A review on polysaccharides mediated electrospun nanofibers for diabetic wound healing: Their current status with regulatory perspective

Advanced healing potential of simple natural hydrogel loaded with sildenafil in combating infectious wounds

Infected wounds are common clinical injuries that often complicated by inflammation and oxidative stress due to bacterial invasion. These wounds typically suffer from impaired vascularization, which delays healing and increases the risk of complications such as sepsis and chronic wounds. Therefore, developing an effective treatment for infected wounds is highly necessary. Egg white can promote cell regeneration and repair, while chitosan is effective in resisting bacterial invasion. Sildenafil is believed to have the potential to promote angiogenesis. Based on these properties, we have prepared a new type of hydrogel using egg white and chitosan as the framework, loaded with sildenafil (CEHS). The hydrogel combines the benefits of its components, exhibiting good biocompatibility and promoting the proliferation and migration of NIH 3T3 (3T3) cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), as well as the angiogenesis in HUVEC. It also exhibits significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Additionally, in a mouse model of infected wounds, the CEHS effectively promoted wound healing through its excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, antibacterial activity, and pro-angiogenic effects. In summary, this simple-to-prepare, multifunctional natural hydrogel shows great promise for the treatment of infected wounds.

Foam-Based Drug Delivery Systems for Skin Disorders: A Comprehensive Review

Foam-based drug delivery systems signify a significant innovation in dermatology, facilitating improved drug penetration and administration via a gas-liquid dispersion matrix. These formulations have shown considerable promise in the medical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical fields. Recent improvements in topical foams have resulted in their extensive utilization in dermatological therapies, with a growing emphasis on categorization techniques grounded in formulation composition and the creation of novel methodologies for assessing essential physicochemical factors. Foam formulations comprising calcipotriol and betamethasone demonstrate 30% enhanced therapeutic effectiveness in the treatment of psoriasis compared to traditional topical therapies. The low-density, aerated structure of foams promotes improved skin covering and hydration, which is especially advantageous for disorders like eczema. Moreover, novel advances such as propellant-free foams and the incorporation of nanotechnology have broadened the use of foam-based delivery methods in targeted drug administration and customized medicine. Ongoing research into new biomaterials and refined formulation procedures seeks to overcome these constraints, ensuring that foam-based systems emerge as a breakthrough method in dermatological care. These systems promise to enhance clinical results and overall patient quality of life by increasing medication bioavailability, patient adherence, and therapeutic effectiveness.

Recent advances in hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels for diabetic wound healing

Diabetic wound healing represents a complex biological challenge, often impeded by disrupted cellular processes and dysregulated inflammation, which can lead to chronic and non-healing wounds. Given the significant burden on patients and the healthcare system, there is an urgent need for advanced therapeutic strategies. Hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogels have emerged as a promising solution due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and unique physiological functions. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in HA-based hydrogels, highlighting their potential in addressing diabetic wound complications. Specifically, it examines challenges such as hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress and impaired cellular signaling within the intricate diabetic wound microenvironment. Moreover, the review explores the composition and properties of HA, including its adhesive capabilities and role in reducing surgical trauma. Various crosslinking strategies and functional modifications are also discussed to endow HA-based hydrogels with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and growth factor-releasing capabilities. By summarizing the latest research and identifying areas for further exploration, this review contributes to the development of more effective HA-based hydrogel formulations for diabetic wound healing.

Polysaccharides, proteins and DNA based stimulus responsive hydrogels promoting wound healing and repair: A review

The healing of various wounds remains a serious challenge in the medical field, hydrogel has high hydrophilicity and biocompatibility due to its unique network structure, which shows a strong advantage in the field of wound healing. Stimulus responsive hydrogels are particularly effective，which can control the material properties according to the external stimulus source, and provide more targeted treatment for different wounds. Here, we review physiological mechanisms of wound healing and the relationship between polysaccharides, proteins and DNA based stimulus responsive hydrogels and wound healing, materials commonly used of polysaccharides, proteins and DNA based stimulus responsive hydrogels, mechanisms of stimulus responsive hydrogels formation and network structure types, common properties of polysaccharides, proteins and DNA based stimulus responsive hydrogels for promoting wound healing and discuss their applications in medicine. Finally, the limitations and application prospects of polysaccharides, proteins and DNA based stimulus responsive hydrogels were discussed and evaluated. The review focuses on the biomedical use of polysaccharides, proteins and DNA based stimulus responsive hydrogels in wound healing and repair, and provides insights for the development of clinical related materials.

Development of hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels for chronic diabetic wound healing: A review

This research delves into the advancements in chronic skin wound treatment, with a particular focus on diabetic foot ulcers, utilizing hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogels. Hyaluronic acid, an integral component of the skin's extracellular matrix, plays a crucial role in process such as inflammation, angiogenesis, and tissue regeneration. Due to their three-dimensional network structure, biocompatibility, hydrophilicity, and gas exchange capabilities, HA-based hydrogels are considered highly suitable for promoting wound healing. Nonetheless, pure HA hydrogels exhibit limitations including insufficient mechanical strength and rapid release of encapsulated substances. To address these limitations, the incorporation of bioactive materials such as chitosan and collagen was investigated. This combination not only optimized mechanical strength and degradation rates but also enhanced antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, responsive hydrogel dressings were developed to adapt to the specific characteristics of the diabetic wound microenvironment, enabling on-demand drug release. These advancements present new perspectives for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers.

Recent progress in biopolymer-based electrospun nanofibers and their potential biomedical applications: A review

Tissue engineering offers an alternative approach to developing biological substitutes that restore, maintain, or enhance tissue functionality by integrating principles from medicine, biology, and engineering. In this context, biopolymer-based electrospun nanofibers have emerged as attractive platforms due to their superior physicochemical properties, including excellent biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and desirable biodegradability, compared to synthetic polymers. Considerable efforts have been dedicated to developing suitable substitutes for various biomedical applications, with electrospinning receiving considerable attention as a versatile technique for fabricating nanofibrous platforms. While the applications of biopolymer-based electrospun nanofibers in the biomedical field have been previously reviewed, recent advancements in the electrospinning technique and its specific applications in areas such as bone regeneration, wound healing, drug delivery, and protein/peptide delivery remain underexplored from a material science perspective. This work systematically highlights the effects of biopolymers and critical parameters, including polymer molecular weight, viscosity, applied voltage, flow rate, and tip-to-collector distance, on the resulting nanofiber properties. The selection criteria for different biopolymers tailored to desired biomedical applications are also discussed. Additionally, the challenges and limitations associated with biopolymer-based electrospun nanofibers, alongside future perspectives for advancing their biomedical applications, are rationally analyzed.

A thermally stable bioactive chitosan scaffold with pH-responsive exosome adsorption and release function promotes wound healing

Chitosan is an excellent carrier material for bioactive substances, and its binding ability is affected by the pH value of surrounding environments. Healthy skin is maintained in a slightly acidic environment, whereas the wound healing environment is normally neutral or slightly alkaline. In the present study, the authors proposed developing a thermally stable bioactive chitosan scaffold (T-CS) with pH-responsive exosome adsorption and release functions to promote wound healing. Our results revealed that T-CS could automatically capture exosomes from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in an acidic environment and release them in alkaline or neutral environments. The exosomes separated by T-CS and the traditional ultracentrifugation (UC) method exhibited similar size and protein markers. Furthermore, the exosomal biological activities of the T-CS (T-CS-E) and UC groups exhibited similar anti-inflammatory, proproliferation, promigration, and proendothelial cell-tube formation effects on human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Similar results were achieved in a mouse model by sustainably releasing exosomes. T-CS-E could facilitate wound healing by enhancing cell proliferation, inhibiting wound inflammation, and promoting vascularization. Therefore, this study developed a T-CS scaffold that integrates exosome isolation and application for wound healing, laying the foundation for future clinical use.

A tranexamic acid-functionalized acellular dermal matrix sponge co-loaded with magnesium ions: Enhancing hemostasis, vascular regeneration, and re-epithelialization for comprehensive diabetic wound healing

Excessive inflammation, accumulation of wound exudate, and blood seepage are common in diabetic wounds, hindering cell proliferation and disrupting tissue remodeling, leading to delayed healing. This study presents a multifunctional sponge scaffold (P5T3@Mg) created by combining an acellular dermal matrix with tranexamic acid and MgO nanoparticles, designed for hemostatic and anti-inflammatory effects. The P5T3@Mg scaffold effectively absorbs wound fluid while promoting healing. In vivo and in vitro hemostasis experiments demonstrate that the P5T3@Mg sponge exhibits excellent hydrophilicity, enhancing blood absorption at the wound site, inhibiting fibrinolysis, and expediting hemostasis. Additionally, the sustained release of Mg2+ from the P5T3@Mg sponge promotes collagen deposition and angiogenesis in diabetic rat wounds, suppressing chronic inflammation and accelerating tissue remodeling and repair.

Therapeutic Potential of Microneedle Assisted Drug Delivery for Wound Healing: Current State of the Art, Challenges, and Future Perspective

Microneedles (MNs) appear as a transformative and minimally invasive platform for transdermal drug delivery, representing a highly promising strategy in wound healing therapeutics. This technology, entailing the fabrication of micron-scale needle arrays, enables the targeted and efficient delivery of bioactive agents into the epidermal and dermal layers without inducing significant pain or discomfort. The precise penetration of MNs facilitates localized and sustained drug release, which significantly enhances tissue regeneration and accelerates wound closure. Furthermore, MNs can be engineered to encapsulate essential bioactive compounds, including antimicrobial agents, growth factors, and stem cells, which are critical for modulating the wound healing cascade and mitigating infection risk. The biodegradable nature of these MNs obviates the need for device removal, rendering them particularly advantageous in the management of chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers and pressure sores. The integration of nanotechnology within MNs further augments their drug-loading capacity, stability, and controlled-release kinetics, offering a sophisticated therapeutic modality. This cutting-edge approach has the potential to redefine wound care by optimizing therapeutic efficacy, reducing adverse effects, and enhancing patient adherence. As MN technology advances, its application in wound healing exemplifies a dynamic frontier within biomedical engineering and regenerative medicine.

In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Electrospun PVA Nanofiber Containing ZnO/Curcumin for Wound Healing Application

The development of biocompatible wound dressings containing therapeutic agents to accelerate wound healing is an interesting field of study in biomedical sciences. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers were loaded with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and curcumin (Cur) through electrospinning. The dressings were characterized by SEM and XRD and FTIR. The antioxidant, antibacterial, and cytotoxic activities Cur/ZnO/PVA nano dressing were evaluated using DPPH radical scavenging assay, disc diffusion method, and MTT assay, respectively. Cur/ZnO/PVA nano dressing showed sustained Cur release about 19.7% and 61.1% after 8h and 168h, respectively. Cur/ZnO NPs/PVA mixture had higher antioxidant potential than PVA, ZnO NPs, and Cur. The dressing showed a good antibacterial effect. The in vivo wound healing effect of different types of prepared dressings, including PVA, Cur/PVA, Cur/ZnO/PVA, and ZnO/ PVA nanofibers, was also investigated. PVA dressing containing Cur/ZnO NPs resulted in the highest increase of wound contraction in rats. The assembly of Cur and ZnO NPs on PVA nanofibers could propose as an effective delivery method to improve the wound healing process. The investigated wound dressing could be commercialized and used on a large scale after proper further studies, including clinical trials.

Chitosan-Based Hydrogels as Antibacterial/Antioxidant/Anti-Inflammation Multifunctional Dressings for Chronic Wound Healing

Due to repeated microbial infection, persistent inflammation, excessive oxidative stress, and cell dysfunction, chronic wounds are difficult to heal, posing a serious threat to public health. Therefore, developing multifunctional wound dressings that can regulate the complex microenvironment of chronic wounds and enhance cellular function holds great significance. Recently, chitosan has emerged as a promising biopolymer for wound healing due to its excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and versatile bioactivity. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms of delayed chronic wound healing and discuss the healing-promoting properties of chitosan and its derivatives, such as good biocompatibility, antibacterial activity, hemostatic capacity, and the ability to promote tissue regeneration. On this basis, the potential applications of chitosan-based hydrogels are summarized in chronic wound healing, including providing a suitable microenvironment, eliminating bacterial infections, promoting hemostasis, inhibiting chronic inflammation, alleviating oxidative stress, and promoting tissue regeneration. In addition, the concerns and perspectives for the clinical application of chitosan-based hydrogels are also discussed.

The combined treatment of gold nanoparticles associated with photobiomodulation accelerate the healing of dermonecrotic lesion

Introduction: The search for fast and efficient treatment for dermonecrotic lesions caused by the venom of the spider from the Loxosceles simillis, is a demand in health. Prednisolone is one of the most used drugs, however it has side effects. In this context, addictionally gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. The use of photobiomodulation has show to be efficient in the process of tissue repair. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of photobiomodulation and GNPs associated or not with a low concentration of prednisolone in animal models of dermonecrotic lesion.Methodology: For this, rabbits with venon-induced dermonecrotic lesion were subjected to topical treatment with prednisolone + laser or GNPs + laser or Pred-GNPs + laser. The area of edema, necrosis and erythema were measured. On the last day of treatment, the animals were euthanized to remove the organs for histopathological and biochemical analysis.Results: All treatments combinations were effective in promoting the reduction of necrotic tissue and erythema.Conclusion: With this results, we suggest that the use of laser and nanoparticles, associated or not with prednisolone, should be considered for the treatment of dermonecrotic injury.

Artificial intelligence for skin permeability prediction: deep learning

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Researchers have put in significant laboratory time and effort in measuring the permeability coefficient (Kp) of xenobiotics. To develop alternative approaches to this labour-intensive procedure, predictive models have been employed by scientists to describe the transport of xenobiotics across the skin. Most quantitative structure-permeability relationship (QSPR) models are derived statistically from experimental data. Recently, artificial intelligence-based computational drug delivery has attracted tremendous interest. Deep learning is an umbrella term for machine-learning algorithms consisting of deep neural networks (DNNs). Distinct network architectures, like convolutional neural networks (CNNs), feedforward neural networks (FNNs), and recurrent neural networks (RNNs), can be employed for prediction.

METHODS

In this project, we used a convolutional neural network, feedforward neural network, and recurrent neural network to predict skin permeability coefficients from a publicly available database reported by Cheruvu et al. The dataset contains 476 records of 145 chemicals, xenobiotics, and pharmaceuticals, administered on the human epidermis in vitro from aqueous solutions of constant concentration either saturated in infinite dose quantities or diluted. All the computations were conducted with Python under Anaconda and Jupyterlab environment after importing the required Python, Keras, and Tensorflow modules.

RESULTS

We used a convolutional neural network, feedforward neural network, and recurrent neural network to predict log kp.

CONCLUSION

This research work shows that deep learning networks can be successfully used to digitally screen and predict the skin permeability of xenobiotics.

Machine learning for skin permeability prediction: random forest and XG boost regression

Background: Machine learning algorithms that can quickly and easily estimate skin permeability (Kp) are increasingly being used in drug delivery research. The linear free energy relationship (LFER) developed by Abraham is a practical technique for predicting Kp. The permeability coefficients and Abraham solute descriptor values for 175 organic compounds have been documented in the scientific literature.Purpose: The purpose of this project was to use a publicly available dataset to make skin permeability predictions using the random forest and XBoost regression techniques.Methods: We employed Pandas-based methods in JupyterLab to predict permeability coefficient (Kp) from solute descriptors (excess molar refraction [E], combined dipolarity/polarizability [S], overall solute hydrogen bond acidity and basicity [A and B], and the McGowan's characteristic molecular volume [V]).Results: The random forest and XG Boost regression models established statistically significant association between the descriptors and the skin permeability coefficient.

Emerging Technological Advancement for Chronic Wound Treatment and Their Role in Accelerating Wound Healing

Chronic wounds are a major healthcare burden and may severely affect the social, mental, and economic status of the patients. Any impairment in wound healing stages due to underlying factors leads to a prolonged healing time and subsequently to chronic wounds. Traditional approaches for the treatment of chronic wounds include dressing free local therapy, dressing therapy, and tissue engineering based scaffold therapies. However, traditional therapies need improvisation and have been advanced through breakthrough technologies. The present review spans traditional therapies and further gives an extensive account of advancements in the treatment of chronic wounds. Cutting edge technologies, such as 3D printing, which includes inkjet printing, fused deposition modeling, digital light processing, extrusion-based printing, microneedle array-based therapies, gene therapy, which includes microRNAs (miRNAs) therapy, and smart wound dressings for real time monitoring of wound conditions through assessment of pH, temperature, oxygen, moisture, metabolites, and their use for planning of better treatment strategies have been discussed in detail. The review further gives the future direction of treatments that will aid in lowering the healthcare burden caused due to chronic wounds.

Core-Sheath Fibers via Single-Nozzle Spinneret Electrospinning of Emulsions and Homogeneous Blend Solutions

The preparation of core-sheath fibers by electrospinning is a topic of significant interest for producing composite fibers with distinct core and sheath functionalities. Moreover, in core-sheath fibers, low-molecular-weight substances or nanosized inorganic additives can be deposited in a targeted manner within the core or the sheath. Commonly, for obtaining a core-sheath structure, coaxial electrospinning is used. It requires a coaxial spinneret and suitable immiscible solvents for the inner and outer solutions. The single-nozzle spinneret electrospinning of emulsions can address these issues, but use of a stabilizing agent is needed. A third approach-preparation of core-sheath fibers by single-nozzle spinneret electrospinning of homogeneous blend solutions of two polymers or of a polymer/low-molecular-weight substance-has been much less studied. It circumvents the difficulties associated with the coaxial and the emulsion electrospinning and is thoroughly discussed in this review. The formation of core-sheath fibers in this case is attributed to phase-separation-driven self-organization during the electrospinning process. Some possibilities for obtaining core-double sheath fibers using the same method are also indicated. The gained knowledge on potential applications of core-sheath fibers prepared by single-nozzle spinneret electrospinning of emulsions and homogeneous blend solutions is also discussed.

Coaxial electrospun nanofiber accelerates infected wound healing via engineered probiotic biofilm

Bacterial infection is the primary cause of delayed wound healing. Infected wounds suffer from a series of harmful factors in the harsh wound microenvironment (WME), greatly damaging their potential for tissue regeneration. Herein, a novel probiotic biofilm-based antibacterial strategy is proposed through experimentation. Firstly, a series of coaxial polycaprolactone (PCL) / silk fibroin (SF) nanofiber films (termed as PSN-n, n = 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0, respectively) are prepared by coaxial electrospinning and their physiochemical properties are comprehensively characterized. Afterward, the PSN-1.5 is selected and co-cultured with L. paracasei to allow the formation of probiotic biofilm. The probiotic biofilm-loaded PSN-1.5 nanofiber film (termed as PSNL-1.5) exhibits relatively good broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, biocompatibility, and enhanced pro-regenerative capability by immunoregulation of M2 macrophage. A wound healing assay is performed using an S. aureus-infected skin defect model. The application effect of PSNL-1.5 is significantly better than that of a commercial nano‑silver burn & scald dressing (Anson®), revealing huge potential for clinical translation. This study is of significant novelty in demonstrating the antibacterial and pro-regenerative abilities of probiotic biofilms. The product of this study will be extensively used for treating infected wounds or other wounds.

Advancing diabetic wound care: The role of copper-containing hydrogels

Diabetic wounds pose a significant challenge in healthcare due to their complex nature and the difficulties they present in treatment and healing. Impaired healing processes in individuals with diabetes can lead to complications and prolonged recovery times. However, recent advancements in wound healing provide reasons for optimism. Researchers are actively developing innovative strategies and therapies specifically tailored to address the unique challenges of diabetic wounds. One focus area is biomimetic hydrogel scaffolds that mimic the natural extracellular matrix, promoting angiogenesis, collagen deposition, and the healing process while also reducing infection risk. Copper nanoparticles and copper compounds incorporated into hydrogels release copper ions with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and angiogenic properties. Copper reduces infection risk, modulates inflammatory response, and promotes tissue regeneration through cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. Utilizing copper nanoparticles has transformative potential for expediting diabetic wound healing and improving patient outcomes while enhancing overall well-being by preventing severe complications associated with untreated wounds. It is crucial to write a review highlighting the importance of investigating the use of copper nanoparticles and compounds in diabetic wound healing and tissue engineering. These groundbreaking strategies hold the potential to transform the treatment of diabetic wounds, accelerating the healing process and enhancing patient outcomes.

Interfacially Self-Assembled Mutifunctional Protein Thin Films for Accelerated Wound Healing

The design of mutifunctional protein films for large-area spatially ordered arrays of functional components holds great promise in the field of biomedical applications. Herein, interfacial electrostatic self-assembly was employed to construct a large-scale protein thin film by inducing electrostatic interactions between three bovine serum albumin (BSA)-coated nanoclusters and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), leading to their spontaneous organization and uniform distribution at the oil-water interface. This protein film demonstrated excellent multienzyme functions, high antibacterial activity, and pH-responsive drug release capability. Therefore, it can accelerate the wound closure process through a synergistic effect that includes reducing local blood glucose levels, regulating cellular oxidative stress, eradicating bacteria, and promoting cell proliferation.

C-di-GMP@ZIF-8 nanocomposite injectable hydrogel based on modified chitosan and hyaluronic acid for infected wound healing by activating STING signaling

The treatment of infected wounds relies on antibiotics; however, increasing drug resistance has made therapeutic processes more difficult. Activating self-innate immune abilities may provide a promising alternative to treat wounds with bacterial infections. In this work, we constructed an immunogenic injectable hydrogel crosslinked by the Schiff base reaction of carboxymethyl chitosan (NOCC) and aldehyde hyaluronic acid (AHA) and encapsulated with stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonist c-di-GMP loaded ZIF-8 nanoparticles (c-di-GMP@ZIF-8). Nanocubic ZIF-8 was screened as the most efficient intracellular drug delivery vector from five differently-shaped morphologies. The NOCC/AHA hydrogel released c-di-GMP@ZIF-8 more quickly (43 %) in acidic environment (pH = 5.5) of infected wounds compared with 34 % in non-infected wound environment (pH = 7.4) at 96 h due to pH-responsive degradation performance. The released c-di-GMP@ZIF-8 was found to activate the STING signaling of macrophages and enhance the secretion of IFN-β, CCL2, and CXCL12 5.8-7.6 times compared with phosphate buffer saline control, which effectively inhibited S. aureus growth and promoted fibroblast migration. In rat models with infected wounds, the c-di-GMP@ZIF-8 nanocomposite hydrogels improved infected wound healing by promoting granulation tissue regeneration, alleviating S. aureus-induced inflammation, and improving angiogenesis. Altogether, this study demonstrated a feasible strategy using STING-targeted and pH-responsive hydrogels for infected wound management.

Accelerating healing of infected wounds with G. glabra extract and curcumin Co-loaded electrospun nanofibrous dressing

This study aimed to construct a nanofibrous wound dressing composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS) containing curcumin and Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract to inhibit infection and accelerate wound healing. Loading 10 wt% of G. glabra extract-curcumin (50:50) by electrospinng technique resulted in the formation of nanofibers (NFs) with diameter distribution 303 ± 38 and had a uniform and defect-free morphology. FTIR analysis confirmed the loading of the components without adverse interactions. Also, the results showed extremely high porosity, extraordinary liquid absorption capacity, and complete wettability. In addition, G. glabra extract-curcumin showed significant antioxidant activity and their release profile from NFs was continuous and sustained. Also, the prepared NF could inhibit the growth of both Gram-positive Saureus and Gram-negative E. coli strains. Wound healing evaluation in the infected animal model showed that the NFs caused full wound closure and accelerated skin regeneration. The studies on inhibiting the bacteria growth at the wound site also revealed complete inhibitory effects. Moreover, histopathology studies confirmed the complete regeneration of skin layers, formation of collagen fibers, and angiogenesis. Finally, PVA/CS NFs containing G. glabra extract-curcumin as a multifunctional bioactive wound dressing presented a promising approach for promoting the healing of infected wounds.

Polysaccharide hydrogels for skin wound healing

Advances in the development and utilization of polysaccharide materials are highly promising, offering prominent applications in the field of tissue engineering for addressing diverse clinical needs, including wound healing, bone regeneration, cartilage repair, and treatment of conditions such as arthritis. Novel polysaccharide materials are popular owing to their inherent stability, biocompatibility, and repeatability. This review presents an overview of the biomedical applications of natural polysaccharide hydrogels and their derivatives. Herein, we discuss the latest advancements in the fabrication, physicochemical properties, and biomedical applications of polysaccharide-based hydrogels, including chitosan, hyaluronic acid, alginate, and cellulose. Various processing techniques applicable to polysaccharide materials are explored, such as the transformation of polysaccharide hydrogels into electrospun nanofibers, microneedles, microspheres, and nanogels. Furthermore, the use of polysaccharide hydrogels in the context of wound-healing applications, including hemostatic effects, antimicrobial activities, anti-inflammatory properties, and promotion of angiogenesis, is presented. Finally, we address the challenges encountered in the development of polysaccharide hydrogels and outline the potential prospects in this evolving field.

Collagen/Curdlan composite sponge for rapid hemostasis and skin wound healing

Collagen's unique properties promise hemostatic potential, but its sponge form's stability and mechanics need improvement. In this study, we developed a series of homeostatic sponges by co-assembling collagen and curdlan at different ratios into hydrogels, followed by freeze-drying treatment. The incorporation of curdlan into collagen sponges has been found to significantly enhance the sponge's properties, including increased porosity, elevated water uptake, improved elasticity, and enhanced resistance to degradation. In vitro cytotoxicity and hemolysis assays have demonstrated the biocompatibility and nontoxicity of composite sponges. In mouse liver perforation and incision models, the composite sponges achieved rapid coagulation within 67 s and 75 s, respectively, outperforming gauze and gelatin sponge in reducing blood loss. Furthermore, composite sponges demonstrated superior wound healing potential in mice full-thickness skin defects model, with accelerated healing rates observed at days 3, 7, and 14 compared to the control group. Overall, collagen/curdlan composite sponge show promise for hemostasis and wound healing applications.

Characterization of a polysaccharide from Amauroderma rugosum and its proangiogenic activities in vitro and in vivo

Amauroderma rugosum (AR), also known as "Blood Lingzhi" in Chinese, is a basidiomycete belonging to the Ganodermataceae family. Four polysaccharide fractions were systematically isolated and purified from AR. Subsequently, their compositions were examined and analyzed via high-performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC), analysis of the monosaccharide composition, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The zebrafish model was then used to screen for proangiogenic activities of polysaccharides by inducing vascular insufficiency with VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor II (VRI). The third fraction of AR polysaccharides (PAR-3) demonstrated the most pronounced proangiogenic effects, effectively ameliorating VRI-induced intersegmental vessel deficiency in zebrafish. Concurrently, the mRNA expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A and VEGF receptors were upregulated by PAR-3. Moreover, the proliferation, migration, invasion, and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were also stimulated by PAR-3, consistently demonstrating that PAR-3 possesses favorable proangiogenic properties. The activation of the Akt, ERK1/2, p38 MAPK, and FAK was most likely the underlying mechanism. In conclusion, this study establishes that PAR-3 isolated from Amauroderma rugosum exhibits potential as a bioresource for promoting angiogenesis.

Co-Delivery of Dragon's Blood and Alkanna tinctoria Extracts Using Electrospun Nanofibers: In Vitro and In Vivo Wound Healing Evaluation in Diabetic Rat Model

The increasing prevalence of diabetic wounds presents a significant challenge due to the difficulty of natural healing and various obstacles. Dragon's blood (DB) and Alkanna tinctoria (AT) are well recognized for their potent healing abilities, which include potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, electrospun nanofibers (NFs) based on polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) were co-loaded with both DB and AT, aiming to magnify their efficacy as wound-dressing applications for diabetic wound healing. The evaluation of these NFs as wound dressings was conducted using a streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model. Electrospun NFs were prepared using the electrospinning of the PVP polymer, resulting in nanofibers with consistent, smooth surfaces. The loading capacity (LC) of AT and DB into NFs was 64.1 and 70.4 µg/mg, respectively, while in the co-loaded NFs, LC was 49.6 for AT and 57.2 µg/mg for DB. In addition, X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed that DB and AT were amorphously dispersed within the NFs. The loaded NFs showed a dissolution time of 30 s in PBS (pH 7.4), which facilitated the release of AT and DB (25-38% after 10 min), followed by a complete release achieved after 180 min. The antibacterial evaluation demonstrated that the DB-AT mixture had potent activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Along with that, the DB-AT NFs showed effective growth inhibition for both P. aeruginosa and S. aureus compared to the control NFs. Moreover, wound healing was evaluated in vivo in diabetic Wistar rats over 14 days. The results revealed that the DB-AT NFs improved wound healing within 14 days significantly compared to the other groups. These results highlight the potential application of the developed DB-AT NFs in wound healing management, particularly in diabetic wounds.

Recent Applications of Chitosan and Its Derivatives in Antibacterial, Anticancer, Wound Healing, and Tissue Engineering Fields

Chitosan, a versatile biopolymer derived from chitin, has garnered significant attention in various biomedical applications due to its unique properties, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mucoadhesiveness. This review provides an overview of the diverse applications of chitosan and its derivatives in the antibacterial, anticancer, wound healing, and tissue engineering fields. In antibacterial applications, chitosan exhibits potent antimicrobial properties by disrupting microbial membranes and DNA, making it a promising natural preservative and agent against bacterial infections. Its role in cancer therapy involves the development of chitosan-based nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimising side effects. Chitosan also plays a crucial role in wound healing by promoting cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and regulating inflammatory responses. Additionally, chitosan serves as a multifunctional scaffold in tissue engineering, facilitating the regeneration of diverse tissues such as cartilage, bone, and neural tissue by promoting cell adhesion and proliferation. The extensive range of applications for chitosan in pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences is not only highlighted by the comprehensive scope of this review, but it also establishes it as a fundamental component for forthcoming research in biomedicine.

Advancements in 3D-printable polysaccharides, proteins, and synthetic polymers for wound dressing and skin scaffolding - A review

This review investigates the most recent advances in personalized 3D-printed wound dressings and skin scaffolding. Skin is the largest and most vulnerable organ in the human body. The human body has natural mechanisms to restore damaged skin through several overlapping stages. However, the natural wound healing process can be rendered insufficient due to severe wounds or disturbances in the healing process. Wound dressings are crucial in providing a protective barrier against the external environment, accelerating healing. Although used for many years, conventional wound dressings are neither tailored to individual circumstances nor specific to wound conditions. To address the shortcomings of conventional dressings, skin scaffolding can be used for skin regeneration and wound healing. This review thoroughly investigates polysaccharides (e.g., chitosan, Hyaluronic acid (HA)), proteins (e.g., collagen, silk), synthetic polymers (e.g., Polycaprolactone (PCL), Poly lactide-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), Polylactic acid (PLA)), as well as nanocomposites (e.g., silver nano particles and clay materials) for wound healing applications and successfully 3D printed wound dressings. It discusses the importance of combining various biomaterials to enhance their beneficial characteristics and mitigate their drawbacks. Different 3D printing fabrication techniques used in developing personalized wound dressings are reviewed, highlighting the advantages and limitations of each method. This paper emphasizes the exceptional versatility of 3D printing techniques in advancing wound healing treatments. Finally, the review provides recommendations and future directions for further research in wound dressings.

Optimizing Wound Healing: Examining the Influence of Biopolymers Through a Comprehensive Review of Nanohydrogel-Embedded Nanoparticles in Advancing Regenerative Medicine

Nanohydrogel wound healing refers to the use of nanotechnology-based hydrogel materials to promote the healing of wounds. Hydrogel dressings are made up of a three-dimensional network of hydrophilic polymers that can absorb and retain large amounts of water or other fluids. Nanohydrogels take this concept further by incorporating nanoscale particles or structures into the hydrogel matrix. These nanoparticles can be made of various materials, such as silver, zinc oxide, or nanoparticles derived from natural substances like chitosan. The inclusion of nanoparticles can provide additional properties and benefits to the hydrogel dressings. Nanohydrogels can be designed to release bioactive substances, such as growth factors or drugs, in a controlled manner. This allows for targeted delivery of therapeutics to the wound site, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. Nanoparticles can reinforce the structure of hydrogels, improving their mechanical strength and stability. Nanohydrogels often incorporate antimicrobial nanoparticles, such as silver or zinc oxide. These nanoparticles have shown effective antimicrobial activity against a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens. By incorporating them into hydrogel dressings, nanohydrogels can help prevent or reduce the risk of infection in wounds. Nanohydrogels can be designed to encapsulate and release bioactive substances, such as growth factors, peptides, or drugs, in a controlled and sustained manner. This targeted delivery of therapeutic agents promotes wound healing by facilitating cell proliferation, reducing inflammation, and supporting tissue regeneration. The unique properties of nanohydrogels, including their ability to maintain a moist environment and deliver bioactive agents, can help accelerate the wound healing process. By creating an optimal environment for cell growth and tissue repair, nanohydrogels can promote faster and more efficient healing of wounds.

Revisiting microbial exopolysaccharides: a biocompatible and sustainable polymeric material for multifaceted biomedical applications

Microbial exopolysaccharides (EPS) have gained significant attention as versatile biomolecules with multifarious applications across various sectors. This review explores the valorisation of EPS and its potential impact on diverse sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and biotechnology. EPS, secreted by microorganisms, possess unique physicochemical properties, such as high molecular weight, water solubility, and biocompatibility, making them attractive for numerous functional roles. Additionally, EPS exhibit significant bioactivity, contributing to their potential use in pharmaceuticals for drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. Moreover, the eco-friendly and sustainable nature of microbial EPS production aligns with the growing demand for environmentally conscious processes. However, challenges still exist in large-scale production, purification, and regulatory approval for commercial use. Advances in bioprocessing and microbial engineering offer promising solutions to overcome these hurdles. Stringent investigations have concluded EPS as novel sources for sustainable applications that are likely to emerge and develop, further reinforcing the significance of these biopolymers in addressing contemporary societal needs and driving innovation in various industrial sectors. Overall, the microbial EPS represents a thriving field with immense potential for meeting diverse industrial demands and advancing sustainable technologies.

Development of a Sprayable Hydrogel-Based Wound Dressing: An In Vitro Model

Hydrogel-based dressings can effectively heal wounds by providing multiple functions, such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and preangiogenic bioactivities. The ability to spray the dressing is important for the rapid and effective coverage of the wound surface. In this study, we developed a sprayable hydrogel-based wound dressing using naturally derived materials: hyaluronic acid and gelatin. We introduced methacrylate groups (HAMA and GelMA) to these materials to enable controllable photocrosslinking and form a stable hydrogel on the wound surface. To achieve sprayability, we evaluated the concentration of GelMA within a range of 5-15% (w/v) and then incorporated 1% (w/v) HAMA. Additionally, we incorporated calcium peroxide into the hydrogel at concentrations ranging from 0 to 12 mg/mL to provide self-oxygenation and antibacterial properties. The results showed that the composite hydrogels were sprayable and could provide oxygen for up to two weeks. The released oxygen relieved metabolic stress in fibroblasts and reduced cell death under hypoxia in in vitro culture. Furthermore, calcium peroxide added antibacterial properties to the wound dressing. In conclusion, the developed sprayable hydrogel dressing has the potential to be advantageous for wound healing due to its practical and conformable application, as well as its self-oxygenating and antibacterial functions.

Tofacitinib in dermatology: a potential opportunity for topical applicability through novel drug-delivery systems

Tofacitinib is a first-generation JAK inhibitor approved by the US FDA for treating rheumatoid arthritis. It exhibits a broad-spectrum inhibitory effect with abilities to block JAK-STAT signalling. The primary objective of this review is to obtain knowledge about cutting-edge methods for effectively treating a variety of skin problems by including tofacitinib into formulations that are based on nanocarriers. The review also highlights clinical trials and offers an update on published clinical patents. Nanocarriers provide superior performance compared to conventional treatments in terms of efficacy, stability, drug bioavailability, target selectivity and sustained drug release. Current review has the potential to make significant contributions to the ongoing discussion involving dermatological treatments and the prospective impact of nanotechnology on transforming healthcare within this field.

Nano-platform Strategies of Herbal Components for the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Review on the Battle for Next-Generation Formulations

INTRODUCTION

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that initially affects small joints and then spreads to the bigger joints. It also affects other organs of the body such as lungs, eyes, kidneys, heart, and skin. In RA, there is destruction of cartilage and joints, and ligaments and tendons become brittle. Damage to the joints leads to abnormalities and bone degradation, which may be quite painful for the patient.

METHOD

The nano-carriers such as liposomes, phytosomes, nanoparticles, microcapsules, and niosomes are developed to deliver the encapsulated phytoconstituents to targeted sites for the better management of RA.

RESULTS

The phytoconstituents loaded nano-carriers have been used in order to increase bioavailability, stability and reduce the dose of an active compound. In one study, the curcumin-loaded phytosomes increase the bioavailability of curcumin and also provides relief from RA symptoms. The drug-loaded nano-carriers are the better option for the management of RA.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, there are many anti-arthritic herbal and synthetic medicine available in the market that are currently used in the treatment of RA. However, chronic use of these medications may result in a variety of side effects. Because therapy for RA is frequently necessary for the rest of ones life. The use of natural products may be a better option for RA management. These phytoconstituents, however, have several disadvantages, including limited bioavailability, low stability, and the need for a greater dosage. These problems can be rectified by using nano-technology.

Quality by Design Perspective for Designing Foam-based Formulation: Current State of Art

Foam-based delivery systems contain one or more active ingredients and dispersed solid or liquid components that transform into gaseous form when the valve is actuated. Foams are an attractive and effective delivery approach for medical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical uses. The foams-based delivery systems are gaining attention due to ease of application as they allow direct application onto the affected area of skin without using any applicator or finger, hence increasing the compliance and satisfaction of the patients. In order to develop foam-based delivery systems with desired qualities, it is vital to understand which type of material and process parameters impact the quality features of foams and which methodologies may be utilized to investigate foams. For this purpose, Quality-by-Design (QbD) approach is used. It aids in achieving quality-based development during the development process by employing the QbD concept. The critical material attributes (CMAs) and critical process parameters (CPPs) were discovered through the first risk assessment to ensure the requisite critical quality attributes (CQAs). During the initial risk assessment, the high-risk CQAs were identified, which affect the foam characteristics. In this review, the authors discussed the various CMAs, CPPs, CQAs, and risk factors associated in order to develop an ideal foam-based formulation with desired characteristics.

Protein/polysaccharide-based hydrogels loaded probiotic-mediated therapeutic systems: A review

The natural characteristics of protein/polysaccharide-based hydrogels, as a potential drug delivery platform, have attracted extensive attention. Probiotics have attracted renewed interest in drug research because of their beneficial effects on host health. The idea of using probiotics loaded on protein/polysaccharide-based hydrogels as potential drugs to treat different diseases has been put forward and shows great prospects. Based on this, in this review, we highlight the design strategy of hydrogels loaded probiotic-mediated therapy systems and review the potential diseases that have been proved to be treatable in the laboratory, including promoting wound healing and improving intestinal health and vaginal health, and discuss the challenges existing in the current design.

State-of-the-Art Review of Advanced Electrospun Nanofiber Composites for Enhanced Wound Healing

Wound healing is a complex biological process with four main phases: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Current treatments such as cotton and gauze may delay the wound healing process which gives a demand for more innovative treatments. Nanofibers are nanoparticles that resemble the extracellular matrix of the skin and have a large specific surface area, high porosity, good mechanical properties, controllable morphology, and size. Nanofibers are generated by electrospinning method that utilizes high electric force. Electrospinning device composed of high voltage power source, syringe that contains polymer solution, needle, and collector to collect nanofibers. Many polymers can be used in nanofiber that can be from natural or from synthetic origin. As such, electrospun nanofibers are potential scaffolds for wound healing applications. This review discusses the advanced electrospun nanofiber morphologies used in wound healing that is prepared by modified electrospinning techniques.

Functional Microneedle Patch for Wound Healing and Biological Diagnosis and Treatment

Wound healing, especially chronic wounds, has been one of the major challenges in the field of biomedicine. Drug therapy alone is not effective, so a variety of functional wound healing dressings have been developed. Microneedles have attracted more and more attentions in the field of wound healing dressings due to their penetration and high drug delivery efficiency. In this review, all the studies on the application of microneedles in wound healing in recent years are summarized, classify different microneedles according to their functions in the process of wound healing, discuss the current challenges in the transformation of microneedle technology toward clinical applications, and finally look forward to the future design and development directions of microneedles in this field.

Pycnoporus sanguineus Polysaccharides as Reducing Agents: Self-Assembled Composite Nanoparticles for Integrative Diabetic Wound Therapy

Purpose

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are severe complications of diabetes, posing significant health and societal challenges. Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at the ulcer site hinder wound healing in most patients, while individuals with diabetes are also more susceptible to bacterial infections. This study aims to synthesize a comprehensive therapeutic material using polysaccharides from Pycnoporus sanguineus to promote DFU wound healing, reduce ROS levels, and minimize bacterial infections.

Methods

Polysaccharides from P.sanguineus were employed as reducing and stabilizing agents to fabricate polysaccharide-based composite particles (PCPs) utilizing silver ions as templates. PCPs were characterized via UV-Vis, TEM, FTIR, XRD, and DLS. The antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic properties of PCPs were assessed through in vitro and cellular experiments. The effects and mechanisms of PCPs on wound healing were evaluated using a diabetic ulcer mouse model.

Results

PCPs exhibited spherical particles with an average size of 57.29±22.41 nm and effectively combined polysaccharides' antioxidant capacity with silver nanoparticles' antimicrobial function, showcasing synergistic therapeutic effects. In vitro and cellular experiments demonstrated that PCPs reduced cellular ROS levels by 54% at a concentration of 31.25 μg/mL and displayed potent antibacterial activity at 8 μg/mL. In vivo experiments revealed that PCPs enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), promoting wound healing in DFUs and lowering the risk of bacterial infections.

Conclusion

The synthesized PCPs offer a novel strategy for the comprehensive treatment of DFU. By integrating antioxidant and antimicrobial functions, PCPs effectively promote wound healing and alleviate patient suffering. The present study demonstrates a new strategy for the integrated treatment of diabetic wounds and expands the way for developing and applying the polysaccharide properties of P. sanguineus.

Harnessing gradient gelatin nanocomposite hydrogels: a progressive approach to tackling antibacterial biofilms

Infectious wounds pose significant challenges due to their susceptibility to bacterial infections, hindering tissue repair. This study introduces gradient gelatin nanocomposite hydrogels for wound healing and antibacterial biofilm management. These hydrogels, synthesized via UV light polymerization, incorporate copper-doped polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA-Cu) and GelMA (gelatin methacrylate). The hydrogels have a unique structure with a porous upper layer and a denser lower layer, ensuring superior swelling (over than 600%) and effective contact with bacterial biofilms. In vitro experiments demonstrate their remarkable antibacterial properties, inhibiting S. aureus and E. coli biofilms by over 45% and 53%, respectively. This antibacterial action is attributed to the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, an alternative mechanism to bacterial cell wall disruption. Moreover, the hydrogels exhibit high biocompatibility with mammalian cells, making them suitable for medical applications. In vivo evaluation in a rat wound infection model shows that the gradient hydrogel treatment effectively controls bacterial biofilm infections and accelerates wound healing. The treated wounds have smaller infected areas and reduced bacterial colony counts. Histological analysis reveals reduced inflammation and enhanced granulation tissue formation in treated wounds, highlighting the therapeutic potential of these gradient nanocomposite hydrogels. In summary, gradient gelatin nanocomposite hydrogels offer promising multifunctional capabilities for wound healing and biofilm-related infections, paving the way for innovative medical dressings with enhanced antibacterial properties and biocompatibility.

Piezoelectric-based bioactive zinc oxide-cellulose acetate electrospun mats for efficient wound healing: an in vitro insight

Being a complex physiological process involving the removal of damaged tissue debris and creating a new microenvironment for host tissue regeneration, wound healing is still a major challenge for healthcare professionals. Disruption of this process can lead to tissue inflammation, pathogenic infections, and scar formation. Current wound healing treatments primarily focus on passive tissue healing, lacking active engagement in the healing process. In recent years, a new class of functional biomaterials based on piezoelectric properties has emerged, which can actively participate in the wound healing process by harnessing mechanical forces generated from body movement. Herein, we have fabricated a bioactive Cellulose Acetate (CA) electrospun nanofibrous mat incorporating zinc oxide (ZnO) and investigated its efficiency for accelerated wound healing. We have characterized the physicochemical properties of the fabricated nanofibrous mats using various assays, including SEM, FTIR, TGA, mechanical testing, degradation analysis, porosity measurement, hemolysis assay, and piezoelectric d33 coefficient measurement. Through our investigation, we discovered the tunned piezoelectric coefficient of fabricated specimens due to incorporating ZnO into the CA fibers. In vitro studies also confirmed enhanced cell adhesion, proliferation, and migration, indicating faster wound healing potential. Overall, our findings support the efficacy of piezoelectric-based ZnO-incorporated bioactive CA nanofibrous mats for efficient wound healing.

Electrospun fibers integrating enzyme-functionalized metal-organic frameworks for postoperative tumor recurrence inhibition and simultaneously wound tissue healing

The tumor recurrence and infected wound tissue defect are the major clinical challenges after the surgical treatment of primary chest wall cancer. Herein, to address the above issues, blending electrospinning was applied to incorporate glucose oxidase (GOx) loaded Zn/Cu-based bimetallic zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (GOx/BMOFs) into polyurethane (PU) fibers, which were designed for effective cancer therapy with improved wound healing. The release of Cu2+ and GOx could accomplish the conversion from Cu2+ to Cu+ through the glutathione (GSH) depletion and provide additional H2O2 from glucose by GOx catalysis, respectively, which further underwent the Fenton-like reaction to produce toxic hydroxyl radical (OH). The tumor cells (human fibrosarcoma cells) could be effectively killed in vitro and in vivo through the synergistic chemodynamic therapy and starvation therapy. Moreover, the electrospun fiber platform could support the adhesion and proliferation of wound tissue cells, and also show the antibacterial ability owing to the functional agents in the fibers, thereby accelerating the infected wound repair in vivo. This work may offer a reliable and effective fiber biomaterial for localized chest wall tumor therapy and simultaneous tissue regeneration.

Mussel bioinspired, silver-coated and insulin-loaded mesoporous polydopamine nanoparticles reinforced hyaluronate-based fibrous hydrogel for potential diabetic wound healing

Diabetes wounds take longer to heal due to extended inflammation, decreased angiogenesis, bacterial infection, and oxidative stress. These factors underscore the need for biocompatible and multifunctional dressings with appropriate physicochemical and swelling properties to accelerate wound healing. Herein, insulin (Ins)-loaded, and silver (Ag) coated mesoporous polydopamine (mPD) nanoparticles were synthesized (Ag@Ins-mPD). The nanoparticles were dispersed into polycaprolactone/methacrylated hyaluronate aldehyde dispersion, electrospun to form nanofibers, and then photochemically crosslinked to form a fibrous hydrogel. The nanoparticle, fibrous hydrogel, and nanoparticle-reinforced fibrous hydrogel were characterized for their morphological, mechanical, physicochemical, swelling, drug-release, antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytocompatibility properties. The diabetic wound reconstruction potential of nanoparticle-reinforced fibrous hydrogel was studied using BALB/c mice. The results indicated that Ins-mPD acted as a reductant to synthesize Ag nanoparticles on their surface, held antibacterial and antioxidant potential, and their mesoporous properties are crucial for insulin loading and sustained release. The nanoparticle-reinforced scaffolds were uniform in architecture, porous, mechanically stable, showed good swelling, and possessed superior antibacterial, and cell-responsive properties. Furthermore, the designed fibrous hydrogel scaffold demonstrated good angiogenic, anti-inflammatory, increased collagen deposition, and faster wound repair capabilities, therefore, it could be used as a potential candidate for diabetic wound treatment.

Therapeutic Potential of Nanocarrier-Mediated Delivery of Phytoconstituents for Wound Healing: Their Current Status and Future Perspective

The treatment of wounds is a serious problem all over the world and imposes a huge financial burden on each and every nation. For a long time, researchers have explored wound dressing that speeds up wound healing. Traditional wound dressing does not respond effectively to the wound-healing process as expected. Therapeutic active derived from plant extracts and extracted bioactive components have been employed in various regions of the globe since ancient times for the purpose of illness, prevention, and therapy. About 200 years ago, most medical treatments were based on herbal remedies. Especially in the West, the usage of herbal treatments began to wane in the 1960s as a result of the rise of allopathic medicine. In recent years, however, there has been a resurgence of interest in and demand for herbal medicines for a number of reasons, including claims about their efficacy, shifting consumer preferences toward natural medicines, high costs and negative side effects of modern medicines, and advancements in herbal medicines brought about by scientific research and technological innovation. The exploration of medicinal plants and their typical uses could potentially result in advanced pharmaceuticals that exhibit reduced adverse effects. This review aims to present an overview of the utilization of nanocarriers in plant-based therapeutics, including its current status, recent advancements, challenges, and future prospects. The objective is to equip researchers with a comprehensive understanding of the historical background, current state, and potential future developments in this emerging field. In light of this, the advantages of nanocarriers based delivery of natural wound healing treatments have been discussed, with a focus on nanofibers, nanoparticles, nano-emulsion, and nanogels.

Electrospun nanofibers for medical face mask with protection capabilities against viruses: State of the art and perspective for industrial scale-up

Face masks have proven to be a useful protection from airborne viruses and bacteria, especially in the recent years pandemic outbreak when they effectively lowered the risk of infection from Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) or Omicron variants, being recognized as one of the main protective measures adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO). The need for improving the filtering efficiency performance to prevent penetration of fine particulate matter (PM), which can be potential bacteria or virus carriers, has led the research into developing new methods and techniques for face mask fabrication. In this perspective, Electrospinning has shown to be the most efficient technique to get either synthetic or natural polymers-based fibers with size down to the nanoscale providing remarkable performance in terms of both particle filtration and breathability. The aim of this Review is to give further insight into the implementation of electrospun nanofibers for the realization of the next generation of face masks, with functionalized membranes via addiction of active material to the polymer solutions that can give optimal features about antibacterial, antiviral, self-sterilization, and electrical energy storage capabilities. Furthermore, the recent advances regarding the use of renewable materials and green solvent strategies to improve the sustainability of electrospun membranes and to fabricate eco-friendly filters are here discussed, especially in view of the large-scale nanofiber production where traditional membrane manufacturing may result in a high environmental and health risk.

Biopolymer Based Multifunctional Films Loaded with Anthocyanin Rich Floral Extract and ZnO Nano Particles for Smart Packaging and Wound Healing Applications

There are significant societal repercussions from our excessive use of plastic products derived from petroleum. In response to the increasing environmental implications of plastic wastes, biodegradable materials have been proven to be an effective means of mitigating environmental issues. Therefore, protein- and polysaccharide-based polymers have gained widespread attention recently. In our study, for increasing the strength of a biopolymer (Starch), we used ZnO dispersed nanoparticles (NPs), which resulted in the enhancement of other functional properties of the polymer. The synthesized NPs were characterized using SEM, XRD, and Zeta potential values. The preparation techniques are completely green, with no hazardous chemicals employed. The floral extract employed in this study is Torenia fournieri (TFE), which is prepared using a mixture of ethanol and water and possesses diverse bioactive features and pH-sensitive characteristics. The prepared films were characterized using SEM, XRD, FTIR, contact angle and TGA. The incorporation of TFE and ZnO (SEZ) NPs was found to increase the overall nature of the control film. The results obtained from this study confirmed that the developed material is suitable for wound healing and can also be used as a smart packaging material.

A Brief Review on the Electrohydrodynamic Techniques Used to Build Antioxidant Delivery Systems from Natural Sources

Extracts from plants have been one of the main sources of antioxidants, namely polyphenols. The associated drawbacks, such as instability against environmental factors, low bioavailability, and loss of activity, must be considered during microencapsulation for a better application. Electrohydrodynamic processes have been investigated as promising tools to fabricate crucial vectors to minimize these limitations. The developed microstructures present high potential to encapsulate active compounds and for controlling their release. The fabricated electrospun/electrosprayed structures present different benefits when compared with structures developed by other techniques; they present a high surface-area-to-volume ratio as well as porosity, great materials handling, and scalable production-among other advantages-which make them able to be widely applied in different fields, namely in the food industry. This review presents a summary of the electrohydrodynamic processes, main studies, and their application.

A Comprehensive Review on Drug Therapies and Nanomaterials used in Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment typically requires an extended duration of 1-2 years to complete the treatment. Accelerating the rate of tooth movement during orthodontic treatment is essential for shortening the overall treatment duration. After the completion of orthodontic treatment, a prominent concern arises in the form of orthodontic relapse, where the teeth tend to revert to their original positions. This issue affects approximately 60% of the global population, underscoring the importance of implementing effective measures to address orthodontic relapse. An approach in this regard involves the targeted administration of herbal and synthetic drugs applied directly to the specific area of interest to facilitate tooth movement and prevent orthodontic relapse. Apart from this, researchers are investigating the feasibility of utilizing different types of nanoparticles to improve the process of orthodontic tooth movement. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of studies examining the effects of various drugs on orthodontics. However, the currently available literature does not provide significant evidence relating to orthodontic tooth movement. In this review, the authors provide valuable information about the drugs and nanomaterials that are capable of further enhancing the rate of orthodontic tooth movement and reducing the risk of orthodontic relapse. However, a notable hurdle remains, i.e., there is no marketed formulation available that can enhance orthodontic tooth movement and reduce treatment time. Therefore, researchers should try herbal-synthetic approaches to achieve a synergistic effect that can enhance orthodontic tooth movement. In this nutshell, there is an urgent need to develop a non-invasive, patient-compliant, and cost-effective formulation that will provide quality treatment and ultimately reduce the treatment time. Another critical issue is orthodontic relapse, which can be addressed by employing drugs that slow down osteoclastogenesis, thereby preventing tooth movement after treatment. Nevertheless, extensive research is still required to overcome this challenge in the future.

Microbubbles: Revolutionizing Biomedical Applications with Tailored Therapeutic Precision

BACKGROUND

Over the past ten years, tremendous progress has been made in microbubble-based research for a variety of biological applications. Microbubbles emerged as a compelling and dynamic tool in modern drug delivery systems. They are employed to deliver drugs or genes to targeted regions of interest, and then ultrasound is used to burst the microbubbles, causing site-specific delivery of the bioactive materials.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this article is to review the microbubble compositions and physiochemical characteristics in relation to the development of innovative biomedical applications, with a focus on molecular imaging and targeted drug/gene delivery.

METHODS

The microbubbles are prepared by using various methods, which include cross-linking polymerization, emulsion solvent evaporation, atomization, and reconstitution. In cross-linking polymerization, a fine foam of the polymer is formed, which serves as a bubble coating agent and colloidal stabilizer, resulting from the vigorous stirring of a polymeric solution. In the case of emulsion solvent evaporation, there are two solutions utilized in the production of microbubbles. In atomization and reconstitution, porous spheres are created by atomising a surfactant solution into a hot gas. They are encapsulated in primary modifier gas. After the addition of the second gas or gas osmotic agent, the package is placed into a vial and sealed after reconstituting with sterile saline solution.

RESULTS

Microbubble-based drug delivery is an innovative approach in the field of drug delivery that utilizes microbubbles, which are tiny gas-filled bubbles, act as carriers for therapeutic agents. These microbubbles can be loaded with drugs, imaging agents, or genes and then guided to specific target sites.

CONCLUSION

The potential utility of microbubbles in biomedical applications is continually growing as novel formulations and methods. The versatility of microbubbles allows for customization, tailoring the delivery system to various medical applications, including cancer therapy, cardiovascular treatments, and gene therapy.