intriguing characteristics, that are widely applied in self-assembled functional materials, green catalysis, drug delivery and sensing devices. Traditional approaches for the structural characterization of polymers and dendrimers involve DLS, GPC, NMR, IR and TG, which provide their physiochemical features and ensemble information, whereas their unimolecular conformation and dispersion also are key features allowing to understand their transporting profile in confined ionic nanochannels. This work demonstrates the nanopore approach for the determination of charged homopolymers, neutral block copolymer and dendrimers under distinct bias potentials and pH conditions. The nanopore translocation properties reveal that the dispersion and transporting of PEI is pH-dependent, and its capture rate is much lower than that of PAA. The neutral block copolymer with longest molecular chain threads through with longest blockage duration, its highest capture rate was achieved in 0.5 M KCl at pH 5 with slow diffusion and high temporal resolution. The two generations of neutral dendrimers could also translocate under bias potentials, probably due to the ions adsorption on the dendrimers and driven by Brownian force. The TEG-81 with larger molecular size translocates with longer residence time and higher blockage ratio, as expected. Both of the dendrimers exhibit a higher blockage ratio at pH 7.4 than either acidic or alkalic condition, indicating a larger stretched conformation adopted under neutral condition. This work presents the analysis of unimolecular charged and neutral polymers and dendrimers, which will be insightful in understanding the self-assembly motion and transfer of synthetic macromolecules in confined space. It also provides a good indication for deciphering the macromolecule-nanopore interplay under electrophoretic condition.

Fabrication of highly tough, self-healing sodium alginate/polyacrylamide and copper based nanocomposite hydrogel and its application as strain and pressure sensor for human health monitoring and signature recognition

Conductive hydrogel-based strain and pressure sensors have been extensively employed in various fields such as soft robotics and human-machine interaction. Nonetheless, it still remains challenging to synthesize a conductive hydrogel with exquisite mechanical properties, electrical conductivity and sensitivity. Herein, a novel double network nanocomposite conductive hydrogel was fabricated by using sodium alginate (SA), polyacrylamide (PAm) and copper metal nanoparticles (CuNPs) and further utilized to construct highly sensitive strain and pressure sensors. The optimized SA:PAm/CuNPs-18 hydrogel exhibited a tensile strength of 0.42 MPa, an elongation at break of 1448 %, a toughness of 3.90 MJ m-3 and an electrical conductivity of 2.4 S m-1. Furthermore, the SA:PAm/CuNPs-18 hydrogel-based strain sensor was successfully utilized for multi-scale sensing and monitoring of the movements of elbow joint, knee joint, wrist joints, neck muscles, facial expressions and pulse of humans. In addition, the SA:PAm/CuNPs-18 hydrogel-based pressure sensor also showed great potential to detect and differentiate handwritten letters of English even at variable applied pressures and speeds. All these results indicate that the strain and pressure sensors can be integrated in wearable electronic devices, which are useful in medical observation and accurate signature recognition of humans.

A cyanine-based probe for sensitive and selective detection of mustard gas simulant CEES

A novel cyanine dye-based probe, Cy3CS, was developed and evaluated for the detection of 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES), a simulant for sulfur mustard which is a notorious chemical warfare agent. The probe demonstrated a substantial (as high as 106-fold) fluorescence enhancement upon reaction with CEES even at low concentrations (0.1-1 mM and 0-100 μM). The detection displayed excellent linear correlation between fluorescence intensity and CEES concentration with high R2 values (0.9954 and 0.9993 for 0.1-1 mM and 0-100 μM, respectively) and low detection limit (0.44 μM). Meanwhile, the detection does not involve base or other additives, which could simply the detection procedure. The selectivity experiments revealed that the probe responded exclusively to CEES among a range of potential interferents, proving the superior specificity. This selectivity is crucial for accurate detection in complex environments, such as soil samples, which were effectively analyzed using our probe. Thus, the Cy3CS probe offers a significant advancement in the detection of chemical warfare agent's simulant, with performance metrics that include excellent sensitivity, selectivity, and simplicity of use, establishing it as a promising tool for environmental monitoring and public health safety.

Analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry: An update for 2021-2022

The use of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry for the analysis of carbohydrates and glycoconjugates is a well-established technique and this review is the 12th update of the original article published in 1999 and brings coverage of the literature to the end of 2022. As with previous review, this review also includes a few papers that describe methods appropriate to analysis by MALDI, such as sample preparation, even though the ionization method is not MALDI. The review follows the same format as previous reviews. It is divided into three sections: (1) general aspects such as theory of the MALDI process, matrices, derivatization, MALDI imaging, fragmentation, quantification and the use of computer software for structural identification. (2) Applications to various structural types such as oligo- and polysaccharides, glycoproteins, glycolipids, glycosides and biopharmaceuticals, and (3) other general areas such as medicine, industrial processes, natural products and glycan synthesis where MALDI is extensively used. Much of the material relating to applications is presented in tabular form. MALDI is still an ideal technique for carbohydrate analysis, particularly in its ability to produce single ions from each analyte and advancements in the technique and range of applications show little sign of diminishing.

Guar gum-based films incorporated with a synthetic nanoclay: Physicochemical properties and food packaging applications

Biopolymeric materials are increasingly recognized as sustainable solutions for packaging applications, with guar gum (GG) emerging as a promising alternative because of its renewable, nontoxic, and plant-based origin. This study aimed to evaluate the properties of GG-based films incorporated with Laponite (Lap). The films were produced by the casting method with a composition of 1 % GG, 20 % glycerol (% w/w GG), and Lap concentrations between 0 and 15 % (% w/w GG). The films were characterized to assess their morphology, chemical bonds, crystallinity, optical properties, moisture content, solubility in water, water vapor permeability, and mechanical properties. Furthermore, GG films with 0 % and 15 % Lap were tested as a modified atmosphere packaging method for ready-to-eat strawberries. The films exhibited a uniform appearance, with no defects, and the water solubility decreased with increasing Lap concentration. Film containing 3 % Lap had a higher tensile strength of 196.9 %, whereas 5 % Lap increased the elastic modulus by 266.7 %. The incorporation of Lap did not alter film opacity, but improved the UV-barrier properties. When applied to strawberry packaging, both films (0 % and 15 % Lap) effectively maintained an adequate internal atmosphere, leading to minimal fruit mass loss after 7 days and satisfactory sensory and microbiological quality.

Research progress on intervertebral disc repair strategies and mechanisms based on hydrogel

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) arises from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and age-related factors, culminating in a spectrum of low back pain (LBP) disorders that exert significant societal and economic impact. The present therapeutic landscape for IDD poses formidable clinical hurdles, necessitating the exploration of innovative treatment modalities. The hydrogel, as a biomaterial, exhibits superior biocompatibility compared to other biomaterials such as bioceramics and bio-metal materials. It also demonstrates mechanical properties closer to those of natural intervertebral discs (IVDs) and favorable biodegradability conducive to IVD regeneration. Therefore, it has emerged as a promising candidate material in the field of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering for treating IDD. Hydrogels have made significant strides in the field of IDD treatment. Particularly, injectable hydrogels not only provide mechanical support but also enable controlled release of bioactive molecules, playing a crucial role in mitigating inflammation and promoting extracellular matrix (ECM) regeneration. Furthermore, the ability of injectable hydrogels to achieve minimally invasive implantation helps minimize tissue damage. This article initially provides a concise exposition of the structure and function of IVD, the progression of IDD, and delineates extant clinical interventions for IDD. Subsequently, it categorizes hydrogels, encapsulates recent advancements in biomaterials and cellular therapies, and delves into the mechanisms through which hydrogels foster disc regeneration. Ultimately, the article deliberates on the prospects and challenges attendant to hydrogel therapy for IDD.

Injectable laponite nanocomposite hydrogel with synergistic antibacterial and odontogenic activity for endodontic regeneration

Persistent pulpitis often leads to irreversible dentin defects and pulp necrosis, posing significant challenges for functional dental restoration. To address the critical limitation of insufficient odontogenic differentiation in dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), we develop an injectable photo-crosslinking methacrylated hyaluronic acid hydrogel (PLSr2+@HAMA) containing laponite-based ternary nanocomposites which self-assemble by laponite, strontium ions (Sr2+), and antibacterial peptide P-113. We demonstrate that PLSr2+@HAMA features three distinctive advantages: (1) Unique injectability enabling minimally invasive delivery and UV-triggered in situ gelation for anatomical adaptation; (2) Sustained co-release of antimicrobial peptide P-113 and bioactive strontium ions through laponite-mediated orchestrated delivery; (3) Multi-ion and P-113 synergistic action achieving simultaneous infection control and dentin regeneration in several in vitro and in vivo models, promoting endodontic regeneration. By integrating antibacterial action with DPSCs modulation in a single minimally invasive platform, this strategy pioneers a new paradigm for comprehensive endodontic regeneration, demonstrating significant translational potential for inflammatory dental pulp therapy.

Multifunctional biomimetic liposomal nucleic acid scavengers inhibit the growth and metastasis of breast cancer

Chemotherapy and surgery, though effective in cancer treatment, trigger the release of nucleic acid-containing pro-inflammatory compounds from damaged tumor cells, known as nucleic acid-associated damage-associated molecular patterns (NA-DAMPs). This inflammation promotes tumor metastasis, and currently, no effective treatment exists for this treatment-induced inflammation and subsequent tumor metastasis. To address this challenge, we developed a biomimetic liposome complex (Lipo-Rh2) incorporating a hybrid structure of liposomes and dendritic polymers, mimicking cell membrane morphology. Lipo-Rh2 leverages the multivalent surface properties of dendritic polymers to clear cell-free nucleic acids while serving as both a structural stabilizer and targeting ligand via embedded ginsenoside Rh2. Experimental data show that Lipo-Rh2 effectively reduces free nucleic acids in mouse serum through charge interactions, downregulates Toll-like receptor expression, decreases inflammatory cytokine secretion, and inhibits both primary tumor growth and metastasis. Compared to the current nucleic acid scavenger PAMAM-G3, Lipo-Rh2 demonstrates stronger antitumor effects, lower toxicity, and enhanced targeting capabilities. This biomimetic liposome-based nucleic acid scavenger represents a novel approach to nucleic acid clearance, expanding the framework for designing effective therapeutic agents.

A phenothiazine-based ratiometric fluorescent probe for detecting hypochlorite (ClO-) and its application in foods and water samples

As a significant reactive oxygen species (ROS), ClO- plays versatile roles in daily life and many biological events. However, its abnormal levels are responsible for serious harm to human health. Therefore, it is of crucial interest to develop effective methods for detecting ClO- in foods and living organisms. In this work, a novel fluorescent probe ethyl 2-(3-formyl-2-methoxy-10H-phenothiazin-10-yl)acetate (PEA) for detecting ClO- was presented. It shows the merits of rapid ratiometric response (within 10 s), high selectivity and very large Stokes shift (190 nm). The detection limit of PEA for ClO- was determined to be 0.47 μM. We not only successfully prepared paper test strips for efficient qualitative naked eye ClO- detection, but also demonstrated its potential for the valid detection of ClO- in natural water samples, beverages and foods. Furthermore, the probe PEA was also applied to the fluorescence imaging of ClO- in onion epidermal cells.

The pharmacokinetic profile of mitomycin C released from an injectable supramolecular hydrogel in a rodent model

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates the pharmacokinetics of an ureido-pyrimidinone poly(ethylene) glycol (UPy-PEG) hydrogel loaded with mitomycin C (MMC) in rats. The hydrogel aims to enhance the intraperitoneal residence time of MMC, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes for peritoneal metastases (PM) patients.

METHODS

Rats were divided into two groups: h-MMC (n = 8), receiving MMC encapsulated in hydrogel, and pbs-MMC (n = 6), receiving MMC in PBS. Blood samples were collected from 5 min to 48 h post-administration. MMC concentrations were measured using LC-ESI-MS. Systemic and local adverse effects were assessed through blood analysis and post-mortem histopathology.

RESULTS

The hydrogel prolonged detectable plasma MMC levels: 24 h for h-MMC vs. 4 h for pbs-MMC. h-MMC had a Cmax of 120 ± 21 μg/L and a Tmax of 52.5 ± 8.2 min; pbs-MMC had a Cmax of 358 ± 24 μg/L and a Tmax of 37.5 ± 8.2 min. The area under the curve ratio of h-MMC/pbs-MMC was 87 %. Platelet counts were significantly lower in h-MMC at 24- and 48 h and in pbs-MMC at 48 h. No liver or kidney damage was observed, though vacuolated macrophages were noted in the hydrogel-treated groups.

CONCLUSION

The hydrogel effectively prolonged MMC presence in plasma, suggesting extended intraperitoneal residence time and supporting previous findings of therapeutic effectiveness in a PM rat model.

Metabolic mechanisms of Dihydromyricetin and strategies for enhancing its bioavailability: A recent review

Dihydromyricetin, a flavonoid primarily found in vine tea, offers a range of health-promoting benefits, making it a promising functional food ingredient for improving nutrition and preventing diseases. However, its limited solubility, unstable physicochemical properties, short half-life, and rapid metabolism contribute to poor bioavailability, which restricts its broader application in food, pharmaceutical, and related industries. To overcome these challenges, extensive research has focused on strategies to enhance the bioavailability of dihydromyricetin. This paper reviews the digestion, absorption, tissue distribution, and metabolic mechanisms of dihydromyricetin in the human body. It examines the key factors influencing its bioavailability and highlights the design and construction of various bio-based delivery systems aimed at improving its bioavailability. Furthermore, the paper explores the potential applications of these delivery systems. The development of such systems can significantly enhance the stability and bioavailability of dihydromyricetin, providing a solid theoretical foundation for advancing its use in food and medicine.

Metal-polydopamine coordinated coatings on titanium surface: enhancing corrosion resistance and biological property

Previous studies on polydopamine (PDA)-modified titanium implants have primarily focused on single-metal-ion systems (e.g., Ag+, Cu2+, or Zn2+), while overlooking the interplay between corrosion resistance, antioxidant retention, and antimicrobial efficacy under clinically relevant oxidative conditions. Here, we present a comparative analysis of Ag-, Cu-, and Zn-integrated PDA coatings fabricated via a two-step coordination strategy, addressing these limitations through systematic multi-parameter evaluation. Unlike prior studies, this study reveals distinct metal-PDA interaction mechanisms: XPS/EDS analyses confirm Zn2+ and Cu2+ form coordination complexes with PDA's catechol groups, whereas Ag+ undergoes reduction to metallic nanoparticles (Ag0), leading to divergent ion-release profiles (Zn2+ > Cu2+ > Ag+) and biofunctional outcomes. Electrochemical testing under H2O2-simulated oxidative stress demonstrates Zn-PDA coatings exhibit superior corrosion resistance (polarization resistance: 4330 vs. 3900 and 2850 kΩ cm2 for Cu-PDA and Ag-PDA, respectively), while Ag-PDA achieves the highest antibacterial efficacy (>95% reduction against S. aureus and E. coli). Notably, Zn/Cu-PDA coatings retain >80% of PDA's intrinsic antioxidant capacity, in contrast to Ag-PDA, which exhibits significant antioxidant depletion due to redox interference. In vivo rat models further differentiate our approach: all coatings show comparable soft-tissue integration and systemic biosafety, contrasting with earlier reports of Ag-induced cytotoxicity. By elucidating metal-specific performance trade-offs and establishing a design framework to balance corrosion resistance, ROS scavenging, and antimicrobial activity, this work advances clinically adaptable strategies for enhancing peri-implant tissue stability.

Immobilization of KR-12 on a Titanium Alloy Surface Using Linking Arms Improves Antimicrobial Activity and Supports Osteoblast Cytocompatibility

Implant-associated infections pose significant challenges due to bacterial resistance to antibiotics. Recent research highlights the potential of immobilizing antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) onto implants as an alternative to conventional antibiotics for the prevention of bacterial infection. While various AMP immobilization methodologies have been investigated, they lack responsiveness to biological cues. This study proposes an enzyme-responsive antimicrobial coating for orthopedic devices using KR-12, an AMP derived from Cathelicidin LL-37, coupled with the Human Elastin-Like Polypeptide (HELP) as a biomimetic and stimuli-responsive linker, while mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM). During implantation, these customized interfaces encounter the innate immune response triggering elastase release, which degrades HELP biopolymers, enabling the controlled release of KR-12. After coupling KR-12 with HELP to titanium surfaces, the antimicrobial activity against four pathogenic bacterial strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) was assessed, revealing an inhibition ratio of bacterial adhesion and colonization exceeding 92% for all tested strains, compared with surfaces functionalized with KR-12 only. It is thought that the enhanced antimicrobial activity was due to the improved mobility of KR-12 when coupled with HELP. Furthermore, the prepared coatings boosted the adhesion and proliferation of human osteoblasts, confirming the cytocompatibility. These findings suggest the potential for smart coatings that combine the antimicrobial functions of AMPs with HELP's biological properties for use in a variety of settings, including medical devices.

Cancer chemoprevention: signaling pathways and strategic approaches

Although cancer chemopreventive agents have been confirmed to effectively protect high-risk populations from cancer invasion or recurrence, only over ten drugs have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, screening potent cancer chemopreventive agents is crucial to reduce the constantly increasing incidence and mortality rate of cancer. Considering the lengthy prevention process, an ideal chemopreventive agent should be nontoxic, inexpensive, and oral. Natural compounds have become a natural treasure reservoir for cancer chemoprevention because of their superior ease of availability, cost-effectiveness, and safety. The benefits of natural compounds as chemopreventive agents in cancer prevention have been confirmed in various studies. In light of this, the present review is intended to fully delineate the entire scope of cancer chemoprevention, and primarily focuses on various aspects of cancer chemoprevention based on natural compounds, specifically focusing on the mechanism of action of natural compounds in cancer prevention, and discussing in detail how they exert cancer prevention effects by affecting classical signaling pathways, immune checkpoints, and gut microbiome. We also introduce novel cancer chemoprevention strategies and summarize the role of natural compounds in improving chemotherapy regimens. Furthermore, we describe strategies for discovering anticancer compounds with low abundance and high activity, revealing the broad prospects of natural compounds in drug discovery for cancer chemoprevention. Moreover, we associate cancer chemoprevention with precision medicine, and discuss the challenges encountered in cancer chemoprevention. Finally, we emphasize the transformative potential of natural compounds in advancing the field of cancer chemoprevention and their ability to introduce more effective and less toxic preventive options for oncology.

Functional Dendrimer Nanogels for DNA Delivery and Gene Therapy of Tumors

Solving the dilemma between efficacy and cytotoxicity of cationic colloidal vectors is one of the biggest challenges in gene delivery. Cationic dendrimer assemblies with hierarchical structure, smart and biomimetic behaviors have been developed for drug/gene delivery in vivo. Among different dendrimer assemblies, the dendrimer-based nanogels were not intensively studied due to complicated synthesis and unknown properties. Here, for the first time, low-generation dendrimer nanogels with high yield and purity, tunable size, uniform morphology, and good colloidal stability were synthesized using the emulsion-free method, which cannot be obtained by the miniemulsion method. Importantly, the dendrimer nanogels integrate the advantages of low-generation dendrimer and stimuli-responsive polymer, thus achieving dual-active groups, o-hydroxyl amine units, temperature-responsiveness, polyampholyte property, and self-triggered aminolysis. With these unique properties, dendrimer nanogels can "temporarily" acquire high charge density through the covalent crosslinking of low-generation dendrimer for improved DNA compression, promoted cell internalization and lysosomal escape, and efficient DNA delivery, followed by self-triggered aminolysis into small dendrimers to control DNA release, reduce cytotoxicity, and facilitate metabolism in vivo. Compared to high-generation dendrimers, low-generation dendrimer nanogels display higher gene transfection and therapeutic efficacies, and lower side effects simultaneously. This work provides a facile strategy for the preparation of low-generation dendrimer nanogels that break up the contradiction between efficacy and cytotoxicity of cationic colloidal vectors in gene therapy. This innovative approach to construct low-generation dendrimers into smart dendrimer nanogels will have broad applicability in clinical translation.

Interpreting the potential of biogenic TiO2 nanoparticles on enhancing soybean resilience to salinity via maintaining ion homeostasis and minimizing malondialdehyde

The use of nanoparticles has emerged as a popular amendment and promising approach to enhance plant resilience to environmental stressors, including salinity. Salinity stress is a critical issue in global agriculture, requiring strategies such as salt-tolerant crop varieties, soil amendments, and nanotechnology-based solutions to mitigate its effects. Therefore, this paper explores the role of plant-based titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nTiO2) in mitigating the effects of salinity stress on soybean phenotypic variation, water content, non-enzymatic antioxidants, malondialdehyde (MDA) and mineral contents. Both 0 and 30 ppm nTiO2 treatments were applied to the soybean plants, along with six salt concentrations (0, 25, 50, 100, 150, and 200 mM NaCl) and the combined effect of nTiO2 and salinity. Salinity decreased water content, chlorophyll and carotenoids which results in a significant decrement in the total fresh and dry weights. Treatment of control and NaCl treated plants by nTiO2 showed improvements in the vegetative growth of soybean plants by increasing its chlorophyll, water content and carbohydrates. Additionally, nTiO2 application boosted the accumulation of non-enzymatic antioxidants, contributing to reduced oxidative damage (less MDA). Notably, it also mitigated Na+ accumulation while promoting K+ and Mg++ uptake in both leaves and roots, essential for maintaining ion homeostasis and metabolic function. These results suggest that nTiO2 has the potential to improve salinity tolerance in soybean by maintaining proper ion balance and reducing MDA level, offering a promising strategy for crop management in saline-prone areas.

Iron and copper codoped carbon nanodots as oxidase mimics and fluorescent probes for detection of phenol and dimethoate

Fluorescent nanozymes represent a class of dual-functional nanomaterials that exhibit inherent enzyme-like catalytic properties alongside fluorescent emission, making them suitable for multiple detection applications. However, the number of publications on this subject is limited, primarily due to potential interference between the two processes. In this study, oxidase-like fluorescent iron and copper codoped carbon dots (Fe,Cu-CDs) were synthesized via a one-pot pyrolysis reaction. The results demonstrated that the carbon dots could catalyze the oxidative coupling reaction between phenol and 4-aminoantipyrine, while their fluorescence emission was enhanced upon coordination with thiol compounds. By integrating the dimethoate-mediated, acetylcholinesterase-catalyzed hydrolysis of thiocholine, a dual-detection platform was developed for the colorimetric detection of phenol and the fluorometric detection of dimethoate, achieving detection limits of 0.103 μM and 1.94 × 10-5 µg/mL, respectively. This method was subsequently applied to detect these two pollutants in real water and vegetable samples, and the results demonstrated favorable recovery rates and good reproducibility. This work not only presents a novel strategy for the synthesis and application of dual-functional carbon dots in pollutant analysis but also offers new insights into the design of dual-functional carbon dots for efficient and cost-effective multidetection.

Peptide-conjugated alginate fiber: A skeletal muscle regenerative scaffold

Biopolymeric fibers have garnered significant attention in biomedical applications due to their ability to promote tissue regeneration through aligned microstructures. Alginate (Alg) is commonly used to prepare wet-spun fibers through ionic interactions. However, ion-crosslinked Alg fibers present limitations in tissue regeneration due to their rapid degradation under physiological conditions and the absence of binding sites for bioactive molecules. In this study, oxidized methacrylated alginate (OMA) derivatives were synthesized to create Alg fibers crosslinked by both Ca2+ ions and photo-initiated covalent bonds. Moreover, aldehyde groups introduced on the oxidized chains facilitate covalent conjugation of bioactive molecules via Schiff base reactions. As a model bioactive factor, C domain peptide of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1C) was conjugated to fibers, and the resulting fibers (OMA-P) were evaluated for their potential in muscle regeneration. Cell experiments showed that OMA-P fibers promoted C2C12 myoblast proliferation and guided their oriented growth. In rat volume muscle loss (VML) models, OMA-P fibers significantly improved muscle regeneration compared to peptide-free OMA fibers and OMA-P sponges without aligned structure, because of the dual effects of axial guidance cue and bioactive peptide conjugation. This study presents a novel method for fabricating bioactive fibers, highlighting their potential as structured scaffolds for regenerative medicine.

A ratiometric fluorescent probe based on quinoxaline for detection of thiophenols in food samples and living cells

Thiophenols are a class of volatile aromatic compounds containing sulfur. Thiophenols mostly have a unique flavor. Benzenethiol (PhSH), for example, is described as having a meaty, smoky, garlic and other flavors, and is widely used in the preparation of everyday dishes as a common condiment. Nevertheless, the abuse of thiophenols can present a significant risk to human health. In order to ensure food safety and life health, it is crucial to develop a method for accurately analyzing exogenous invasive thiophenols in common foods and cells. In this paper, a novel small molecule fluorophore ethyl (E)-2-(3-(2-(6-hydroxynaphthalen-2-yl)vinyl)-2-oxoquinoxalin-1(2H)-yl)acetate (QN-OH) was designed, and 2, 4-dinitrophenoxy was attached to the fluorophore as the recognition site of PhSH, and finally the probe ethyl (E)-2-(3-(2-(6-(2,4-dinitrophenoxy)naphthalen-2-yl)vinyl)-2-oxoquinoxalin-1(2H)-yl)acetate (QNF) was obtained. The probe shows a ratiometric response towards PhSH, with a low detection limit down to 6.3 nM. QNF was successfully applied to detect thiophenols in both food samples and cells. This study shows that QNF is an effective tool for detection of thiophenols.

Tumor Microenvironment-Responsive Polymer Delivery Platforms for Cancer Therapy

Most chemotherapeutic and bioimaging agents struggle with inadequate bioavailability, primarily due to their limited biocompatibility and lack of specificity in targeting, leading to low or decreased anticancer efficacy and inaccurate imaging. To surmount these obstacles, the development of stimuli-responsive polymer delivery platforms, predominantly leveraging the tumor microenvironment (TME), has emerged as a promising strategy. Therapeutic and diagnostic agents can be released controllably at the tumor site by virtue of the bond cleavage or hydrophobic to hydrophilic transformation of TME-sensitive linkages in TME-responsive systems, thus augmenting cancer treatment and imaging precision, while simultaneously attenuating the damage to healthy tissues and false imaging signals caused by non-specific drug leakage. In this comprehensive review, we scrutinize recent studies of TME-responsive polymer delivery platforms, encompassing pH-, ROS-, GSH-, enzyme-, and hypoxia-responsive vectors, significantly from the perspective of their molecular design and responsive mechanism, and further summarizing their bio-application in drug delivery and diagnostic imaging. Moreover, this review encapsulates the critical challenges and offers an insightful perspective on the future prospects of TME-responsive polymer delivery platforms in terms of molecular and vector design.

Nanocomposite hydrogels optimize the microenvironment by exterior/interior crosstalk for reprogramming osteoporotic homeostasis in bone defect healing

Discovering new tactics for healing bone defects becomes a worldwide challenge in osteoporosis patients. The disordered acidic microenvironment plays a pivotal role in driving the imbalance of bone homeostasis regulated by osteoblasts and osteoclasts. However, the scarcity of hydrogel materials developed to optimize local bone microenvironment has made osteoporotic defect healing more challenging. Herein, we present innovative nanocomposite hydrogels with precisely engineered microarchitectures designed to optimize the acidic microenvironment by facilitating crosstalk between exterior and interior spaces, aimed at enhancing the reconstruction of osteoporotic bone defects. The chlorogenic acid grafted chitosan as double-sided crosslinkers is specially designed to not only combine with acid-reversible Laponite® nanosheet via interfacial interactions but also integrate with gold nanorod (a typical photothermal agent) through catechol-Au bond. The supramolecular construction of nanocomposite hydrogels holds promise for achieving a highly continuous and homogeneous pore network microarchitecture. As expected, hydrogels display outstanding spatiotemporal local mild hyperthermia, which accelerates the neutralization reaction between OH- ions released from Laponite® and hydrogen ions (pH ∼ 4.0). The optimized microenvironment restores osteoclast/osteoblast homeostasis, resulting in the promotion of osteoblastogenesis and inhibition of osteoclastogenesis, thereby facilitating the healing of osteoporotic bone defects. This work is hoped to design versatile hydrogels for optimizing the microenvironment, displaying promising integrative substitute materials for clinically effective treatment of osteoporotic bone defects.

Bioinspired hybrid DNA/dendrimer-based films with supramolecular chirality

Bioinspired hybrid DNA/dendrimer films were obtained by heating long double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) above its melting temperature and, while in the denatured state, mixing it with poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers, followed by controlled cooling. The formation of these new types of films was found to be dependent on several parameters, including the initial heating temperature, pH, buffer composition, dendrimer generation, amine/phosphate (N/P) ratio, and cooling speed. In addition to the PAMAM dendrimers (generations 3, 4, and 5), films could also be produced with branched poly(ethylenimine) with a molecular weight of 25 kDa. The results indicated that these films were formed not only through electrostatic interactions established between the negatively charged DNA molecules and the positive dendrimers, as expected, but also through random rehybridization of the single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) during the cooling process. The resulting films are water-insoluble, transparent when thin, highly elastic when air-dried, exceptionally stable over extended periods, cytocompatible, and easily scalable. Notably, the slow cooling process allowed for the establishment of at least a partially ordered structure in the films, as revealed by circular dichroism, providing evidence of supramolecular chirality. It is envisioned that these films may have significant potential in biomedical applications, such as drug/gene delivery systems, platforms for cell-free DNA transcription and components in biosensors.

3D-Bioprinted Oil-Based Hydrogels: A Sustainable Approach for Bone and Dental Regeneration

Recent advancements in 3D bioprinting technology have transformed the development of complex tissue scaffolds, offering significant potential for applications in bone and dental regenerative medicine. Oil-based hydrogels have garnered considerable interest owing to their tunable mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and ability to facilitate cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. This review provides an in-depth review of recent research regarding the utilization of oil-based hydrogels in bone and dental tissue development, focusing on the 3D bioprinting strategies. The review investigates the biological efficacy of the diverse oils used in hydrogel formulations, as well as their physicochemical properties, in promoting osteogenesis and dental tissue regeneration. Significant results from both in vitro and in vivo research are examined, emphasizing their capacity to sustain biological functions and promote tissue regeneration. Challenges such as hydrogel stability, printability, and cytotoxicity efficiency are thoroughly examined, along with strategies to improve these materials for translational and clinical applications. This study highlights the revolutionary potential of oil-based hydrogels in enhancing bone and dental regenerative medicine, providing insights into their current status, as well as future research and development pathways.

Comprehensive insights into pancreatic cancer treatment approaches and cutting-edge nanocarrier solutions: from pathology to nanomedicine

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies worldwide. It is characterized by poor prognosis, high mortality, and recurrence rates. Various modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors are associated with pancreatic cancer incidence. Available treatments for pancreatic cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy, supportive care, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. However, the survival rates for PC are very low. Regrettably, despite efforts to enhance prognosis, the survival rate of pancreatic cancer remains relatively low. Therefore, it is essential to investigate new approaches to improve pancreatic cancer treatment. By synthesizing current knowledge and identifying existing gaps, this article provides a comprehensive overview of risk factors, pathology, conventional treatments, targeted therapies, and recent advancements in nanocarriers for its treatment, along with various clinical trials and patents that justify the safety and efficacy of innovative carriers for drug delivery systems. Ultimately, this review underscores the potential of these innovative formulations to improve outcomes and contribute significantly to the advancement of Pancreatic Cancer treatment. Together, these insights highlight nano-formulations as a promising frontier for effectively treating Pancreatic Cancer.

Advances in cellulose-based hydrogels: tunable swelling dynamics and their versatile real-time applications

Cellulose-derived hydrogels have emerged as game-changing materials in biomedical research, offering an exceptional combination of water absorption capacity, mechanical resilience, and innate biocompatibility. This review explores the intricate mechanisms that drive their swelling behaviour, unravelling how molecular interactions and network architectures work synergistically to enable efficient water retention and adaptability. Their mechanical properties are explored in depth, with a focus on innovative chemical modifications and cross-linking techniques that enhance strength, elasticity, and functional versatility. The versatility of cellulose-based hydrogels shines in applications such as wound healing, precision drug delivery, and tissue engineering, where their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and adaptability meet the demands of cutting-edge healthcare solutions. By weaving together recent breakthroughs in their development and application, this review highlights their transformative potential to redefine regenerative medicine and other biomedical fields. Ultimately, it emphasizes the urgent need for continued research to unlock the untapped capabilities of these extraordinary biomaterials, paving the way for new frontiers in healthcare innovation.

Control and interplay of scaffold-biomolecule interactions applied to cartilage tissue engineering

Cartilage tissue engineering based on the combination of biomaterials, adult or stem cells and bioactive factors is a challenging approach for regenerative medicine with the aim of achieving the formation of a functional neotissue stable in the long term. Various 3D scaffolds have been developed to mimic the extracellular matrix environment and promote cartilage repair. In addition, bioactive factors have been extensively employed to induce and maintain the cartilage phenotype. However, the spatiotemporal control of bioactive factor release remains critical for maximizing the regenerative potential of multipotent cells, such as mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), and achieving efficient chondrogenesis and sustained tissue homeostasis, which are essential for the repair of hyaline cartilage. Despite advances, the effective delivery of bioactive factors is limited by challenges such as insufficient retention at the site of injury and the loss of therapeutic efficacy due to uncontrolled drug release. These limitations have prompted research on biomolecule-scaffold interactions to develop advanced delivery systems that provide sustained release and controlled bioavailability of biological factors, thereby improving therapeutic outcomes. This review focuses specifically on biomaterials (natural, hybrid and synthetic) and biomolecules (molecules, proteins, nucleic acids) of interest for cartilage engineering. Herein, we review in detail the approaches developed to maintain the biomolecules in scaffolds and control their release, based on their chemical nature and structure, through steric, non-covalent and/or covalent interactions, with a view to their application in cartilage repair.

Mechanical and biological properties of 3D printed bone tissue engineering scaffolds

Bone defects have historically represented a significant challenge in clinical practice, with traditional surgical intervention remaining the gold standard for their management. However, due to the problem of the origin of autologous and allogeneic bone and the complex and diverse bone defects, traditional surgical methods sometimes cannot meet the treatment needs and expectations of patients. The development of bone tissue engineering and 3D printing technology provides new ideas for bone defect repair. Ideal bioscaffold materials must have good mechanical properties, biocompatibility, osteoinduction and bone conduction capabilities. Additionally, factors such as degradation rate, appropriate porosity and a sustained antibacterial effect must be taken into account. The combination of 3D printing technology and synthetic composite biomaterial scaffolds has become a well-established approach in the treatment of complex bone defects, offering innovative solutions for bone defect repair. The combined application of seed cells, signalling factors and biological scaffolds is also beneficial to improve the therapeutic effect of complex bone defects. This article will therefore examine some of the most commonly used 3D printing technologies for biological scaffolds and the most prevalent bioscaffold materials suitable for 3D printing. An analysis will be conducted on the mechanical and biological properties of these materials to elucidate their respective advantages and limitations.

Role of Endophytic Fungi in the Biosynthesis of Metal Nanoparticles and Their Potential as Nanomedicines

Metal nanoparticles (MNPs) produced through biosynthesis approaches have shown favourable physical, chemical, and antimicrobial characteristics. The significance of biological agents in the synthesis of MNPs has been acknowledged as a promising alternative to conventional approaches such as physical and chemical methods, which are confronted with certain challenges. To meet these challenges, the use of endophytic fungi as nano-factories for the synthesis of MNPs has become increasingly popular worldwide in recent times. This review provides an overview of the synthesis of MNPs using endophytic fungi, the mechanisms involved, and their important biomedical applications. A special focus on different biomedical applications of MNPs mediated endophytic fungi involved their antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anticancer applications and their potential as drug delivery agents. Furthermore, this review highlights the significance of the use of endophytic fungi for the green synthesis of MNPs and discusses the benefits, challenges, and prospects in this field.

Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems: opportunities and challenges in the treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC)

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is an aggressive malignancy characterized by limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising strategy to enhance cancer therapy efficacy by improving drug targeting, reducing toxicity, and enabling multifunctional applications. This review highlights some key types of nanoparticles, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, metallic nanoparticles, dendrimers, and quantum dots, which could effectively improve the delivery of various drugs used in chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, offering more precise and effective treatment options. With the ability to improve drug stability and overcome biological barriers, nanoparticle-based systems represent a transformative strategy for ESCC treatment. Despite some challenges, such as biocompatibility and scalability, the future of nanoparticle-based drug delivery holds great promise, particularly in the development of personalized nanomedicine and novel therapeutic approaches targeting the tumor microenvironment. With ongoing advancements, nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems hold immense potential to revolutionize ESCC treatment and improve patient outcomes.

Directing the adsorption and assembly of laponite nano-discs at oil-water interfaces

Achieving tunable controls on the adsorption and self-assembly of nanoscale building blocks at immiscible fluid interfaces is essential for synthesizing advanced materials, stabilizing emulsions, and the sustainable storage and recovery of fluids. Although extensive efforts have been directed toward resolving the assembly of spherical nanoparticles at water-hydrocarbon interfaces, 2D nanoparticles have received far less attention. In this study, we developed novel controls to direct the adsorption and assembly of 2D laponite nano-discs (diameter = ∼30 nm and thickness = ∼1 nm) at water-heptane interfaces using traces of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) surfactant, demonstrated by advanced in situ small-angle X-ray scattering, atomic force microscopy, spinning drop tensiometer measurements and molecular dynamics simulations. The results show that SDS surfactant displaces the adsorbed laponite nano-discs from the interface toward the aqueous phase. The extent of this displacement increases with SDS concentration such that high SDS concentrations convert laponite-rich interfaces to SDS-rich interfaces free of laponite nano-discs. This transformation is associated with significant alterations in the rheological and nanomechanical properties of the host interface. In this context, reduction in interfacial tension and interfacial stiffness and an increase in the interfacial deformation is observed on increasing the SDS concentration from 0 to 0.1 wt%. The displacement of laponite nano-discs from the interface is driven by strong electrostatic interactions between the hydrophilic SDS group and interfacial water molecules. These studies unlock new insights into the adsorption and assembly of 2D nanoscale particles at water-hydrocarbons interfaces that are relevant for various applications related to energy and environmental science and engineering.

Near-infrared pH-sensitive probes based on aza-Nile Blue for detecting interactions between mitochondria and lysosomes

The pKa values of mitochondrial fluorescent probes based on pH response differ significantly from the pH of the mitochondrial matrix, making the development of mitochondria-targeted pH probes with appropriate pKa values essential for accurately monitoring mitochondrial pH fluctuations. In this paper, three mitochondria-targeted near-infrared fluorescent probes 5a-5c were successfully developed by introducing nitrogen atom at the 4-position of Nile Blue and modulating the pKa through the formation of intramolecular hydrogen bonding. Probes 5a-5c exhibited ultra-high molar extinction coefficients up to 105 M-1 cm-1, along with excellent photostability and sensitive pH response properties. The fluorescence intensities of 5a-5c enhanced 12-14-fold, while the fluorescence quantum yields increased from 1.2 %-2.5 % to 13 %-16 % with the pH decreasing from 10 to 4.0 (including only 0.5 % cosolvent). In addition, linear relationships between pH and maximum fluorescence intensity were established with high correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.99) from pH 5.2 to 9.2. Based on the low toxicity and mitochondrial targeting ability, probes 5a-5c migrated from mitochondria to lysosomes during starvation and rapamycin-induced autophagy, allowing real-time tracking of mitochondrial pH variations using fluorescence intensity and colocalization coefficient as parameters. Notably, dynamic changes between mitochondria and lysosomes were observed in real time in the mitochondrial damage model constructed by hydrogen peroxide. In conclusion, probes 5a-5c have excellent optical properties and biocompatibility, underscoring their significance in monitoring mitochondrial physiological and pathological processes.

Recent advances in PAMAM mediated nano-vehicles for targeted drug delivery in cancer therapy

3-D multi-faceted, nano-globular PAMAM dendritic skeleton is a highly significant polymer that offers applications in biomedical, industrial, environmental and agricultural fields. This is mainly due to its enhanced properties, including adjustable surface functionalities, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, high uniformity and reduced cytotoxicity, as well as its numerous internal cavities. This trait inspires further exploration and advancements in tailoring approaches. The implementation of deliberate strategic modifications in the morphological characteristics of PAMAM is crucial through chemical and biological interventions, in addition to its therapeutic advancements. Thus, the production of peripheral groups remains a prominent and highly advanced technique in molecular fabrication, aimed at boosting the potential of PAMAM conjugates. Currently, there exist numerous dendritic-hybrid materials, despite the widespread use of PAMAM-conjugated frameworks as drug delivery systems, which are well regarded for their efficacy in enhancing potency through the incorporation of surface functions. This paper provides a comprehensive review of recent progress in the design and assembly of various components of PAMAM conjugates, focusing on their unique formulations. The review encompasses synthetic methodologies, a thorough evaluation of their applicability, and an analysis of their potential functions in the context of Drug Delivery Systems (DDS) in the current period.

Recent emerging trends in dendrimer research: Electrochemical sensors and their multifaceted applications in biomedical fields or healthcare

Dendrimers enhance the selectivity and sensitivity of sensors through their synthetic, highly branched, three-dimensional structures and large surface area. This unique architecture enables precise functionalization with various recognition elements, significantly improving the specificity and sensitivity of electrochemical sensors for detecting disease markers, biomolecules, and environmental pollutants. Dendrimer-based electrochemical sensors offer promising advancements in healthcare, such as detecting biomarkers for heart disease, monitoring blood glucose levels, and sensitively determining cancer-related proteins. Additionally, incorporating metals and conductive polymers into dendrimer nanocomposites can further enhance sensor performance. This review article provides a detailed overview of dendrimer's history, structure, properties, electrochemical properties, and synthesis methods. Particular attention has been paid to recent developments in the applications of dendrimers including electrochemical sensors, drug delivery, gene therapy and bioimaging. Recent progress in various applications of dendrimer-based electrochemical sensors developed over the last seven years, focusing on their healthcare applications and discussing the primary goals and challenges that will shape future research in this field, is also critically analyzed. These advances in dendrimer technology hold great potential for the development of novel therapeutics and expanded applications in sensor design.