Sponge Effect Research Articles

Superhydrophobic, Conductive and Magnetic Sponge for High Performance Oil-water Separation and Recycled Oil Absorption

Nowadays, the frequent occurrence of oil spills at sea has caused serious pollution to the ecosystem and has led to a gradual decrease in marine resources. Conventional adsorbent materials have difficulty absorbing high-viscosity oils and separating oil from water, and recycling still has great challenges. We developed a novel superhydrophobic, magnetic, and photo-thermal sponge (SMPS) with a simple preparation method, which is composed of polyurethane (PU) sponge, polydopamine (PDA), acidified carbon nanotubes (ACNTs), ferric tetroxide (Fe3O4), and polydimethylsilane (PDMS), modified by self-polymerization, ultrasonication, and soaking. The modification of ACNTs, Fe3O4, and PDMS further enhances the electrical conductivity, magnetism, photo-thermal effect, and superhydrophobicity of the PU sponge. The SMPS (PU/PDA/ACNTs-Fe3O4/PDMS) can reach a water contact angle of 168.32°, which can still be maintained at 150° in harsh environments, and it has a good oil adsorption capacity (up to 31.06g/g) and an oil-water separation efficiency of 96%. In addition, the SMPS has an excellent photo-thermal effect (surface temperature up to 204.9 ℃) for better adsorption of high-viscosity oils. It can also be used for oil adsorption and recycling in local areas through its own magnetism. This paper has studied PU sponges with superhydrophobic, magnetic, and photo-thermal performance, which provides a new research idea for large-scale, regional cleaning and recycling of marine high-viscosity oil pollution.

LncRNA CASC11 regulates the progress of delayed fracture healing via sponging miR-150-3p

BackgroundLong non-coding RNA (lncRNA) plays a pivotal role in bone regeneration by interaction with microRNAs (miRNAs) and constructing a lncRNA-miRNA regulatory network.ObjectivesThis research aimed to elucidate the role of lncRNA CASC11 in the delayed healing process of tibial fractures and to explore its potential regulatory mechanisms.Materials and methodsThe expression levels of CASC11 and miR-150-3p in serum samples were detected and the predictive capability of CASC11 regarding delayed healing in fracture patients. Furthermore, the study confirmed the accuracy of the binding sites between CASC11 and miR-150-3p. Subsequently, overexpression/interference plasmids of CASC11, along with overexpression plasmids co-transfected with both CASC11 and miR-150-3p, were systematically introduced into MC3T3-E1 cells to investigate their effects on the expression of osteogenic marker genes, as well as their influence on cellular proliferation and apoptosis.ResultsThe expression levels of CASC11 were significantly elevated, while miR-150-3p levels were markedly decreased in individuals exhibiting delayed fracture healing (P < 0.001). CASC11 was observed to suppress the expression of osteogenic marker genes, inhibit the proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells, and promote cell apoptosis (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the overexpression of miR-150-3p effectively countered the inhibitory impact of CASC11 on osteogenic differentiation and the promoting effect on cell apoptosis (P < 0.05).ConclusionThe sponging effect of CASC11 on miR-150-3p led to delayed fracture healing. CASC11 emerges as a potential target for treating delayed fracture healing.

Toxigenic effects of sponges and benthic diatoms on marine invertebrates and their possible biotechnological applications

Secondary metabolites play important physiological roles being bioactive as defences against other organisms, or attractive signals used for various purposes, including reproduction. Their production and the emission in the environment may be viewed as an adaptive feature subjected to evolutionary selection. They were demonstrated to be useful for applications in various biotechnological fields, such as pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and cosmeceutical. Sponges and microalgae, including diatoms, are the most promising sources of bioactive compounds from the sea. We aimed at detecting the ecotoxicological effects of crude extracts and fractions obtained from three marine sponges, Geodia cydonium, Haliclona (Halichoclona) vansoesti and Agelas oroides and two benthic diatoms, Nanofrustulum shiloi and Cylindrotheca closterium on model marine organisms. We tested their effects on the Mediterranean purple sea urchin, Paracentrotus lividus, and on two diatoms, Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Cylindrotheca closterium, chosen because they are considered standard indicators for assessment of ecological impacts. Our results showed that extracts and fractions from both sponges and diatoms may be harmful for model invertebrates. However, eggs appeared “protected” from sponge allelochemicals when still unfertilized. The majority of sponge fractions exhibited noticeable impacts during the post-fertilization treatments. In contrast, fractions from diatoms notably increased the rate of malformations compared to the control, both in pre- and post-fertilization treatments.

Protein allosteric site identification using machine learning and per amino acid residue reported internal protein nanoenvironment descriptors

Allosteric regulation plays a crucial role in modulating protein functions and represents a promising strategy in drug development, offering enhanced specificity and reduced toxicity compared to traditional active site inhibition. Existing computational methods for predicting allosteric sites on proteins often rely on static protein surface pocket features, normal mode analysis or extensive molecular dynamics simulations encompassing both the protein function modulator and the protein itself. In this study, we introduce an innovative methodology that employs a per amino acid residue classifier to distinguish allosteric site-forming residues (AFRs) from non-allosteric, or free residues (FRs). Our model, STINGAllo, exhibits robust performance, achieving Distance Center Center (DCC) success rate when all AFRs were predicted within pockets identified by FPocket, overall DCC, F1 score and a Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) of 78 %, 60 %, 64 % and 64 % respectively. Furthermore, we identified key descriptors that characterize the internal protein nanoenvironment of AFRs, setting them apart from FRs. These descriptors include the sponge effect, distance to the protein centre of geometry (cg), hydrophobic interactions, electrostatic potentials, eccentricity, and graph bottleneck features.

Effects of Intraoperative Epidural Steroid-Soaked Gelatin Sponge in Lumbar Spine Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the impact of intraoperative epidural steroid-soaked gelatin sponge in lumbar spine surgery for conditions like spinal stenosis and nerve root compression. Surgery often involves removing structures to decompress the nerves. Steroids are used to alleviate inflammation and pain, with gelatin sponges serving as carriers to extend their effect. While epidural steroid injections have been effective, the combined use of gelatin sponges remains controversial. The study systematically searched databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials databases involving lumbar surgeries using steroid-soaked gelatin sponges. Seven studies with 620 patients were included, focusing on postoperative pain scores, analgesic use, hospital stay, and complications. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool. Results showed no significant difference in pain scores between the steroid and control groups on postoperative day 1 and at three months. However, there was a trend toward reduced pain in the steroid group. Notably, patients in the steroid group required fewer analgesics, indicating a significant reduction in postoperative pain medication use. Other factors, such as surgery time, blood loss, and hospital stay, showed no statistically significant differences between the groups. The findings suggest that while the use of steroid-soaked gelatin sponges does not significantly change immediate postoperative pain levels, it may contribute to improved pain management. This approach is safe, with minimal risk of complications, and may provide prolonged, localized effects due to the slow release of steroids. Future large-scale randomized trials are needed to further validate these findings. In conclusion, the use of steroid-soaked gelatin sponges in lumbar spine surgery is a feasible option to consider, with potential benefits in postoperative pain management and reduced analgesic consumption.

Endosomal pH, Redox Dual-Sensitive Prodrug Micelles Based on Hyaluronic Acid for Intracellular Camptothecin Delivery and Active Tumor Targeting in Cancer Therapy

Background: CPT is a pentacyclic monoterpene alkaloid with a wide spectrum of antitumor activity. Its clinical application is restricted due to poor water solubility, instability, and high toxicity. We developed a new kind of multifunctional micelles to improve its solubility, reduce the side effecs, and obtain enhanced antitumor effects. Methods: We constructed HA-CPT nano-self-assembly prodrug micelles, which combined the advantages of pH-sensitivity, redox-sensitivity, and active targeting ability to CD44 receptor-overexpressing cancer cells. To synthesize dual sensitive HA-CPT conjugates, CPT was conjugated with HA by pH-sensitive histidine (His) and redox-sensitive 3,3′-dithiodipropionic acid (DTPA). In vitro, we studied the cellular uptake and antitumor effect for tumor cell lines. In vivo, we explored the bio-distribution and antitumor effects of the micelles in HCT 116 tumor bearing nude mice. Results: The dual-sensitive and active targeting HA-His-ss-CPT micelles was proved to be highly efficient in CPT delivery by the in vitro cellular uptake study. The HA-His-ss-CPT micelles escaped from endosomes of tumor cells within 4 h after cellular uptake due to the proton sponge effect of the conjugating His and then quickly released CPT in the cytosol by glutathione (GSH). In mice, HA-His-ss-CPT micelles displayed efficient tumor accumulation and conspicuous inhibition of tumor growth. Conclusions: The novel, dual-sensitive, active targeting nano-prodrug micelles exhibited high efficiency in drug delivery and cancer therapy. This “all in one” drug delivery system can be realized in an ingenious structure and avoid intricate synthesis. This construction strategy can illume the design of nanocarriers responding to endogenous stimuli in tumors.

Safety and effectiveness of a drug-loaded haemostatic sponge in chronic rhinosinusitis: a randomized, controlled, double-blind study

Some cases of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) require surgical treatment and postoperative nasal packing, but bleeding and adhesion are common complications after nasal surgery. Biodegradable drug-loaded implants hold great therapeutic options for the treatment of CRS, but little data are available regarding the safety and efficacy of a novel drug-loaded haemostatic sponge (DLHS) in the sinus. The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of DLHS in the sinus. We conducted a prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial. In this clinical trial, 49 patients were enrolled and randomly divided into 2 groups: group A (n = 25) had the DLHS containing 1 mg budesonide and 0.67 mg sodium hyaluronate placed into the sinus, and group B (n = 24) had the Nasopore placed after ESS. Endoscopic follow-up was performed for 12 weeks, and the findings were classified using the discharge, inflammation, polyps/oedema (DIP) endoscopic appearance scores. All patients completed questionnaires to evaluate their sinonasal symptoms by using the sinonasal outcome test-22 (SNOT-22) Chinese version and visual analogue scale (VAS). Serum cortisol concentration in group A was measured prior to surgery and at days 1, 3, 7, and 14 after nasal surgery. Comparing group A and group B, at 2 weeks, no significant differences were observed in either objective or subjective parameters. The mean value of VAS for rhinorrhoea and DIP for oedema and the mean value of nasal adhesion were significantly lower in Group A than in Group B at 6 and 12 weeks, but a significant difference did not occur in SNOT-22 and VAS for dysosmia between the two groups at 6 and 12 weeks. The mean serum cortisol concentrations in group A at the follow-up were within normal limits without remarkable fluctuations. This study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of a novel biodegradable DLHS with the possibility of being used in CRS patients, and this sponge may reduce inflammation and minimize adhesions via controlled local drug delivery without measurable systemic exposure.

Electron Sponge Effect by Dynamic-Regulated Electron Self-Flow toward Coupled Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis.

A dynamic-regulated Pd-Fe-N electrocatalyst was effectively constructed with electron-donating and back-donating effects, which serves as an efficient engineering strategy to optimize the electrocatalytic activity. The designed PdFe3/FeN features a comprehensive electrocatalytic performance toward the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR, yield rate of 29.94 μg h-1 mgcat-1 and FE of 38.43% at -0.2 V vs RHE) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER, 308 mV at 100 mA cm-2). Combining in situ ATR-FTIR, XAS, and DFT results, the role of the interstitial-N-dopant-induced electron sponge effect has been significantly elucidated in strengthening the electrocatalytic NRR process. Specifically, the introduction of a N dopant, an electron acceptor, initiates the generation of robust Lewis-acidic Fe sites, facilitating free N2 capture and bonding. Simultaneously, after NH3 adsorption, the N dopant can back-donate electrons to Fe sites, strengthening the NH3 deportation through weakening the Lewis acidity of Fe centers. Besides, the electron-deficient Fe sites contribute to the reconstruction of FeOOH, the real active species during the OER, which accelerates the four-electron reaction kinetics. This research offers a perspective on electrocatalyst design, potentially facilitating the evolution of advanced material engineering for efficient electrocatalytic synthesis and energy storage.

Does afforestation increase soil water buffering? A demonstrator study on soil moisture variability in the Alpine Geroldsbach catchment, Austria

This study employed an operational monitoring network to measure soil moisture and runoff behaviour continuously in the Alpine catchment Geroldsbach-Götzens, Austria. We hypothesize that afforestation can have a positive impact on soil water buffering. To analyse the impact of soil properties and vegetation cover changes on soil water dynamics, four experimental plots were established on grassland and monitoring stations were installed in the forest. The rainfall test site is equipped with an automatic weather station to obtain meteorological observations, and weirs to measure surface runoff of natural occurring precipitation events and artificial rainfall simulations. In the plots, 200 soil moisture sensors were installed at five different depths, aimed to track and visualize infiltration and subsurface flow processes. Another twenty sensors monitored soil moisture at different afforestation stages in the forested part of the catchment. The measurements show that soils covered with young and old-growth forest have a higher and more stable soil moisture content than grassland and soils with a lack of vegetation throughout the seasons. We observed large spatial differences at plot scale, where the spatial variability of soil moisture increases with depth and is highest during convective precipitation. The initial conditions and rainfall characteristics play an important role in infiltration processes and soil water storage. Our rainfall test site demonstrated the challenges of innovative monitoring techniques and that it offers opportunities for more experiments to gather evidence-based data as input for flood models. Overall findings confirm the sponge effect of forest soils and indicate that afforestation as Nature-Based Solution reduces the temporal soil moisture variability, buffering soil water during precipitation events, which can be beneficial for runoff reduction in Alpine catchments.

Hsa_circ_0000129 targets miR-383-5p/tropomyosin 3 axis to facilitate ovarian cancer progression.

Ovarian cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies among women. CircRNAs play key roles in the progression of ovarian cancer. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of action of hsa_circ_0000129 and its effects on ovarian cancer. Expression of hsa_circ_0000129, tropomyosin 3 (TPM3), and miR-383-5p in ovarian cancer cell lines and tissue specimens was detected using qRT-PCR or western blotting. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), colony formation, and transwell assays were performed to assess viability, proliferation, and migration of ovarian cancer cells. A xenograft model was used to study tumorigenicity of ovarian cancer cells in vivo. Luciferase and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were performed to determine binding between miR-383-5p and hsa_circ_0000129 or TPM3. Upregulation of hsa_circ_0000129 and TPM3 and downregulation of miR-383-5p were observed in ovarian cancer. Low hsa_circ_0000129 and TPM3 expression repressed viability, migration, and proliferation of ovarian cancer cells. Inhibition of miR-383-5p had a contrary effect. Furthermore, knockdown of hsa_circ_0000129 restricted the tumorigenicity of ovarian cancer cells. Mechanistically, hsa_circ_0000129 has a sponging effect on miR-383-5p, which targets TPM3. Hsa_circ_0000129 stimulated development of the malignant ovarian cancer phenotype by sponging miR-383-5p and releasing TPM3.

Effects of boring sponge Pione vastifica (Hancock, 1849) infestation on redox status and histological structure in Pacific oyster Magallana gigas (Thunberg, 1793) gills

The Pacific oyster, Magallana gigas (Thunberg, 1793), is the most widely cultivated bivalve species in the world. Despite the oyster's resistance to most pathogens, oyster farms are increasingly suffering losses due to infestation by various boring agents, particularly boring sponges. Boring sponges Pione vastifica (Hancock, 1849) penetrate and destroy the shell of the oysters, creating a network of channels and chambers in the shell. This ultimately results in a reduction in the marketability and barrier protection of oysters, as well as an impairment of their functional status. The objective of this study was to identify the mechanisms of oyster response to exposure to the boring sponge and to assess the health status of the species in the context of its ecological and economic importance. This paper examines the effect of the boring sponge on the organism of Pacific oysters M. gigas, namely on the level of lipid peroxidation and the activity of the main antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase - SOD, catalase - CAT, glutathione peroxidase - GPx), as well as histopathological changes in the gills of oysters with different degrees of boring sponge infestation. In contrast to the SOD activity, the CAT and GPx activities were found to be dependent on the extent of damage inflicted upon the shell by the boring sponge. In the initial phase of shell damage (1 and 25%), the CAT activity exhibited no notable deviation from the control level. However, the GPx level demonstrated a pronounced decline. In the second stage (26-50% of damage), there was an increase in CAT activity, and the levels of GPx returned to control levels. Despite a low level of antioxidant defense activity, an increase in lipid peroxidation was observed. In the fourth stage (76-100% damage), the highest level of lipid peroxidation was observed. This was accompanied by an increase in CAT production and a decrease in GPx activity. However, no significant disturbances in the structure of gill tissues were found with an increasing degree of damage caused by the spread of boring sponges. In our study, only local histological abnormalities were observed in stages 2, 3, and 4 of infection. The results of the present work demonstrate the influence of the boring sponge infestation process on the redox balance of oyster gill.

Efficient delivery of curcumin by functional solid lipid nanoparticles with promoting endosomal escape and liver targeting properties

In the realm of intracellular drug delivery, overcoming the barrier of endosomal entrapment stands as a critical factor influencing the effectiveness of nanodrug delivery systems. This study focuses on the synthesis of an acid-sensitive fatty acid derivative called imidazole-stearic acid (IM-SA). Leveraging the proton sponge effect attributed to imidazole groups, IM-SA was anticipated to play a pivotal role in facilitating endosomal escape. Integrated into the lipid core of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), IM-SA was paired with hyaluronic acid (HA) coating on the surface of SLNs loading with curcumin (CUR). The presence of IM-SA and HA endowed HA-IM-SLNs@CUR with dual functionalities, enabling the promotion of endosomal escape, and specifical targeting of liver cancer. HA-IM-SLNs@CUR exhibited a particle size of ∼228 nm, with impressive encapsulation efficiencies (EE) of 87.5 % ± 2.3 % for CUR. Drugs exhibit significant pH sensitive release behavior. Cellular experiments showed that HA-IM-SLN@CUR exhibits enhanced drug delivery capability. The incorporation of IM-SA significantly improved the endosomal escape of HA-IM-SLN@CUR, facilitating accelerated intracellular drug release and increasing intracellular drug concentration, exhibiting excellent growth inhibitory effects on HepG2 cells. Animal experiments revealed a 3.4-fold increase in CUR uptake at the tumor site with HA-IM-SLNs@CUR over the free CUR, demonstrating remarkable tumor homing potential with the tumor growth inhibition rate of 97.2 %. These findings indicated the significant promise of HA-IM-SLNs@CUR in the realm of cancer drug delivery.

Long noncoding RNA MALAT1 as a ceRNA drives mouse fibroblast activation via the miR-335-3p/P2ry2 axis.

Fibrosis is a complex pathological process that can lead to the permanent loss of biological function, with P2ry2 playing a crucial role in this process. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to play an critically important role in the fibrotic process. However, it remains unclear whether lncRNAs can regulate fibrosis through P2ry2. In this study, we detected the expression of the long non-coding RNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (lnc-MALAT1). We investigated the expression patterns of lnc-MALAT1 and P2ry2 in denervated skeletal muscle, a classical model of fibrosis. Additionally, we utilized a TGF-β-mediated fibrosis model in NIH/3T3 cells to examine the effects of lnc-MALAT1 and P2ry2 on fibroblast activation and the underlying regulatory mechanisms in vitro. Our results demonstrated that the expression levels of lnc-MALAT1 and P2ry2 were consistently elevated in denervated skeletal muscle, correlating with the degree of fibrosis. In vitro experiments confirmed the regulatory effect of lnc-MALAT1 on P2ry2. Furthermore, we identified miR-335-3p as a potential key molecule in the regulatory relationship of lnc-MALAT1/P2ry2. Dual luciferase reporter assays and AGO2-RIP verified the molecular sponging effect of lnc-MALAT1 on miR-335-3p. Additionally, we validated the regulation of the lnc-MALAT1/miR-335-3p/P2ry2 axis through experimental approaches. In conclusion, our study identified a crucial role of lnc-MALAT1/miR-335-3p/P2ry2 axis in fibroblast activation, providing a promising treatment option against the fibrosis.

The potential mechanisms of tissue flossing with Flossband application around the joints or soft tissues: A theoretical framework

Flossband application in rehabilitation and sports medicine has been demonstrated to increase flexibility, improve muscle strength, dampen pain, and reduce inflammation. However, scarce evidence has presented the latent mechanisms that explain the beneficial effects of Flossband application. To fill the knowledge gap about the Flossband wrapping mechanisms and Flossband application mastering, an initial theoretical framework delineating the advantages of Flossband application mechanisms is needed. Therefore, based on the current evidence, this paper aims to summarize the potential mechanisms of the Flossband application benefits. The primary speculated mechanisms, “Pain Gate”, “Fascia Glide”, “Sponge Effect”, “Soft Tissue Ischemia”, and “Joint Effect” were proposed to illustrate how Flossband application works on soft tissues or joints to reduce pain, release fascia tension, improve muscle flexibility, decrease inflammation, and enhance muscle activation. The benefits derived from the Flossband application may be more effectively elucidated through the interaction of the five primary mechanisms mentioned above, whether applied to soft tissues or joints rather than relying on a singular mechanism. This consideration acknowledges the complexity and interactivity inherent in the Flossband application.

Nanoparticle-Patch System for Localized, Effective, and Sustained miRNA Administration into Infarcted Myocardium to Alleviate Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury.

Timely blood reperfusion after myocardial infarction (MI) paradoxically triggers ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/RI), which currently has not been conquered by clinical treatments. Among innovative repair strategies for myocardial I/RI, microRNAs (miRNAs) are expected as genetic tools to rescue damaged myocardium. Our previous study identified that miR-30d can provide protection against myocardial apoptosis and fibrosis to alleviate myocardial injury. Although common methods such as liposomes and viral vectors have been used for miRNA transfection, their therapeutic efficiencies have struggled with inefficient in vivo delivery, susceptible inactivation, and immunogenicity. Here, we establish a nanoparticle-patch system for miR-30d delivery in a murine myocardial I/RI model, which contains ZIF-8 nanoparticles and a conductive microneedle patch. Loaded with miR-30d, ZIF-8 nanoparticles leveraging the proton sponge effect enable miR-30d to escape the endocytic pathway, thus avoiding premature degradation in lysosomes. Meanwhile, the conductive microneedle patch offers a distinct advantage by intramyocardial administration for localized, effective, and sustained miR-30d delivery, and it simultaneously releases Au nanoparticles to reconstruct electrical impulses within the infarcted myocardium. Consequently, the nanoparticle-patch system supports the consistent and robust expression of miR-30d in cardiomyocytes. Results from echocardiography and electrocardiogram (ECG) revealed improved heart functions and standard ECG wave patterns in myocardial I/RI mice after implantation of a nanoparticle-patch system for 3 and 6 weeks. In summary, our work incorporated conductive microneedle patch and miR-30d nanodelivery systems to synergistically transcend the limitations of common RNA transfection methods, thus mitigating myocardial I/RI.

Self-modifying NanoEnhancers facilitating lysosomal escape for cGAS-STING cascading activation in tumor immunotherapy

Targeting mitochondria has emerged as an effective approach in recent tumor immunotherapy. While nanosized carriers have been utilized for therapeutic drug delivery, their retention in lysosomes diminishes their efficacy in targeting mitochondria. Despite the use of polycationic materials and peptides to facilitate lysosomal escape through the proton sponge effect and destabilization of lysosomal membranes, concerns persist regarding their stability and biocompatibility. Our objective is to exploit Oroxylin A (OA), a polyphenolic compound, to synthesize metal-polyphenolic complexes, capitalizing on OA's inherent lysosomal self-modifying properties to achieve efficient lysosomal escape. Herein, we report the fabrication of polyphenol-based OA@Mn@3-TYP nanoenhancers, assembled with hyaluronic acid (HA) and denoted as OMT NEs, designed for effective lysosomal escape and targeted drug delivery to mitochondria. These nanoenhancers exhibit a positive targeting ability towards tumor cells and facilitate lysosomal escape through spontaneous glucuronidation and sialic acid transporter mechanisms. The incorporation of OA and 3-TYP in the nanoenhancers leads to a cascading effect resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction and subsequent release of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Upon activation of the Mn2+-enhanced cGAS-STING pathway by the released mtDNA, a synergistic anti-PD-1 immunotherapy effect is augmented, ultimately enhancing anti-tumor treatment.

Effects of contact ultrasound coupled with infrared radiation on drying kinetics, water migration and physical properties of beef during hot air drying

Drying, as a critical step in the production of air-dried beef, has a direct impact on the quality of the final product. Innovatively, a composite system incorporating contact ultrasound (CU) and infrared radiation (IR) as auxiliary measures within a hot air drying (HAD) framework was built in this research, and the effects of these techniques on the drying kinetics, protein denaturation, and moisture transformation of air-dried beef were investigated. In comparison to HAD treatment, the integrated CU and IR (CU-IRD) system displayed marked enhancements in heat and moisture transport efficiency, thereby saving 36.84% of time expenditure and contributing favorably to the improved moisture distribution of the end-product. This was mainly ascribed to the denaturation of myosin induced by IR thermal effect and the micro-channel produced by CU sponge effect, thus increasing T2 relaxation time and the proportion of free water. In conclusion, the composite system solved the problem of surface hardening and reduces hardness and chewiness of air-dried beef by 40.42% and 45.25% respectively, but inevitably increased the energy burden by 41.60%.

Anti‐inflammatory and pro‐healing effects of acetate chitosan sponge with calcium cross‐links

Anti‐inflammatory and pro‐healing effects of acetate chitosan sponge with calcium cross‐links

Brain-targeting biomimetic disguised manganese dioxide nanoparticles via hybridization of tumor cell membrane and bacteria vesicles for synergistic chemotherapy/chemodynamic therapy of glioma

Glioma is a prevalent brain malignancy associated with poor prognosis. Although chemotherapy serves as the primary treatment for brain tumors, its effectiveness is hindered by the limited ability of drugs to traverse the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and the development of drug resistance linked to tumor hypoxia. Herein, we report the creation of hybrid camouflaged multifunctional nanovesicles comprising membranes of tumor C6 cells (mT) and bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) and co-loaded with manganese dioxide nanoparticles (MnO2 NPs) and doxorubicin (DOX) to synergistically enhance the chemotherapy/chemodynamic therapy (CDT) of glioma. Owing to OMV-mediated BBB penetration and mT-inherited tumor-homing properties, MnO2-DOX@mT/OMVs can penetrate the BBB and enhance the tumor cell-specific uptake of DOX via “proton sponge effect”-mediated lysosomal escape. This enhances the apoptotic effect induced by DOX and minimizing DOX-associated cardiotoxicity by facilitating the accumulation of DOX at the tumor site. Furthermore, the MnO2 NPs in MnO2-DOX@mT/OMVs can generate potent CDT by accelerating the Fenton-like reaction with DOX-generated H2O2 and achieving glutathione (GSH)-depletion-induced glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) inactivation. These results showed that MnO2-DOX@mT/OMVs, designed for brain tumor targeting, significantly inhibited tumor growth and exhibited favorable biological safety. This innovative approach offers the augmentation of anticancer treatment efficacy via a potential combination of chemotherapy and CDT.

Achieving Endo/Lysosomal Escape Using Smart Nanosystems for Efficient Cellular Delivery.

The delivery of therapeutic agents faces significant hurdles posed by the endo-lysosomal pathway, a bottleneck that hampers clinical effectiveness. This comprehensive review addresses the urgent need to enhance cellular delivery mechanisms to overcome these obstacles. It focuses on the potential of smart nanomaterials, delving into their unique characteristics and mechanisms in detail. Special attention is given to their ability to strategically evade endosomal entrapment, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy. The manuscript thoroughly examines assays crucial for understanding endosomal escape and cellular uptake dynamics. By analyzing various assessment methods, we offer nuanced insights into these investigative approaches' multifaceted aspects. We meticulously analyze the use of smart nanocarriers, exploring diverse mechanisms such as pore formation, proton sponge effects, membrane destabilization, photochemical disruption, and the strategic use of endosomal escape agents. Each mechanism's effectiveness and potential application in mitigating endosomal entrapment are scrutinized. This paper provides a critical overview of the current landscape, emphasizing the need for advanced delivery systems to navigate the complexities of cellular uptake. Importantly, it underscores the transformative role of smart nanomaterials in revolutionizing cellular delivery strategies, leading to a paradigm shift towards improved therapeutic outcomes.