Engineering exosome membrane disguised thermal responsive system for targeted drug delivery and controlled release across the blood-brain barrier

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) presents a significant challenge for the delivery of chemotherapy drugs to brain tumors, leading to ineffective drug concentrations at the tumor site and contributing to chemotherapy resistance. The hypoxic tumor microenvironment further complicates this process, ultimately resulting in poor patient prognosis. In this study, we developed a thermoresponsive nanocarrier system that incorporates (Ru)(Pt) bimetallic nanoparticles onto defective TiOx nanoparticles with abundant oxygen vacancies, generating composite Ru/Pt-TiOx nanoparticles with photothermal and photocatalytic properties. The Ru and Pt in the nanoparticles enhance the metal-carrier interactions, with Ru increasing both light absorption and photothermal conversion efficiency and Pt catalyzing the conversion of endogenous H2O2 in tumors to produce oxygen. The oxygen produced within the tumor microenvironment reduces HIF-1α, MDR1 and P-gp expression, thereby inhibiting efflux and allowing doxorubicin to accumulate inside the cells. DOX was incorporated into a phase change material and combined with multiple Ru/Pt-TiOx nanoparticles to form composite RPTiOx-DOX particles that can control the release of DOX under near-infrared irradiation. In an effort to overcome the blocking effect of the BBB, we wrapped the RPTiOx-DOX nanoparticles with Angiopep-2-functionalized macrophage exosome membranes. Furthermore, the changes in the internal environment promote macrophage phenotypic transformation (M2→M1) to some extent and further inhibit tumor growth via immunoregulation. In this work, a novel drug delivery system capable of traversing the BBB and exerting synergistic antitumor effects through photostimulated therapeutic agents is described, providing innovative insights for the development of stimulus-responsive composite nanoparticle drug formulations.

Peptide-Based Strategies in PLGA-Enhanced Tumor Therapy

Peptide-based therapeutics have gained attention in cancer treatment because of their good specificity, low toxicity, and ability to modulate immune responses. However, challenges such as enzymatic degradation and poor bioavailability limit their clinical application. Peptide-functionalized poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) systems have emerged as a transformative platform in cancer therapy that offers unique advantages, including enhanced stability, sustained release, and precise delivery of therapeutic agents. This review highlights the synergistic integration of peptides with PLGA and addresses key challenges of peptide-based therapeutics. The application of peptide-functionalized PLGA systems encompasses a diverse range of strategies for cancer therapy. In chemotherapy, peptides disrupt critical tumor pathways, induce apoptosis, and inhibit angiogenesis, demonstrating their versatility in targeting various aspects of tumor progression. In immunotherapy, peptides act as antigens to stimulate robust immune responses or as immune checkpoint inhibitors to restore T cell activity, overcoming tumor immune evasion. These systems also harness the enhanced permeability and retention effect, facilitating preferential accumulation in tumor tissues while leveraging tumor microenvironment (TME)-responsive mechanisms, such as pH-sensitive or enzyme-triggered drug release, to achieve controlled, localized delivery. Collectively, peptide-functionalized PLGA systems represent a promising, versatile approach for precise cancer therapy that integrates innovative delivery strategies with highly specific, potent therapeutic agents.

Closed-loop photoacoustic photothermal treatment method and system based on real-time Kalman filter temperature estimation

Real-time measurement and control of the temperature and thermal damage of the therapeutic target is critical to the safety and effectiveness of photothermal therapy (PTT). However, due to the lack of effective non-contact temperature control technology, it is very difficult to accurately measure and control the temperature of the target area, which may cause damage to the healthy tissues around the target area. In this paper, to ensure the effectiveness of photothermal therapy while minimizing damage to normal tissues, we propose a closed-loop photoacoustic photothermal therapy method and system based on real-time Kalman filter temperature estimation model. A prediction and observation model for the target temperature field has been established, achieving non-invasive real-time temperature measurement. At the same time, combined with the closed-loop fuzzy PID temperature regulation algorithm, we can also adjust the drive power of therapeutic laser in real time, and finally achieve the real-time control of the target temperature. After experimental validation, the system proposed in this paper achieves the temperature control accuracy of 0.47 °C and 0.76 °C on the phantoms and ex vivo, respectively. In addition, the comparison with the results of the simulated PTT experiment without the temperature observation model further verifies the advantages of this method in dynamic and static control performance. In general, this method has the potential to be used as an auxiliary means in PTT to further improve the dynamic characteristics and precision of therapy.

Bi2WO6@Cu2O-GOx bio-heterojunctionp-n spray for accelerating chronic diabetic wound repairment with bilaterally enhanced sono-catalysis and glycolytic inhibition antisepsis

Chronic diabetic wound poses a pressing global healthcare challenge, necessitating an approach to address issues such as pathogenic bacteria elimination, blood sugar regulation, and angiogenesis stimulation. Herein, we engineered a Bi2WO6@Cu2O-GOx bio-heterojunction (BWCG bio-HJ) with exceptional cascade catalytic performance and impressive sonosensitivity to remodel the wound microenvironment and expedite the diabetic wound healing. Specifically, the Z-scheme junctions of Bi2WO6@Cu2O significantly augmented carrier separation dynamics, leading to the highly efficient generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon US irradiations. Furthermore, glucose oxidase (GOx) grafted on the Bi2WO6@Cu2O surface facilitated the conversion of glucose into H2O2 and glucuronic acid, providing a rich supply for Cu+-mediated Fenton-like reactions. The robust oxidation effect disrupted the bacteria's phosphotransferase system (PTS), hindering glucose uptake, glycolysis, and energy metabolism, ultimately inducing bacterial death and reshaping the diabetic wound microenvironment. The BWCG bio-HJ was formulated as an antibacterial spray for chronic diabetic wound repair. Extensive in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that the BWCG bio-HJ spray could eliminate pathogenic bacteria, consume local blood sugar, and promote angiogenesis, collagen deposition, and epithelialization, thereby accelerating the diabetic wound healing process. This bio-heterojunction spray comprehensively addressed the principal pathological factors associated with diabetic wounds, offering a promising strategy for combatting stubborn infections.

Two-photon photosensitizer for specific targeting and induction of tumor pyroptosis to elicit systemic immunity-boosting anti-tumor therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has garnered increasing attention in cancer treatment due to its precise spatiotemporal selectivity and non-invasive nature. However, several challenges, including the inability of photosensitizers to discriminate between tumor and healthy tissues, as well as the limited tissue penetration depth of light sources, impede its broader application. To surmount these impediments, our research introduces a two-photon photosensitizer (TPSS) that specifically targets tumor overexpressing carbonic anhydrase IX (CA IX), thereby exhibiting exceptional specificity for tumor cells. Under two-photon laser stimulation, TPSS generates a large amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), inducing cell pyroptosis and subsequently triggering a strong anti-tumor immune response. Additionally, proteomics analysis provides compelling evidence to elucidate the anti-tumor mechanism of TPSS in vivo. Through comprehensive immune assessments, TPSS under two-photon laser irradiation effectively activates both the innate and adaptive immune systems, efficiently suppressing the proliferation of distant metastatic tumors, underscoring its considerable therapeutic potential. Collectively, this study provides a viable strategy to overcome the limitations of PDT, highlighting the prospects of two-photon excitation photosensitizers.

Engineered cell membrane vesicles loaded with lysosomophilic drug for acute myeloid leukemia therapy via organ-cell-organelle cascade-targeting

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) presents significant treatment challenges due to the severe toxicities and limited efficacy of conventional therapies, highlighting the urgency for innovative approaches. Organelle-targeting therapies offer a promising avenue to enhance therapeutic outcomes while minimizing adverse effects. Herein, inspired that primary AML cells are enriched with lysosomes and sensitive to lysosomophilic drugs (e.g., LLOMe), we developed a smart nanodrug (Cas-CMV@LM) including the engineered cell membrane vesicles (CMVs) nanocarrier and the encapsulated drug cargo LLOMe (LM). Briefly, the nanodrug with organ-cell-organelle cascade-targeting function could firstly home to the bone marrow guided by CMVs derived from CXCR4-overexpressing bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC), subsequently target leukemia cells via CD33 and CD123 aptamers anchored on the vesicles, eventually precisely attack the lysosomes of leukemia cells. Consequently, Cas-CMV@LM specifically inhibited leukemia cell proliferation and triggered necroptosis in vitro. Importantly, the cascade-targeting nanodrug displayed high biosafety and significantly impeded leukemia progression in AML patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model. Collectively, this study provides a paradigm for precision leukemia treatment from the perspective of targeting organelle-lysosome.

Investigation of a self-powered biosensor using a brush-based triboelectric nanogenerator and an enzymatic reaction

In recent years, wearable devices have undergone remarkable developments. These can easily help us obtain useful information such as that related to our health. However, most devices require a power supply. This limits the utilization of portability and facilities. This can lead to dangerous situations for people who require immediate measurement of their condition. Therefore, novel wearable devices that do not need a power supply or generate power themselves are desirable. Therefore, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) have attracted considerable attention as renewable energy sources. In this study, we focused on using the TENG technique in wearable devices, particularly biosensors. An enzyme-modified TENG biosensor for glucose detection was constructed and evaluated. As a characteristic of our glucose biosensor, a fiber brush made nylon and fluorinated ethylene-propylene copolymer fibers was used to drive the TENG. Using chemical fibers, glucose can be detected from various contact directions. Glucose was detected sensitively by modifying the TENG with glucose oxidase (GOx) and polyaniline (PANI) that is an emeraldine base. The resulting biosensor showed better substrate specificity for glucose than for lactic acid. Overall, the proposed enzyme-modified B-TENG can be utilized as a wearable biosensor in the near future.

Emerging trends of biomedical nanotechnology in nutrition, health monitoring and disease diagnosis

The transdisciplinary nature of nanotechnology has facilitated its application across various fields, especially in biological sciences. The primary aim of this review is to consolidate the many facets of nanomedicine, theranostics, and nanotechnology in food preservation into a unified framework and to underscore established research methodologies in the medical domain. Nanoparticles serve a crucial function in improving the bioavailability of orally delivered bioactive substances. This review demonstrated that nanoparticles can enhance the bioavailability of micronutrients, such as vitamin B12, vitamin A, folic acid, and iron. New advances in nanotechnology have made big differences in finding pathogens and killing them specifically, helping people to get better health through medication delivery and imaging, improving food packaging better so it lasts longer, and making foods healthier overall. Nanotechnology currently enhances the safety of delivering highly hazardous medicines through the use of nanozymes that exhibit antioxidant and antibacterial characteristics. Moreover, wearable devices can identify significant alterations in vital signs, medical problems, and infections occurring within the body. We anticipate that these technologies will provide physicians with enhanced direct access to crucial information about the causes of changes in vital signs or diseases, as they are directly connected to the source of the problem. This review paper thoroughly examines the latest developments in nanomaterials and nanozymes as antimicrobial agents in food science and nutrition, wound healing, illness diagnostics, imaging, and potential future uses. The paper presents a concise and structured report on nanotechnology, which will be beneficial to researchers and scientists for future research opportunities.

From traditional to modern: Nanotechnology-driven innovation in mycotoxin sensing for Chinese herbal medicines

Mycotoxin contamination in Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) is a pressing concern that jeopardizes their quality and safety, despite their widespread therapeutic use. Conventional detection methods are often limited by complexity, cost, and sensitivity, particularly in resource-limited settings. This gap in effective and efficient mycotoxin detection necessitates a comprehensive review that explores innovative solutions to enhance the safety and efficacy of CHMs. Advancements in nanomaterials and related advanced sensing techniques have emerged as a beacon of hope. Therefore, this review aims to fill the knowledge gap by providing a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in mycotoxin detection in CHMs, spotlighting the transformative role of nanomaterials and advanced sensing techniques. This review stands out for its in-depth exploration of functional nanomaterials across dimensions and their innovative applications in mycotoxin detection. Its innovation stems from a holistic approach that not only surveys current technologies but also charts a forward-looking path, emphasizing novel nanomaterial development, refined pretreatment, and advanced biosensing for on-site detection. It delves into the integration of nanomaterials with advanced sensing technologies, discussing the advantages and limitations of these approaches. A significant innovation of this review lies in the nuanced integration of nanomaterials with machine learning and artificial intelligence, revealing untapped potential for accuracy enhancement. Through this synthesis of knowledge, we hope to inspire further research and development in this critical area, ensuring the continued safe use of CHMs in traditional medicine practices.

Utilizing aptamers in targeted protein degradation strategies for disease therapy

Targeted protein degradation (TPD) has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy, offering the potential to reduce disease-causing proteins that have traditionally been challenging to target using conventional small molecules. Despite significant advances made with TPD technologies, challenges such as high molecular weight, difficulties in identifying suitable ligands, suboptimal absorption, and metabolic instability remain unresolved. Recently, aptamers - single-stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotides known for their high specificity and affinity for protein targets - have introduced novel opportunities to expand the scope of TPD, a strategy now referred to as aptamer-based TPD. This approach has demonstrated considerable promise in treating various diseases, such as cancer and ocular disorders. For example, an aptamer-proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) conjugate (APC) improved tumor targeting and reduced toxicity in a breast cancer model, and a vascular endothelial growth factor-degrading (VED)-lysosome-targeting chimera (LYTAC) molecule effectively inhibited abnormal vascular growth in vascular retinal diseases. These examples highlight the practical relevance and potential in advancing drug discovery efforts. In this review we provide a comprehensive overview of the latest advances in aptamer-based TPD strategies, including proteolysis-targeting and lysosome-targeting chimeras, emphasizing their applications, potential therapeutic benefits, as well as the challenges that must be overcome to fully harness their clinical potential. © 2025 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.

Nanodiamond-Based Sensing: A revolution for biosensors in capturing elusive bio-signals in living cells

Cells constantly produce elusive bio-signals, such as cellular forces, free radicals, and molecular interactions, that are important for understanding diseases and treatment effects. However, detecting these signals is challenging because of issues with sensitivity, specificity, and the complexity of biological systems. Owing to their unique properties, nanodiamonds have emerged as a promising platform for detecting such elusive bio-signals, providing enhanced precision and effectiveness in diagnostics and therapies. In this review, we explore the detection of intracellular elusive bio-signals using nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in nanodiamonds, presenting case studies on their applications in cell force, free radicals, molecular interactions, and nanoscale thermometry. Moreover, we explore the design and applications of nanodiamonds as nanocarriers in quantum sensors and drug delivery systems.

Anticancer organometallic half-sandwich complexes of estrone-derived (N,N) donor ligands with enhanced aqueous solubility

Four steroidal derivatives (L1-4) bearing an (N,N) metal-chelating subunit on the D-ring, in addition to the organometallic [M(arene)(N,N)Cl]Cl complexes of L1,2 were synthesized and characterized, in which M(arene) is Rh(III)(η5-C5Me5) or Ir(III)(η5-C5Me5) or Ru(II)(η6-p-cymene). The solution chemical properties of both the estrone-based ligands and selected complexes were investigated by spectroscopic methods. At pH = 7.4, the ligands are predominantly positively charged, moderately lipophilic (logD7.4 = +0.6 - +3.2), and exhibit low-to-medium micromolar solubility (S7.4 = 9-543 μM) and are more hydrophilic than estrone; however, complexation improved the aqueous solubility of the obtained organometallics. The Rh(η5-C5Me5) and Ru(η6-p-cymene) complexes of L1 demonstrated high stability in solution (<1 % bidentate ligand dissociation at pH 7.4 for 48 h), forming a higher fraction of mixed hydroxido species [M(arene)(N,N)(OH)]+ in the case of the Ru complexes. Both coordination and intermolecular interactions of the organometallic complexes with human serum albumin were observed. The ligands and their complexes were tested in human cancer cell lines to investigate their in vitro anticancer activity. Studies in Colo-205 and MCF-7 cells revealed the moderate-to-strong cytotoxicity of the ligands (IC50 = 5-50 μM) with limited selectivity toward cancer cells over the non-cancerous CCD-19Lu fibroblast cell line. Complexation increased the cytotoxicity, especially for Rh(III)(η5-C5Me5) and Ir(III)(η5-C5Me5) complexes in the MCF-7 cell line compared to the ligands.

Feruloylation of arabinoxylan enhances the protective effects on probiotic viability and stability in tablet formulations

Maintaining probiotic viability during storage and gastrointestinal transit is crucial for supplement efficacy. This study was to investigate the protective effects of modified arabinoxylan (AX) by feruloylation in tablets. AX was feruloylated with various ferulic acid (FA) contents (0-106 mg/g) into high (H-FAX), medium (M-FAX), and low (L-FAX) FA content matrices. Tube inversion test revealed that increased FA content reduced the critical concentration for gel formation, with H-FAX showing gelation at 25 % w/v compared to 35 % w/v for L-FAX. The FAX matrices demonstrated superior protection of probiotic during tablet compression compared to conventional excipients, maintaining viability above 7.95 × 109 CFU/tablet. Higher FA content improved mechanical properties resulted in better probiotic survival rates in simulated gastric (pH 2.0) and intestinal (pH 7.2) conditions. Storage at 4 °C maintained probiotic viability above 4.67 × 109 CFU/tablet for 12 months. The FAX matrix's protective barrier slowed probiotic release and shielded cells from harsh gastrointestinal conditions, while bound ferulic acid's antioxidant effects enhanced survival, ensuring effective colon delivery. These findings demonstrate that FAX matrices' potential in probiotic tablet formulations, with FA content being critical for optimizing protection. This work provides new insights for developing improved probiotic delivery tablets using naturally derived polymers.

Emerging transparent conductive superhydrophobic surfaces

Transparent conductive superhydrophobic surfaces (TCSHSs) represent a novel class of multifunctional materials that concurrently exhibit high transparency, excellent electrical conductivity, and robust superhydrophobicity. These three desirable properties are synergistically combined to provide a wide variety of advantages for various optoelectronic applications with water-repelling capabilities, including solar cells, smart windows, touch screens, and automobile windshields, all of which benefit from self-cleaning, anti-icing, anti-fouling, and anti-corrosion properties. This review aims to provide an overview of recent advancements in the field of TCSHSs. It begins by revisiting the fundamental principles governing superhydrophobic behavior and delving into the underlying mechanisms of various wetting phenomena. The review also highlights the intricate balance among transparency, conductivity, and superhydrophobicity, along with the associated physical principles. Furthermore, it introduces emerging TCSHSs in terms of material types, preparation methods, evaluation criteria, and cutting-edge applications. Finally, it summarizes the critical challenges and promising future prospects for TCSHSs, which will facilitate further development in this field.

Strategies to modulate underwater oil wettability and adhesion

Inspired by the extreme underwater oil repellence found in fish scales, formally defined as underwater superoleophobicity, various functional interfaces have recently been derived. Such heterogeneous oil wettability underwater is attributed to the entrapment of liquid water in an extremely hydrophilic interface decorated with micro- and nanostructures. Designing underwater superoleophobic surfaces with differences in the force of oil adhesion is important for extending its potential utilizations in various and relevant applications. While underwater non-adhesive superoleophobicity enables applications like oil-liquid separation, self-cleaning, anti-fouling, anti-platelet adhesion, etc., the underwater superoleophobic interfaces embedded with the controlled force of oil adhesion remain crucial for another set of applications-including no-loss oil droplet manipulation, transfer, chemical toxin sensing, etc. This review discusses various strategies for deriving such underwater superoleophobic surfaces, emphasizing the need for co-optimizing appropriate surface nanoarchitectonics and hydrophilic chemistry and illustrating strategies for addressing durability and scalability challenges. Further, this review reveals the dominant role of chemical modulations over topography optimization for precise and orthogonal control on both oil wettability and force of oil adhesion. Additionally, strategic post-functionalization approaches are highlighted that enable instrument-free and naked-eye detection of physiological biomarkers and environmental toxins. It also depicts approaches to deriving mechanically durable underwater superoleophobic coatings-improving their suitability for more realistic application in outdoor conditions.

Fusion of enzymatic proteins: Enhancing biological activities and facilitating biological modifications

The fusion of enzymatic proteins represents a dynamic frontier in biotechnology and enzymatic engineering. This in-depth review looks at the many different ways that fusion proteins can be used, showing their importance in biosensing, gene therapy, targeted drug delivery, and biocatalysis. Fusion proteins have shown an astounding ability to improve and fine-tune biological functions by combining the most beneficial parts of different enzymes. Our first step is to explain how protein fusion increases biological functions. This will provide a broad picture of how this phenomenon has changed many fields. We dissect the intricate mechanisms through which fusion proteins orchestrate cellular processes, underscoring their potential to revolutionize the landscape of molecular biology. We also explore the complicated world of structural analysis and design strategies, stressing the importance of molecular insights for making the fusion protein approach work better. These insights broaden understanding of the underlying principles and illuminate the path toward unlocking untapped potential. The review also introduces cutting-edge techniques for constructing fusion protein libraries, such as DNA shuffling and phage display. These new methods allow scientists to build a molecular orchestra with an unprecedented level of accuracy, and thus use fusion proteins to their full potential in various situations. In conclusion, we provide a glimpse into the current challenges and prospects in fusion protein research, shedding light on recent advancements that promise to reshape the future of biotechnology. As we make this interesting journey through the field of enzymatic protein combination, it becomes clear that the fusion paradigm is about to start a new era of innovation that will push the limits of what is possible in biology and molecular engineering.

Nanocellulose dysregulated glucose homeostasis in female mice on a Western diet: The role of gut microbiome

There is currently increased interest in nanocellulose as a food emulsifier and dietary supplement. It was hypothesized that nanocellulose could modulate behaviors and glucose homeostasis in female mice using mechanisms of altered gut microbiome and immune modulation. An initial experiment was conducted with the objective of examining whether three common types of nanocellulose affected the gut microbiome of female C57BL/6 mice on a Western diet. Cellulose nanofibrils (CNF), TEMPO-CNF and cellulose nanocrystals were administered at the physiologically relevant dose of 30 mg/kg/day for 30 days by gavage, with cellulose and water groups as the positive and negative controls, respectively. Findings suggested that CNF had the strongest effect on the gut microbiome. CNF was therefore selected for a chronic 6-month study on the gut microbiome, immune system and behaviors in female NOD mice, a model for type 1 diabetes. Gut microbiome analysis suggested that there might be some beneficial changes following subchronic exposure (e.g., at the two-month timepoint), however, this effect was no longer seen after chronic consumption (e.g., at the six-month timepoint). CNF treatment also altered the immune homeostasis, including decreases in the splenic Mac-3+ population and serum level of proinflammatory chemokine LIX. Additionally, CNF consumption decreased diabetic incidences but had no effect on the depressive-like behavior and grip strength. However, further analysis, e.g., the insulin tolerance test, indicated that CNF-treated NOD mice might exhibit signs of insulin resistance. Taken together, nanocellulose dysregulated glucose homeostasis in female mice on a Western diet involving mechanisms related to alteration of the gut microbiome.

Metastructure and strain-defect engineered Cu-doped TiO x coating to enhance antibacterial sonodynamic therapy

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) has attracted widespread attention in treatment of implant-associated infections, one of the key factors leading to implant failure. Nevertheless, constructing efficient ultrasound-triggered coatings on implant surfaces remains a challenge. Herein, an acoustic metastructure Cu-doped defective titanium oxide coating (Cu-TiO x ) with lattice strain was constructed in situ on titanium implant to realize effective sonocatalysis. The redistribution of Cu atoms broke the pristine lattice of TiO2 during the thermal reduction treatment to regulate its energy structure, which favored separation of electron-hole pairs generated by ultrasound radiation to enhance the sonocatalytic generation of reactive oxygen species. In addition, the acoustic metastructure enhanced the absorption of ultrasound by Cu-TiO x metastructure coating, which further promoted its sonocatalytic effect. Thus, Cu-TiO x metastructure coating could efficiently eliminate Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli infections under ultrasonic irradiation in 10 min. Besides, the osteogenic property of implant was significantly improved after infection clearance in vivo. This work provides a fresh perspective on the design of SDT biosurfaces based on metastructure and strain-defect engineering.

Resveratrol derivative modified Ru(II) complexes: Synthesis, characterization, in vitro and in vivo anticancer study

The diversification of ligands provides more opportunities to adjust the photophysical performance as well as the bio-function of Ru(II) complexes as novel photosensitizers. Herein, a kind of Ru(II) complexes carrying resveratrol derivative, amino-Res, as ligand was designed and synthesized. The representative complex (named Ru4) showed potent anticancer activity under the trigger of 520 nm-light. Lipophilicity and cellular accumulation experiments indicated that Ru4 possessed higher LogPO/W value and cell up-take than Ru1-Ru3 and [Ru(bpy)3]2+. Mechanism study revealed that Ru4 could inhibit cancer cell migration, invasion and cancer stemness. The bio-function of Ru4 was mainly inherited from the amino-Res ligand. The in vivo study demonstrated that Ru4 could inhibit the tumor growth without significant system toxicity.

Tailored electronic interaction between metal-support trigger reverse hydrogen spillover for efficient hydrogen evolution

The triggering of fast hydrogen spillover through regulating the charge rearrangement of the metal-support serves as a crucial mechanism for decoupling the activity of HER catalysts from the adsorption properties, which not only contributes to enhancing the performance of the catalysts but also facilitates the production of green hydrogen. Herein, we tailor the electronic interaction between two-dimensional (2D) nitrogen-doped MoC (N-MoC) nanosheets and anultra-low content of Pt nanoclusters (1 wt%) to trigger reverse hydrogen spillover and modulate the electronic structure of Pt, thus achieving efficient and stable HER. Compared to Pt/C (0.229 A mgPt-1), Pt/N-MoC demonstrates a mass activity of 12.945 A mgPt-1, representing an enhancement of nearly 57.5 times. Notably, the excellent electrocatalytic performance was verified in the proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer configuration. Combining experimental and theoretical analysis, anultra-low load of Pt nanocluster (1 wt%) integrated with N-MoC nanosheets can induce a charge transfer from N-MoC to Pt, thus modulating the d-band center of Pt to improve the hydrogen adsorption properties and achieving fast hydrogen desorption (ΔG = 0.019 eV); furthermore, a small difference in work function between Pt nanoclusters and the N-MoC were achieved to dilute charge accumulation between the metal-support interface, thus reducing the energy barrier of hydrogen spillover.

Competitive adsorption and strain modulation induced by low electronegative elements to improve phosphate tolerance in HT-PEMFC

The cathode Pt-based electrocatalyst, a core component of high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs), significantly influences fuel cell efficiency. At high temperatures and strongly acidic pH, phosphoric acid tends to adsorb onto the Pt surface by forming PtO bonds, covering the catalyst's active sites. Phosphoric acid anions' toxicity towards Pt significantly impairs the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) kinetics, posing a major obstacle to the commercial viability of this technology. In this study, we activated the carbon layer by introducing boron (B) to anchor intermetallic compounds clusters, which competitively adsorb desorbed phosphate anions in HT-PEMFCs. This approach mitigates phosphoric acid poisoning. Additionally, the core-shell configuration induces compressive strain in PtMn intermetallic compounds, inhibits transition metal solvation, and regulates the d-band center, optimizing the adsorption energy of oxygen reduction intermediates and enhancing the catalyst's activity and stability in high-temperature phosphoric acid. At 80 °C, experiments showed the E1/2 value of PtMn/BC was 0.854 V, 53 mV higher than commercial Pt/C. Additionally, the mass activity (MA) and specific activity (SA) were 5.2 and 2.6 times higher than those of commercial Pt/C, respectively. The maximum power density of the HT-PEMFC in an H2/O2 atmosphere reached 1108.3 mW cm-2, significantly higher than that of commercial Pt/C. This value is also higher than most reported ORR catalysts, demonstrating the potential of this catalyst for HT-PEMFC applications.

E3 ubiquitin ligases and their therapeutic potential in disease Management

Ubiquitination is a vital post-translational modification that regulates protein stability and various cellular processes through the addition of ubiquitin molecules. Central to this process are E3 ubiquitin ligases, which determine the specificity of ubiquitination by coordinating the attachment of ubiquitin to target proteins, influencing their degradation, localization, and activity. E3 ubiquitin ligases are involved in numerous cellular pathways, including DNA repair, cell proliferation, and immune responses. Dysregulation of E3 ubiquitin ligases is often associated with cancer, contributing to tumor progression and resistance to therapies. The development of targeted protein degraders, such as proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs), represents a significant advancement in drug discovery, leveraging the specificity of E3 ubiquitin ligases to selectively eliminate pathogenic proteins. However, challenges remain in translating this knowledge into effective therapies, including issues related to tissue-specific targeting and off-target effects. The limitations also include a limited understanding of ligase-substrate interactions that includes both the identification of novel E3 ligases and their substrates, as well as understanding the dynamic, context-dependent nature of these interactions, which can vary across tissue types or disease states This review emphasizes the therapeutic potential of E3 ubiquitin ligases, exploring their diverse roles in disease, their contribution to targeted degradation strategies while highlighting the need for further research to overcome current limitations and enhance therapeutic efficacy.

Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles: An emerging threat for the environment and human health

Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (FexOy NPs, mainly Fe3O4 and γ-Fe2O3) are nanomaterials ubiquitously present in aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric environments, with a high prevalence and complex sources. Over the past decade, numerous reports have emerged on the presence of exogenous particles in human body, facilitated by the rapid development of separation and detection methods. The health risk associated with magnetic FexOy NP have garnered escalating attention due to their presence in human blood and brain tissues, especially for their potential association with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive overview of sources, analysis methods, environmental impacts, and health risks of magnetic FexOy NP. Currently, most researches are primarily based on engineered FexOy NP, while reports about magnetic FexOy NP existing in real-world environments are still limited, especially for their occurrence levels in various environmental matrices, environmental transformation behavior, and biotoxic effects. Our study reviews this emerging pollutant, providing insights to address current research deficiencies and chart the course for future studies.

ProtCB-bind: Protein-carbohydrate binding site prediction using an ensemble of classifiers

Proteins and carbohydrates are fundamental biomolecules that play crucial roles in life processes. The interactions between these molecules are essential for various biological functions, including immune response, cell activation, and energy storage. Therefore, understanding and identifying protein-carbohydrate binding regions is of significant importance. In this study, we propose ProtCB-Bind, a computational model for predicting protein-carbohydrate interactions. ProtCB-Bind leverages an ensemble of machine learning classifiers and utilizes a common averaging approach to form predictions. The proposed model is trained using a combination of sequence-based and evolutionary-based features of protein sequences, as well as the physicochemical properties of amino acids. To enhance predictive performance, ProtCB-Bind incorporates features derived from recent advancements in transformer-based Natural Language Processing (NLP) for proteins. ProtCB-Bind was designed by systematically identifying the best combination of classifiers and features, and was evaluated using a state-of-the-art benchmark dataset. Its performance was compared against established predictors, including SPRINT-CBH, StackCB-Pred, and StackCB-Embed. ProtCB-Bind outperformed these state-of-the-art predictors, achieving an approximate 3 % improvement in overall performance on benchmark dataset. The sources code for ProtCB-Bind is available at https://github.com/Divnesh/ProtCB-Bind.

Dual-responsive nanoscale ultrasound contrast agent as an oxidative stress amplifier for enhanced DNA damage in BRCA-proficient ovarian cancer

PARP inhibitor (PARPi)-based synthetic lethal therapies have displayed limited benefits in BRCA-proficient ovarian cancer. To potentiate the application of PARPi, an ultrasound contrast agent OLA-NDs for delivery of the PARPi olaparib (OLA) was established for enhancing DNA damage by blocking DNA repair. OLA-NDs were endowed with endogenous pH- and exogenous ultrasound (US)-responsiveness to target tumors, as well as contrast-enhanced US imaging for diagnostic and therapeutic integration. OLA-NDs could upregulate NOX4 to induce oxidative stress and sensitize BRCA wild-type A2780 cells to DNA oxidative damage through the utilization of ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD). In addition, the strategy further increased ROS production by interfering with mitochondrial function, thereby exacerbating DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and inducing mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. As a consequence, the combined application of UTMD and OLA-NDs demonstrated significant antitumor effects in vitro and in vivo. This combined strategy of amplifying oxidative damage improved lethality by promoting DNA DSBs and apoptosis with reduced adverse side effects, which would provide new insight for the clinical application of PARPi in BRCA-proficient ovarian cancer.

Advances in electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia over Cu-based catalysts

Ammonia (NH3) is a critical basic material for both the agricultural and pharmaceutical industries. Traditionally, NH3 synthesis has relied on the Haber-Bosch process, which is characterized by high greenhouse gas emissions and stringent reaction conditions. As a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative, electrocatalytic NH3 synthesis has gained increasing attention. Nitrate (NO3-), a common pollutant in water and soil, is considered a promising nitrogen source for NH3 production due to its high solubility and relatively low N=O bond dissociation energy. This makes it particularly suitable for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia (NRA), a process with significant potential for addressing nitrate pollution while contributing to NH3 production. However, challenges such as slow reaction kinetics and poor product selectivity persist in the NRA process. To overcome these challenges, the selection and optimization of catalysts are crucial for improving NRA performance. Among the various catalysts explored, copper-based (Cu) catalysts have attracted widespread attention due to their unique electronic structure and outstanding catalytic performance. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the application and reaction mechanisms of Cu-based catalysts in NRA, along with an overview of testing systems and evaluation metrics used in the field. Additionally, it highlights current challenges and outlines future research directions to support the continued development of Cu-based materials for NRA applications.

Investigating ozone build-up in the east of England during the July 2015 heat wave

Ozone (O₃) precursors controls have reduced peak episodes in the UK, yet some regions still exceed the 50 ppbv (8-h) limit under certain meteorological conditions. This study uses O₃-tagging within WRF-Chem to quantify NOₓ contributions to near-surface O₃ across the East of England during a short heatwave (30 June-5 July 2015), where O₃ peaked at 116 ppbv. Despite underestimating peak O₃, the model effectively captures the episode's evolution and spatial extent (MB: -2 ppbv, r: 0.78), depicting O₃ increases on the hottest days and their decline. During the peak O₃ event, Western Europe contributed ∼60 % of daily mean O₃, while domestic NOₓ emissions accounted for only ∼4.6 %. South-easterly winds transported O₃ and precursors from BENELUX, France, Germany, the North Sea, and the English Channel. Near-surface wind convergence (-0.00002 s-1) with weaker westerlies redirected domestic O₃ to the central UK, intensifying continental influence. Conversely, south-south-westerly flows amplified domestic O₃ contributions. Analysis of the processes contributing to O₃ build-up highlights that transboundary transport played a significant role during the peak event. Boundary layer growth contributed by entraining O₃-rich air (up to 10.3 ppb h-1 across the boundary layer top), along with precursors from the residual layer, facilitating their downward mixing to surface levels. This process set the stage for in-situ photochemical O₃ production, which peaked at midday, contributing to a total daily O₃ production of 42 ppbv on average across the region. Our findings underscore the necessity of coordinated international efforts to manage transboundary pollution, alongside targeted local measures to reduce O₃ precursor emissions.

Advances in nanoplatform-based multimodal combination therapy activating STING pathway for enhanced anti-tumor immunotherapy

Activation of the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase(cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) has great potential to promote antitumor immunity. As a major effector of the cell to sense and respond to the aberrant presence of cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), inducing the expression and secretion of type I interferons (IFN) and STING, cGAS-STING signaling pathway establishes an effective natural immune response, which is one of the fundamental mechanisms of host defense in organisms. In addition to the release of heterologous DNA due to pathogen invasion and replication, mitochondrial damage and massive cell death can also cause abnormal leakage of the body's own dsDNA, which is then recognized by the DNA receptor cGAS and activates the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. However, small molecule STING agonists suffer from rapid excretion, low bioavailability, non-specificity and adverse effects, which limits their therapeutic efficacy and in vivo application. Various types of nano-delivery systems, on the other hand, make use of the different unique structures and surface modifications of nanoparticles to circumvent the defects of small molecule STING agonists such as fast metabolism and low bioavailability. Also, the nanoparticles are precisely directed to the focal site, with their own appropriate particle size combined with the characteristics of passive or active targeting. Herein, combined with the cGAS-STING pathway to activate the immune system and kill tumor tissues directly or indirectly, which help maximize the use of the functions of chemotherapy, photothermal therapy(PTT), chemodynamic therapy(CDT), and radiotherapy(RT). In this review, we will discuss the mechanism of action of the cGAS-STING pathway and introduce nanoparticle-mediated tumor combination therapy based on the STING pathway. Collectively, the effective multimodal nanoplatform, which can activate cGAS-STING pathway for enhanced anti-tumor immunotherapy, has promising avenue clinical applications for cancer treatment.

Enhancing the persistence of engineered biotherapeutics in the gut: Adhesion, glycan metabolism, and environmental resistance

Engineered live biotherapeutic products (eLBPs) are receiving increasing attention as next-generation therapeutics to treat a variety of diseases with high specificity and effectiveness. Despite their potential, eLBPs face challenges, such as limited colonization, competition with native microbiota, nutrient depletion, and susceptibility to gastrointestinal stresses, which ultimately reduce their persistence in the gut and hinder their therapeutic efficacy. This review examines the key strategies to enhance the persistence and activity of eLBPs in the gut environment. First, methods to strengthen the adhesion capacity of eLBPs are discussed, including genetic engineering to express adhesins and chemical surface modifications to improve their binding to mucus and epithelial cells. Second, strategies to improve the ability of eLBPs to efficiently use mucin-derived sugars, which are continuously secreted by intestinal epithelial cells, were highlighted. These strategies involve the introduction and optimization of glycan-degrading enzymes and metabolic pathways for key mucin sugars, such as N-acetylglucosamine, galactose, and sialic acid, to support sustained energy production and enhance gut colonization. Third, strategies to improve the resistance of eLBPs against environmental stress are discussed, including genetic modifications to stabilize cell membranes, enhancement of ion pump activity, overexpression of stress-response proteins, and encapsulation techniques to provide protection. The implementation of these strategies can address challenges related to gut colonization by eLBPs, thereby enhancing their metabolic activity and enabling sustained and efficient secretion of therapeutic molecules. This review offers a comprehensive framework for developing and optimizing eLBPs, paving the way for their successful clinical application with enhanced effectiveness in treating gastrointestinal and systemic diseases.

In-Tip Nanoreactors for Simultaneous Proteolysis and Enrichment of Phosphorylated Peptides

Protein phosphorylation introduces negative charges on the hydroxyl groups of serine, threonine, and tyrosine residues, reducing the ionization efficiency of phosphorylated peptides. The low abundance of phosphorylated peptides often diminishes their detection using mass spectrometry. To enhance the identification of the low-abundance peptides, an enrichment step was often used, which complicated the high-throughput analysis of phosphorylated proteomes. In this study, we developed a titanium dioxide surface-modified macroporous silicon encapsulated micropipette tips, loaded with trypsin, to integrate rapid enzymatic protein hydrolysis with selective enrichment and extraction of phosphorylated peptides within a microfluidic enzyme reactor. This streamlined approach simplified the protein sample preparation process, combining enzymatic hydrolysis, selective enrichment and separation while maintaining high efficiency. The method enabled comprehensive analysis of complex cancer cell line samples in 1-2 h. Successful detection of phosphorylated peptides from protein mixtures was achieved using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry. This application may provide the potential for high-throughput phosphoproteomics and advance the study of protein modifications.

What do microRNA concentrations tell us about the mechanical damage and storage period of strawberry fruits?

Although much research has been performed to investigate the effects of storage conditions, such as mechanical damage and storage period, on the morphological and physiological properties of strawberry fruits, almost all of them have considered severe stress conditions. Finding fruit characteristics that exert significant changes even toward mild and moderate stress conditions can help provide valuable information about the fruit quality during storage. This study aims to investigate various characteristics of strawberry fruits during storage to determine which type of fruit characteristics exert such significant changes toward stress conditions. Identical strawberry samples were subjected to mechanical loading at three levels (1, 2, and 3 N) and then stored at 6 °C for 13 days. Morphological and physiological features, as well as the concentration of several microRNAs involved in strawberry storage, were measured at three-day intervals. The effects of mechanical loading on morphological and physiological characteristics were not significant, while their effects were significant on miR-164, miR-167, and miR-399a. Moreover, while low correlation coefficients were observed between the fruit morphophysiological traits (< 0.6) toward storage conditions, high correlations were obtained between the concentrations of microRNAs. Instead of measuring the morphological and physiological characteristics of fruits, whose behavior is not generally specific toward the stresses, the results show that microRNA concentrations, which can be measured by an electrochemical biosensor, provide us with noteworthy information about fruit quality during storage. These small non-coding molecules exhibited remarkable responses even in mild and moderate stress conditions, making them reliable markers of fruit quality assessment.

Self-healing injectable multifunctional hydrogels for intervertebral disc disease

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is increasingly prevalent in aging societies and poses a significant health challenge. Due to the limited blood supply to the disc, oral medications and systemic treatments are often ineffective. Consequently, localized injection therapies, which deliver therapeutic agents directly to the degenerated disc, have emerged as more efficient. Self-healing injectable hydrogels are particularly promising due to their potential for minimally invasive delivery, precise implantation, and targeted drug release into hard-to-reach tissue sites, including those requiring prolonged healing. Their dynamic viscoelastic properties accurately replicate the mechanical environment of the natural nucleus pulposus, providing cells with an adaptive biomimetic microenvironment. This review will initially discuss the anatomy and pathophysiology of intervertebral discs, current treatments, and their limitations. Subsequently, we conduct bibliometric analysis to explore the research hotspots and trends in applying injectable hydrogel technology to treat IVDD. It will then explore the promising features of injectable hydrogels in biomedical applications such as drug, protein, cells and gene delivery, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. We discuss the construction mechanisms of injectable hydrogels via physical interactions, chemical and biological crosslinkers, and discuss the selection of biomaterials and fabrication methods for developing novel hydrogels for IVD tissue engineering. The article concludes with future perspectives on the application of injectable hydrogels in this field.

High water-vapor-barrier cellulose films via ice-induced crystallization and hydroxyl/carboxyl synergistic enhancement effect

The potential environmental and health hazards of packaging materials based on petrochemical polymers have prompted a shift in research toward biodegradable polymers. However, most biodegradable films have poor water vapor barrier properties. We proposed an environmentally friendly method based on salting-out and cyclic freezing-thawing effects to improve the water-resistance and water vapor barrier properties of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)-based films. The coexistence of hydroxyl (OH) and carboxyl (COOH) was found to be crucial in promoting the ice-induced crystallization of cellulose molecules. The calculations of ice crystal size and freezable water weight content as well as hydrogen bonding theory analysis proved that the COOH can enhance the polymer interactions and crystallization to resist water molecules. The water vapor permeability (WVP) is as low as 3.89 × 10-11 g·m/m2·Pa·s at 37 °C and 65 % RH, a 6-fold reduction compared to the untreated CMC film. Meanwhile, the CMC-based films have high water resistance and mechanical strength, with a maximum wet tensile strength of 14.96 MPa, and remain intact after two months of immersion in water. This strategy is of great significance for the development of sustainable packaging materials with high barrier properties.

Crystal facet-induced reconstruction of MoN-supported Co pre-catalysts for optimized active sites and enhanced alkaline hydrogen evolution

The self-reconstruction of electrocatalysts during the cathodic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has garnered significant interest due to its impact on microstructure and electrocatalytic efficiency. Understanding the mechanisms driving this transformation is crucial for the development of high-performance HER pre-catalysts. In this study, an efficient Co(OH)2 (001)/MoN (002) heterostructured catalyst is fabricated through the self-reconstruction of the Co/MoN pre-catalyst and the mechanism of facet-induced reconstruction is investigated in detail. This Co/MoN pre-catalyst exhibits an impressive 58 % reduction in overpotential at a constant current density of 100 mA cm-2 over 5 h. It ultimately achieves a low overpotential of 339 mV at 1 A cm-2, outperforming commercial Pt/C under similar current conditions, while maintaining high current activity with 99.4 % retention after 110 h of continuous electrolysis. Operando characterizations and theoretical simulations reveal that metallic Co dissolves rapidly under bias as H+ ions infiltrate the interstitial spaces, and the dissolved Co2+ ions preferentially deposit as Co(OH)2 nanosheets. This deposition aligns with the (001) facet of Co(OH)2 and the prominent (002) plane of the MoN matrix through lattice matching, exhibiting a very low interfacial formation energy. Density-functional theory analysis reveals that the alignment of the crystal facets between Co(OH)2(001) and MoN (002) enhances electron transfer and modulates the interface to boost the water dissociation and hydrogen adsorption activity and kinetics. Our results underscore the importance of precise control over the reconstruction process for cathodic HER and facilitate the development of advanced transition metal-based electrocatalysts for industrial alkaline hydrogen production.

Facile preparation of full-color room temperature phosphorescence metal-organic framework via covalent ligand decoration

The preparation of full-color room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) is attractive but remains challenging. Herein, it is demonstrated that heavy atom-free cyclodextrin MOFs (CD-MOFs) with full-color and long-lived intrinsic RTP can be achieved by CD ligand decoration. Arylboronic acids with various π conjugations are covalently anchored by γ-CD, in return, the B─O covalent bonds and hydrogen bonds jointly stabilize the triplet excitons of the arylboronic acid chromophores, leading to the longest lifetime of up to ca. 1.42 s and full-color afterglows including blue, green, and red of the decorated γ-CD. These decorated γ-CD derivatives are then linked by potassium ions to form a body-centered cubic crystalline structure, namely full-color RTP CD-MOFs. The smart RTP CD-MOFs also show excitation wavelength-dependent afterglows due to the formation of various emissive species. The CD-MOFs together with the γ-CD ligands are successfully applied in advanced dynamic information encryption and anticounterfeiting. This success paves the way for the development of ecofriendly and practical full-color RTP MOFs.

Vertical concentration gradients of soluble surfactants in the rupture of thin liquid films

HYPOTHESIS

Surfactant-laden thin liquid films can rupture due to van der Waals forces, and being able to accurately predict the rupture time is important for applications involving coatings, foams, and emulsions. A common simplification in modeling film rupture is to assume that diffusion along the film thickness is so rapid that the surfactant concentration can be replaced by an averaged value. However, we hypothesize that vertical concentration gradients can develop as a result of surfactant adsorption at the interface, potentially rendering the vertical-averaging (VA) approximation inaccurate under certain conditions. Simulations: We assess the accuracy and limitations of this approximation by performing calculations with a lubrication-theory-based model that explicitly accounts for surfactant concentration gradients along the film thickness for a film on a horizontal solid substrate. Linear stability analysis and nonlinear simulations are performed to understand the role of vertical concentration gradients on film rupture.

FINDINGS

Results show that when surfactant diffusion is slow relative to advection and adsorption, substantial surfactant vertical concentration gradients can emerge. These gradients slow down adsorption and increase stabilizing Marangoni stresses, leading the VA approximation to underestimate the rupture time. Significant deviations in predicted rupture time are also observed when the initial bulk and surfactant concentrations are not in equilibrium, which is common in industrial applications.

Metalloid tellurium-induced electron-deficient NiFe alloys awakening efficient oxygen electroreduction

Transition metal alloys catalysts have been extensively studied in oxygen reduction reactions (ORR); however, their suboptimal catalytic activity presents a significant challenge. Modifying the local electronic configuration of the catalytic active site by heteroatom doping is an effective strategy to enhance the electrocatalytic performance. Herein, an ORR Te/NiFe@NCNFs electrocatalyst, featuring with Te modified NiFe alloys nanoparticles and anchored on N-doped carbon nanofibers (NCNFs), was constructed via a surface-modified synthesis strategy. The introduction of Te leads to electron transfer on the surface of Te/NiFe@NCNFs, forming an electron-deficient NiFe site with high catalytic activity. Theoretical calculations confirm that Te regulates an electron redistribution and reduces the d-band centers of Fe and Ni, which help to facilitate the desorption of ORR intermediate oxides. As a result, Te/NiFe@NCNFs exhibit a half-wave potential of 0.86 V, superior to that of Pt/C (0.84 V) and most reported modified-NiFe-based catalysts. When assembled into a zinc-air battery, Te/NiFe@NCNFs deliver remarkable power density of 158.8 mW cm-2-2 and specific capacity of 778.1 mA h gZn-1. The present study presents new insights into the modulation of electronic structure in transition metal alloys, providing a feasible and innovative approach for the design of unrivaled ORR electrocatalysts.

Biodegradable copper-doped calcium phosphate nanoplatform enables tumor microenvironment modulations for amplified ferroptosis in cervical carcinoma treatment

As a recently discovered form of regulated cell death, ferroptosis has attracted much attention in the field cancer therapy. However, achieving considerably enhanced efficacy is often restricted by the overexpression of endogenous glutathione (GSH) in tumor microenvironment (TME). In this work, we report a ferroptosis-inducing strategy of GSH depletion and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation based on a biodegradable copper-doped calcium phosphate (CaP) with L-buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) loading (denoted as BSO@CuCaP-LOD, BCCL). BCCL was conducted by a biomineralization approach using lactate oxidases (LOD) as a bio-template to obtain Cu-doped CaP nanoparticles. Then, BSO was loaded to form BCCL nanoparticles with pH-responsive biodegradability to endow controlled release of Cu2+ and BSO in response to acidic TME. Benefiting from the catalytic performance of LOD, BCCL efficiently depletes the level of lactate in tumor, which can generate endogenous H2O2 for subsequent Fenton-like reaction. The Cu2+ and BSO intracellular GSH depletion followed by GSH-mediated Cu2+/Cu+ conversion, leading to the inhibition of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and generation of •OH radicals via Cu+-mediated Fenton-like reaction. BCCL confers enhanced ferroptosis induction via intracellular LOD-induced H2O2 production, BSO-mediated GSH depletion, and Cu+-mediated ROS generation, leading to cause effective ferroptotic cell damage. As verified by in vitro and in vivo assays, the designed BCCL nanoplatform is highly biocompatible and exhibits superior anticancer therapy on uterine cervical carcinoma U14 tumor xenografts. This study, therefore, provides a biocompatible therapeutic platform that modulating the TME to enable intensive ROS generating efficacy and GSH depleting performance, as well as provides an innovative paradigm for achieving effective ferroptosis-based cancer therapy.

Mechanically robust non-swelling cold water fish gelatin hydrogels for 3D bioprinting

Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting of hydrogels allows embedded cells to be patterned and hosted in an extracellular matrix (ECM)-mimicking environment. This method shows great promise for the engineering of complex tissues on account of the facile spatial control over materials and cells within the printed constructs. Hydrogels, which represent extensively explored and employed biomaterials for 3D bioprinting, are characterized by both their high water content and swelling behavior. Post-printing swelling inevitably alters the geometrical and mechanical properties of printed features, thus causing a deviation from the original design and affecting both cellular function and tissue structure. Despite substantial effort being dedicated to the development of non-swelling hydrogels, their application in 3D encapsulation and bioprinting of living cells is yet to be realized, owing to limitations imposed by their often tedious material syntheses and complex network structures. Herein, we describe a new type of non-swelling hydrogel based fully on cold water fish gelatin (cfGel-Hydrogel) consisting of only a single network formed via thiol-ene "click" chemistry. We show that such cfGel-Hydrogels enable 3D patterning of living cells in a shape-retaining and mechanically robust matrix. These cfGel-Hydrogels show negligible swelling (<2 %) under physiologically relevant conditions (simulated by 37 °C PBS buffer), while also being able to withstand large cyclic deformations (80 % compressive strain) by dissipating around 40 % of the imposed loading energy. Human dermal fibroblast (HDF)-laden cfGel-Hydrogels could be fabricated via extrusion-based 3D printing, allowing for the in vitro culturing of cells in shape-retaining constructs, thus offering new opportunities for hydrogel-based applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Immune cell targeting-mediated cytomimetic drug delivery system for BBB-penetrating and precise therapy of in situ glioma

Gliomas are a group of highly malignant tumors that are prone to recurrence after surgery. Due to the limitation of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), most antitumor drugs cannot cross it. Therefore, improving the delivery efficiency of antitumor drugs in their treatment remains a significant challenge. Herein, we report a unique cellular biomimetic drug delivery system (CTP@RAW) that benefits from the exceptional immune homing and long-term tracking ability of RAW 264.7 cells to specifically penetrate BBB and target tumor sites. The drug (TMZ) is encapsulated in RAW264.7 to avoid being cleared or degraded by the blood, improve bioavailability and reduce systemic toxicity. And that, owning to polydopamine (PDA) coating on the quantum dots-drug nanoparticles, which can endogenously and controllably release TMZ in response to certain tumor microenvironment (high GSH and low pH). This delivery system can also achieve precise localization and real-time visualization of tumors via fluorescence imaging. The released drugs effectively inhibit tumor growth by regulating cytokine expression levels, including GFAP, Ki67, Caspase-3, and TNF-α. Our study demonstrates that this drug delivery system can cross BBB, improve drug delivery efficiency, and has excellent potential for visualization and precision treatment of in situ gliomas.

MOF composites for revolutionizing blue energy harvesting and next-gen soft electronics

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous materials with highly ordered and crystalline structures, which have earned tremendous attention in the academic community in recent years owing to their high tunability in porosity and pore structure. By integrating MOFs with soft colloids or polymers to form MOF composites, the rigidity and brittle nature of MOFs can be compensated for, thus achieving synergistic effects for a wide variety of applications. In particular, the past decade has seen the advancement of MOF composites in the budding fields of blue energy harvesting and soft electronics, which have received growing interest in the past 5 years. This review focuses on the applications of MOF composites in these two fields, and starts by examining the nanoarchitectures of MOFs, followed by the fabrication of MOF composites. Furthermore, topical advances of MOF composites in blue energy harvesting and soft electronics are reviewed and summarized, and their challenges and future opportunities are discussed as the final touch. This article provides comprehensive review and valuable insights into the development of MOF composites, which may open up new avenues for blue energy harvesting and soft electronics to solve the imminent energy crisis and to advance the wearable technology in healthcare.

A factorial design-optimized microfluidic LNP vaccine elicits potent magnesium-adjuvating cancer immunotherapy

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated cancers remain a critical health challenge, prompting the development of effective therapeutic vaccines. This study presents a lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based vaccine co-loading E7 antigen peptide and magnesium ions as the adjuvant. Microfluidic technology was employed to optimize LNP preparation and formulation, ensuring efficient co-delivery of antigen and adjuvant. Magnesium ions were chosen over conventional aluminum-based adjuvants, which often suffer from limited efficacy and adverse effects, particularly for cancer immunotherapy. Compared to aluminum, magnesium ions exhibited superior capabilities in enhancing T-cell activation and promoting cellular immune response. Mechanistic insights suggest that magnesium ions facilitate dendritic cell maturation and antigen presentation via a collagen-CD36 axis, contributing to the adjuvant activity of magnesium. Through design of experiments (DoE) optimization, the LNP formulation was tailored for enhanced encapsulation and stability, positioning it as a targeted system for immune activation. These findings support the promise of magnesium ions as effective and safer adjuvants in LNP-based vaccines, marking a potential advancement for therapeutic cancer vaccination.

pH-responsive nanovesicles capable of remodeling the tumor microenvironment enable activatable near-infrared-II fluorescence image-guided enhanced radiotherapy

Traditional radiotherapy (RT) lacks the precision to distinguish between tumor and normal tissues, leading to inevitable X-ray-induced side effects in patients. Therefore, it is crucial to develop integrated imaging and therapeutic modalities that can reduce side effects on surrounding healthy tissues while enhancing susceptibility to tumor tissues. In this study, we developed a pH-responsive nanodrug (AuNRs-Mn3O4-Ag2S Ve) by self-assembling the second near-infrared (NIR-II, 950-1700 nm) fluorescent probe Ag2S quantum dots (QDs), multifunctional nanozyme Mn3O4 nanoparticles (NPs), and radiosensitizer gold nanorods (AuNRs) into a single nanoplatform via an emulsion process. This nanodrug enables precise tumor localization for accurately guided RT and multi-angle sensitization of RT. Upon intravenous administration, the nanodrug disintegrates in the tumor area due to the pH-sensitive polymer P4VP, releasing Ag2S QDs which are specifically activated by the acidic environment, thereby "turning on" the NIR-II fluorescence signal. The optimal timing of the NIR-II fluorescence signal within the tumor region after intravenous injection was investigated, providing a reference for guided RT. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed the efficient enhancement of tumor radiosensitization by AuNRs and Mn3O4 NPs. The specific imaging modality that transitions the fluorescence signal from "off" to "on" has been successfully implemented, addressing the limitations of conventional RT and enhancing radiosensitivity. The integration of imaging and therapeutic approaches in this study presents a promising modality for image-guided tumor RT.

Cationic AIEgens with large rigid π-planes: Specific bacterial imaging and treatment of drug-resistant bacterial infections

In this study, four D-π-A type cationic photosensitisers with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) properties were developed based on the electron-donating group triphenylamine and pyrene molecules acting as auxiliary electron donors and main π-bridges, as well as pyridinium salts of different charge numbers acting as electron acceptors: TPP1, MeOTPP1, TPP2 and MeOTPP2. The introduction of pyrene endowed the AIE photosensitizers with a high solid fluorescence quantum yield and long fluorescence lifetime. All four photosensitizer molecules were able to efficiently generate type I (·OH) and type II (1O2) under white light irradiation, achieving efficient inactivation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) at low concentrations, and TPP1 and TPP2 successfully promoted wound healing in MRSA-infected mice. The introduction of a methoxy group effectively enhanced the intramolecular charge transfer effect, achieved longer wavelength absorption and fluorescence emission redshift, and effectively reduced ΔEst thereby promoting ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) generation. However, after the introduction of the methoxy group, the CAC (Critical Aggregate Concentration) of MeOTPP1 and MeOTPP2 became smaller and the hydrophobicity was enhanced, which affected the interaction with bacteria. In fact, the photodynamic antimicrobial activity and imaging ability against bacteria were reduced. TPP2 achieves efficient killing of MRSA and MDR E.coli (Multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli) by disrupting the bacterial cell membrane due to its high photosensitization efficiency, two positive charges and very high CAC value. Under light (40 mW·cm-2), only 1 μM of TPP2 inactivated 87 % of MRSA, followed by TPP1, which inactivated 59 %, while MeOTPP1 and MeOTPP2 showed no significant antibacterial activity at this concentration. At a concentration of 10 μM, TPP2 deactivated more than 95 % of MDR E.coli, TPP1 deactivated about 41 %, and MeOTPP1 and MeOTPP2 had no antimicrobial activity against MDR E.coli at this concentration. In addition, TPP1, MeOTPP1 and TPP2 were able to rapidly identify MRSA and MDR E.coli under the irradiation of 365 nm UV light, which provides a visual method for the rapid identification of MRSA and MDR E.coli.

A novel therapeutic approach to hemangiomas: Combining photothermal therapy and ferroptosis in a microneedle delivery system

Infantile Hemangioma (IH) is the most common benign vascular tumor occurred in infants and young children. The larger hemangiomas or lesions located in specific areas can cause severe complications, such as disfigurement, obstruction, or ulceration, increasing the risk of functional impairment. Propranolol, serving as the first-line drug for IH treatment, still poses various challenges. Certain patients exhibit low sensitivity to propranolol therapy or face recurrence, which become the leading reason for the failure of IH treatment. Additionally, the requirement for frequent daily medication can also complicate adherence for patients. Hence, developing novel IH therapy methods or drug administration routes is significantly important to enhance therapeutic effect and reduce side effects. Accordingly, in this study, we introduced an innovative photothermal, dissolving microneedles (MNs) patch designed specifically for IH therapy. Firstly, a pH responsive self-assembly nanoplatform with photothermal effect is designed by encapsulating propranolol (PRN) into zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) NPs and modifying with TA/Fe nanocomplexes. The fabricated PRN@ZIF-8@TA/Fe (PZ@TA/Fe) NPs exhibited good biocompatibility, pH-responsive degradation, photothermal conversion efficiency inside hemangioma endothelial cells (HemECs). Importantly, TA/Fe surface modification led to intracellular iron overload, which subsequently induced the Fenton reaction and triggered ferroptosis process. The combination of photothermal therapy and ferroptosis therapy exhibited a superior synergistic effect in damaging HemECs and vascular structures. The PZ@TA/Fe NPs loaded in MNs patch further ensured targeted delivery to lesion areas and achieved precise and maximal release of the PZ@TA/Fe NPs, while reducing systemic side effects to normal vasculature or tissue. The PZ@TA/Fe@MNs showed remarkable anti-angiogenic effect against IH in mice model. This study first investigates the potential of ferroptosis therapy in IH treatment, and highlights the substantial therapeutic effect of combining photothermal therapy and ferroptosis effects against IH proliferation. This approach can also become a more effective and safer treatment method for other diseases characterized by abnormal angiogenesis.

Highly sensitive electrochemical Osteoprotegerin (OPG) immunosensor for assessing fracture healing and evaluating drug efficacy

Tibial fractures are common long bone injuries requiring effective monitoring for optimal healing. Osteoprotegerin (OPG), as a key marker of bone formation, is closely related to the degree of fracture healing. However, existing detection methods have certain limitations in sensitivity and specificity. This study successfully crafted an exceptionally sensitive electrochemical immunosensor based on COOH-CNFs/Ti3C2Tx MXene/PANI-AgNPs nanocomposite material for the quantitative analysis of OPG in serum, providing a methodological basis for auxiliary diagnosis of fracture healing degree and evaluation of drug efficacy. A one-pot hydrothermal method was employed to synthesize and modify the nanocomposite material on gold electrode surfaces, which exhibit high electrochemical activity, low charge transfer resistance, and a large electroactive surface area, thereby enhancing the immunosensor's conductivity and stability, with a wide linear range (10-17 to 10-12 g/mL) and a low detection limit (1.94 × 10-18 g/mL). Methodological validation further confirmed the immunosensor's excellent performance in specificity, reproducibility, and stability. Moreover, the successful application of this immunosensor in detecting OPG in serum samples from actual tibial fracture patients before and after medication demonstrates significant potential for clinical application in assisting the assessment of fracture healing and evaluating the efficacy of orthopedic drugs.

Making Every Penny Count: Kinase Signaling Transduction, Copper Homeostasis, & Nutrient Sensing

I am the Harrison McCrea Dickson, MD, and Clifford C. Baker, MD Presidential Associate Professor of Cancer Biology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. I earned a BS in Chemistry from Radford University and a PhD in Pharmacology from UNC-Chapel Hill before completing postdoctoral training at Duke University with Dr. Christopher Counter. At Penn, I lead a research program pioneering metalloallostery, where redox-active metals regulate kinase activity. We investigate the intersection of kinase signaling and copper (Cu) homeostasis, identifying Cu-dependent kinases and developing targeted therapies through drug repurposing and novel drug design. Our work has advanced our understanding of metals in nutrient signaling, energy homeostasis, and cancer metabolism. I am a Pew Biomedical Scholar, a V Foundation Scholar, and the recipient of the Perelman School of Medicine's Michael S. Brown New Investigator Research Award. I am also a dedicated advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), having spent the past decade addressing barriers to representation in STEM. In 2021, I was appointed the inaugural Assistant Dean for Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (IDE) in Research Training at Penn, leading efforts to foster an inclusive research environment. For these contributions, I was recognized with the 2022 Vanderbilt Basic Science Juneteenth Icon Award and the Penn Biomedical Graduate Studies Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Group Community Service Award.

Molecularly manipulating pyrazinoquinoxaline derivatives to construct NIR-II AIEgens for multimodal phototheranostics of breast cancer bone metastases

Multimodal phototheranostics on the basis of single molecular species shows inexhaustible and vigorous vitality, particularly those emit fluorescence in the second near-infrared window (NIR-II), the construction of such exceptional molecules nonetheless retains formidably challenging. In view of the undiversified molecular skeletons and insufficient phototheranostic outputs of previously reported NIR-II fluorophores, herein, electron acceptor engineering based on heteroatom-inserted rigid-planar pyrazinoquinoxaline was manipulated to fabricate aggregation-induced emission (AIE)-featured NIR-II counterparts with donor-acceptor-donor (D-A-D) architecture. Systematical investigations substantiated that one of those synthesized AIE molecules, namely 4TPQ, incorporating a fused thiophene acceptor, synchronously exhibited high molar absorptivity (ε), NIR-II emission, typical AIE tendency, significant reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and high photothermal conversion efficiency. These extraordinary behaviors endowed 4TPQ nanoparticles with unprecedented performance on NIR-II fluorescence/photothermal imaging-navigated synergistic photodynamic/photothermal inhibition of tumors, as confirmed by the mice model of breast cancer bone metastases. This study thus brings significant insights into developing phototheranostic systems for clinical trials.

Revisiting the characteristics of nanomaterials, composites, hybrid and functionalized materials in medical microbiology

Unlike traditional materials designed to form large structures, many modern materials are presented in the form of powders resulting from a molecular level control of their composition and structure, making possible the miniaturization and fine-tuning of their properties to act in cellular dimensions with customized tasks. Several new materials for biomedical and microbiology applications appear every year. Although many of them are called nanomaterials, there may be a more precise description or classification. In this work, we review and detail the structural classification of nanometric, functionalized, hybrid and composite materials, mainly based on descriptions given by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). Besides we included smart and multifunctional materials, cassification based on performance. The second section shows how these materials are used in the area of medical microbiology, grouping these applications into barriers for microorganisms on surfaces, disinfectants in clinical practice, targeting of pathogens, detectors of microorganisms or their metabolites, and also as substrates to stabilize, transport, or nourish beneficial microorganisms. Finally, we will discuss some evidence that indicates the environmental risk and bacterial resistance alerts that should be taken into account with the use of these advanced powder materials.