Spherical Morphology Research Articles

Synthesis of Chi-sphere silver nanocomposite and nanocomposites of silver, gold, and S@G using a chitosan biopolymer extracted from potato peels and their antimicrobial application

Chitin and chitosan have been proven to have numerous applications in biomedical, pharmaceutical, and industrial fields. In the present study, chitin structural polymer was extracted from potato peel wastes by the use of chemical methods and chitosan biopolymer was generated through the deacetylation of the isolated potato peel chitin. On a dry weight basis, the yield of chitin content of the potato peel wastes is 49.80±1.2 % and the yield of deacetylated potato peel chitin (potato peel chitosan) is 47.60±1.8 %. It was characterized by FTIR and 1H NMR studies. Consequently, the potato peel chitosan was employed in the synthesis of Chitosan-Silver-Nanocomposite-Sphere (Chi-SNC-Sphere), and other metal nanocomposite of silver (C.g-CSNCs), gold (C.g-CGNCs), and bimetallic (C.g-CS@GNCs). The physicochemical features of the resulting products were characterized using UV-Vis, FT-IR, PXRD, FESEM, TEM, and EDAX. The FESEM unveiled a smooth, spherical, and nonporous surface morphology of the synthesized Chi-SNCs-Sphere, while the remaining three have surfaces that appeared in the form of flakes. As per TEM images, particles were visible in black-spherical (C.g-CSNC) and black-multi-shapes (C.g-CSNC, C.g-CS@GNC) nanostructures. Their sizes were confined within the range of 1–10 nm, with average values of 4.36 nm±0.40–5.85 nm±0.42. On the basis of BET analysis, C.g.CSNCs C.g-CS@GNC and C.g.CGNCs under identical conditions possess the surface area of 69.92 m2g−1, 52.35 m2g−1, and 49.75 m2g−1 respectively. The nanomaterials were found stable as revealed by the study of zeta potential which is found in the range of +41.3–56.2. The results of the bioassay for antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa and S. aureus uncovered that the Chi-SNCs-Sphere, C.g-CSNCs, and C.g-CS@GNCs demonstrated superior activities than C.g-CGNCs. According to statistical analysis results of one-way ANOVA of antibacterial results against S. aureus, the P-value F- calculated F-critical was 0.99,1.5 and 3.4 and for P. aeruginosa; P-value, F-calculated, F-critical was 0.80, 0.22 and 5.94 respectively. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was found most significant for C.g-CSNC (20 µg/mL) due to its higher surface area. These activities could be attributed to the synergistic effect of the metal nanoparticles, potato peel chitosan, and the plant extract that was used for the reduction, stabilization, and biofunctionalization.

Polygonum bistorta Linn. as a green source for synthesis of biocompatible selenium nanoparticles with potent antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Here, we report for the first time, green-synthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) using pharmacologically potent herb of Polygonum bistorta Linn. for multiple biomedical applications. In the study, a facile and an eco-friendly approach is utilized for synthesis of SeNPs using an aqueous roots extract of P. bistorta Linn. followed by extensive characterization via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX) analysis. The XRD and FTIR data determine the phase composition and successful capping of plant extract onto the surface of NPs while SEM and TEM micrographic examination reveals the elliptical and spherical morphology of the particles with a mean size of 69 ± 23nm. After comprehensive characterization, the NPs are investigated for antifungal, antibacterial, antileishmanial, antioxidant, and biocompatibility properties. The study reveals that Polygonum bistorta Linn. synthesized SeNPs exhibit significant antibacterial and antifungal activities with Staphylococcus aureus and Fusarium oxysporum inducing the highest zone of inhibition of 14 ± 1.0mm and 20 ± 1.2mm, respectively at the concentration of 40mg/mL. The NPs are also found to have antiparasitic potential against promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania tropica. Furthermore, the NPs are discovered to have excellent potential in neutralizing harmful free radicals thus exhibiting considerable antioxidant potential. Most importantly, Polygonum bistorta Linn. synthesized SeNPs showed substantial compatibility against blood cells in vitro studies, which signifies the nontoxic nature of the NPs. The study thus concludes that medicinally important Polygonum bistorta Linn. roots can be utilized as an eco-friendly, sustainable, and green source for the synthesis of pharmacologically potent selenium nanoparticles.

Multifunctional Nanosystem for Dual Anti-Inflammatory and Antibacterial Photodynamic Therapy in Infectious Diabetic Wounds.

Infectious diabetic wounds present a substantial challenge, characterized by inflammation, infection, and delayed wound healing, leading to elevated morbidity and mortality rates. In this work, we developed a multifunctional lipid nanoemulsion containing quercetin, chlorine e6, and rosemary oil (QCRLNEs) for dual anti-inflammatory and antibacterial photodynamic therapy (APDT) for treating infectious diabetic wounds. The QCRLNEs exhibited spherical morphology with a size of 51 nm with enhanced encapsulation efficiency, skin permeation, and localized delivery at the infected wound site. QCRLNEs with NIR irradiation have shown excellent wound closure and antimicrobial properties in vitro, mitigating the nonselective cytotoxic behavior of PDT. Also, excellent biocompatibility and anti-inflammatory and wound healing responses were observed in zebrafish models. The infected wound healing properties in S. aureus-infected diabetic rat models indicated re-epithelization and collagen deposition with no signs of inflammation. This multifaceted approach using QCRLNEs with NIR irradiation holds great promise for effectively combating oxidative stress and bacterial infections commonly associated with infected diabetic wounds, facilitating enhanced wound healing and improved clinical outcomes.

Highly functionalized pH-triggered supramolecular nanovalve for targeted cancer chemotherapy

Chemotherapeutic drug delivery systems are commonly limited by their short half-lives, poor bioavailability, and unsuccessful targetability. Herein, pH-responsive hybrid NPs consist of benzimidazole-coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (BZ-MSN) loaded with naturally occurring flavonoid quercetin (QUE-BZ-MSN). The NPs were further capped with beta-cyclodextrin (BCD) to obtain our desired BCD-QUE-BZMSN, with a zeta potential around 7.05 ± 2.37 mV and diameter about 115.2 ± 19.02 nm. The abundance of BZ onto the nanoparticles facilitates targeted quercetin chemotherapy against model lung and liver cancer cell lines. FTIR, EDX, and NMR analyses revealed evidence of possible surface functionalizations. Powder XRD analysis showed that our designed BCD-QUE-BZMSN formulation is amorphous in nature. The UV and SEM showed that our designed BCD-QUE-BZMSN has high drug entrapment efficiency and a nearly spherical morphology. In vitro, drug release assessments show controlled pH-dependent release profiles that could enhance the targeted chemotherapeutic response against mildly acidic regions in cancer cell lines. The obtained BCD-QUE-BZMSN nanovalve achieved significantly higher cytotoxic efficacy as compared to QUE alone, which was evaluated by in vitro cellular uptake against liver and lung cancer cell lines, and the cellular morphological ablation was further confirmed via inverted microscopy. The outcomes of the study imply that our designed BCD-QUE-BZMSN nanovalve is a potential carrier for cancer chemotherapeutics.

CRYSTALLO-CO-AGGLOMERATION OF SIMVASTATIN: IMPROVING DISSOLUTION AND MICROMERITIC PROPERTIES

Simvastatin (SMV), a poorly soluble drug, faces challenges in pharmaceutical formulation due to its limited solubility and poor flow properties. This study aimed to enhance the physicochemical properties of SMV by preparing spherical crystals using a crystallo-co-agglomeration. Spherical crystals of SMV were prepared by dissolving the drug in methanol and adding it to an aqueous solution containing PVP K-30 and PEG 6000 under constant stirring. The resulting agglomerates were filtered, dried, and characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Powder X-Ray Diffraction (PXRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and dissolution testing. Micromeritic properties, including bulk density, Hausner ratio, compressibility index, angle of repose, and flowability, were also evaluated. FTIR confirmed the chemical integrity of SMV with minor shifts indicating interactions with stabilizers. PXRD and DSC analyses revealed reduced crystallinity and partial amorphization in the spherical crystals. SEM showed spherical morphology. Dissolution testing demonstrated a significantly enhanced dissolution rate for the spherical crystals compared to pure SMV. Improved micromeritic properties were also observed, indicating better flowability and packing density. Spherical crystallization significantly improved the solubility, dissolution rate, and flowability of SMV. This technique offers a promising strategy for enhancing the bioavailability and pharmaceutical performance of poorly soluble drugs.

Jeffamine-based diblock copolymer nanoparticles via reverse sequence polymerization-induced self-assembly in aqueous media

Jeffamines® are commercially available amine-capped poly (alkylene oxides) that have been used for various applications. In this study, a weakly hydrophobic monoamine-capped propylene oxide-rich Jeffamine® (M2005) is derivatized to introduce a trithiocarbonate end-group via amidation. This precursor is then dissolved using N,N′-dimethylacrylamide (DMAC), 2-(N-acryloyloxy)ethyl pyrrolidone (NAEP) or N-acryloylmorpholine (NAM) as a co-solvent to produce a concentrated aqueous reaction mixture containing 20 % w/w water. Subsequently, reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization is used to prepare Jeffamine®-core diblock copolymer nanoparticles by reverse sequence polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA). At intermediate conversion, additional degassed water is added and each polymerization continues to almost full conversion (>99 %) within 4 h at 60 °C, resulting in a 10–20 % w/w aqueous dispersion of sterically-stabilized Jeffamine®-core nanoparticles. Efficient chain extension of the Jeffamine® precursor is achieved in most cases and relatively narrow molecular weight distributions are obtained (Mw/Mn < 1.30) as judged by GPC analysis. Transmission electron microscopy studies confirm a polydisperse spherical morphology and dynamic light scattering studies report hydrodynamic diameters ranging from 145 to 312 nm. Finally, aqueous electrophoresis studies indicate essentially neutral nanoparticles over a wide range of solution pH, as expected for the three types of non-ionic steric stabilizer chains selected for this study.

Determination of Antioxidant, Cytotoxicity, and Anti-human Lung Cancer Properties of Silver Nanoparticles Green-Formulated by Foeniculum vulgare Extract Combined with Radiotherapy.

The current investigation involved the silver nanoparticles green synthesis utilizing the aqueous extract derived from the Foeniculum vulgare leaves (AgNPs@FV). The effectiveness of these newly developed nanoparticles in conjunction with radiotherapy was evaluated on lung cancer cells. The synthesized AgNPs@FV underwent characterization through various analytical techniques such as energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry. The efficacy of AgNPs@FV in conjunction with radiotherapy against human lung cancer was assessed through the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The AgNPs@FV exhibited a spherical morphology ranging in size from 10.16 to 42.74 nm. The EDX diagram of nanoparticles shows energy signals at 3.02 and 2.64 keV, which are attributed to Ag Lβ and Ag Lα, respectively. During the antioxidant evaluation, AgNPs@FV and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) displayed IC50 values of 166 and 59 µg/mL, respectively. The cells treated with AgNPs@FV in conjunction with radiotherapy were evaluated using the MTT assay over 48h to determine cytotoxicity and anti-human lung cancer characteristics on normal (human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC)) and lung cancer cells and exhibited IC50 values of 211, 166, and 296µg/mL against NCI-H2126, NCI-H1299, and NCI-H1437, respectively. Furthermore, the malignant lung cell viability decreased when treated with a combination of AgNPs@FV and radiotherapy. Based on the aforementioned findings, it is possible that the newly developed AgNPs@FV could serve as a novel chemotherapeutic medication or adjunct for addressing lung cancer following the completion of clinical trials involving human subjects.

Extracellular vesicle-based formulation of doxorubicin: drug loading optimization, characterization, and cytotoxicity evaluation in tumor spheroids

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a chemotherapeutic with considerable efficacy, but its application is limited due to cardiotoxicity. Nanoparticles can improve DOX efficacy and prevent its adverse effects. Herein, DOX-loaded extracellular vesicles (DOX-EVs) were prepared using different loading methods including incubation, electroporation, and sonication in different hydration buffers to permeabilize nanostructures or desalinize DOX for improved entrapment. Different protein:drug (µg:µg) ratios of 1:10, 1:5, and 1:2, and incubation parameters were also investigated. The optimal formulation was characterized by western blotting, electron microscopy, Zetasizer, infrared spectroscopy, and release study. The cellular uptake and efficacy were investigated in MCF-7 spheroids via MTS assay, spheroid formation assay (SFA), confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry. The percentage of entrapment efficiency (EE) of formulations was improved from 1.0 ± 0.1 to 22.0 ± 1.4 using a protein:drug ratio of 1:2 and sonication in Tween 80 (0.1%w/v) containing buffer. Characterization studies verified the vesicles’ identity, spherical morphology, and controlled drug release properties. Cellular studies revealed the accumulation and cytotoxicity of DOX-EVs in the spheroids, and SFA and confocal microscopy confirmed the efficacy and cellular localization. Flow cytometry results revealed a comparable and amplified efficacy for DOX-EV formulations with different cell origins. Overall, the EV formulation of DOX can be applied as a promising alternative with potential advantages.

Biocompatibility and potential anticancer activity of gadolinium oxide (Gd2O3) nanoparticles against nasal squamous cell carcinoma

Chemotherapy as a cornerstone of cancer treatment is slowly being edged aside owing to its severe side effects and systemic toxicity. In this case, nanomedicine has emerged as an effective tool to address these drawbacks. Herein, a biocompatible carrier based on bovine serum albumin (BSA) coated gadolinium oxide nanoparticles (Gd2O3@BSA) was fabricated for curcumin (CUR) delivery and its physicochemical features along with its potential anticancer activity against nasal squamous cell carcinoma were also investigated. It was found that the fabricated Gd2O3@BSA containing CUR (Gd2O3@BSA-CUR) had spherical morphology with hydrodynamic size of nearly 26 nm, zeta-potential of -36 mV and high drug (CUR) loading capacity. Drug release profile disclosed that the release of CUR from the prepared Gd2O3@BSA-CUR nanoparticles occurred in a sustained- and pH-dependent manner. Also, in vitro cytotoxicity analysis revealed that the fabricated Gd2O3@BSA nanoparticles possessed excellent biosafety toward HFF2 normal cells, while Gd2O3@BSA-CUR appeared to display the greatest anticancer potential against RPMI 2650 and CNE-1 cancer cell lines. The results also show that the Gd2O3@BSA nanoparticles were compatible with the blood cells with minor hemolytic effect (< 3%). The manufactured NPs were found to be completely safe for biological applications in an in vivo subacute toxicity study. Taken together, these finding substantiate the potential anticancer activity of Gd2O3@BSA-CUR nanoparticles against nasal squamous cell carcinoma, but the results obtained demand further studies to assess their full potential.

Synergistically enhanced electromagnetic absorption in barium ferrite/hollow carbon spheres/epoxy composites

The ongoing technological advancements have emphasized the importance of absorbent coatings, which are essential for effectively absorbing electromagnetic waves across various industries, including electronics, healthcare, and security systems. In this research, barium ferrite particles and hollow spherical carbon particles have been synthesized to investigate the synergistic effect of different compounds in absorbing electromagnetic waves in the epoxy coating. The barium ferrite particles were synthesized in two distinctive rod and spherical morphologies at 600 and 900 °C, employing the sol-gel technique. Also, hollow spherical carbon particles were synthesized. Synthesized particles were analyzed structurally and chemically with an X-ray Powder Diffraction, Fourier infrared spectrometer, vibrating‐sample magnetometer, field emission Scanning Electron, and Raman spectroscopy.The absorption characteristics of a coating that contains rod and spherical morphologies of barium ferrite and hollow spherical carbon particles can be adjusted by controlling the amounts of synthetic compounds in the 8–12 GHz range. The results indicate that combining rod-shaped barium ferrite particles (900 °C) and hollow spherical carbon particles in a thin epoxy coating improves impedance matching and wave attenuation. Notably, when the epoxy coating is 1.5–2 mm thick and contains 20 % rod-shaped barium ferrite particles (900 °C) and 1 % hollow spherical carbon particles, reflection loss values of < -20 dB are observed at frequencies of 10–12 GHz.

Tagetes erecta-Mediated Biosynthesis of Mn3O4 Nanoparticles: Structural, Electrochemical, and Biological Investigations.

Mn3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) find diverse applications in the fields of medicine, biomedicine, biosensors, water treatment and purification, electronics, electrochemistry, and photoelectronics. The production of Mn3O4 NPs was reported earlier through various physical, chemical, and green routes, but no studies have still been performed on their biosynthesis from Tagetes erecta. We synthesized manganese oxide NPs, i.e., (Mn3O4)L and (Mn3O4)P NPs, by utilizing leaves and petals, respectively, of T. erecta as reducing and stabilizing agents. The investigated green path is eco-friendly and does not involve any hazardous raw materials. The structural properties of NPs were determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, spectroscopies (Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Raman, and UV-visible), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The NPs were also evaluated for their electrochemical properties by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD). XRD analysis was performed to verify their tetragonal geometry, and the crystallite size (19.24 nm) of (Mn3O4)P was smaller than that (20.84 nm) of (Mn3O4)L NPs. SEM images displayed a porous and spherical morphology with a diameter of 14-35 nm. FTIR spectra of (Mn3O4)L and (Mn3O4)P displayed Mn-O vibrations at 605.69 and 616.87 cm-1, respectively, and the hydrous nature of the material. Raman spectroscopy revealed the existence of tetrahedral and octahedral units along with A1g, T2g, and Eg active modes of Mn3O4 and 2TO mode. UV-visible analyses of (Mn3O4)L and (Mn3O4)P NPs showed absorption peaks at 272.3 and 268.8 nm, along with band gaps of 4.83 and 5.49 eV, respectively. TGA curves displayed good thermal stabilities up to 600 °C and a loss of moisture content. DSC curves exhibited exothermic/endothermic peaks with glass transition temperatures of 258.9 and 308.7 °C for (Mn3O4)P and (Mn3O4)L, respectively. The CV curves showed redox peaks and confirmed that the electrochemical reaction takes place in the Mn3O4 material. GCD scans revealed the capacitive behavior of NPs and their suitability as electrodes in energy storage devices. However, (Mn3O4)L will act as a good material for energy storage applications as compared to (Mn3O4)P NPs. The synthesized NPs were also tested for their antibacterial efficacy by biofilm inhibition and agar well diffusion methods. The NPs showed higher activities against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) than against Escherichia coli (Gram-negative), and (Mn3O4)P was more bioactive than (Mn3O4)L.

Novel approach for green synthesis of stable gold nanoparticles with dried turmeric root extract: investigations on sensor and catalytic applications.

In this study, we present the synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using a completely green synthesis method without the use of any additional functionalizing agent, except dried turmeric root extract. The significant synthesis parameters were optimized, and the applicability of AuNPs was investigated in areas such as plasmonic and fluorescent sensing of aluminum (Al3⁺) and chromium (Cr3⁺) ions, reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), and degradation of methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO) dyes. Characterization studies were performed using UV-Vis spectroscopy, TEM, FTIR, and XRD, revealing that the AuNPs predominantly had a spherical morphology and a very small particle size of 8.5 nm, with stability maintained up to 120 days. The developed AuNP-based plasmonic sensors relied on aggregation-induced decreases in absorption, along with a red shift in the spectra. Fluorescence sensing demonstrated a linear increase in intensity with increasing concentrations of Al3⁺ and Cr3⁺, with detection limits of 0.83 and 1.19 nM, respectively. The catalytic activities of AuNPs were tested in reducing 4-NP and degradations of MB and MO dyes (binary system) in tap water and wastewater, with the reactions following pseudo-first-order kinetics. This study highlights the potential of AuNPs synthesized from turmeric roots for various environmental and sensing applications.

Green synthesis of pectin-functionalized silver nanocomposites using Carpesium nepalense and evaluation its bactericidal kinetics and hepatoprotective mechanisms

The present study reports the green synthesis of pectin-fabricated silver nanocomposites (Pectin-AgNPs) using Carpesium nepalense leaves extract, evaluating their bactericidal kinetics, in vivo hepatoprotective, and cytotoxic potentials along with possible mechanisms. GC/MS and LC/MS analyses revealed novel phytochemicals in the plant extract. The Pectin-AgNPs were characterized using UV/Vis, AFM, SEM, TEM, DLS, FTIR, and EDX techniques, showing a spherical morphology with a uniform size range of 50–110 nm. Significant antibacterial activity (P < 0.005) was found against four bacterial strains with ZIs of 4.1 ± 0.15 to 27.2 ± 3.84 mm. AFM studies revealed significant bacterial cell membrane damage post-treatment. At 0.05 mg/kg, the nanocomposites showed significant (P < 0.005) hepatoprotective activity in biochemical and histopathology analyses compared to the CCl4 control group. Pectin-AgNPs significantly reduced (P < 0.005) LDH, AST, ALT, ALP, and DB levels. qPCR analysis showed ameliorative effects on PPARs and Nrf2 gene expression, restoring gene alterations caused by CCl4 intoxication. In vivo acute toxicity studies confirmed low toxicity of Pectin-AgNPs in major organs. Pectin-AgNPs exhibited cytotoxic activity against HeLa cell lines at higher doses with an LC50 of 223.7 μg/mL. These findings demonstrate the potential of Pectin-AgNPs as promising antibacterial, hepatoprotective, and cytotoxic agents.

Development of silica gel from Lapindo volcanic mud as fluorescent fingerprint powder based on methyl orange

Fingerprint powder remains one of the most effective techniques for identifying individuals from their latent fingerprints. Visualizing latent fingerprints requires powder with high color contrast and strong adhesive to be easily applied on various substrates. The utilization of silica gel extracted from local materials of Lapindo volcanic mud can be applied for fluorescent fingerprint powder based on methyl orange. The powder was synthesized by the sol-gel method, followed by the impregnation of methyl orange as a dye with varying loads. The powders exhibit an amorphous structure and nanoparticle size with an average particle diameter of 80.93 nm by spherical morphology interconnected to form agglomerations. The powder contains silanol, siloxane, azo, and carboxylate functional groups derived from its precursors. The dusting method proves the performance of fluorescent fingerprint powder on porous and non-porous substrates hereafter observed under white light and UV light. The powder containing 0.05 gs of methyl orange per gram of silica gel is the most effective in revealing fingerprint patterns on non-porous surfaces. It has mesoporous properties with a specific surface area of 7.95 m2g−1 and a pore diameter of 23.14 nm. SiMO retained its full capability after two years of storage, indicating it is a great choice for forensic investigations.

Zinc oxide/barite nanocomposite from Trachyspermum ammi plant extract: A novel agent against protoscolices of Echinococcusgranulosus

Hydatid disease is a shared illness between humans and livestock that impacts the health of both humans and animals, and it also presents considerable risks to the global economy. The current study aims to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and zinc oxide/barite nanocomposites (ZnO/Brt NC) modified with chitosan (ZnO/Brt/Chit NC), using aqueous extract of the Trachyspermum ammi plant and a chemical method. The scolicidal effect, IC50, and mRNA expression of the caspase-3 gene on protoscolices were measured using Real-time PCR to identify nanomaterials (NMs) with superior biological efficacy against hydatid cyst protoscolices. The characteristics of these NMs were examined using techniques such as XRD, FTIR, FE-SEM, EDS, DLS, ZP, and PDI. Colloidal sizes for ZnO NPs, ZnO/Brt NC, and ZnO/Brt/Chit NC synthesized via the green method, and ZnO/Brt NC and chemically-synthesized ZnO/Brt/Chit NC were found to be 28.18, 68.10, 106.60, 85.90, and 165.60 nm, respectively. These NCs, which possess crystalline structures and spherical morphology, have been stabilized on a barite substrate. The zeta potential obtained for the green-synthesized NCs is −22.80 mV, and for those synthesized chemically, it is −19.70 mV. Results indicate that ZnO NPs and green-synthesized ZnO/Brt NC have the strongest scolicidal effect. At a concentration of 200 mg/mL, ZnO NPs achieved 100 % lethality in 60 min and ZnO/Brt NC in 30 min. The IC50 values for ZnO NPs and ZnO/Brt NC were 858.3 and 1205 μg/mL, respectively. In contrast, chemically-synthesized and chitosan-modified NCs showed a weaker scolicidal effect. At a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL, a significant increase in caspase-3 gene expression was observed for ZnO NPs (6.66 ± 0.94), (p = 0.003) and green-synthesized ZnO/Brt NC (5.06 ± 1.27), (p = 0.02), suggesting these NMs could be effective scolicidal agents In vivo conditions.

Folate receptor-targeted indomethacin-loaded gold nanoparticles enhance drug chemotherapeutic efficacy in glioblastoma cells and spheroids

Glioblastoma is a highly malignant brain cancer with a poor survival rate. Increasing evidence demonstrates the anticancer activity, including anti-glioma activity, of indomethacin (IND), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. However, due to the IND's poor aqueous solubility, nano-based drug delivery systems, especially gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), are great tools for increasing solubility and therapeutic efficacy. Herein, glutathione (GSH)-coated folic acid (FA)-modified AuNPs were used for the first time to generate IND-loaded AuNPs (55 nm), which were successfully synthesized according to DLS, TEM, FTIR, NMR, and TGA results. IND/AuNPs were found to have spherical morphology, nanoscale particle size, narrow size distribution, and good stability. Fluorescence and confocal imaging demonstrated that the nanoparticles penetrated folate receptor (FR)+ U-87MG human glioblastoma monolayer and sphere-forming cells. Remarkably, short-term exposure (4h) to IND/AuNPs significantly increased IND cytotoxicity in U-87MG cells after post-44h and -68h (>35- and >120-fold, respectively). Even against prolonged exposure of cells to IND for 24h, 48h, and 72h, IND/AuNP treatment revealed a marked result: glioma proliferation slowed by 7.38-fold, 6.8-fold, and 17-fold, respectively. No significant effect was observed on the FR− cell lines. The increased antitumoral activity was accompanied by efficient increased apoptosis in glioblastoma cells due to the IND/AuNP treatments. Moreover, compared to free-drug and control groups, IND/AuNP treatments markedly reduced glioblastoma growth in 3D spheroids (in vitro system that mimics in vivo tumors). Therefore, these findings suggest that the new spherical IND/Au-GSH-FA NP conjugate has the potential to be a beneficial therapeutic agent in glioblastoma therapy by targeting FRs.

Fabrication of the ferritin-mannoprotein shell-core heteroprotein complex for stabilization of bioactive molecules

Ferritin has a cage-like structure with an 8-nm cavity and is capable of encapsulating bioactive molecules. Mannoprotein is a highly glycosylated protein with a N-glycosylated or O-glycosylated structure. These two proteins can potentially form heteroprotein complexes due to their different characters. The aim of this study was to prepare mannoprotein-ferritin heteroprotein shell-core complexes (MFH), to investigate the interaction between ferritin and mannoprotein, and to assess the binding behavior, structure, stability, and protection of MFH on EGCG molecules. ζ-potential measurements showed that the formation of MFH was mainly driven by the electrostatic interactions between two proteins with opposite charges. The self-assembly of ferritin was further utilized to prepare EGCG-encapsulated mannoprotein-ferritin heteroprotein complexes (EMFH), with an encapsulation rate of 18.8% (w/w). The EMFH showed an aggregation in a regular spherical morphology and led to an increase in its size, with a primary RH of about 257.2 ± 5.8 nm. In addition, compared to the EGCG-encapsulated ferritin (EF), EMFH enhanced the thermal and photostability of EGCG and facilitated the controlled release of EGCG during simulated gastrointestinal digestion. This study expands the application of heteroprotein complexes based on the cage-like ferritin and mannoproteins in stabilizing bioactive compounds.

Therapeutic targeting of siRNA/anti-cancer drug delivery system for non-melanoma skin cancer. Part I: Development and gene silencing of JAK1siRNA/5-FU loaded liposome nanocomplexes

Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is one of the most prevalent cancers, leading to significant mortality rates due to limited treatment options and a lack of effective therapeutics. Janus kinase (JAK1), a non-receptor tyrosine kinase family member, is involved in various cellular processes, including differentiation, cell proliferation and survival, playing a crucial role in cancer progression. This study aims to provide a more effective treatment for NMSC by concurrently silencing the JAK1 gene and administering 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) using liposome nanocomplexes as delivery vehicles. Utilizing RNA interference (RNAi) technology, liposome nanocomplexes modified with polyethylene imine (PEI) were conjugated with siRNA molecule targeting JAK1 and loaded with 5-FU. The prepared formulations (NL-PEI) were characterized in terms of their physicochemical properties, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro drug release, and stability. Cell cytotoxicity, cell uptake and knockdown efficiency were evaluated in human-derived non-melanoma epidermoid carcinoma cells (A-431). High contrast transmission electron microscopy (CTEM) images and dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements revealed that the nanocomplexes formed spherical morphology with uniform sizes ranging from 80-120 nm. The cationic NL-PEI nanocomplexes successfully internalized within the cytoplasm of A-431, delivering siRNA for specific sequence binding and JAK1 gene silencing. The encapsulation of 5-FU in the nanocomplexes was achieved at 0.2 drug/lipid ratio. Post-treatment with NL-PEI for 24, 48 and 72 h showed cell viability above 80 % at concentrations up to 8.5 × 101 µg/mL. Notably, 5-FU delivery via nanoliposome formulations significantly reduced cell viability at 5-FU concentration of 5 µM and above (p < 0.05) after 24 h of incubation. The NL-PEI nanocomplexes effectively silenced the JAK1 gene in vitro, reducing its expression by 50 %. Correspondingly, JAK1 protein level decreased after transfection with JAK1 siRNA-conjugated liposome nanocomplexes, leading to a 37 % reduction in pERK (phosphor extracellular signal-regulated kinase) protein expression. These findings suggest that the combined delivery of JAK1 siRNA and 5-FU via liposomal formulations offers a promising and novel treatment strategy for targeting genes and other identified targets in NMSC therapy.

Mechanical, physical, and biological properties of polycaprolactone/ Mg-doped SrFe12O19 nanocomposite scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications

Nowadays, the utilization of 3D printing has become common in the construction of composite scaffolds. In this research, the co-precipitation method was applied to synthesize pure strontium hexaferrite oxide (SrFe12O19) and magnesium-doped strontium hexaferrite oxide nanoparticles (Mg–SrFe12O19). The synthesized SrFe12O19 nanoparticles had a spherical morphology with a mean size of 60 nm and magnetization (Ms) value of 54.38 emu/g. The Mg–SrFe12O19 also had a spherical morphology with a mean particle size of 46 nm and a magnetization value of 29.89 emu/g. The produced polycaprolactone composite scaffolds containing different amounts (0, 25, 50, and 75 wt%) of reinforcement were fabricated by the 3D robocasting printing method. Based on the results of the compression test, the 25 wt% addition of the pure SrFe12O19 nanoparticles to the polycaprolactone scaffold increased the compressive strength from 2.87 to 11.68 MPa compared to the 100 wt% pure polycaprolactone scaffold. Furthermore, the polycaprolactone nanocomposite scaffold containing 25 wt% Mg–SrFe12O19 also increased the compressive strength compared to the pure polycaprolactone scaffold to 12.94 MPa. Therefore, the 25 wt% reinforced scaffold was chosen as the optimal sample. The contact angles of the pure polycaprolactone SrFe12O19 and Mg– SrFe12O19 reinforced polycaprolactone scaffolds were 77.17, 68.53, and 35.58°, respectively. The values indicate the significant effect of doping magnesium on the wettability. The degradability of the 3D-printed scaffolds containing 25 wt% of the two different reinforcements was evaluated for 28 days immersing in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution. The results revealed that the degradability was higher for the Mg–SrFe12O19 after 28 days compared to the composite scaffold reinforced by pure SrFe12O19 reinforcement. Moreover, it was shown that the bioactivity and cell adhesion of MG63 cells for the scaffolds reinforced by Mg–SrFe12O19 have increased in laboratory conditions. Based on the MTT test, it was observed that both of the scaffolds were non-toxic. The results obtained in this study, suggest that polycaprolactone nanocomposite scaffolds containing 25 wt% of Mg–SrFe12O19, made by the 3D robocasting printing method, are suitable for bone tissue engineering.

Influence of post-deformation annealing conditions on microstructures and mechanical properties of hypereutectoid steel wires during cold drawing

Abstract This investigation delves into the complex influences of annealing conditions post-deformation, such as duration and heat levels, upon the microstructure, as well as the mechanical properties of hypereutectoid steel wires subjected to cold drawing. XRD and VSM analyses confirmed that higher annealing temperatures precipitated a notable increase in cementite volume, concurrently inducing the spheroidization of cementite lamellae. This transformation was evidenced by the expansion of cementite volume and the transition of cementite layers into a spherical morphology as the annealing temperature increased. The evolution of tensile strength in response to varying annealing temperatures and time revealed two distinct patterns. Initially, at lower annealing temperatures ranging between 200°C and 300°C, tensile strength exhibited an upward trajectory with increasing annealing time. This phenomenon can be attributed to age-hardening mechanisms, notably associated with solution hardening. As annealing time increases, the decomposition of cementite releases additional carbon atoms into the ferrite matrix. These carbon atoms act as effective barriers, hindering dislocation movement within the structure and consequently contributing to increased tensile strength. However, this increase in carbon content within the ferrite matrix also elevated the susceptibility to delamination phenomena. Conversely, at higher annealing temperatures of 400°C and 500°C, a contrasting trend was observed, characterized by a consistent decline in tensile strength post-annealing. This decline could be attributed to the phenomenon of aging softening, wherein the process of spheroidization and re-precipitation of cementite resulted in a reduction of dissolved carbon atoms within the ferrite matrix. Consequently, this led to a decline in tensile strength as well as a reduced incidence of delamination. In summary, the study explored how different annealing conditions affect the structure as well as the strength of hypereutectoid steel wires, revealing detailed mechanisms behind these changes.