NIH 3T3 Fibroblast Cells Research Articles

The Photocleavable Protein PhoCl-Based Dynamic Hydrogels.

Dynamic protein hydrogels have attracted increasing attention owing to their tunable physiochemical and mechanical properties, customized functionality, and biocompatibility. Among the different types of dynamic hydrogels, photoresponsive hydrogels are of particular interest. Here, we report the engineering of a photoresponsive protein hydrogel by using the photocleavable protein PhoCl. We employed the well-developed SpyTag and SpyCatcher chemistry to engineer PhoCl-containing covalently cross-linked hydrogels. In the hydrogel network, PhoCl, which can be cleaved into two fragments upon violet irradiation, is employed as a dynamic structural motif to regulate the cross-linking density of the hydrogel network. The resultant PhoCl-containing hydrogels showed photoresponsive viscoelastic properties. Upon violet irradiation, the PhoCl hydrogels soften, leading to an irreversible reduction in the storage moduli. However, no gel-sol transition was observed. Leveraging this light-induced stiffness change, we employed this hydrogel as a cell culture substrate to investigate the mechanobiological response of NIH-3T3 fibroblast cells. Our results showed that 3T3 cells can change their morphologies in response to the stiffness change of the PhoCl hydrogel substrate dynamically, rendering PhoCl-based hydrogels a useful substrate for other mechanobiological studies.

Gallic acid functionalized silk fibroin/gelatin composite wound dressing for enhanced wound healing

As the incidence of chronic wounds increases, the requirements for wound dressings are rising. The specific aim of this study is to propose a novel gallic acid (GA) functionalized silk fibroin (SF) and gelatin (Gel) composite wound dressing in which GA is used as an antibacterial and wound healing substance. Via electrospinning, SF, Gel, and GA mixed solutions could be conveniently fabricated into a composite nanofiber mat (SF-Gel-GA), consisting of uniform fibers with an average diameter around 134.57 ± 84 nm. The internal mesh structure of SF-Gel-GA provides sufficient drug loading capacity, proper moisture permeability, and proper degradation rate. SF-Gel-GA presents excellent biocompatibility. NIH-3T3 fibroblast cells could adhere and spread stably on the SF-Gel-GA surface with slightly promoted proliferation. In the presence of SF-Gel-GA, the growth of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, includingStaphylococcus aureusandPseudomonas aeruginosa, is significantly inhibited in both plate and suspension cultures. A cutaneous excisional mouse wound model proves the efficient ability of SF-Gel-GA to promote wound healing. Compared with pure SF dressing and commercial Tegaderm Hydrocolloid3Mdressing, the wound closure rate with SF-Gel-GA treatment is significantly improved. The histological assessments further demonstrate SF-Gel-GA could facilitate collagen deposition, neovascularization, and epithelialization at wound sites to promote wound healing. In conclusion, a novel SF-Gel-GA composite wound dressing with efficient wound healing activities have been developed for chronic wound treatment with broad healing potential.

Quercetin suppresses pyroptosis in mouse fibroblasts by inhibiting the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD pathway

To investigate whether quercetin inhibits pyroptosis of mouse fibroblast NIH-3T3 cells by regulating the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD signaling pathway. NIH-3T3 cells were treated with quercetin or MCC950 (a specific inhibitor of NLRP3) before stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and ATP to induce cell pyroptosis. The optimal quercetin concentration and duration were screened using the CCK-8assay after testing various concentrations and times. Morphological changes of the treated cells was observed, and the levels of IL-18 and IL-1β in the cell culture supernatant were detected with ELISA; the protein expressions of NLRP3, cleaved caspase-1, and GSDMD-N and the mRNA levels of NLRP3, caspase-1 and GSDMD were detected using Western blotting and qRT-PCR. The changes in cell pyroptosis were examined with TUNEL staining and LDH release assay. The CCK-8 assay indicated that 24-hour treatment with 20 μmol/L quercetin yielded the most favorable results. LPS and ATP stimulation of NIH-3T3 cells induced obvious swelling, cell membrane rupture and leakage of cell contents, significantly increased IL-18 and IL-1β levels, and enhanced protein expressions of NLRP3, cleaved caspase-1 and GSDMD-N and mRNA levels of NLRP3, caspase-1 and GSDMD. LPS and ATP stimulation also caused a significant increment of TUNEL-positive cell counts and LDH release in NIH-3T3 cells. Treatment with quercetin or MCC950 significantly reduced cell pyroptosis induced by LPS and ATP, lowered the concentrations of IL-18 and IL-1β, decreased the expression levels of NLRP3, caspase-1/cleaved caspase-1, GSDMD/GSDMD-N, and reduced the number of TUNEL-positive cells and LDH release. Quercetin suppresses pyroptosis of mouse fibroblasts stimulated with LPS and ATP and reduces secretion of inflammatory cytokines by inhibiting the NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD pathway.

Cell spheroid viscoelasticity is deformation-dependent

Tissue surface tension influences cell sorting and tissue fusion. Earlier mechanical studies suggest that multicellular spheroids actively reinforce their surface tension with applied force. Here we study this open question through high-throughput microfluidic micropipette aspiration measurements on cell spheroids to identify the role of force duration and spheroid deformability. In particular, we aspirate spheroid protrusions of mice fibroblast NIH3T3 and human embryonic HEK293T homogeneous cell spheroids into micron-sized capillaries for different pressures and monitor their viscoelastic creep behavior. We find that larger spheroid deformations lead to faster cellular retraction once the pressure is released, regardless of the applied force. Additionally, less deformable NIH3T3 cell spheroids with an increased expression level of alpha-smooth muscle actin, a cytoskeletal protein upregulating cellular contractility, also demonstrate slower cellular retraction after pressure release for smaller spheroid deformations. Moreover, HEK293T cell spheroids only display cellular retraction at larger pressures with larger spheroid deformations, despite an additional increase in viscosity at these larger pressures. These new insights demonstrate that spheroid viscoelasticity is deformation-dependent and challenge whether surface tension truly reinforces at larger aspiration pressures.

Synergistic Bactericidal Effect of Zn2+ Ions and Reactive Oxygen Species Generated in Response to Either UV or X-ray Irradiation of Zn-Doped Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation TiO2 Coatings.

Zn-containing TiO2-based coatings with Na, Ca, Si, and K additives were obtained by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) of Ti in order to achieve an effective and broad bactericidal protection without compromising biocompatibility. A protocol has been developed for cleaning the coating surface from electrolyte residues, ensuring the preservation of the microstructure and composition of the surface layer. Using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, three characteristic microstructural zones in the PEO-Zn coating are well documented: zone 1 with a TiO2-based nanocrystalline structure, zone 2 with an amorphous structure, and zone 3 around pores with an amorphous-nanocrystalline structure. The excellent cytocompatibility of PEO-Zn samples was confirmed by three different methods: monitoring the proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells, assessing the viability of sheep osteoblast cells using calcein-AM staining and fluorescence microscopy, and incubation with spheroids based on primary osteoblast cells and mouse embryonic fibroblast NIH3T3 cells. The PEO-Zn coatings absorb >60% of the incident light over the UV and Vis-NIR spectral ranges. After 24 h, the PEO-Zn coatings completely inactivate four types of strains: Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus CSA154 and ATCC29213 and Gram-negative Escherichia coli K261 and U20, and also prevent E. coli U20 and K261 biofilm formation. The superior antibacterial activity is associated with the synergistic effect of Zn2+ ions in safe concentration and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated in response to either UV irradiation or soft short-term X-ray irradiation. The X-ray irradiation-induced ROS formation by a PEO coating is reported for the first time. The enhanced bactericidal activity after X-ray irradiation compared to UV illumination is attributed to the more intense ROS generation in the first few hours. The results obtained significantly expand the possibilities of using PEO coatings on the surfaces of titanium implants.

Engineered bacterial cellulose-based Ag nanoparticles/g-C3N4/Eucalyptus extract nanocomposites for wound dressing: In vitro evaluation

In recent years, antibacterial wound dressings have gained considerable attention. Bacterial cellulose (BC) has received significant interest due to its unique physiochemical characteristics such as biocompatibility, high porosity, superior mechanical properties, water holding capacity, and nontoxicity. In this work, silver nanoparticles/graphitic carbon nitride/eucalyptus extract (Ag/gCN/EE) nanocomposite was synthesized as an antibacterial agent and incorporated into nanofibrous structures composed of BC. The BC/Ag/gCN/EE and polyvinyl alcohol/BC/Ag/gCN/EE (PVA/BC/Ag/gCN/EE) nanocomposites were synthesized using immersion and electrospinning methods, respectively. Then, the swelling ratio was optimized and the wound dressings were prepared based on the optimal formulation. The release profile, biodegradability and mechanical properties of the wound dressings were assessed. The antibacterial property of Ag/gCN/EE was studied demonstrating strong antibacterial activity on E. coli and S. aureus. MTT assay was carried out on NIH 3T3 fibroblast cells, and BC/Ag/gCN/EE and PVA/BC/Ag/gCN/EE nanocomposites showed 89 ± 2.31 % and 96 ± 3.28 % viability, respectively and no toxicity. To assess the effect of the composites on in vitro wound healing and cell migration, scratch wound assay was performed. The results indicated that after 24 h, BC/Ag/gCN/EE and PVA/BC/Ag/gCN/EE reduced 18.69 and 23.97 % of the scratch area compared to the control group. The prepared composites are promising wound dressings that could accelerate wound healing and kill bacteria simultaneously.

Formation of Zwitterionic and Self-Healable Hydrogels via Amino-yne Click Chemistry for Development of Cellular Scaffold and Tumor Spheroid Phantom for MRI.

In situ-forming biocompatible hydrogels have great potential in various medical applications. Here, we introduce a pH-responsive, self-healable, and biocompatible hydrogel for cell scaffolds and the development of a tumor spheroid phantom for magnetic resonance imaging. The hydrogel (pMAD) was synthesized via amino-yne click chemistry between poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine-co-2-aminoethylmethacrylamide) and dialkyne polyethylene glycol. Rheology analysis, compressive mechanical testing, and gravimetric analysis were employed to investigate the gelation time, mechanical properties, equilibrium swelling, and degradability of pMAD hydrogels. The reversible enamine and imine bond mechanisms leading to the sol-to-gel transition in acidic conditions (pH ≤ 5) were observed. The pMAD hydrogel demonstrated potential as a cellular scaffold, exhibiting high viability and NIH-3T3 fibroblast cell encapsulation under mild conditions (37 °C, pH 7.4). Additionally, the pMAD hydrogel also demonstrated the capability for in vitro magnetic resonance imaging of glioblastoma tumor spheroids based on the chemical exchange saturation transfer effect. Given its advantages, the pMAD hydrogel emerges as a promising material for diverse biomedical applications, including cell carriers, bioimaging, and therapeutic agent delivery.

Evaluating some <i>in vitro</i> bioactivities of ethanol extract from <i>Ageratum conyzoidesin</i> L. leaves collected in Vietnam in supporting skin wound treatment

Ageratum conyzoides L. is widely used for the treatment of skin wound in some communities in Asia, Africa, and South America, including in Vietnam. In this study, we demonstrated that the 70% ethanol extract of A. conyzoides L. leaves collected in Bidoup National Park, Nui Ba, Lam Dong, Vietnam had some properties that would be advantageous for the treatment of skin wounds. Firstly, we found that the extract contained 64.9±2.58 mgGAE/gE polyphenols and 79.33±1.03 mgQE/gE flavonoids, and had antioxidant activity with the IC50 of 131.74±2.67 µg/mL. This extract was also proven to have antimicrobial activities against some pathogenic bacteria, including S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. faecalis, and E. coli. We also demonstrated that this extract could inhibit the generation of nitric oxide in LPS-activated Raw 264.7 cells, indicating its in vitro anti-inflammatory activity. And finally, for the first time, we found that the ethanol extract of A. conyzoides leaves could promote the proliferation of fibroblast NIH-3T3 cell line. All together, these findings support the traditional use of this plant in skin wound treatment.

Xanthan gum and chitosan polyelectrolyte hydrogels with self-reinforcement of Zn+2 for wound dressing applications

A straightforward methodology was employed for the self-reinforcement of zinc ions (Zn+2) within the polyelectrolyte complexation of xanthan gum (XG) and chitosan (CS) using D (+)-glucuronic acid-δ-lactone (GDL) as an acidifying agent in aqueous environment. The self-reinforcement and polyelectrolyte complexation between XG and CS was primarily achieved by maintaining acidic conditions through the use of GDL. GDL produces H+ ions, not only in converting ZnO to Zn+2 ions but also in facilitating the polyelectrolyte complexation between XG and CS. The confirmation of Zn+2 self-reinforcement was evident through the disappearance of ZnO, as observed in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction patterns. The compressive properties of self-reinforced Zn+2 within XG-CS hydrogels were evaluated, and their compressive strength was found to depend significantly on the reinforcement of ZnO nanoparticles. Incorporating 1 wt% ZnO improved the compressive strength of the hydrogels, decreasing further with an increasing amount of ZnO (3 wt%), as confirmed by compressive analysis. Detailed SEM images conclusively demonstrated The hydrogels porous structure, and elemental analysis verified the presence of Zn+2 ions. The antibacterial activity of Zn+2 reinforced XG-CS hydrogel showed excellent antibacterial activity towards both positive and negative bacteria. Furthermore, the biocompatibility analysis was assessed through an in vitro study that confirmed good biocompatibility towards NIH3T3 fibroblast cells. Thus, a robust inhibitory effect of bacterial growth and biocompatibility of developed hydrogels hold promise in advanced wound dressings for infected wounds.

Comparative bioactivity assessment of bixin pigment and associated phytochemicals extracted from annatto seeds using conventional and green solvents.

Nutraceuticals, that include food ingredients and bioactives from natural products, confer physiological health benefits and protection against chronic diseases. Annatto is a tropical shrub grown in Central and South America and parts of India. Its seeds are rich in the edible carotenoid-derived apocarotenoid pigment, bixin, which is used as a natural colorant in food, textiles, and cosmetics, and is now gaining attention for its potential health-promoting attributes. Here, we compared a green solvent (ethyl lactate) based extraction of bixin and associated metabolites in annatto seeds (crushed and seed coat) with two other conventional solvents (acetone and acid-base). Bixin was characterized in the extracts using UV-visible- and FTIR-spectroscopy and thin-layer chromatography. The bixin-containing solvent extracts were then profiled for other co-existing metabolites using GC-MS analysis, which were found to be sesquiterpenes, terpenes, terpenoids, phytosterols, and tocotrienols. Their bioactivity was evaluated based on antioxidant and wound-healing efficacies and compared with pure bixin, using NIH-3T3 fibroblast cells in-vitro. Pure bixin, as well as the annatto solvent extracts, showed strong antioxidant and wound healing properties, wherein pure bixin and green solvent extract (ethyl lactate coat) exhibited higher levels of antioxidant activity, achieving 46.00% and 44.60% reduction in MDA levels, respectively, as well as enhanced wound-healing activity, with 54.09% and 53.60% wound closure within 24 h. The green solvent extracts of annatto seeds revealed: (a) differential bioactive profiles in annatto seeds (crushed and seed coat) in comparison with other solvents, and (b) strong antioxidant and wound healing properties. Thus, ethyl lactate extraction shows strong potential for sustainable environmental friendly production of functional foods/nutraceuticals from annatto seeds.

Chitosan films synthesized via thiol-ene click chemistry: Toward safe and versatile platforms for packaging, cosmetics and biomedical applications

The first synthesis of chitosan-based films using bio-based reticulating agents via Thiol-Michael addition click reaction was described, along with their successful application in packaging, cosmetics, and biomedical fields. The impact of chitosan (CS) concentration and the type of synthesized bio-sourced biacids (GD) and triacids (GT and TT) on the physicochemical properties of these films were assessed. Films prepared with dibasic and tribasic acids (4%-CS) demonstrated superior mechanical properties and lower solubility compared to those containing 2% CS. The incorporation of the bio-sourced GD, GT, and TT acids led to a reduction of 53%, 60% and 60.4%, respectively, in the water vapor permeability (WVP) of 4% CS-based films compared to the control film. Remarkably, CS-TT-4% films exhibited the highest mechanical strength (TS), elongation at break (%E), elasticity, water vapor, and light barrier properties. Cytotoxicity tests performed on the NIH 3T3 fibroblast cell line showed that CS-GD-4% films exhibited the highest compatibility. The efficiency of these films as drug carriers was tested with challenging anticancer and cosmetic molecules, particularly etoposide (ETP) caffeine (Caf), showing very high drug loading with a progressive release of less than 20% after 72h of incubation. Moreover, ex-vivo permeation studies in rat skin revealed that the percutaneous absorption of Caf is significantly increased by a factor of 5.5 compared to that of CS-GD-4%-Caf films with no significant histological alterations of skin layers. Altogether, this work evidences the most suitable casting solvent for developing safe chitosan films, promising their potential applications in the cosmetic and biomedical fields.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate-synthesized gold nanoparticles modulate reactive oxygen species and antioxidant parameters in brain and heart tissues using a chicken embryo model

Chemically synthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) come with drawbacks, such as biological toxicity and ecological imbalances. Nonetheless, a knowledge gap remains regarding their impact on oxidative and antioxidant parameters. Here, environmentally friendly AuNPs were synthesized using epigallocatechin-3-gallate (AuNPs-EGCG). The successful synthesis of AuNPs-EGCG were confirmed using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. Antioxidant activity was assessed using free radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, oxygen radical absorbance capacity, and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays, while cytotoxicity properties were evaluated in the NIH3T3 fibroblast cells. Furthermore, the impact of AuNPs-EGCG on oxidative stress was investigated in the hearts and brains of chicken embryos. AuNPs-EGCG exhibited no cytotoxicity and was not toxic for chicken embryos at higher concentrations. However, exposure to lower concentrations (100 and 30 μg/mL) caused an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and a decrease in total antioxidant capacity in the heart and brain, resulting in a disturbance in the redox balance attributed to a reduction in catalase activity and glutathione (GSH) content, and an increase in glutathione peroxidase activity. In contrast, AuNPs-EGCG at 300 μg/mL promoted an increase in GSH levels and modulation of ROS, while also reducing vascular density in the chorioallantoic membrane. Furthermore, AuNPs-EGCG did not cause lipid or protein oxidation. The present study offers evidence that supports the investigation of how AuNPs-EGCG can modulate antioxidant defense mechanisms and assess the safety of phytoantioxidant-functionalized nanoparticles in vivo. This may lead to new and innovative strategies for the utilization of nanomaterials in biological systems.

Enhancing cellular behavior in repaired tissue via silk fibroin-integrated triboelectric nanogenerators

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have emerged as a promising approach for generating electricity and providing electrical stimuli in medical electronic devices. Despite their potential benefits, the clinical implementation of TENGs faces challenges such as skin compliance and a lack of comprehensive assessment regarding their biosafety and efficacy. Therefore, further research is imperative to overcome these limitations and unlock the full potential of TENGs in various biomedical applications. In this study, we present a flexible silk fibroin-based triboelectric nanogenerator (SFB-TENG) that features an on-skin substrate and is characterized by excellent skin compliance and air/water permeability. The range of electrical output generated by the SFB-TENG was shown to facilitate the migration and proliferation of Hy926, NIH-3T3 and RSC96 cells. However, apoptosis of fibroblast NIH-3T3 cells was observed when the output voltage increased to more than 20 V at a frequency of 2 Hz. In addition, the moderate electrical stimulation provided by the SFB-TENG promoted the cell proliferation cycle in Hy926 cells. This research highlights the efficacy of a TENG system featuring a flexible and skin-friendly design, as well as its safe operating conditions for use in biomedical applications. These findings position TENGs as highly promising candidates for practical applications in the field of tissue regeneration.

Tissue engineered multifunctional chitosan-modified polypropylene hernia mesh loaded with bioactive phyto-extracts

Surface modified tissue engineered polypropylene / PP hernia meshes were fabricated by incorporating Bacterial cellulose / BC and chitosan / CS and phytochemical extracts. Under current practice, hernia and other traumatic injuries to the abdominal organs are clinically treated with surgical meshes. Often the foreign body reaction and infections result in relapse in patients which dictates additional reparative surgical procedures and pain. To improve the outcome of clinical restorative procedures new biomaterials with improved characteristics are required. The functionalized meshes were physically and chemically characterized using SEM, mechanical testing, FTIR and XRD. The antimicrobial activity was qualitatively and quantitatively tested using E. coli and S. aureus strains of bacteria. In vitro biocompatibility and wound healing effect of the modified meshes were performed using NIH3T3 fibroblast cell lines. Furthermore, tissue engineering potential of the meshes was evaluated using confocal fluorescent microscopy. In vivo implantation of the meshes was performed in male wistar rats for 21 days. Therefore, PP meshes with sustained drug delivery system augmented with anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial characteristics were developed. The coatings hereby not only increased the tensile strength of meshes but also prevented the modified meshes from causing infection. Current study resulted in CS-BC bioactive PP meshes loaded with phytochemicals which showed anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and wound healing potential. These meshes can be valuable to lessen the post-surgical complications of implanted PP mesh and thus reduce rejection and recurrence.

Arabinoxylan-based psyllium seed hydrocolloid: Single-step aqueous extraction and use in tissue engineering

Biomacromolecules derived from natural sources offer superior biocompatibility, biodegradability, and water-holding capacity, which make them promising scaffolds for tissue engineering. Psyllium seed has gained attention in biomedical applications recently due to its gel-forming ability, which is provided by its polysaccharide-rich content consisting mostly of arabinoxylan. This study focuses on the extraction and gelation of Psyllium seed hydrocolloid (PSH) in a single-step water-based protocol, and scaffold fabrication using freeze-drying method. After characterization of the scaffold, including morphological, mechanical, swelling, and protein adsorption analyses, 3D cell culture studies were done using NIH-3 T3 fibroblast cells on PSH scaffold, and cell viability was assessed using Live/Dead and Alamar Blue assays. Starting from day 1, high cell viability was obtained, and it reached 90 % at the end of 15-day culture period. Cellular morphology on PSH scaffold was monitored via SEM analysis; cellular aggregates then spheroid formation were observed throughout the study. Collagen Type-I and F-actin expressions were followed by immunostaining revealing a 9- and 10-fold increase during long-term culture. Overall, a single-step and non-toxic protocol was developed for extraction and gelation of PSH. Obtained results unveiled that PSH scaffold provided a favorable 3D microenvironment for cells, holding promise for further tissue engineering applications.

A self-healing crosslinked-xanthan gum/soy protein based film containing halloysite nanotube and propolis with antibacterial and antioxidant activity for wound healing

Traumatic multidrug-resistant bacterial infections are the most threat to wound healing. Lower extremity wounds under diabetic conditions display a significant delay during the healing process. To overcome these challenges, the utilization of protein-based nanocomposite dressings is crucial in implementing a successful regenerative medicine approach. These dressings hold significant potential as polymer scaffolds, allowing them to mimic the properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM). So, the objective of this study was to develop a nanocomposite film using dialdehyde-xanthan gum/soy protein isolate incorporated with propolis (PP) and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) (DXG-SPI/PP/HNTs). In this protein-polysaccharide hybrid system, the self-healing capability was demonstrated through Schiff bonds, providing a favorable environment for cell encapsulation in the field of tissue engineering. To improve the properties of the DXG-SPI film, the incorporation of polyphenols found in PP, particularly flavonoids, is proposed. The synthesized films were subjected to investigations regarding degradation, degree of swelling, and mechanical characteristics. Additionally, halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were introduced into the DXG-SPI/PP nanocomposite films as a reinforcing filler with varying concentrations of 3 %, 5 %, and 7 % by weight. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis confirmed the proper embedding and dispersion of HNTs onto the DXG-SPI/PP nanocomposite films, leading to functional interfacial interactions. The structure and crystallinity of the synthesized nanocomposite films were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively.Moreover, the developed DXG-SPI/PP/HNTs nanocomposite films significantly improved cell growth of NIH-3T3 fibroblast cells in the presence of PP and HNTs, indicating their cytocompatibility. The antibacterial activity of the nanocomposite was evaluated against Escherichia coli (E. Coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. Aureus), which are commonly associated with wound infections. Overall, our findings suggest that the synthesis of DXG-SPI/PP/HNTs nanocomposite scaffolds holds great promise as a clinically relevant biomaterial and exhibits strong potential for numerous challenging biomedical applications.

Levofloxacin loaded poly (ethylene oxide)-chitosan/quercetin loaded poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) core-shell electrospun nanofibers for burn wound healing.

This study developed a new burn wound dressing based on core-shell nanofibers that co-deliver antibiotic and antioxidant drugs. For this purpose, poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)-chitosan (CS)/poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) core-shell nanofibers were fabricated through co-axial electrospinning technique. Antibiotic levofloxacin (LEV) and antioxidant quercetin (QS) were incorporated into the core and shell parts of PEO-CS/PLGA nanofibers, respectively. The drugs could bond to the polymer chains through hydrogen bonding, leading to their steady release for 168h. An in vitro drug release study showed a burst effect followed by sustained release of LEV and QS from the nanofibers due to the Fickian diffusion. The NIH 3T3 fibroblast cell viability of the drug loaded core-shell nanofibers was comparable to that in the control (tissue culture polystyrene) implying biocompatibility of the nanofibers and their cell supportive role. However, there was no significant difference in cell viability between the drug loaded and drug free core-shell nanofibers. According to in vivo experiments, PEO-CS-LEV/PLGA-QS core-shell nanofibers could accelerate the healing process of a burn wound compared to a sterile gauze. Thanks to the synergistic therapeutic effect of LEV and QS, a significantly higher wound closure rate was recorded for the drug loaded core-shell nanofibrous dressing than the drug free nanofibers and control. Conclusively, PEO-CS-LEV/PLGA-QS core-shell nanofibers were shown to be a promising wound healing material that could drive the healing cascade through local co-delivery of LEV and QS to burn wounds.

Dual therapeutic approach: Biodegradable nanofiber scaffolds of silk fibroin and collagen combined with silver and gold nanoparticles for enhanced bacterial infections treatment and accelerated wound healing

The development of novel multifunctional wound healing materials based on natural bioactives has garnered significant interest in recent years due to their ability to stimulate the healing process and alleviate problems associated with standard wound dressings. In the presented work, a bimetallic combination of silver (Ag) and gold (Au) nanoparticles incorporated into silk fibroin (SF) and collagen (CL) composite nanofiber (CNF) using the electrospinning technique. The physicochemical investigations confirmed the successful integration of Ag and Au nanoparticles sizes of approximately 6.76 nm and 9.75 nm, with an average nanofiber diameter of 189.46 ± 108.73 nm. The evaluation of composite nanofiber treated in the in vitro antibacterial tests zone of inhibition value S. aureus (17 mm) and E. coli (18 mm). Additionally, we analyzed the cell proliferation study using NIH3T3 fibroblast cell line treated with the composite nanofiber material. The SF/CL/Ag–Au composite nanofiber exhibited the highest level of cell proliferation compared to other matrices. This increased cell proliferation offers significant advantages in wound healing applications. Furthermore, in vivo study on wound healing activity in Sprague-Dawley rats demonstrated a remarkable healing percentage of 98.85%. These findings collectively highlight the promising potential of the SF/CL/Ag–Au composite nanofiber in promoting accelerated wound healing. The composite nanofibers demonstrated remarkable hemocompatibility of erythrocyte lysis percentages varying between 1.5% and 3.9%. Besides, swelling tests revealed that the material can absorb exudates from wound sites, facilitating tissue regeneration and cell adhesion. Finally, this research highlights the potential of the SF/CL/Ag–Au composite nanofiber excellent antibacterial activity, highest biocompatibility, enhanced wound healing, and highly suitable for various biomedical applications.

Enhancing Bone Implants: Magnesium-Doped Hydroxyapatite for Stronger, Bioactive, and Biocompatible Applications.

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) with the chemical formula Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2 is an inorganic material that exhibits morphology and composition similar to those of human bone tissues, making it highly desirable for bone regeneration applications. As one of the most biocompatible materials currently in use, HAp has undergone numerous attempts to enhance its mechanical strength. This research focuses on investigating the influence of magnesium (Mg) incorporation on the structural and mechanical properties of synthesized magnesium-doped hydroxyapatite (MgHAp) samples. Apart from its biocompatibility, Mg possesses a density and elasticity comparable to those of human bone. Therefore, incorporating Mg into HAp can be pivotal for improving bone formation. Previous studies have not extensively explored the structural changes induced by Mg substitution in HAp, which motivated us to revisit this issue. Hydrothermal synthesis technique was used to synthesize MgHAp samples with varying molar concentrations (x = 0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5). Theoretical simulation of HAp and MgHAp for obtaining 3D structures has been done, and theoretical X-ray diffraction (XRD) data have been compared with the experimental XRD data. Rietveld analysis revealed the alteration and deviation of lattice parameters with an increase in the Mg content, which ultimately affect the structure as well the mechanical properties of prepared samples. The findings revealed an increase in compressive stress and fracture toughness as the Mg concentration in the composition increased. Furthermore, using a finite-element analysis technique and modeling of the mechanical testing data, the von Mises stress distribution and Young's modulus values were calculated, demonstrating the similarity of the prepared samples to human cortical bone. Biocompatibility assessments using NIH-3T3 fibroblast cells confirmed the biocompatible and bioactive nature of the synthesized samples. MgHAp exhibits great potential for biomedical applications in the dental, orthopedic, and tissue engineering research fields.

Commercial Wheat and Oat Flour Derived Fluorescent Carbon Quantum Dots through Sustainable Hydrothermal Synthesis and Their Biological Activities

AbstractIn this study, we utilized processed edible commercial wheat and oat flours to synthesize highly fluorescent carbon dots using green hydrothermal synthesis. The as‐synthesized carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were characterized using UV‐vis spectrophotometry, photoluminescence spectrophotometry, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The synthesized wheat‐CQDs (W‐CQDs) and oat‐CQDs (O‐CQDs) had monodispersed spherical shapes with average sizes of 3–8 and 5–10 nm, respectively, and exhibited strong fluorescence intensity and excitation‐dependent photoluminescence. The W‐CQDs and O‐CQDs were highly dispersed in aqueous solutions and exhibited bright green and blue fluorescence, respectively, under UV light (λex=380 and 370 nm). Both CQDs contained abundant functional groups, including amino, hydroxyl, and carboxyl groups, which may play a major role in biological applications. The W‐CQDs and O‐CQDs showed good free‐radical scavenging capacity in the 2,2‐diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and H2O2 assays. The anti‐inflammatory activities of W‐CQDs and O‐CQDs were more effective than that of the standard, with EC50 values of 1.8 and 1.3 mg/mL, respectively, in the protein denaturation assay. Additionally, the CQDs exhibited low cytotoxicity toward NIH3T3 fibroblast and human HeLa cervical cancer cells when treated with a 5‐mg/mL concentration. Therefore, green‐synthesized W‐CQDs and O‐CQDs are easily available, less cytotoxic, and applicable to therapeutic and cell nanocarrier purposes.