Superior Antibacterial Activity Research Articles

Sunflower Pollen-Morphology Mimicked Spiky Zinc Nanomotors as a Photosensitizer for Killing Bacteria and Cancer Cells.

Photosensitizing agents have received increased attention from the medical community, owing to their higher photothermal efficiency, induction of hyperthermia, and sustained delivery of bioactive molecules to their targets. Micro/nanorobots can be used as ideal photosensitizing agents by utilizing various physical stimuli for the targeted killing of pathogens (e.g., bacteria) and cancer cells. Herein, we report sunflower-pollen-inspired spiky zinc oxide (s-ZnO)-based nanorobots that effectively kill bacteria and cancer cells under near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation. The as-fabricated s-ZnO was modified with a catechol-containing photothermal agent, polydopamine (PDA), to improve its NIR-responsive properties, followed by the addition of antimicrobial (e.g., tetracycline/TCN) and anticancer (e.g., doxorubicin/DOX) drugs. The fabricated s-ZnO/PDA@Drug nanobots exhibited unique locomotory behavior with an average speed ranging from 13 to 14 μm/s under 2.0 W/cm2 NIR light irradiation. Moreover, the s-ZnO/PDA@TCN nanobots exhibited superior antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. epidermidis under NIR irradiation. The s-ZnO/PDA@DOX nanobots also displayed sufficient reactive oxygen species (ROS) amplification in B16F10 melanoma cells and induced apoptosis under NIR light, indicating their therapeutic efficacy. We hope the sunflower pollen-inspired s-ZnO nanorobots have tremendous potential in biomedical engineering from the phototherapy perspective, with the hope to reduce pathogen infections.

Photocatalytic, antibacterial and antioxidant potential of spheroidal shape chromium and yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles: A green approach

This study delves into the versatile attributes of green synthesis of chromium doped cobalt oxide and yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles, synthesized through a sustainable process utilizing phytochemicals extracted from Bergera koenigii. The primary focus is on evaluating their effectiveness in photocatalysis, antibacterial activity, and antioxidant properties. The cubic structure of both chromium doped cobalt oxide and yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles was confirmed through X-ray diffraction analysis with crystallite size of 14.204 and 12.949 nm, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy and Scanning electron microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy examinations revealed the presence of spheroidal nanoparticles ranging from 37 to 41 nm in size. Photocatalytic efficiency, assessed through congo red dye degradation, demonstrated degradation of 86.963 and 94.499 % for chromium doped cobalt oxide and yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles, respectively. Antibacterial evaluations underscored the nanoparticles capacity to disrupt Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli, with yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles exhibiting superior antibacterial activity compared to chromium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles. The antioxidant potential, evaluated via the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical assay, showcased the nanoparticle's ability to scavenge free radicals, with yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles displaying highest scavenging up to 83.359 % which attributed to the introduced phytochemicals during the green synthesis process. The innovation of this research lies in the green synthesis of chromium doped cobalt oxide and yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles, harnessing their distinct properties for synergistic applications. The study provides valuable insights into potential future applications, offering novel solutions for environmental remediation and biomedical uses.

Design, synthesis, and antibacterial activity of pleuromutilin derivatives.

This paper reports the design, synthesis, and antibacterial activity study of pleuromutilin derivatives with 2-methyl-4-nitroaniline and 2-methoxy-4-nitroaniline side chains at the C22 position. The structures of the new compounds were characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and HRMS. The inhibitory activity of the compounds against MSSA, pyogeniccoccus, streptococcus, and MRSA strains was determined using the micro broth dilution method. The results showed that the compounds exhibited certain activity against Gram-positive bacteria, among which compounds A8a, A8b, A8c, A8d, and A7 demonstrated superior antibacterial activity against MSSA, MRSA, and pyogeniccoccus compared to tiamulin, although the derivatives showed lower antibacterial activity against streptococcus compared to the control drug. Based on the favorable invitro activity of A8c, the time-kill kinetics against MRSA were evaluated, revealing that compound A8c could inhibit bacterial proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner.

Antimicrobial Solid Starch-Iodine Complex via Reactive Extrusion and Its Application in PLA-PBAT Blown Films.

In this study, a solid masterbatch of starch-iodine complex with 6.7 wt.% iodine was prepared in pellet form using a ZSK-30 twin-screw extruder. Thermogravimetric (TGA) and isothermal TGA analysis of the pellets revealed that there was no significant loss of iodine due to sublimation during reactive extrusion. These solid pellets demonstrated antifungal properties when applied to strawberries via dip coating in an aqueous solution, extending their shelf life from two days to eight days, thereby reducing fungal growth and visual decay. Furthermore, the solid pellets displayed antibacterial activity against E. coli, as evidenced by the clear zone of inhibition observed in the Kirby-Bauer test. To enhance practical application, these pellets were further blended with PLA-PBAT film formulations at 10 and 18% by wt. to make blown films with effective iodine loadings of 0.7 and 1.3% by wt. These films showed superior antibacterial activity against E. coli compared with PLA control films and the commercial silver antimicrobial-containing films during direct inoculation tests as per ISO 22196. Tensile strength and elongation at break in machine direction (MD) for the starch-iodine-containing blown films were comparable to the control films in MD, but tensile strength was reduced to 37-40% in the transverse direction (TD). This was due to a non-uniform dispersion of the starch-iodine complex in the films, as confirmed by the visual and SEM analyses. Thus, this study illustrates the practical utility of the solid starch-iodine complex as a safe and efficient means of introducing iodine into an environment, mitigating the typical hazards associated with handling solid iodine.

Recent advances, challenges and functional applications of protein glycosylation modification in food industry

SummaryProtein glycosylation modification is an effective way to enhance the functional properties of natural proteins. This study aims to explore the preparation of glycosylation products (PPCs) through the Maillard reaction or enzymatic glycosylation using transglutaminase. The study discusses the advantages and disadvantages of preparing PPCs using dry heat, wet heat, and enzymatic glycosylation, as well as factors influencing the glycosylation process. Compared to natural proteins, PPCs demonstrate superior functional properties, including solubility, viscosity, emulsifying ability, gelling ability, thermal stability, antioxidant activity, and antibacterial activity. With improved functional performance, PPCs have broad application prospects as raw materials in food processing. For example, PPCs can be used as antioxidants, emulsifiers, gelling agents, and carriers for various bioactive molecules in the food industry. In the pharmaceutical field, PPCs are expected to serve as contrast agents and dressings. Furthermore, the application of PPCs in food processing should also consider specific processing requirements to achieve the intended enhancement of glycosylated protein functionality.

Cascade encapsulation of antimicrobial peptides, exosomes and antibiotics in fibrin-gel for first-aid hemostasis and infected wound healing

Wounding is one of the most common healthcare problems. Bioactive hydrogels have attracted much attention in first-aid hemostasis and wound healing due to their excellent biocompatibility, antibacterial properties, and pro-healing bioactivity. However, their applications are limited by inadequate mechanical properties. In this study, we first prepared edible rose-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (ELNs) and used them to encapsulate antimicrobial peptides (AMP), abbreviated as ELNs(AMP). ELNs(AMP) showed superior intracellular antibacterial activity, 2.5 times greater than AMP, in in vitro cell infection assays. We then prepared and tested an FDA-approved fibrin-gel of fibrinogen and thrombin encapsulating ELNs(AMP) and novobiocin sodium salt (NB) (ELNs(AMP)/NB-fibrin-gels). The fibrin gel showed a sustained release of ELNs(AMP) and NB over the eight days of testing. After spraying onto the skin, the formulation underwent in situ gelation and developed a stable patch with excellent hemostatic performance in a mouse liver injury model with hemostasis in 31 s, only 35.6 % of the PBS group. The fibrin gel exhibited pro-wound healing properties in the mouse-infected skin defect model. The thickness of granulation tissue and collagen of the ELNs(AMP)/NB-fibrin-gels group was 4.00, 6.32 times greater than that of the PBS group. In addition, the ELNs(AMP)/NB-fibrin-gels reduced inflammation (decreased mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL6, MCP1, and CXCL1) at the wound sites and demonstrated a biocompatible and biosafe profile. Thus, we have developed a hydrogel system with excellent hemostatic, antibacterial, and pro-wound healing properties, which may be a candidate for next-generation tissue regeneration with a wide clinical application for first-aid hemostasis and infected wound healing.

Characterization and Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Properties of Ag- and TiOx-Based (x = 2, 3) Composite Nanomaterials under UV Irradiation.

Metal and metal oxide nanostructured materials have been chemically and physically characterized and tested concerning methylene blue (MB) photoremoval and UV antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In detail, silver nanoparticles and commercial BaTiO3 nanoparticles were modified to obtain nanocomposites through sonicated sol-gel TiO2 synthesis and the photodeposition of Ag nanoparticles, respectively. The characterization results of pristine nanomaterials and synthetized photocatalysts revealed significant differences in specific surface area (SSA), the presence of impurities in commercial Ag nanoparticles, an anatase phase with brookite traces for TiO2-based nanomaterials, and a mixed cubic-tetragonal phase for BaTiO3. Silver nanoparticles exhibited superior antibacterial activity at different dosages; however, they were inactive in the photoremoval of the dye. The silver-TiOx nanocomposite demonstrated an activity in the UV photodegradation of MB and UV inhibition of bacterial growth. Specifically, TiO2/AgNP (30-50 nm) reduced growth by 487.5 and 1.1 × 103 times for Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively, at a dose of 500 μg/mL under UV irradiation.

The antibacterial and hemostatic curdlan hydrogel–loading epigallocatechin gallate for facilitating the infected wound healing

The infected wounds pose one of the major threats to human health today. To address this issue, it is necessary to develop innovative wound dressings with superior antibacterial activity and other properties. Due to its potent antibacterial, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has been widely utilized. In this study, a multifunctional curdlan hydrogel loading EGCG (Cur-EGCGH3) was designed. Cur-EGCGH3 exhibited excellent physicochemical properties, good biocompatibility, hemostatic, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities. Also, ELISA data showed that Cur-EGCGH3 stimulated macrophages to secrete pro-inflammatory and pro-regenerative cytokines. Cell scratch results indicated that Cur-EGCGH3 promoted the migration of NIH3T3 and HUVECs. In vivo experiments confirmed that Cur-EGCGH3 could inhibit bacterial infection of the infected wounds, accelerate hemostasis, and promote epithelial regeneration and collagen deposition. These results demonstrated that Cur-EGCGH3 holds promise for promoting healing of the infected wounds.

On the Ion Implantation Synthesis of Ag-Embedded Over Sr-Substituted Hydroxyapatite on a Nano-Topography Patterned Ti for Application in Acetabular Fracture Sites.

There is an ongoing need for improved healing response and expedited osseointegration on the Ti implants in acetabular fracture sites. To achieve adequate bonding and mechanical stability between the implant surface and the acetabular fracture, a new coating technology must be developed to promote bone integration and prevent bacterial growth. A cylindrical Ti substrate mounted on a rotating specimen holder was used to implant Ca2+, P2+, and Sr2+ ions at energies of 100 KeV, 75 KeV and 180 KeV, respectively, using a low-energy accelerator to synthesize strontium-substituted hydroxyapatite at varying conditions. Ag2+ ions of energy 100 KeV were subsequently implanted on the as-formed surface at the near-surface region to provide anti-bacterial properties to the as-formed specimen. The properties of the as-formed ion-implanted specimen were compared with the SrHA-Ag synthesized specimens by cathodic deposition and low-temperature high-speed collision technique. The adhesion strength of the ion-implanted specimen was 43 ± 2.3 MPa, which is well above the ASTM standard for Ca-P coating on Ti. Live/dead cell analysis showed higher osteoblast activity on the ion-implanted specimen than the other two. Ag in the SrHA implanted Ti by ion implantation process showed superior antibacterial activity. In the ion implantation technique, nano-topography patterned surfaces are not concealed after implantation, and their efficacy in interacting with the osteoblasts is retained. Although all three studies examined the antibacterial effects of Ag2+ ions and the ability to promote bone tissue formation by MC3T3-E1 cells on SrHA-Ag/Ti surfaces, ion implantation techniques demonstrated superior ability. The synthesized specimen can be used as an effective implant in acetabular fracture sites based on their mechanical and biological properties.

Design, synthesis, and bioactivity evaluation of clindamycin derivatives against multidrug-resistant bacterial strains.

Our research aims to reduce the bacterial resistance of clindamycin against Gram-positive bacteria and expand its range of bacterial susceptibility. First, we optimized the structure of clindamycin based on its structure-activity relationship. Second, we employed the fractional inhibitory concentration method to detect drugs suitable for combination with clindamycin derivatives. We then used a linker to connect the clindamycin derivatives with the identified combined therapy drugs. Finally, we tested antibacterial susceptibility testing and conducted in vitro bacterial inhibition activity assays to determine the compounds. with the highest efficacy. The results of our study show that we synthesized clindamycin propionate derivatives and clindamycin homo/heterodimer derivatives, which exhibited superior antibacterial activity compared to clindamycin and other antibiotics against both bacteria and fungi. In vitro bacteriostatic activity testing against four types of Gram-negative bacteria and one type of fungi revealed that all synthesized compounds had bacteriostatic effects at least 1000 times better than clindamycin and sulfonamides. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for these compounds ranged from 0.25 to 0.0325 mM. Significantly, compound 5a demonstrated the most potent inhibitory activity against three distinct bacterial strains, displaying MIC values spanning from 0.0625 to 0.0325 mM. Furthermore, our calculations indicate that compound 5a is safe for cellular use. In conclusion, the synthesized compounds hold great promise in addressing bacterial antibiotic resistance.

Antimicrobial Studies of Graphene Derivative Infused Polyaniline Nanocomposites

This study explores the synthesis and antimicrobial properties of graphene-based polyaniline (PANI) nanocomposites including pure PANI, PANI/graphene oxide (GO) and PANI/reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The composites were prepared using in situ and ex situ polymerization techniques. Characterization through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed the crystalline plane and prime characteristic peaks confirming nanocomposite formation. The antimicrobial properties were assessed using the Agar well-diffusion method against Bacillus, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas and Escherichia coli. Pristine PANI exhibited higher bacterial inhibition zones compared to PANI/GO. Notably, PANI/rGO synthesized ex situ demonstrated superior antibacterial activity compared to in situ PANI/rGO composite.

Elastic and Self-Healing Copolymer Coatings with Antimicrobial Function.

The revolutionary self-healing function for long-term and safe service processes has inspired researchers to implement them in various fields, including in the application of antimicrobial protective coatings. Despite the great advances that have been made in the field of fabricating self-healing and antimicrobial polymers, their poor transparency and the trade-off between the mechanical and self-healing properties limit the utility of the materials as transparent antimicrobial protective coatings for wearable optical and display devices. Considering the compatibility in the blending process, our group proposed a self-healing, self-cross-linkable poly{(n-butyl acrylate)-co-[N-(hydroxymethyl)acrylamide]} copolymer (AP)-based protective coating combined with two types of commercial cationic antimicrobial agents (i.e., dimethyl octadecyl (3-trimethoxysilylpropyl) ammonium chloride (DTSACL) and chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG)), leading to the fabrication of a multifunctional modified compound film of (AP/b%CHG)-grafted-a%DTSACL. The first highlight of this research is that the reactivity of the hydroxyl group in the N-(hydroxymethyl)acrylamide of the copolymer side chains under thermal conditions facilitates the "grafting to" process with the trimethoxysilane groups of DTSACL to form AP-grafted-DTSACL, yielding favorable thermal stability, improvement in hydrophobicity, and enhancement of mechanical strength. Second, we highlight that the addition of CHG can generate covalent and noncovalent interactions in a complex manner between the two biguanide groups of CHG with the AP and DTSACL via a thermal-triggered cross-linking reaction. The noncovalent interactions synergistically serve as diverse dynamic hydrogen bonds, leading to complete healing upon scratches and even showing over 80% self-healing efficiency on full-cut, while covalent bonding can effectively improve elasticity and mechanical strength. The soft nature of CHG also takes part in improving the self-healing of the copolymer. Moreover, it was discovered that the addition of CHG can enhance antimicrobial effectiveness, as demonstrated by the long-term superior antibacterial activity (100%) against Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria and the antifouling function on a glass substrate and/or a silica wafer coated by the modified polymer.

Limonia acidissima fruit juice mediated eco-friendly synthesis of pervoskite ZnSnO3 nanoparticles: Applications to photocatalytic, electrochemical, antioxidant and antibacterial activities

In anticipation toa growing desire for start-ups to be both green and sustainable, there has been an increase in research focus on the effective removal and degradation of toxic wastewater effluents. A viable and sustainable wastewater treatment method is the use of light to degrade organic contaminants. Photocatalysis holds great potential for addressing environmental, energy, and health challenges, offering sustainable solutions for a wide range of applications with significant societal and economic benefits. In this paper, a multicomponent heterostructure photocatalyst ZnSnO3 was designed and prepared via a simple environmentally responsible path, which included the use of limonia acidissima natural fruit juice as a capping and reducing agent. The ZnSnO3 nanoparticles that were generated were examined using XRD, FT-IR, UV-DRS, SEM-EDAX, TEM, PL and BET investigations. The structure and crystallographic parameters were examined using XRD analysis, and found that the crystallite had orthorhombic geometry. The functional groups were investigated using FTIR spectroscopy. The band gaps (3.59 & 3.69 eV) were estimated using a Tauc plot employing the data of UV-DRS. According to SEM and TEM studies, the morphologies are irregular in shape and have particles that are about 14 nm in size. EDAX analysis was used to determine the elemental composition of the examined ZnSnO3 nanostructures, which demonstrated their purity. Using PL spectroscopy, superficial defects were investigated. The synthesized NPs were used as photocatalysts to degradethe methylene blue dye. Electrochemical measurement of K3[Fe(CN)6] revealed a good sensory activity with a detection limit of 38 μL. K3[Fe(CN)6] is used to detect ferrous ions in biological specimens. Furthermore, it also shows the superior anti-bacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, and gram-negative bacteria Pseudomonas fluorescens. To the best of our literature survey, it’s the first report for the synthesis of ZnSnO3 nanostructures using the natural reducing agent limonia acidissima natural fruit juice for dye degradation, electrochemical, anti-oxidant, and anti-bacterial applications.

Ozenoxacin: A Review of Clinical Efficacy on Impetigo Treatment

Impetigo, a common bacterial skin infection primarily affecting children, presents a global prevalence of 11.2%, with higher rates among children aged 2-5 years. Caused mainly by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes, impetigo lesions typically appear on the face, neck, and hands, spreading easily through scratching and close contact. Effective disease control is essential to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications such as rheumatic heart disease, and reduce transmission rates. Treatment with antimicrobial agents, especially topical antibiotics, is recommended for localized impetigo. Oral antibiotics are reserved for extensive or systemic infections and outbreaks. However, the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains, including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), poses a significant challenge. There is a pressing need for alternative antimicrobial agents effective against resistant strains. Ozenoxacin, a new topical quinolone, inhibits DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, essential enzymes for bacterial DNA replication. Unlike other quinolones, ozenoxacin effectively inhibits both enzymes at low concentrations, penetrating bacterial cells rapidly and achieving high intrabacterial concentrations. In tests against S. aureus and S. pyogenes, ozenoxacin exhibited superior bactericidal activity compared to mupirocin and fusidic acid, achieving a 3-log reduction in colony-forming units within 4 hours. Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of ozenoxacin 1% cream in treating impetigo, with placebo-controlled trials confirming its therapeutic effectiveness. Ozenoxacin holds promise as a valuable addition to the armamentarium against impetigo, particularly in the face of rising antibiotic resistance.impetigo, therapy, ozenoxacin

Pyridine-2,6-Dicarboxamide Proligands and their Cu(II)/Zn(II) Complexes Targeting Staphylococcus Aureus for the Attenuation of InVivo Dental Biofilm.

In the pursuit to combat stubborn bacterial infections, particularly those stemming from gram-positive bacteria, this study is an attempt to craft a precision-driven platform characterized by unparalleled selectivity, specificity, and synergistic antimicrobial mechanisms. Leveraging remarkable potential of metalloantibiotics in antimicrobial applications, herein, this work rationally designs, synthesizes, and characterizes a new library of Pyridine-2,6-dicarboxamide ligands and their corresponding transition metal Cu(II)/Zn(II) complexes. The lead compoundL11 demonstrates robust antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) = 2-16 µgmL-1), methicillin and vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (MIC = 2-4 µgmL-1) and exhibit superior antibacterial activity when compared to FDA-approved vancomycin, the drug of last resort. Additionally, the compound exhibits notable antimicrobial efficacy against resistant enterococcus strains (MIC = 2-8 µgmL-1). To unravel mechanistic profile, advanced imaging techniques including SEM and AFM are harnessed, collectively suggesting a mechanistic pathway involving cell wall disruption. Live/dead fluorescence studies further confirm efficacy of L11 and its complexes against S. aureus membranes. This translational exploration extends to a rat model, indicating promising in vivo therapeutic potential. Thus, this comprehensive research initiative has capabilities to transcends the confines of this laboratory, heralding a pivotal step toward combatting antibiotic-resistant pathogens and advancing the frontiers of metalloantibiotics-based therapy with a profound clinical implication.

Preservative effects of Osmanthus fragrans flower flavonoids on fresh-cut Yuluxiang pear

Osmanthus fragrans flower flavonoids (OFFF) possess superior antioxidant and antibacterial activities. However, scant information exists on the efficacy of these secondary metabolites as preservatives for fresh-cut fruits and vegetables. Here, OFFF were tested as a natural preservative for the first time in fresh-cut Yuluxiang pear (Pyrus bretschneideri Rehd.) to assess effects on fruit quality. OFFF-treated samples showed significant retention of firmness, titratable acid, soluble solid content, and weight. Moreover, OFFF maintained the original fruit color, inhibited the decline of total phenol, reducing power and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging power, and diminished polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase oxidase activities. Furthermore, OFFF treatment effectively inhibited microbial growth. OFFF-treated samples also displayed better sensory quality. Considering cost and effectiveness, the most suitable concentrations of OFFF extract for fresh-cut Yuluxiang pear preservation were 0.7 and 0.9 mg/mL. The results indicate that OFFF treatment may be a potent strategy to inhibit browning and enhance nutritional properties of fresh-cut pear fruit.

Enhanced solubility and biological activities of Flufenamic acid through β-Cyclodextrin derivatives inclusion complexes: A comprehensive study

This study explores the formation of inclusion complexes between the solubility enhancement of Flufenamic acid (FNA) and various β-Cyclodextrins (β-CD, Hβ-CD, Mβ-CD, and Sβ-CD) using ultrasonic probe sonication method. The investigation encompasses a multi-faceted analysis, employing UV–Visible, FTIR, XRD, FE-SEM, TGA-DSC techniques and molecular docking studies. The UV–Visible spectra reveal absorption peak shifts and binding constants (Ka) indicate interaction strength, and thermodynamic parameters suggest spontaneous and favorable inclusion processes of β-CDs:FNA. Solid inclusion complexes of β-CDs:FNA were further characterized using FTIR, revealing alterations in functional groups indicative of complex formation. XRD analysis elucidates changes in crystallinity, while FE-SEM provides insights into morphological variations. Thermal stability is assessed through TGA-DSC, demonstrate the impact of inclusion on the complexes stability. Phase solubility diagrams illustrate the improved solubility of FNA in the presence of β-CDs. Mβ-CD:FNA exhibits the highest stability constant (1204 M−1), emphasizing its potential as an effective carrier. The binding energy of Mβ-CD:FNA (−46.72 kcal/mol) was lower than that of β-CD:FNA (−39.03 kcal/mol), Hβ-CD:FNA (−46.40 kcal/mol), and Sβ-CD:FNA (−46.29 kcal/mol), indicating that the hydroxypropyl group substitution enhanced the inclusion ability of β-CDs. Antibacterial activity studies against S. aureus and E. coli highlight enhanced efficacy of inclusion complexes with Mβ-CD:FNA (92.3 ± 0.18 % and 94.2 ± 0.17 %) demonstrating superior antibacterial activity. Cytotoxicity evaluations on HCT-116 cells reveal the safety profile of the β-CDs:FNA inclusion complexes, with Mβ-CD:FNA showing lower toxicity and high cell internalization compared to other formulations. The findings hold promise for applications in drug delivery, antimicrobial packaging, and the broader pharmaceutical and biotechnological fields.

Shining insights: Deciphering the biogenic synthesis of Ajuga bracteosa-mediated gold nanoparticles with advanced microscopy techniques.

In this study, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were bioreduced from Ajuga bracteosa, a medicinal herb known for its therapeutic properties against various diseases. Different fractions of the plant extract were used, including the methanolic fraction (ABMF), the n-hexane fraction (ABHF), the chloroform fraction (ABCF), and the aqueous extract for AuNPs synthesis. The characterization of AuNPs was performed using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, FT-IR, XRD, EDX, and TEM. UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed the formation of AuNPs, with peaks observed at 555 nm. FT-IR analysis indicated strong capping of phytochemicals on the surface of AuNPs, which was supported by higher total phenolic contents (TPC) and total flavonoid contents (TFC) in AuNPs. XRD results showed high crystallinity and a smaller size distribution of AuNPs. TEM analysis revealed the spherical shape of AuNPs, with an average size of 29 ± 10 nm. The biologically synthesized AuNPs exhibited superior antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities compared to the plant extract fractions. The presence of active biomolecules in A. bracteosa, such as neoclerodan flavonol glycosides, diterpenoids, phytoecdysone, and iridoid glycosides, contributed to the enhanced biological activities of AuNPs. Overall, this research highlights the potential of A. bracteosa-derived AuNPs for various biomedical applications due to their remarkable therapeutic properties and effective capping by phytochemicals. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: This research underscores the growing significance of herbal medicine in contemporary healthcare by exploring the therapeutic potential of Ajuga bracteosa and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The study highlights the notable efficacy of A. bracteosa leaf extracts and AuNPs in treating bacterial infections, demonstrating their bactericidal effects on a range of strains. The anti-inflammatory properties of plant extracts and nanoparticles are evidenced through paw edema method suggesting their applicability in managing inflammatory conditions. These findings position A. bracteosa and AuNPs as potential candidates for alternative and effective approaches to modern medication.

Isolation and Identification of Chicken-Derived Lactic Acid Bacteria: In Vitro Probiotic Properties and Antagonistic Effects against Salmonella pullorum, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli.

The development of probiotics capable of quickly colonizing the intestines of animals is important in promoting the healthy growth of livestock. The aim of this study was to screen lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from the intestinal microbiota of chickens with potential applications, and to evaluate their probiotic properties and antagonistic abilities against Salmonella pullorum, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. The results showed that a total of 79 strains with the characteristics of LAB were isolated from the chicken cecum microbiota, of which 7 strains exhibited strong inhibitory activity against S. pullorum, S. aureus, and E. coli. Performing 16s rDNA sequencing revealed that these seven strains were Lactiplantibacillus pentosus (n = 1), Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (n = 3), Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum (n = 1), Lactiplantibacillus argentoratensis (n = 1), and Lactiplantibacillus fabifermentans (n = 1). Among them, L. pentosus R26 and L. plantarum R32 exhibited superior antibacterial activity. These two strains demonstrated high lactic acid production ability, with survival rates of 86.29% and 87.99% after 3 h of treatment at pH 1.5, 86.66% and 85.52% after 3 h of treatment with 0.5% bile salts, 90.03% and 88.16% after 2 h of treatment with simulated gastric fluid, and 98.92% and 98.22% after 2 h of treatment with simulated intestinal fluid, respectively. Co-cultivation with L. pentosus R26 for 24 h resulted in 50% of the pathogens being antagonized, while almost complete inhibition was observed following 72 h of co-cultivation. In conclusion, L. pentosus R26 and L. plantarum R32 exhibited high antibacterial activity and acid production capability, while also demonstrating satisfactory tolerance to low pH values and high concentrations of bile salts and digestive fluid. The probiotic characteristics and stress resistance of L. pentosus R26 were slightly superior to those of L. plantarum R32, indicating its potential for development as a probiotic.

Turning Polysaccharides into Injectable and Rapid Self-Healing Antibacterial Hydrogels for Antibacterial Treatment and Bacterial-Infected Wound Healing.

Great efforts have been devoted to the development of novel and multifunctional wound dressing materials to meet the different needs of wound healing. Herein, we covalently grafted quaternary ammonium groups (QAGs) containing 12-carbon straight-chain alkanes to the dextran polymer skeleton. We then oxidized the resulting product into oxidized quaternized dextran (OQD). The obtained OQD polymer is rich in antibacterial QAGs and aldehyde groups. It can react with glycol chitosan (GC) via the Schiff-base reaction to form a multifunctional GC@OQD hydrogel with good self-healing behavior, hemostasis, injectability, inherent superior antibacterial activity, biocompatibility, and excellent promotion of healing of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-infected wounds. The biosafe and nontoxic GC@OQD hydrogel with a three-dimensional porous network structure possesses an excellent swelling rate and water retention capacity. It can be used for hemostasis and treating irregular wounds. The designed GC@OQD hydrogel with inherent antibacterial activity possesses good antibacterial efficacy on both S. aureus (Gram-positive bacteria) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative bacteria), as well as MRSA bacteria, with antibacterial activity greater than 99%. It can be used for the treatment of wounds infected by MRSA and significantly promotes the healing of wounds. Thus, the multifunctional antibacterial GC@OQD hydrogel has the potential to be applied in clinical practice as a wound dressing.