Treatment Of Skin Conditions Research Articles

Healing properties of natural mineral water of Tajikistan

Aim. To study the composition and medicinal properties of water from natural mineral springs in the Republic of Tajikistan.Materials and Methods. This study analyzed the climatic and geographical regions, as well as the water quality and chemical composition of four mineral springs: Khoja-Obi-Garm, Obi-Garm, Garm-Chashma, and Shoambary. The research also investigated the influence and effectiveness of these mineral waters in treating skin diseases.Results and Discussion. The Republic of Tajikistan has numerous mineral springs that are used for treating skin conditions and other health issues. Mineral waters in Tajikistan are classified into five types based on their chemical composition: bicarbonate, chloride, sulfate, nitrate, and mixed composition waters. In addition, there are waters with active ions and gaseous elements such as hydrogen sulfide, radon, nitrogen, and methane. Based on temperature, these waters are categorized as cold, warm, or hot/thermal waters. The springs at Khoja-Obi-Garm, Obi-Garm, Garm-Chashma, and Shoambary are hot thermal baths of the bicarbonate-chloride-sulfate-sodium type. In addition to the primary salts and gases, these waters contain biologically active trace elements, including aluminum, titanium, manganese, copper, silicon, molybdenum, strontium, barium, boron, fluorine, and others.Conclusion. Tajikistan holds a leading position in Central Asia regarding the abundance of mineral springs, and the mineral waters from these springs meet the requirements for therapeutic use. These waters contain a variety of chemical elements that exert significant biological effects, and, when used appropriately, can effectively treat many diseases.

Phytochemical screening and antioxidant evaluation of Agave angustifolia and Agave sisalana

Background: Agave angustifolia (AA) and Agave sisalana (AS) are used by local communities for medicinal purposes to treat skin conditions. Small companies add Agave leaf extracts to their cosmetic products, claiming calming and skin-rejuvenating qualities.Aim: The study aimed to assess the phytochemical profiles and antioxidant activities of AA and AS verifying the traditional therapeutic claims about the species and accordingly establishing the assertions of cottage industries.Setting: The AA leaves were collected from the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, while AS leaves were sourced from the iLembe district municipality.Methods: The phytochemical extracts were obtained by gradient solvent maceration of the leaves. Qualitative phytochemical screening established the presence of bioactive phytochemicals in the extract. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) and the ferric reducing and/or antioxidant power (FRAP) methods measured the bioactive phytochemicals’ antioxidant activity.Results: Qualitative phytochemical evaluation confirmed the presence of secondary metabolites in both plants. AS extracts also contained alkaloids. The DPPH antioxidant activity indicated that Agave extracts had 20% to 80% scavenging activity. AS methanol extract had the maximum antioxidant activity among all the extracts. AA methanol and AS hexane extracts had no antioxidant activity. AA ethyl acetate extract had higher antioxidant activity (64%) than AS (52%). AA hexane extract had 70% activity while AS hexane extract had 30%.Conclusion: The detected phytochemicals indicate potential use for emulsifying, antioxidant, anti-ageing, anti-inflammatory, and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities.Contribution: This study contributes to the existing knowledge of the therapeutic properties of AA and AS plants.

Pathomechanism of Adverse Reactions to Biological Treatment of Inflammatory Skin Conditions.

Biological agents are widely used across medicine, including for immune-mediated skin conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. When used to treat a relevant pathological process, they demonstrate impressive efficacy and credible safety, helping to achieve remission and improved function and quality of life. However, with their expanded use, awareness and understanding of adverse reactions to biologicals have also increased. Herein, we discuss the pathomechanism of adverse reactions to biological agents used to treat skin conditions and apply these to Pichler's classification system. This classification differentiates five distinct types, namely overstimulation (type α), hypersensitivity or immunogenicity (β), immunodeviation (γ), cross-reactivity (δ) and nonimmunologic adverse reactions (ε). This classification covers most types of adverse reactions associated with use of biological agents and could be used to better understand the reaction pathogenesis and manage the clinical features of biological adverse effects.

Alpha-Tocopherol-Infused Flexible Liposomal Nanocomposite Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive: Enhancing Skin Permeation of Retinaldehyde

Retinaldehyde (RAL), or retinal, is a vitamin A derivative that is widely used for several skin conditions. However, it is light sensitive and has low water solubility, limiting its efficiency in transdermal delivery. This study developed a novel delivery system for retinal (RAL) using flexible liposomes (FLPs) infused with α-tocopherol succinate (α-TS) to improve stability, and enhance skin permeability. The RAL-FLPs were embedded in pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) hydrogels, creating a delivery platform that supports prolonged skin residence and efficient permeation of RAL. The stability and skin permeation as well as human skin irritation and adhesion capabilities were assessed to determine the formulation’s safety and efficacy. Our findings suggested that the addition of α-TS could improve liposomal stability and RAL chemical stability. Moreover, the skin permeation and fluorescence microscopic-based studies suggested that the addition of α-TS could enhance skin permeability of RAL through hair follicles. The RAL-FLP was embedded in PSA hydrogels fabricated from 25% GantrezTM S-97 (GT) and 1% hyaluronic acid (Hya) with aluminum as a crosslinker. The PSA hydrogel exhibited desirable peeling and tacking strengths. The developed hydrogels also demonstrated greater skin deposition of RAL compared with its aqueous formulation. Additionally, the RAL-FLP-embedded PSA hydrogels showed no skin irritation and maintained better adhesion for up to 24 h compared to commercial patches. Hence, the developed hydrogels could serve as a beneficial platform for delivering RAL in treating skin conditions.

Insights into the wound-healing properties of medicinally important South African Bulbine species – A comparative study

Ethnopharmacological relevanceSouth Africa harbours a large number of Bulbine (Xanthorrhoeaceae) species, which includes ethnobotanically important indigenous species. Traditionally, Bulbine leaves are used by several ethnic groups in South Africa to treat dermatological conditions including wounds, which led to the development of Bulbine-containing cosmetic products. However, scientific evidence is needed to support the claims in treating skin conditions and wound-healing. Aim of the studyThis comparative study was undertaken to investigate the wound-healing properties of five Bulbine species indigenous to South Africa, using in vitro and in vivo models. Materials and methodsFive Bulbine species, B. abyssinica, B. asphodeloides, B. frutescens, B. latifolia and B. narcissifolia were collected from natural populations in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The chemical profiles of the methanol leaf extracts were acquired using ultra-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection in tandem with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay and maximum tolerated concentration (MTC) assay were used to assess the in vitro and in vivo toxicity of the extracts, respectively. The in vitro scratch assay was employed to monitor cell migration and wound-closure in a HaCaT cell monolayer, following treatment with the plant extracts for 48 h. In vivo wound-healing potential was determined using the zebrafish larvae caudal fin amputation assay, assessed in three-days post fertilization larvae and various concentrations of the plant extracts were tested in both assays to determine the concentration-response effect. Data were analysed using MS Excel® enhanced with the Real Statistics add-in. Results and discussionUsing UPLC-MS, 11 major compounds were tentatively identified in the five Bulbine species. Although the compounds varied between species, all five Bulbine species contained the phenylanthraquinone, knipholone. Kaempferol glucoside was identified in four species, but not in B. abyssinica. The five Bulbine species were non-cytotoxic (cell viability > 80%) towards keratinocytes at all three tested concentrations. However, B. latifolia was toxic towards zebrafish larvae at all the tested concentrations, while the other four species were non-toxic at low concentrations. The results of the scratch assay revealed that B. abyssinica was the most active extract at 100 μg/mL. Compared to the untreated control, wound-closure notably increased by 28% (p < 0.05), 44% (p < 0.01) and 34% (p < 0.05) after 12 h, 24 h and 36 h post-treatment, respectively. Although none of the species achieved 100% caudal fin regeneration by the end of the treatment period, B. frutescens demonstrated the highest regeneration (90%) and most significant difference (p < 0.01) compared to the untreated control. ConclusionThe results revealed that the five Bulbine species have complex chemical profiles, however, they share major compound classes (i.e. phenylanthroquinones and flavonoid analogues) across the species. The study highlights the wound-healing properties of the five species, which is consistent with their traditional use.

Herbal Medicinal Nanoformulations for Psoriasis Treatment: Current State of Knowledge and Future Directions

Background: Psoriasis is a persistent immune system disorder that influences the skin, leading to red, flaky patches that can be painful and irritated. Objective: Traditional treatments for psoriasis, such as topical creams and oral medications, may be effective but also have potential side effects. Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat skin conditions, and advancements in nanotechnology have led to the development of herbal nanoformulations that offer several advantages over traditional herbal remedies, such as efficacy, safety, and targeted delivery. Methods: The studies and reviews published under the title were looked up in several databases (including PubMed, Elsevier, and Google Scholar). Results: Several herbal nanoformulations, including those containing curcumin, aloe vera, and neem, have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory impacts, which will be useful within the treatment of psoriasis. However, more study is required to decide the efficacy and safety of these details, as well as the optimal dosing, duration of treatment, and potential side effects. Conclusion: Overall, herbal nanoformulations represent a promising area of research for the treatment of psoriasis, and may offer a safe and effective alternative or adjunct therapy to conventional treatments. This review article summarizes the present state of information for the herbal nanoformulations role in the treatment of psoriasis and their future perspectives.

Marine Drugs for Topical Nanoformulation and Cosmeceutical Applications

Marine sources, such as phytoplankton and zooplankton from seas or oceans that correspond to various marine ecosystems, are the sources of marine pharmaceuticals. These medications have been utilized as active ingredients in cosmeceutical formulas to treat a range of skin conditions. Cosmeceuticals, or cosmetic products with an active pharmaceutical ingredient that imparts therapeutic efficacy or has benefits similar to those of medicine for skin health, are characterized as cosmetics plus medicines. Algae, fungi, sea cucumbers, seaweed, corals, prawns, and other marine organisms can all produce medicinal components that effectively treat wrinkles, blemishes, aging, hyperpigmentation, and oxidation. Because these medications and sources are natural, they have few or no negative effects on the skin. The skin is the site of action for the topical distribution of marine medicines and cosmeceuticals to treat this condition. This study investigates a viable nano-delivery method for marine medications in cosmetics, providing long-term and practical means of improving skin health and treating dermatological issues. The focus of this review is on marine medications, their chemical components, cosmeceutical usage, and the pathophysiology of various dermatological conditions. Additionally, raw ingredients used as excipients in cosmeceutical formulations can be sourced from marine species. Because of massive industrialization, unsustainability has become a major research topic. Marine chemicals, on the other hand, are highly eco-friendly and sustainable. A thorough analysis of the literature in this area focuses on the effects of different marine chemicals on the skin, as well as on the physicochemical parameters and post-formulation evaluations. As far as current research and prospects go, the cosmetics and cosmeceuticals sector is a better fit for marine pharmaceuticals when treating skin conditions.

Anti-photoaging activity of triterpenoids isolated from Centella asiatica

Centella asiatica (L.) Urban is a medical plant rich in triterpenoids, frequently used in Asia to treat skin conditions such as acne. To search for anti-photoaging agents, 16 known triterpenoids and five undescribed triterpenoids, including three ursane, one oleanane and one nor-ursane were isolated from the whole herb of C. asiatica. The structures and relative stereochemistry of these compounds were elucidated by detailed NMR spectra and HRESIMS. Compounds 1 and 2 were isomers of ursane-type and oleane-type triterpenes with rare aldehyde groups on C-23. Compound 4 was a unique example of a nor-ursane type triterpenoid. The Ultraviolet B (UVB) induced HaCaT cell damage model was used to measure the in vitro anti-photoaging activity of all 21 compounds. Twenty compounds significantly increased HaCaT viability and inhibited lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release after UVB exposure. These findings highlight the protective effects of C. asiatica-derived triterpenoids against UVB damage and indicate their potential as natural agents that can protect the skin against photoaging.

Advances in Nanoparticles for Skin Protection — A Review

Nanoparticles (NPs) have revolutionized the field of skin protection and treatment by offering unique properties that enhance drug delivery, efficacy and safety. This review explores the advances in NP technology for various skin applications, including protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, treatment of skin diseases and enhancement of cosmetic products. NPs, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are extensively used in sunscreens for their effective UV-blocking capabilities without leaving a white residue. In medical applications, NPs improve active ingredients’ stability, penetration, and controlled release, making them ideal for treating skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema and skin cancer. The review also highlights the role of NPs in cosmetic formulations, where they enhance product texture, stability, and bioavailability of active ingredients, leading to better skin hydration and antiaging effects. Despite their benefits, the potential risks and regulatory challenges associated with NP use in skin products are discussed, emphasizing the need for comprehensive safety evaluations and adherence to regulatory standards. Future research directions include optimizing NP formulations for targeted delivery, reducing systemic absorption and improving patient compliance. This review underscores the transformative potential of NPs in dermatology and skincare, advocating for balanced development to maximize benefits while ensuring safety.

An Outlook on Platinum-Based Active Ingredients for Dermatologic and Skincare Applications.

Platinum-based materials exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and pro-collagen synthesis properties, making them particularly useful for various biomedical applications. This review summarizes the biological effects and therapeutic potential of platinum-based active ingredients in dermatological and skincare applications. We discuss their synthesis methods and their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and collagen synthesis properties, which play essential roles in treating skin conditions including psoriasis and acne, as well as enhancing skin aesthetics in anti-aging products. Safety and sustainability concerns, including the need for green synthesis and comprehensive toxicological assessments to ensure safe topical applications, are also discussed. By providing an up-to-date overview of current research, we aim to highlight both the potential and the current challenges of platinum-based active ingredients in advancing dermatology and skincare solutions.

Multidimensional Uses of Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia L.) Considering the Important Functions of its Chemical Components

Abstract: Bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) is a member of the Cucurbitaceae, which is also known as bitter squash, bitter gourd, karela, Goya melon and balsam pear. It is a rich source of different vitamins, potassium, zinc and other nutrients. The main pharmaceutical benefits of bitter melon are “antiinflammatory”, “antioxidant activity”, “antimicrobial characteristic”, “anticancer activity”, and “antihelmintic activity”, “antidiabetic effects”, “antiinflammation activity” and “treat skin conditions”. Its fruit is the main part of the plant which has been used for medicinal and food purposes. The primary metabolites in bitter gourd are common sugars, chlorophyll and proteins while secondary metabolites are carotenoids, alkaloids, phenolics, curcubitane triterpenoids, saponins, etc. The present review aims to study and survey on the nearly up-to-date results and findings regarding the pharmaceutical advantages and health benefits of bitter melon in an organic life.

Maskwio’mi (Birch Bark Extract): A Case Study Exploring The Use Of A Traditional L’nu Medicine On Skin Conditions

According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, more than 1 in 4 Canadians live with chronic skin conditions. There are many different treatment options, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, natural remedies, and herbal folk medicines. Folk medicines have a long history, and birch trees (genus betula) have shown great utility for treating skin conditions in societies of temperate and boreal climate zones and have been listed in pharmacopoeias for several centuries. Maskwio’mi (maskwi = birch, o’mi = gathering or oil) is such a traditional skin remedy from the L’nu (Mi’kmaq) people of Atlantic Canada. This case study is part of a larger study and the first to document usage of maskwio’mi for skin conditions, with a goal of future in-depth clinical studies and hopes of recognizing it as a natural health product.

Therapeutic potential of selenium nanoparticles synthesized by mangrove plant: Combatting oral pathogens and exploring additional biological properties

BackgroundOver the past few decades, nanoparticles have been widely employed to limit the growth of cancer both in vivo and in vitro, as well as many dangerous bacteria, fungi, and viruses. In traditional medicine, a marine plant called Rhizophora mucronata is frequently used to treat skin conditions, inflammation, and diabetes. ObjectiveEvaluate the efficacy of selenium nanoparticles synthesized using mangrove plant extracts in combating oral pathogens and assess their potential for additional biological properties towards the development of novel therapeutic interventions for oral infections and related conditions. MethodsIn the current study, R. mucronata was utilized to create selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) in an environmentally friendly manner. The elements of the material were identified using EDX spectroscopy, its shape was examined using SEM, and its surface Plasmon resonance was measured using UV–Vis spectroscopy. Moreover, FT-IR was used to identify the SeNPs' functional groups. ResultsThe produced nanoparticles ranged in size from 20 to 60 nm and had a spherical form. Later analyses concentrated on the ability of the synthesized nanoparticles to combat common oral pathogens that cause dental cavities and other oral diseases. The marine plant-derived SeNPs showed notable zones of inhibition in addition to lethal actions against these oral infections. These nanoparticles also demonstrated anti-inflammatory and potentially effective DPPH radical scavenging qualities. ConclusionBased on the above reported results, it can be concluded that SeNPs generated by R. mucronata have significant potential for a variety of pharmacological and medical uses.

Fagopyrin F fraction from Fagopyrum tataricum demonstrates photodynamic inactivation of skin infecting bacterium and squamous cell carcinoma (A431) cells.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) stands out as a noteworthy development as an alternative targeted treatment against skin ailments. While PDT has advanced significantly, research into photo-activatable "Green drugs" derived from plants which are less toxic than the synthetic drugs has not kept pace. This study investigates the potential of Fagopyrin F Containing Fraction (FCF) derived from Fagopyrum tataricum in mediating PDT against Staphylococcus aureus and skin cancer cells (A431). FCF was isolated from the plant extract using thin-layer chromatography, followed by identification of the compound through high-performance liquid chromatography and high-resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. FCF was tested to determine its antibacterial and anticancer efficacy. Results revealed that FCF-mediated PDT exhibited potent action against S. aureus, significantly reducing bacterial viability (MIC 19.5 μg/100 μL). Moreover, FCF-mediated PDT showed good efficacy against A431 cells, resulting in a notable reduction in cell viability (IC50 29.08μg/mL). Given the known association between S. aureus and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), FCF shows the potential to effectively target and eradicate both SCC and the related S. aureus present within the lesions. In silico study reveals that Fagopyrin F effectively binds with the epidermal growth factor (EGFR), one among the highly expressed proteins in the A431 cells, with a binding energy of -9.6kcal/mol. The affinity of Fagopyrin F for EGFR on A431 cancer cells along with its cytotoxicity against skin cancer cells while safeguarding the normal cells (L929) plays a major part in the way it targets cancer cells. However, its safety, efficacy, and long-term advantages in treating skin conditions require more investigation, including in vivo investigations and clinical trials.

Evaluation of Antibacterial Properties of Neem Seed Oil

Neem is a potent blood purifier, detoxifier, and fever reducer according to Ayurvedic scriptures. Neem's astringent properties aid in the promotion of healing even further. Medicated neem oil is considered one of the best for treating skin conditions. Neem works well as an anti-inflammatory for discomfort in the muscles and joints. Diterpenesuginol, nimbiol (bark), triterpenes, beta-sitosterol, stigmastrol (leaf), Limonoids, Malliantriol (seed oil), Nimbendiol (seed oil), and azardiractin (seed) are among the groups of substances that have been isolated from the plant in good amounts. These compounds are sulphurous. In summary, this investigation unequivocally demonstrated the antibacterial efficacy of neem oil against bacterial strains isolated from various environments. Today, more research on antimicrobials originating from plants is required. To identify the antibacterial chemicals found in these plants and to ascertain the full range of their activity, more investigation is required. Nonetheless, the current investigation into the in vitro antibacterial assessment of specific plants serves as a foundation for future phytochemical and pharmacological research aimed at finding novel antibacterial medications.

Artificial intelligence in dermatology: advancements and challenges in skin of color.

Artificial intelligence (AI) uses algorithms and large language models in computers to simulate human-like problem-solving and decision-making. AI programs have recently acquired widespread popularity in the field of dermatology through the application of online tools in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of skin conditions. A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar analyzing recent literature (from the last 10 years through October 2023) to evaluate current AI programs in use for dermatologic purposes, identifying challenges in this technology when applied to skin of color (SOC), and proposing future steps to enhance the role of AI in dermatologic practice. Challenges surrounding AI and its application to SOC stem from the underrepresentation of SOC in datasets and issues with image quality and standardization. With these existing issues, current AI programs inevitably do worse at identifying lesions in SOC. Additionally, only 30% of the programs identified in this review had data reported on their use in dermatology, specifically in SOC. Significant development of these applications is required for the accurate depiction of darker skin tone images in datasets. More research is warranted in the future to better understand the efficacy of AI in aiding diagnosis and treatment options for SOC patients.

A NEPHROPROTECTIVE EFFECT OF CARISSA SPINARUM AGAINST GENTAMICIN INDUCED OXIDATIVE NEPHROTOXICITY

One of the most prevalent issues with the kidneys is nephrotoxicity, which happens when the body is exposed to a toxin or medicine. With the growing availability of powerful therapeutic medications such as aminoglycoside antibiotics, chemotherapeutic agents, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), a variety of pharmaceuticals can have a negative impact on the kidney, leading to acute renal failure, chronic interstitial nephritis, and nephritic syndrome. Ethiopian native Carissa spinarum (Apocynaceae) is traditionally used to treat skin conditions, rheumatism, diarrhoea, chicken pox, and stomachaches. The herbal plant Carissa spinarum possesses antioxidant qualities. The term "nephrotoxicity" describes the detrimental effects that different drugs can have on the kidneys, which can result in damage and dysfunction. This illness offers a serious risk to kidney health and can be brought on by exposure to specific medicines, chemicals, or poisons. Understanding the methods by which these substances affect the structure and function of the kidneys—such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and interference with essential cellular processes—is necessary to comprehend the abstract idea of nephrotoxicity. Nephrotoxicity management also involves establishing prevention and management strategies, identifying, and tracking possible nephrotoxic substances, and managing and preventing nephrotoxicity. All things considered, an abstract comprehension of nephrotoxicity entails investigating the complex pathways and circumstances that lead to renal injury and formulating strategies to lessen or offset these detrimental effects on kidney function.

Quantitative Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Species With Dermatological Relevance Used in Traditional Mayan Medicine

This ethnobotanical study highlights the significant knowledge of the Maya Yucatecan healers about medicinal plants used to treat skin diseases and the importance of studying the ancient knowledge inherited from generation to generation. Historically, the Maya people have relied on the use of medicinal plants to treat various ailments, including skin diseases. The study focuses on identifying the plants that have been traditionally employed for these purposes. By comparing historical sources with contemporary ethnobotanical data gathered from the field, this research uncovers the evolving patterns of plant usage over time. It also underscores the significance of considering sociopolitical circumstances in understanding changes in local knowledge. The data indicated that Rutaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Lamiaceae, and Asteraceae were the most represented families. The ethnohistoric record also showed gaps linked to the local knowledge developed by the Mayans over time. The principal component analysis technique applied to our ethnobotanical data simplifies the complexity of information on the use of medicinal flora to treat skin conditions, resulting in a new predictive model for pooling herbal knowledge. Correlations indicated that more than 50% of the listed species are used to treat fungal infections. This historical perspective enriches our understanding of the dynamic relationship between the Maya people and their use of medicinal plants for skin-related ailments.

Capsicum annuum Oleoresin Nanoemulgel - Design Characterization and In vitro Investigation of Anticancer and Antimicrobial Activities.

The use of naturally occurring bioactive materials is getting great attention owing to their safety and environmental properties. Oily compounds, known as oleoresins, are expected to provide an important source for the natural products industry aiming to develop novel treatments for skin conditions. In this work, Capsicum annuum oleoresin nanoemulgel formulations have been prepared and investigated for their antibacterial and anticancer properties. Several C. annuum oleoresin nanoemulgel formulations were prepared by incorporating a Carbopol 940 gel in a self-nanoemulsifying nanoemulsion consisting of C. annuum, tween 80, and span 80. The systems were characterized for particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and rheology. The in vitro antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of the optimum formulation were evaluated. The selected formulation is composed of 40% tween, 10% span 80, and 40% C. annuum oleoresin. This formulation produced a stable nanoemulsion with a narrow PDI value of 0.179 ± 0.08 and a droplet size of 104.0 ± 2.6 nm. Results of the in vitro antimicrobial studies indicated high potency of the systems against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (zone of inhibition of 29 ± 1.9 mm), E. coli (33 ± 0.9 mm), K. pneumonia (30 ± 1.4 mm), and C. albicans (21 ± 1.5 mm), as compared to the reference antibiotic, ampicillin (18 ± 1.4 mm against K. pneumonia), and antifungal agent, fluconazole (12 ± 0.1 mm against C. albicans). Furthermore, cytotoxicity results, expressed as IC50 values, revealed that the oleoresin and its nanoemulgel had the best effects against the HepG2 cell line (IC50 value of 79.43 μg/mL for the nanoemulgel) and MCF7 (IC50 value of 57.54 μg/mL), and the most potent effect was found against 3T3 (IC50 value of 45.7 μg/m- L). On the other side, the system did not substantially exhibit activity against By-61 and Hela. C. annuum oleoresin and its nanoemulgel can be considered valuable sources for the discovery of new antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer compounds in the pharmaceutical industry, especially due to their potent activity against various cancer cell lines as well as bacterial and fungal strains.

Bioprocessing strategies for enhanced probiotic extracellular vesicle production: culture condition modulation.

Probiotic extracellular vesicles are biochemically active structures responsible for biological effects elicited by probiotic bacteria. Lactobacillus spp., which are abundant in the human body (e.g., gut), are known to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and are commonly used in food products, supplements, and in discovery research. There is increasing evidence that Lactobacillus-derived extracellular vesicles (LREVs) have potent immunomodulatory capacity that is superior to probiotics themselves. However, key mechanistic insights into the process that controls production and thus, the function of LREVs, are lacking. Currently, it is unknown how the probiotic culture microenvironment orchestrates the type, yield and function of LREVs. Here, we investigated how multifactor modulation of the biomanufacturing process controls the yield and biological functionality of the LREVs. To achieve this, we selected Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus as the candidate probiotic, initially cultivated under traditional culture conditions, i.e., 100% broth concentration and pH 5.5. Subsequently, we systematically modified the culture conditions of the probiotic by adjusting three critical process parameters: (1) culture medium pH (pH 3.5, 5.5 and 7.5), (2) growth time (48 and 72h), and (3) broth concentration (50% and 10% of original broth concentration). EVs were then isolated separately from each condition. The critical quality attributes (CQA) of LREVs, including physical characteristics (size, distribution, concentration) and biological composition (protein, carbohydrate, lipid), were analysed. Functional impacts of LREVs on human epidermal keratinocytes and Staphylococcus aureus were also assessed as CQA. Our findings show that the production of LREVs is influenced by environmental stresses induced by the culture conditions. Factors like broth concentration, pH levels, and growth time significantly impact stress levels in L. rhamnosus, affecting both the production and composition of LREVs. Additionally, we have observed that LREVs are non-toxicity for keratinocytes, the major cell type of the epidermis, and possess antimicrobial properties against S. aureus, a common human skin pathogen. These properties are prerequisites for the potential application of EVs to treat skin conditions, including infected wounds. However, the functionality of LREVs depends on the culture conditions and stress levels experienced by L. rhamnosus during production. Understanding this relationship between the culture microenvironment, probiotic stress response, and LREV characteristics, can lead to the biomanufacturing of customised probiotic-derived EVs for various medical and industrial applications.