Nanoparticles Research Articles

Phytogenic Synthesis of Cuprous and Cupric Oxide Nanoparticles Using Black jack Leaf Extract: Antibacterial Effects and Their Computational Docking Insights

Background: Green synthesized nanoparticles (NPs) have gained increasing popularity in recent times due to their broad spectrum of antimicrobial properties. This study aimed to develop a phytofabrication approach for producing cuprous (Cu2O) and cupric oxide (CuO) NPs using a simple, non-hazardous process and to examine their antimicrobial properties. Methods: The synthesis employed Bidens pilosa plant extract as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent, alongside copper chloride dihydrate as the precursor. The biosynthesized NPs were characterized through various techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Results: XRD analysis confirmed that the synthesized CuO and Cu2O NPs exhibited a high degree of crystallinity, with crystal structures corresponding to monoclinic and face-centered cubic systems. SEM images revealed that the NPs displayed distinct spherical and sponge-like morphologies. EDS analysis further validated the purity of the synthesized CuO NPs. The antimicrobial activity of the CuO and Cu2O NPs was tested against various pathogenic bacterial strains, including Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus cereus, with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) used to gauge their effectiveness. Conclusions: The results showed that the phytosynthesized NPs had promising antibacterial properties, particularly the Cu2O NPs, which, with a larger crystal size of 68.19 nm, demonstrated significant inhibitory effects across all tested bacterial species. These findings suggest the potential of CuO and Cu2O NPs as effective antimicrobial agents produced via green synthesis.

Nanocząstki krzemu w zrównoważonym rolnictwie

The increasing population, shrinking arable land, and climate change prompt the search for new solutions in agriculture. In a sustainable approach, agriculture should be based on improving the quality and quantity of yields while maintaining biodiversity and protecting the natural environment. Nanotechnology, present in many areas of our lives, offers opportunities to support the development of sustainable agriculture on many levels. Among the numerous solutions and nanomaterials, silicon, which is a natural component of the ecosystem, deserves special attention. In its nanoparticle form, it acquires new, unique properties. This article focuses on the significant role of silicon nanoparticles in organic farming, with particular emphasis on their function as nanofertilizers. The authors analyze the impact of silicon nanoparticles on plant growth and development and their potential in mitigating the negative effects of abiotic stress factors caused by drought, salinity, and exposure to metals. Additionally, the beneficial effects of silicon nanoparticles on plants growing under biotic stress conditions induced by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi are presented. The paper includes a review of original research results conducted in recent years in this area, as well as possible mechanisms and strategies of silicon nanoparticle action at the physiological, cellular, and molecular levels. The issue of the safety of using nanoparticles in agriculture and the prospects for their further use as a factor enhancing the resistance and productivity of crops are also discussed.

Effects of Silver Nanoparticles on Ctenopharyngodon idella: Synthesis, Characterization, Antibacterial Activity, and Toxicological Assessment

ABSTRACTCurrently, nanotechnology (NT) and nanoparticles (NPs) have gained significant attention in the scientific field due to their diverse application history. Particularly, in environmental applications, their antibacterial efficiency in fisheries due to antibacterial resistance. However, the NPs have been found toxic in the environment. Therefore, the current study aimed to fabricate less toxic NPs using environmentally dried leaves to check their antibacterial efficacy and possible toxicity against grass carp. The findings confirmed the good dispersity of obtained AgNPs, which further showed promising antibacterial activity against several bacterial isolates including Staphylococcus with a zone of inhibition (23.73 ± 0.57 nm). Also, the AgNPs were exposed to the grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) for possible toxicity and toxic effects. First, the bioaccumulation of AgNPs was significantly observed in gills followed by intestines and muscles (p < 0.05). Finally, the AgNPs mainly accumulate in the liver, followed by the intestine, gills, and muscles. Additionally, the deposition of AgNPs in various organs resulted in histological alteration such as necrosis and infiltration of red blood cells in the intestine and the fusion of gill lamella. Hence, the synthesized NPs using dried leaf extract could be a promising approach in applied science. The significant features of the nanoparticles in the present work using green synthesis can help in synthesizing less toxic materials.

Coaxially Bi/ZnO@ZnSe Array Photocathode Enables Highly Efficient CO2 to C1 Conversion via Long-lived High-energy Photoelectrons.

The key aspect of the photoelectrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (PEC CO2 RR) lies in designing cathode materials that can generate high-energy photoelectrons, enabling the activation and conversion of CO2 into high-value products. In this study, a coaxially wrapped ZnO@ZnSe array heterostructure was synthesized using a simple anion exchange strategy and metallic Bi nanoparticles (NPs) were subsequently deposited on the surface to construct a Bi/ZnO@ZnSe photocathode with high CO2 conversion capability. This array photocathode possesses a large aspect ratio, which simultaneously satisfies a low charge carrier migration path and a large specific surface area that facilitates mass transfer. Additionally, the barrier formed at the n-n heterojunction interface hinders the transfer of high-energy photoelectrons from ZnSe to lower energy levels, resulting in their rapid capture by Bi while maintaining a relatively long lifetime. These captured electrons act as active sites, efficiently converting CO2 into CO with a Faradaic efficiency above 88.9 % at -0.9 V vs. RHE and demonstrating superior stability. This work provides a novel approach for synthesizing high-energy photoelectrode materials with long lifetimes.

Preparation and Evaluation of pH-Sensitive Chitosan/Alginate Nanohybrid Mucoadhesive Hydrogel Beads: An Effective Approach to a Gastro-Retentive Drug Delivery System

Background: Despite extensive research over the decades, cancer therapy is still a great challenge because of the non-specific delivery of chemotherapeutic agents, which could be overcome by limiting the distribution of chemotherapeutic agents toward cancer cells. Objective: To reduce the cytolytic effects against cancer cells, graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles (NPs) can load anticancer medicines and genetic tools. Methodology: During the current study, folic-acid-conjugated graphene oxide (Fa-GO) hybrid mucoadhesive chitosan (CS)-based hydrogel beads were fabricated through an “ion-gelation process”, which allows for regulated medication release at malignant pH. Results: The fabricated chitosan–alginate (SA-CS) hydrogel beads were examined using surface morphology, optical microscopy, XRD, FTIR, and homogeneity analysis techniques. The size analysis indicated that the size of the Fa-GO was up to 554.2 ± 95.14 nm, whereas the beads were of a micrometer size. The folic acid conjugation was confirmed by NMR. The results showed that the craggy edges of the graphene oxide were successfully encapsulated in a polymeric matrix. The mucoadhesive properties were enhanced with the increase in the CS concentration. The nanohybrid SA-CS beads exhibited good swelling properties, and the drug release was 68.29% at pH 5.6 during a 24 h investigation. The accelerated stability study, according to ICH guidelines, indicated that the hydrogel beads have a shelf-life of more than two years. Conclusions: Based on the achieved results, it can be concluded that this novel gastro-retentive delivery system may be a viable and different way to improve the stomach retention of anticancer agents and enhance their therapeutic effectiveness.

Navigating the nano-bio immune interface: advancements and challenges in CNS nanotherapeutics

In recent years, significant advancements have been made in utilizing nanoparticles (NPs) to modulate immune responses within the central nervous system (CNS), offering new opportunities for nanotherapeutic interventions in neurological disorders. NPs can serve as carriers for immunomodulatory agents or platforms for delivering nucleic acid-based therapeutics to regulate gene expression and modulate immune responses. Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of NP-mediated immune modulation in preclinical models of neurological diseases, including multiple sclerosis, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. While challenges remain, advancements in NPs engineering and design have led to the development of NPs using diverse strategies to overcome these challenges. The nano-bio interface with the immune system is key in the conceptualization of NPs to efficiently act as nanotherapeutics in the CNS. The biomolecular corona plays a pivotal role in dictating NPs behavior and immune recognition within the CNS, giving researchers the opportunity to optimize NPs design and surface modifications to minimize immunogenicity and enhance biocompatibility. Here, we review how NPs interact with the CNS immune system, focusing on immunosurveillance of NPs, NP-induced immune reprogramming and the impact of the biomolecular corona on NPs behavior in CNS immune responses. The integration of NPs into CNS nanotherapeutics offers promising opportunities for addressing the complex challenges of acute and chronic neurological conditions and pathologies, also in the context of preventive and rehabilitative medicine. By harnessing the nano-bio immune interface and understanding the significance of the biomolecular corona, researchers can develop targeted, safe, and effective nanotherapeutic interventions for a wide range of CNS disorders to improve treatment and rehabilitation. These advancements have the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape of neurological diseases, offering promising solutions for improved patient care and quality of life in the future.

Skin Sensitization Potential of Sensitizers in the Presence of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles In Vitro

Silica (SiO2), titanium dioxide (TiO2), and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) are widely used in dermal products. Their skin sensitization potential, especially their effects in combination with known sensitizers, is poorly studied in vitro and their sensitization inconsistently reported in animal studies. In this study, cellular assays were used to identify different steps of sensitization, the activation of keratinocytes and dendritic cells, when cells were exposed to these NPs in the absence and presence of sensitizers. Cellular systems included HaCaT keratinocytes and U937 (U-SENS™) alone, as well as different co-culture systems of THP-1 cells with HaCaT cells (COCAT) and with primary keratinocytes. The effect of NPs differed between co-cultures and U-SENS™, whereas co-cultures with either primary keratinocytes or HaCaT cells responded similarly. Pre-exposure to ZnO NPs increased the U-SENS™ assay response to 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene six-fold. The COCAT increase was maximally four-fold for the combination of SiO2 and trans cinnamaldehyde. When the THP-1 cells were separated from the keratinocytes by a membrane, the response of the co-culture system was more similar to U-SENS™. The direct contact with keratinocytes decreased the modulating effect of TiO2 and ZnO NPs but suggested an increase in response to sensitizers following dermal contact with SiO2 NPs.

Nanoparticle containing recombinant excretory/secretory-24 protein of Haemonchus contortus enhanced the cellular immune responses in mice

Haemonchus contortus poses a global challenge as a parasite affecting small ruminants, yet the problem of absence of an effective vaccine against H. contortus infection still exists. This investigation sought to appraise the immunological reaction induced by recombinant H. contortus excretory/secretory-24 (rHcES-24) in combination with complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) and bio-polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) within a murine model. In this study, rHcES-24 was encapsulated in poly(d, l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) and chitosan (CS) NPs, administered subcutaneously to mice. Researchers analyzed the NPs using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and assessed lymphocyte proliferation, specific antibodies, cytokines, T cell proliferation (CD3e+CD4+, CD3e+CD8a+), and phenotypic alteration in splenocytes (CD11c+CD83+, CD11c+CD86+) through flow cytometry to understand the immune response. The results demonstrated that the administration of nanovaccines (NVs) prompted immune responses towards Th1 pathway. This was indicated by notable enhancements in the production of specific antibodies, heightened cytokine levels, and a robust proliferation of lymphocytes observed in mice that received the NVs compared to control groups. Remarkably, mice vaccinated with the antigen-loaded NPs formulations exhibited considerably higher proportions of splenic dendritic cells (DCs) and T cells in comparison to those receiving the traditional adjuvant or the control groups. Incorporating HcES-24 protein into NPs effectively conferred immunity against H. contortus, paving the way for developing a targeted and commercial vaccine.

Comparison of ZnO Nanoparticles Prepared by Spray Pyrolysis and Consecutive Method for UV-Driven Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue

ZnO is a semiconductor material that is widely used for many applications in industries such as solar cells, dye-sensitized solar cells, food packaging, photocatalytic, anti-microbial, light-emitting diode devices, and gas sensors. In this study, ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) have been successfully synthesized using two methods, namely spray pyrolysis and a consecutive method. The consecutive method is a combination of sol-gel and spray drying methods. The objective of this study is to investigate the photocatalytic performance of ZnO fabricated using those methods. Both methods used the same precursor, zinc acetate dehydrate as a source of zinc, but with different solvents and additives. Based on the X-ray diffraction pattern, the ZnO NPs synthesized using spray pyrolysis and a consecutive method exhibited similar polycrystalline hexagonal wurtzite structures. The large crystal sizes of ZnO NPs were obtained using a consecutive method, sol-gel followed by spray drying, in comparison with those from the ZnO spray pyrolysis. In contrast, the particle size of ZnO prepared by the consecutive method was in a smaller range. The SEM analysis implied that the ZnO structures had surface defects. In the UV-driven photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue, ZnO produced by the consecutive method exhibited slightly higher degradation performance than ZnO spray pyrolysis. This performance was attributed to the larger crystal size of ZnO NPs, which provided a longer carrier movement at semiconductor surfaces and reduced electron-hole recombination. Additionally, ZnO NPs produced using the consecutive method underwent agglomeration that leads to a smaller contact surface with methylene blue, obstructing the degradation process.

Innovative synthesis of YF3‐TiO2 acid‐base catalysts with high surface area by embedding yttrium trifluoride nanoparticles in TiO2 metallogel

Combining a water‐tolerant oxide such as TiO2 with yttrium fluoride is expected to provide catalysts with enhanced acid‐base properties for catalytic applications in water. We present here a new strategy of incorporating pre‐formed YF3 nanoparticles (NPs) in a TiO2‐based metallogel, followed by its soft drying at room temperature to produce YF3‐TiO2 xerogel with high surface area. The as‐synthesized YF3‐TiO2 materials were calcinated at 300 and 400 and characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), 19F NMR and N2 physisorption, calorimetry of NH3 adsorption, and FT‐IR of pyridine adsorption. These studies indicate that the fluorine is present under a stable form of YF3 for the catalysts calcined at 300 °C. The acid‐base properties of these YF3‐TiO2 catalysts were investigated in a model reaction, i.e., dihydroxyacetone (DHA) conversion in water, and compared with the blank TiO2 and YF3 NPs alone. The incorporation of YF3 in the TiO2 matrix leads to enhanced initial rate of DHA dehydration into pyruvaldehyde, which is slowly converted to lactic acid as the reaction progresses. This suggests that the Brønsted acidity was boosted by the presence of YF3 species via water adsorption in a dissociative form.

Dual action tofacitinib-loaded PLGA nanoparticles alleviate colitis in an IBD mouse model

AbstractInflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects over 7 million people worldwide and significant side effects are associated with current therapies such as tofacitinib citrate (TFC), which is linked to increased risks of malignancy and congestive heart issues. To mitigate these systemic adverse effects, localised drug delivery via nano-sized carriers to inflamed gut tissues represents a promising approach. Herein, we aimed to optimise the synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) using a low molecular weight grade of Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) 50:50 loaded with TFC. This approach leverages the dual anti-inflammatory action of TFC and the local production of anti-inflammatory short-chain fatty acids from the degradation of PLGA by colonic gut microbiota. NPs were produced by nanoprecipitation and characterised for their drug release profile in vitro. The efficacy of the enhanced PLGA-TFC NPs was then tested in a C57BL/6 DSS colitis mouse model. The release profile of TFC from the enhanced PLGA NPs showed a 40% burst release within the first hour, followed by up to 80% drug release in the colonic environment. Notably, the degradation of PLGA by colonic gut microbiota did not significantly influence TFC release. In the mouse model, neither PLGA NPs alone nor TFC alone showed significant effects on weight loss compared to the TFC-loaded PLGA NPs, emphasising the enhanced efficacy potential of the combined formulation. Altogether, these results suggest a promising role of NP delivery systems in enhancing TFC efficacy, marking a significant step towards reducing dosage and associated side effects in IBD treatment. This study underscores the potential of PLGA-TFC NPs in providing targeted and effective therapy for IBD. Graphical Abstract

EXTH-71. A MECHANISTIC INVESTIGATION INTO AUGER THERAPY: 2-DIMENSIONAL THIN-FILMS TO CHARACTERIZE THERAPEUTIC RANGEIN VITRO

Abstract Metallic nanoparticles can improve the accuracy and effectiveness of conventional radiotherapy in the treatment of solid tumors through a light-matter interaction known as the Auger effect. In this work, we present the assembly of an iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticle (NPs) layer within a biocompatible polyelectrolyte film using ionic self-assembly to enable the spatial separation of NPs from their target cells. Films exhibited uniform nanoparticle coverage as well as strong stability in cell culture conditions. To investigate the applicability of NMDR with non-internalized NPs, conditions with (NP-PEM) and without (PEM) embedded nanoparticles were used to evaluate the therapeutic effect of physically separated nanoparticles on cells cultured on the film surface via a measure of intracellular reactive oxygen (ROS) generation and histone phosphorylation (yH2AX) after irradiation from a 137Cesium source. Cells cultured on NP-PEM demonstrated a 78.4% increase in ROS generation when compared to cells cultured on PEM films. When adjusting for cell count, NP-PEM films induce 70.5% greater ROS generation. In investigating nanoparticle-mediated deposition of radiation (NMDR), these films allow for the determination of the extent of the therapeutic effect when NPs are not internalized into their targeted cells, potentially providing indications with respect to off-target effects. Cells were irradiated on films with nanoparticle distances from 25.9 nm to 97.5 nm to interrogate the NMDR effect size at a range of distances. yH2AX phosphorylation exhibited an exponential decay until 69.8 nm, where there was no difference when compared to nanoparticle-free films. This work highlights the ability of iron oxide NPs to deliver NMDR at a known, quantifiable distance, providing insights for further translational applications.

Impact of TiO2, ZnO, and Ag nanoparticles on anammox activity in enriched river Nile sediment cultures: unveiling differential effects and environmental implications

Abstract Background The increasing use of nanoparticles (NPs) necessitates investigation of their impact on wastewater treatment processes, particularly anammox, a critical biological nitrogen removal pathway. This study explored the effects of short-term exposure to TiO2, ZnO, and Ag-NPs on anammox activity in enriched cultures derived from River Nile sediments. Materials and methods Anammox bacteria were identified and enriched, with activity confirmed through 16S rRNA and hydrazine oxidoreductase (hzo) gene amplification and sequencing. Activity assays demonstrated efficient ammonium removal by the enriched culture. Subsequently, the impact of different sized and concentrated NPs on anammox activity was assessed. Results XRD analysis confirmed NP behavior within the microcosms: TiO2 transformed, ZnO partially dissolved, and Ag remained ionic. hzo gene expression served as a biomarker for anammox bacterial activity. Interestingly, 100 nm TiO2-NPs up-regulated hzo expression, potentially indicating a non-inhibitory transformed phase. Conversely, ZnO and Ag-NPs across all sizes and concentrations significantly down-regulated hzo expression, suggesting detrimental effects. Ag-NPs amended microcosms showed a significant reduction (79%) in hzo gene expression and a detrimental effect on bacterial populations. Overall, anammox activity mirrored hzo expression patterns, with TiO2 (21 and 25 nm, respectively) exhibiting the least inhibition, followed by ZnO and Ag-NPs. Conclusion This study highlights the differential effects of NPs on anammox, with the order of impact being Ag > ZnO > TiO2. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential environmental risks of NPs on anammox-mediated nitrogen cycling in freshwater ecosystems.

Antifungal Action of Metallic Nanoparticles Against Fungicide-Resistant Pathogens Causing Main Postharvest Lemon Diseases

Postharvest fungal diseases are the main cause of economic losses in lemon production. The continued use of synthetic fungicides to control the diseases favors the emergence of resistant strains, which encourages the search for alternatives. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) as antifungal agents against local isolates of Penicillium digitatum and Penicillium italicum, each of them in a fungicide-sensitive and -resistant version, and a Geotrichum citri-aurantii isolate. NPs of ZnO, CuO, and Ag were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopy and microscopy, presenting average sizes < 25 nm and spherical shapes. ZnO-NPs did not present antifungal activity at the assayed conditions, while the minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFCs) were 1000 and 10 µg mL−1 for CuO-NPs and Ag-NPs, respectively. The NPs’ antimicrobial action included conidial membrane permeability and strong intracellular disorganization. Moreover, the Ag-NPs reduced green mold incidence on inoculated lemons when applied to the fruit. Taken together, Ag-NPs were effective in inhibiting both fungicide-sensitive and -resistant isolates of the main lemon postharvest pathogens, suggesting their potential use as an alternative approach.

XPS investigation of CuxO-functionalized amorphous carbon nitride

In this work, we report the x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterization of a novel nanocomposite (photo)electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction, based on amorphous carbon nitride (aCN) functionalized with CuxO nanoparticles (NPs). The specimen has been fabricated employing two sequential plasma-assisted processes, involving the initial aCN deposition onto conductive glass via magnetron sputtering, followed by carbon nitride functionalization with CuxO (x = 1, 2) NPs by radio frequency-sputtering. The results reported herein include the survey spectrum and the high-resolution C 1s, N 1s, O 1s, Cu 2p, and Cu LMM signals. The most significant spectral features are analyzed and critically discussed.

Gold Nanoparticles: Multifunctional Properties, Synthesis, and Future Prospects

Gold nanoparticles (NPs) are among the most commonly employed metal NPs in biological applications, with distinctive physicochemical features. Their extraordinary optical properties, stemming from strong localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), contribute to the development of novel approaches in the areas of bioimaging, biosensing, and cancer research, especially for photothermal and photodynamic therapy. The ease of functionalization with various ligands provides a novel approach to the precise delivery of these molecules to targeted areas. Gold NPs’ ability to transfer heat and electricity positions them as valuable materials for advancing thermal management and electronic systems. Moreover, their inherent characteristics, such as inertness, give rise to the synthesis of novel antibacterial and antioxidant agents as they provide a biocompatible and low-toxicity approach. Chemical and physical synthesis methods are utilized to produce gold NPs. The pursuit of more ecologically sustainable and economically viable large-scale technologies, such as environmentally benign biological processes referred to as green/biological synthesis, has garnered increasing interest among global researchers. Green synthesis methods are more favorable than other synthesis techniques as they minimize the necessity for hazardous chemicals in the reduction process due to their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and biocompatibility. This article discusses the importance of gold NPs, their optical, conductivity, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, synthesis methods, contemporary uses, and biosafety, emphasizing the need to understand toxicology principles and green commercialization strategies.

Low power tactile sensory neuron using nanoparticle-based strain sensor and memristor

Endowing strain sensors with neuromorphic computing capabilities could permit the efficient processing of tactile information on the edge. The realization of such functionalities from a simple circuit without software processing holds promise for attaining skin-based perception. Here, leveraging the intrinsic neuronal plasticity of memristive neurons, various firing patterns induced by the applied strain were demonstrated. More specifically, tonic, bursting, transition from tonic to bursting, adaptive, and nociceptive activities were captured. The implementation of these patterns permits the facile translation of the analog pressure signals into digital spikes, attaining accurate perception of various tactile characteristics. The tactile sensory neuron consisting of an RC circuit was composed of a SiO2-based conductive bridge memristor exhibiting leaky integrate-and-fire properties and a Pt nanoparticles (NPs)-based strain sensor with a gauge factor of ∼270. A dense layer of Pt NPs was also used as the bottom electrode for the memristive element, yielding the manifestation of a threshold switching mode with a switching voltage of only ∼350 mV and an exceptional switching ratio of 107. Our work provides valuable insights for developing low power neurons with tactile feedback for prosthetics and robotics applications.

Alternating Donor‐Acceptor Ladder‐Type Heteroarene for Efficient Photothermal Conversion via Boosting Non‐Radiative Decay

The development of novel ladder‐type conjugated molecules is crucial for advancing supramolecular chemistry and material science. In this study, we report a straightforward synthesis of new alternating donor‐acceptor (D‐A) ladder‐type heteroarene, FCDTDPP, and demonstrate its application as photothermal agent for imaging and cancer therapy. FCDTDPP is constructed by vinylene bridge between cyclopentadithiophene (D) and diketopyrrolopyrrole (A) through intramolecular Friedel‐Crafts type reaction. FCDTDPP exhibits unique combination of good molecular planarity, efficient intra/inter‐molecular mixed D‐A interactions, and local aromaticity. These features collectively contribute to its broad and intense absorptions with narrow bandgap in red band of the spectra, coupled with multiple vibrational absorption feature, thereby enhancing non‐radiative decay process and resulting in efficient photothermal conversion property. FCDTDPP and its nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit superior photothermal conversion performance and stability under 660 nm laser irradiation. Moreover, in vitro studies reveal that FCDTDPP NPs possess excellent biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, and robust photothermal therapeutic efficacy, a finding further corroborated by preliminary in vivo experiments in tumor‐bearing mice. This work charts a novel course for the molecular engineering of organic photothermal conversion systems, propelling relevant research forward.

Analysis of Brucine using Poly(L-Arginine) modified biosynthesized CuO nanoparticle composite sensor

The study investigated the sensitive and selective electrochemical behavior of Brucine (BC) using electrochemically polymerized L-Arginine (LA) modified with a composite comprising biosynthesized copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles (NPs) and carbon paste electrode (PAMCuONPs/CPE). PAMCuONPs/CPE showed an optimum reversible redox-peak at 0.2 M phosphate buffer solution (PBS) at pH 2.5, allowing detection of BC. The characterization of PAMCuONPs/CPE and bare CuONPs composite carbon paste electrode (BCuONPs/CPE) was performed using scanning-electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) methods were employed to evaluate the performance of PAMCuONPs/CPE. Experimental parameters, including pH, and variation of concentration, were investigated. PAMCuONPs/CPE exhibited an electrochemical performance with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.12×10−6 M and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.43×10−6 M. It demonstrated good reproducibility, repeatability, and stability. PAMCuONPs/CPE was successfully validated in determining BC in real samples.

Alternating Donor‐Acceptor Ladder‐Type Heteroarene for Efficient Photothermal Conversion via Boosting Non‐Radiative Decay

The development of novel ladder‐type conjugated molecules is crucial for advancing supramolecular chemistry and material science. In this study, we report a straightforward synthesis of new alternating donor‐acceptor (D‐A) ladder‐type heteroarene, FCDTDPP, and demonstrate its application as photothermal agent for imaging and cancer therapy. FCDTDPP is constructed by vinylene bridge between cyclopentadithiophene (D) and diketopyrrolopyrrole (A) through intramolecular Friedel‐Crafts type reaction. FCDTDPP exhibits unique combination of good molecular planarity, efficient intra/inter‐molecular mixed D‐A interactions, and local aromaticity. These features collectively contribute to its broad and intense absorptions with narrow bandgap in red band of the spectra, coupled with multiple vibrational absorption feature, thereby enhancing non‐radiative decay process and resulting in efficient photothermal conversion property. FCDTDPP and its nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit superior photothermal conversion performance and stability under 660 nm laser irradiation. Moreover, in vitro studies reveal that FCDTDPP NPs possess excellent biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, and robust photothermal therapeutic efficacy, a finding further corroborated by preliminary in vivo experiments in tumor‐bearing mice. This work charts a novel course for the molecular engineering of organic photothermal conversion systems, propelling relevant research forward.