Antimicrobial Properties Research Articles

The antimicrobial properties of exogenous copper in human synovial fluid against Staphylococcus aureus.

The mechanism by which synovial fluid (SF) kills bacteria has not yet been elucidated, and a better understanding is needed. We sought to analyze the antimicrobial properties of exogenous copper in human SF against Staphylococcus aureus. We performed in vitro growth and viability assays to determine the capability of S. aureus to survive in SF with the addition of 10 µM of copper. We determined the minimum bactericidal concentration of copper (MBC-Cu) and evaluated its sensitivity to killing, comparing wild type (WT) and CopAZB-deficient USA300 strains. UAMS-1 demonstrated a greater sensitivity to SF compared to USA300 WT at 12 hours (p = 0.001) and 24 hours (p = 0.027). UAMS-1 died in statistically significant quantities at 24 hours (p = 0.017), and USA300 WT survived at 24 hours. UAMS-1 was more susceptible to the addition of copper at four (p = 0.001), 12 (p = 0.005), and 24 hours (p = 0.006). We confirmed a high sensitivity to killing with the addition of exogenous copper on both strains at four (p = 0.011), 12 (p = 0.011), and 24 hours (p = 0.011). WT and CopAZB-deficient USA300 strains significantly died in SF, demonstrating a MBC-Cu of 50 µM against USA300 WT (p = 0.011). SF has antimicrobial properties against S. aureus, and UAMS-1 was more sensitive than USA300 WT. Adding 10 µM of copper was highly toxic, confirming its bactericidal effect. We found CopAZB proteins to be involved in copper effluxion by demonstrating the high sensitivity of mutant strains to lower copper concentrations. Thus, we propose CopAZB proteins as potential targets and use exogenous copper as a treatment alternative against S. aureus.

Comprehensive Insight into Green Synthesis Approaches, Structural Activity Relationship, and Therapeutic Potential of Pyrazolic Chalcone Derivative.

Pyrazolic chalcone exhibits diverse therapeutic activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antitumor, and anti-diabetic properties. Structural activity relationship (SAR) studies play a crucial role in understanding the molecular aspects governing their biological effects, guiding the rational design of derivatives with enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects. This review provides an overview of pyrazolic chalcone derivatives, emphasizing their synthesis through both conventional and green methods. In comparison, conventional synthesis methods have been widely employed in the past for the production of pyrazolic chalcones, often relying on traditional chemical processes that may involve the use of hazardous reagents and generate significant waste. On the other hand, green synthesis methods, in harmony with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices in drug discovery, offer a more environmentally friendly alternative. Green synthesis typically involves the use of eco-friendly reagents, solvents, and energy-efficient processes, resulting in reduced environmental impact and improved resource efficiency. Overall, pyrazolic chalcone derivatives represent a promising class of compounds with significant potential for therapeutic applications.

Development and characterization of PVA-zein/α-tocopherol nonwoven mats for functional wound dressing applications

Wound healing poses significant clinical challenges due to issues like bacterial infections, oxidative stress, and the need for sustained therapeutic delivery. This study aimed to develop and characterize biocompatible nonwoven fibrous mats composed of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and zein encapsulating α-tocopherol for wound dressing applications. α-Tocopherol was nano-encapsulated in zein proteins using an antisolvent co-precipitation method, followed by its dispersion in PVA solutions. The resulting composition was then processed using a novel, scalable, and inexpensive solution blow spinning (SBS) process that offers higher throughputs to generate non-woven mats. The resulting fibers in the non-woven mats, ranging in diameter from 350 nm to 796 nm, demonstrate uniform morphology, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy validated the successful incorporation of α-tocopherol without altering the chemical structure of the PVA-zein matrix. Rheological assessments revealed Newtonian behavior and a decrease in viscosity with higher tocopherol content, enhancing the processability of the mats. Mechanical testing showed that increasing tocopherol content improved tensile strength, elongation, and Young's modulus. The mats exhibited a biphasic release profile with an initial burst and sustained α-tocopherol release over 24 h, fitting the Korsmeyer-Peppas model and hence indicating a diffusion-controlled mechanism. Cytotoxicity assays confirmed high cell viability (>90 %) and enhanced cell spreading, underscoring their biocompatibility. These findings suggest that PVA-zein/tocopherol fiber mats are promising candidates for functional wound dressing materials, offering sustained antioxidant activity and a favorable wound healing environment. Future work will focus on optimizing fiber composition for antimicrobial properties and conducting in vivo studies to validate their clinical efficacy.

A Novel Look at Mechanisms and Applications of Xanthohumol (XN) in Dermatology and Cosmetology

Xanthohumol (XN), representing the group of chalcones, is a hydroxyl and superoxide free radical scavenger. It also has antimicrobial properties, showing antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes. XN exerts an inhibitory effect on tyrosinase (it hinders the oxidation of l-tyrosine and l-DOPA). However, it also affects the transport of pigment (through a reduction in the number and length of dendrites) and its degradation (through damage to melanosomes). Additionally, it has been shown to inhibit the different activation pathways of the premeditated response in macrophages and reduce the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β. Xanthohumol also improves skin elasticity by reducing the activity of elastase and MMP 1, 2 and 9, and it increases the expression of type I, III and V collagen, as well as elastin and fibrillins in skin fibroblasts. It acts against the main factors contributing to the pathogenesis of acne by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators (e.g., COX-2, PGE2, IL-1β and TNF-α). Moreover, it shows antibacterial activity against P. acnes and S. aureus, as well as seboregulatory and antioxidant properties. It has also been recognized that XN intake could affect diabetic wound healing. XN shows antitumoral activity, e.g., in the case of skin melanoma, which is associated with the antioxidant, pro-apoptotic, anti-angiogenic and immunostimulating effects of this compound.

In silico Analysis of the Stability of Ribosomal Protein S1 from Various Strains of the Pathogenic Microorganism Staphylococcus aureus.

The pathogenic microorganism Staphylococcus aureus, one of the representatives of the staphylococcus family, is capable of developing resistance to antibiotics and antiseptics. The largest ribosomal protein, S1, from S. aureus contains four structural S1 domains, and short peptides synthesized based on its sequence have amyloidogenic and antimicrobial properties (antimicrobial peptides). In this work, in silico analysis of all available ribosomal protein S1 sequences from various S. aureus strains allowed us to identify residues that are characteristic of specific strains. Based on data from the I-Mutant service, changes in the stability of ribosomal protein S1 from various S. aureus strains were predicted. The results obtained will be used in the future for targeted mutations in the design of new antimicrobial peptides based on ribosomal protein S1.

Advanced Nanomaterials for Cancer Therapy: Gold, Silver, and Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Oncological Applications.

Cancer remains one of the most challenging health issues globally, demanding innovative therapeutic approaches for effective treatment. Nanoparticles, particularly those composed of gold, silver, and iron oxide, have emerged as promising candidates for changing cancer therapy. This comprehensive review demonstrates the landscape of nanoparticle-based oncological interventions, focusing on the remarkable advancements and therapeutic potentials of gold, silver, and iron oxide nanoparticles. Gold nanoparticles have garnered significant attention for their exceptional biocompatibility, tunable surface chemistry, and distinctive optical properties, rendering them ideal candidates for various cancer diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Silver nanoparticles, renowned for their antimicrobial properties, exhibit remarkable potential in cancer therapy through multiple mechanisms, including apoptosis induction, angiogenesis inhibition, and drug delivery enhancement. With their magnetic properties and biocompatibility, iron oxide nanoparticles offer unique cancer diagnosis and targeted therapy opportunities. This review critically examines the recent advancements in the synthesis, functionalization, and biomedical applications of these nanoparticles in cancer therapy. Moreover, the challenges are discussed, including toxicity concerns, immunogenicity, and translational barriers, and ongoing efforts to overcome these hurdles are highlighted. Finally, insights into the future directions of nanoparticle-based cancer therapy and regulatory considerations, are provided aiming to accelerate the translation of these promising technologies from bench to bedside.

Antibacterial Activity of Phloretin Against Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Its Application in Seafood

Although phloretin is widely utilized in the food industry as an additive, its effects on foodborne pathogens remain insufficiently investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial properties of phloretin (PHL) against Vibrio parahaemolyticus (V. parahaemolyticus) and to elucidate the potential mechanisms of action. After PHL treatment, alterations in the cell morphology, cell microstructure, and intracellular contents of V. parahaemolyticus were assessed. Scanning electron microscopy revealed substantial damage to cell integrity, subsequent to PHL treatment. A notable reduction in intracellular components, including proteins, ATP, and DNA, was observed in samples treated with PHL. PHL was shown to inhibit the activities of ATPase, β-galactosidase, and respiratory chain dehydrogenase in V. parahaemolyticus. Furthermore, it was demonstrated to elevate the intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species and promote cell death. After being applied to sea bass, shrimp, and oysters, PHL effectively inactivated V. parahaemolyticus in these seafoods. These findings demonstrate that PHL has potential for application in seafood to control V. parahaemolyticus.

Formation of bone tissue apatite on starch-based nanofiber-capped nanohydroxyapatite and reduced graphene oxide: a preliminary study.

In the present study, blends of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), starch (SH), nanohydroxyapatite (Nano-HA), and reduced graphene oxide (r-GO) were used to fabricate an electrospun nano scaffold (ENS), via electrospinning for their potential application in oral and maxillofacial bone soft and hard tissue regeneration. The scaffold was characterized for its physicochemical and mechanical properties. An invitro study was carried out using human osteoblast MG-63 bone cells. Surface characterization, particularly the analysis of calcium content, was performed before and after immersion in the simulated body fluid (SBF). Additionally, the impact of surface treatment on antimicrobial activity was investigated. The results demonstrated that the tensile strength (18.12 ± 0.14MPa), elongation at break (19.23 ± 0.11%), and flexing index (20.15 ± 0.13%) of the ENS were outstanding, indicating promising performance. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays demonstrated the biocompatible nature of the ENS. The bioactivity test result of ENS showed excellent deposition of bone apatite crystals. The ENS exhibited antimicrobial properties against E. coli (3.41 ± 0.03mm) and S. aureus (3.12 ± 0.08mm). The ENS, possessing the desired properties, has the potential to be tested in large animals for oral and maxillofacial bone and soft tissue regeneration after obtaining the necessary approvals. The developed ENS offers a promising solution for bone tissue regeneration in the oral and maxillofacial region.

Therapeutic potential and agricultural benefits of curcumin: a comprehensive review of health and sustainability applications

AbstractTurmeric (Curcuma longa L.), the plant from which curcumin is derived, is renowned for its wide range of therapeutic and agricultural benefits. Curcumin, the key bioactive compound, is highly valued for its potent anti-provocative, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, which contribute to its effectiveness in treating various human diseases and improving plant resilience to environmental stresses. The therapeutics potential of curcumin is notable owing its abilities to combat microbes act as an oxidant and reduce inflammation. Its effectiveness in treating a range of human disease such as tumor, cardiac problems, and brain degenerative ailments stems from its ability to modulate various cellular process and signaling pathways. Despite its low bioavailability, innovations in delivery system such as nanoparticles and liposomal formulations, have enhanced its therapeutic efficacy by improving solubility and systemic absorption. In agriculture, curcumin's antimicrobial properties provide a natural alternative to chemical pesticides, offering protection against pathogens and enhancing plant resilience to specific environmental stresses such as drought, salinity, and oxidative stress. Nanotechnology applications have furthered these benefits by facilitating the efficient uptake and distribution of curcumin within plant tissues, promoting growth and stress tolerance. This review also highlights curcumin's nutritional benefits, including its impact on gut health and metabolic syndrome. Synergistic interactions with dietary nutrients can amplify its health benefits, making it a valuable dietary supplement. However, ongoing research is needed to fully understand curcumin's mechanisms of action and long-term safety. Overall, curcumin holds promise as a versatile agent in both medical and agricultural fields, supporting sustainable practices and advancing health outcomes. Future research should focus on optimizing curcumin formulations and translating preclinical findings into clinical successes. Graphical abstract

Insights into molecular mechanisms of phytochemicals in quorum sensing modulation for bacterial biofilm control.

Biofilm formation is a common mechanism by which bacteria undergo phenotypic changes to adapt to environmental stressors. The formation of biofilms has a detrimental impact in clinical settings by contributing to chronic infections and promoting antibiotic resistance. Delving into the molecular mechanisms, the quorum sensing (QS) system involves the release of chemical signals for bacterial cell-to-cell communication, which activates and regulates the expression of various genes and virulence factors, including those related to biofilm formation. Accordingly, the QS system becomes a potential target for combating biofilm-associated concerns. Natural products derived from plants have a long history of treating infectious diseases in humans due to their antimicrobial properties, making them valuable resources for screening anti-biofilm agents. This review aims to discover the mechanisms by which phytochemical agents inhibit QS, potentially offering promising new therapies for treating biofilm-associated infections. By targeting the QS system, these phytochemical agents can prevent bacterial aggregation and biofilm formation while also diminishing other bacterial virulence factors. Additionally, it is important to focus on the advancement of techniques and experiments to investigate their molecular mechanisms. A thorough understanding of these mechanisms may encourage further studies to evaluate the safety and efficacy of phytochemical agents used alone or in combination with other strategies.

Fabrication of an Antibacterial/Anticoagulant Dual-Functional Surface for Left Ventricular Assist Devices via Mussel-Inspired Polydopamine Chemistry.

Infections and thrombosis remain unsolved problems for implanted cardiovascular devices, such as left ventricular assist devices. Hence, the development of surfaces with improved blood compatibility and antimicrobial properties is imperative to reduce complications after artificial heart implantation. In this work, we report a novel approach to fabricate multifunctional surfaces for left ventricular transplanted ventricular assist devices (LVADs) by immobilizing nitric oxide (NO) generation catalysts and heparin and reducing silver nanoparticles in situ. The general view, structure, and chemical compositions of the pure/modified surfaces were characterized using digital imaging, scanning electron microscope (SEM), atomic force microscope (AFM), water contact angle (WCA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and inductively coupled plasma (ICP). All of the results demonstrated that the AgNPs and heparin were successfully immobilized on the surface. The Cu ions and NO release experimental results showed that the immobilized copper ions could catalyze the production of NO from S-nitrosothiols within the biological system. Meanwhile, due to the synergistic anticoagulant effect of NO and surface-immobilized heparin, the fabricated modified surfaces exhibited antiplatelet adhesion activities and good hemocompatibility. Finally, the antimicrobial activity of the samples was evaluated by Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and cytocompatibility was measured using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The results demonstrated that silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) immobilized by surface reduction reaction did not cause any significant inhibition of cell proliferation while providing stable and effective antimicrobial properties. We envision that this simple surface modification strategy with bifunctional activities of antimicrobial and anticoagulant will find widespread use in clinically used indwelling left ventricular assist devices.

Effects of foliar applications of methyl jasmonate alone or with urea on anthocyanins content during grape ripening

Anthocyanins, the main phenolic compounds responsible for the color of red grapes and wines, exhibit antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and offer various health benefits for humans. Currently, climate change can affect grape quality by causing a decoupling between the technological and phenolic maturities of the grapes. Foliar application of methyl jasmonate (MeJ) and urea (Ur) can be a tool to mitigate the global warming effects in the vineyard. The aim of this work was to study i) the development of anthocyanin content in ‘Tempranillo’ grapes along the ripening process, and ii) the effect of foliar application of MeJ and MeJ+Ur on these phenolic compounds over two vintages (2019 and 2020). Overall, in the first vintage, anthocyanins peaked in their concentrations in the pre-harvest or harvest moments; whereas in the second vintage, the highest contents of these phenolic compounds were reached at harvest time, after that, a maintenance or decreased of their concentrations was observed. In both vintages, non-acylated anthocyanins was the most abundant family of anthocyanins. Foliar application of MeJ+Ur was more effective in enhancing anthocyanin biosynthesis than MeJ treatment, which also increased anthocyanin content compared to control grapes. Therefore, MeJ and Ur foliar treatment could present a synergy in anthocyanin biosynthesis by the plant. Moreover, the impact of these applications varied across vintages, and also the content of anthocyanins in grapes, probably due to different climatological conditions. Consequently, the two foliar treatments, MeJ and MeJ+Ur, could be a suitable tool to increase anthocyanins biosynthesis in grapes, and thus improve grape quality.

Valorization of Fish Processing by-Products: Biological and Functional Properties of Bioactive Peptides

Abstract Purpose of Review This review explores the potential of fish by-products as a source of bioactive peptides for the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Focusing on their diverse bioactive and functional properties, it offers insights into their industrial utilization, contributing to a better understanding of their applications. Recent Findings Fish processing by-products, including wastewater and solid residues, serve as valuable sources of bioactive peptides exhibiting a remarkable range of biological activities, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antihypertensive properties. These peptides exhibit a wide range of functional properties, such as solubility, water holding, fat binding, foaming, and emulsifying capacities. Moreover, they show significant potential for various industrial applications. Summary Bioactive peptides derived from fish by-products are attracting interest in multiple industries due to their diverse biological activities and functional properties. These peptides have emerged as a valuable and largely untapped resource, as they can be extracted from underutilized, or waste materials generated during fish processing operations. Graphical Abstract

Composition and Biological Activity of Flavonoid-containing Fractions of an Extract from Gratiola officinalis L.

Gratiola officinalis L. (hedge hyssop), a medicinal plant of the Scrophulariaceae family, has diuretic, purgative, and vermifuge properties. It is used as a herbal tea to treat chronic gastroenteritis, renal colic, jaundice, and intestinal worms. Previously, we have found that an extract from G. officinalis is nontoxic and has antitumor, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, anticachexic, and other properties. Our aims in this study were to separate the G. officinalis extract into individual fractions, to identify the most biologically active fractions, and to examine the chemical composition of these fractions and their biological activity toward A498 renal carcinoma cells. The G. officinalis extract was fractionated by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, and each fraction was tested for antitumor activity. The active fractions were characterized by UV-visible electron spectral analysis, circular dichroism analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, high-performance liquid chromatography, electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Two antitumor-active fractions of a flavonoid nature were isolated and chromatographically purified. On the basis of the nuclear magnetic resonance data, the aglycone fragment of the main component of one fraction was found to be structured as 2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-7-hydroxychroman-4-one, or 3',4'-dimethoxy-7- hydroxyflavanone. The antitumor effect of the most active fraction containing 7-O-glucoside of apigenin, glycoside 7,3'-di-O-luteolin and trace amounts of eupatilin against renal carcinoma A498 cells was manifested in its cytotoxic, cytostatic, apoptotic and autophagosomal activities. In addition, we found 3-(1-2)-glucoside of soyaspogenol B, which is a pentacyclic triterpenoid in the structure.

Marine Gastropod Planaxis sulcatus (Born, 1778) of Uvari Coastal Waters: A Comprehensive Study on Its Antibacterial Activity, Biochemical Composition and FTIR Spectroscopy

Diverse nutritional profiles and potent antimicrobial properties distinguish marine gastropods from other members of the phylum Mollusca. This study targets the investigation of the antibacterial activity, biochemical and FTIR analysis of ethanol extracts of marine gastropod mollusc Planaxis sulcatus. The well diffusion method was used to carry out the antibacterial assay. The extract showed the maximum inhibition (21±2 mm inhibitory zone) against the human bacterial pathogen S. aureus, whereas K. pneumonia showed the lowest susceptibility (12 mm). The extracts had MIC values between 0.21 and 1.04 mg/ml. The biochemical assay's findings revealed that the majority of the snail's flesh (51%) is made up of protein, with only 5% of the mass coming from carbohydrates and very trace amounts of fat (0.2%). The FTIR analysis represents the presence of alkyl halides, nitro compounds, aromatic compounds, alkynes, nitriles, carboxylic acid, aldehyde, alkanes and alcohol in the gastropod extracts. The aforementioned observational result demonstrates the abundance of antibacterial substances in the gastropod extracts. Further research is necessary to fully understand the structural composition of the antibacterial substances found in this marine snail.

Green chemistry approach to synthesize titanium dioxide nanoparticles using Fagonia Cretica extract, novel strategy for developing antimicrobial and antidiabetic therapies

Abstract This groundbreaking study explores the eco-friendly production of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) to investigate their impact on health. TiO2 NPs were synthesized utilizing a plant extract from Fagonia cretica, acting as both stabilizers and reducers. Various techniques, including energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-Vis, and X-ray diffraction (XRD), were employed to analyze the synthesized TiO2 NPs. FT-IR revealed functional groups crucial for nanoparticle (NP) formation. SEM confirmed the particle size of synthesized TiO2 NPs, ranging from 20 to 80 nm. XRD analysis highlighted the rutile phase crystalline structure, and EDX determined the elemental composition of TiO2 NPs. These NPs displayed potent antimicrobial properties, proving toxic to bacterial and the fungal strains at 50 µg·mL−1 concentration. Impressively, TiO2 NPs showcased significant antidiabetic effects in adult male albino mice, effectively reducing Streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia and hypercholesterolemia by the improvement in behavior via random blood glucose, triglyceride, low density lipoproteins, high density lipoprteins, very low density lipoproteins, and GTT pathway at 100 and 200 µL. Furthermore, they exhibited a remarkable impact on human liver cancer cell lines, with a 43.2% reduction in cell viability at 100 µg·mL−1 concentration. In essence, the study highlights TiO2 NPs as a safe, natural therapeutic agent with immense potential in diabetes treatment. The MTT assay was utilized to assess their cytotoxicity and biocompatibility, affirming their promising role in healthcare.

Fabrication and Evaluation of Polyacrylate Nanocomposites Embedded With Metal Oxides as Enhanced Multipurpose Nanocarriers for Long‐Term Anti‐Inflammatory and Amazing Antimicrobial Properties

ABSTRACTThe design of super‐antimicrobially active multipurpose nanocarriers as polymeric nanocomposites embedded with metal oxides with sustained drug release is beneficial in medical treatment for controlling inflammation and targeting a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms. Brilliant metal oxide nanoparticles (MOx) involving selenium dioxide, titanium dioxide, and vanadium pentoxide were well prepared in good yields, and their morphologies and structures were specified. Then they were embedded in copolymeric nanocomposites through in situ microemulsion polymerization of (E)‐2‐cyano‐N‐cyclohexyl‐3‐(dimethylamino)acrylamide (CHAA) with methyl methacrylate (MMA), dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA), and acrylic acid (AA). In addition, ibuprofen was then loaded into the synthesized polymers and their nanocomposites to achieve high drug entrapment efficiency EE%, and its release behavior was studied in various simulated fluids. The produced drug‐loaded polymers and their nanocomposites were characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TG). Well‐defined nanospheres of polymeric‐metal oxide nanocomposites were generated in a size range of 50 nm, with ibuprofen loaded at a high encapsulation efficiency of approximately 97%. In vitro drug release was inspected for the polymer and its nanocomposites revealing that the presence of metal oxide nanoparticles resulted in prolonged and sustained release behavior for wound dressing. The antimicrobial study based on the zone of inhibition against various pathogenic microorganisms showed excellent activity against Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Helicobacter pylori, and Candida albicans. These findings validate the potential of these nanocomposites to serve as a viable upcoming antimicrobial agent for the treatment of human ailments.

Interferometric analysis of the opto‐mechanical properties for polyamide‐6 antimicrobial fibers

AbstractPolyamide‐6 fibers were modified for use as antimicrobial fibers using two complementary methods: grafting with polyacrylic acid and silver nanoparticle treatment. The grafted samples exhibited different grafting yields of 7%, 8.8%, 10%, and 20.7%. Subsequently, two grafted samples (7% and 20.7% yields) were treated with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). The grafting process and the silver nanotreament were successfully confirmed using FTIR spectroscopy and SEM microscopy. Shake‐ flask method was used to study the cell viability of nanotreated samples. A two‐beam Mach–Zehnder interferometer was used to characterize the opto‐mechnaical and structural properties of the modified samples. For this purpose, a mechanical drawing device was equipped with the interferometer. The results indicated that with increasing grafting yield, optical properties decreased in both directions of light vibration. A fitting method was employed to calculate intrinsic optical properties that help to determine structural properties. Mechanical properties, including tensile strength and elongation at break, were also examined. Treatment of the grafted samples with silver nanoparticles improved their optical, mechanical, and antimicrobial properties. These findings confirmed that the PA‐6‐g‐PAA 20.7%‐t‐Ag NPs sample is suitable for various medical applications. Figures and tables are provided for illustration.Highlights PA‐6 fiber has been modified for medical applications by complementary processes. Grafting process introduced additional functional groups and enhanced ductility. Ag nano‐treatment gives the grafted PA‐6 fiber good antimicrobial activity. Interferometry precisely characterizes structural and opto‐mechanical properties. PA‐6‐g‐PAA20.7%‐t‐Ag NPs sample has good mechanical and antimicrobial properties.

Versatile properties of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flowers: In vitro exploration of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities, network pharmacology analysis, and In-silico molecular docking simulation.

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. has been used in folk medicine against several diseases. The objectives of the present study were to investigate the chemical composition of the methanolic extract of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flowers and their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Besides, network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to explore the potential antitumor effect of active metabolites of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. against breast and liver cancer. The results revealed many bioactive components known for their antimicrobial and anticancer properties. Furthermore, scavenging activity was obtained, which indicated strong antioxidant properties. The plant extract exhibited antimicrobial activities against Aspergillus brasiliensis (MIC of 0.625 mg/mL), Candida albicans, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at MICs of 1.25 mg/mL. The results revealed proapoptotic activities of the O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. extract against MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and HepG2 cell lines, where it induced significant early apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at sub-G1 phases, besides increasing the expression levels of p53, cyclin D1, and caspase 3 (p <0.005). The network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis revealed that the anticancer components of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flower extract targets the PI3K-Akt pathway. More investigations might be required to test the mechanistic pathways by which O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. might exhibit its biological activities in vivo.

Green technologies for extracting plant waste functional ingredients and new food formulation: A review.

Nowadays, there is a growing interest in food waste recovery by both consumers and companies. Food waste of plant origin is a source of bioactive compounds, such as phenolic acids, anthocyanins, flavonoids, phytosterols, carotenoids, and tocopherols, with well-known antioxidant, anti-glycemic, and antimicrobial properties. The use of green and sustainable technologies to recover bioactive compounds from food waste is a possible solution to valorize waste following the principles of green chemistry. Furthermore, today's consumers are more attracted, informed, and aware of the benefits associated with the consumption of functional foods, and with this in mind, the use of extracts rich in beneficial compounds obtained by green technologies from food waste can be a valid alternative to prepare functional foods. In this review, the recovery of polyphenols and fibers with green technologies from food waste for the formulation of functional foods was presented.