Wound Healing Properties Research Articles

Tannic acid-reinforced soy protein/oxidized tragacanth gum-based multifunctional hemostatic film for regulation of wound healing

With recent advances in the field of tissue engineering, composite films with biocompatibility, antimicrobial properties, and wound healing properties have gained potential applications in the field of wound dressings. In this research work, composite films of soy protein (S)/oxidized tragacanth gum (G) were successfully made using the solution casting process. The metal-organic framework containing curcumin (MOF) with concentrations of 5 and 10 wt% and tannic acid (TA) with concentrations of 6 and 12 wt% were entered into the polymer film. Surface morphology with scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), thermal stability, mechanical properties, chemical structure, antioxidant, water absorption, cell viability, antibacterial activity, and biodegradability of the prepared films were investigated in laboratory conditions. In addition, the toxicity of the films in the cell environment was investigated, and the results showed that cell growth and proliferation improved in the presence of the prepared films, especially films SG/MOF10/TA6 and SG/MOF10/TA12 due to the presence of TA and MOF containing curcumin. Also, the antibacterial activity of the films showed that the presence of tannic acid and curcumin in the structure of the films increases their ability against pathogens. According to the obtained results, the newly produced nanocomposite film (SG/MOF10/TA12) has a high potential to be used for wound dressing due to its favorable characteristics and was considered the optimal film.

Antioxidant Peptides and Protein Hydrolysates from Tilapia: Cellular and In Vivo Evidences for Human Health Benefits.

Antioxidant peptides derived from aquatic organisms have attracted tremendous research interest due to their potential applications in human health. Tilapia is one of the most widely farmed aquaculture species globally. The current understanding of tilapia-derived antioxidant peptides is gradually expanding. This review discusses the current knowledge of peptides and protein hydrolysates derived from tilapia muscle, skin, and scales, whose antioxidant capacity has been validated in various cellular and in vivo models. To date, at least 16 peptides and several hydrolysates have been identified from tilapia that protect human and non-human cell models against oxidative injury. Tilapia hydrolysates and peptide mixtures have also shown protective effects in animal models of oxidative stress-associated diseases and exercise-induced oxidative injury and fatigue. The key mechanisms of tilapia hydrolysates and peptide mixtures involve enhancing antioxidant enzyme activities and suppressing radical production. Notably, such hydrolysates also exerted additional in vivo functions, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, wound healing, and antiaging properties. Taken together, tilapia-derived antioxidant peptides and hydrolysates represent a valuable source of functional ingredients for applications in functional food, dietary supplements, and therapeutic applications. Continued research into their health benefits is warranted in the future.

Silk Fibroin-Based Scaffolds: Potential for Applications in Wound Healing

Chronic wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, pose significant challenges due to their prolonged inflammation state, slow vascularization, lack of supportive matrix, and frequent recurrence. Biocompatible materials like silk fibroin (SF) and collagen can be promising in chronic wound healing applications due to their biocompatibility, and ability to act as supporting matrix necessary for tissue regeneration. This study explores the development and characterization of SF-based biomaterials in various formats, including gels, lyophilized scaffolds, and films, by combining them with collagen (Col) and heparin (Hep) molecules that are known for the wound-healing properties. SF gels, films, and lyophilized scaffolds were characterized for water retention capacity, porosity, contact angle, and antibacterial properties. Curcumin-loaded films reported moderate wetting behavior but were brittle, thin and hard. Freeze-dried scaffolds possessed higher water retention capacity compared to the sonicated gels and films, and showed a porous network structure, while the fabricated SF gels disintegrated in water. SF with a chelating agent demonstrated mild antibacterial properties, which were retained when combined with Collagen peptides and Heparin. The antimicrobial effect was significantly enhanced when SF+Col+Hep was added with antimicrobial agents such as Gentamicin and Ceftriaxone. The study concludes that SF-based scaffolds, particularly those incorporating collagen peptides and heparin, can be leveraged for molecular delivery application towards wound healing. Future research should focus on improving mechanical properties, measuring release kinetics of heparin and other biomolecules from SF-based lyophilized scaffolds, and conducting in vivo studies to validate the therapeutic value.

Recent Advances in the Therapeutic Potential of Fucoidan: A Comprehensive Review

Fucoidan, a polysaccharide primarily comprised of l-fucose and sulfate groups possesses a unique chemical structure that underpins its notable therapeutic potential. Its remarkable biological functions such as antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antiviral, anticoagulant, antithrombotic, immunoregulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties have gained substantial recognition in the global food and pharmaceutical industries. This review highlights recent advancements in understanding fucoidan’s potential biological activities that could innovate treatments for oral infections and inflammatory diseases. A systematic search for relevant articles published between January 2000 and July 2024 was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Manual searches of references listed in the identified publications were conducted to ensure thorough coverage of the subject. The inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed articles in English-language, encompassing meta-analysis, randomized clinical trials, cohort studies, case-control studies and in vitro studies. Exclusion criteria comprised abstracts, opinion pieces, review articles not providing original analysis, and studies not directly addressing the therapeutic effects of fucoidan. This rigorous selection process aims to encapsulate the most significant and recent scientific evidence regarding the therapeutic applications of fucoidan. Fucoidans, with their diverse pharmacological properties, hold promising therapeutic potential which could emerge as a novel therapeutic option for treating wide range of diseases. Fucoidans have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which may be beneficial in reducing inflammation related to periodontal diseases and other oral conditions. We anticipate that this review will serve as a foundational guide and inspire continued product development centered on fucoidan. Clinical relevance to interdisciplinary dentistry:  Fucoidan, a polysaccharide rich in fucose holds wide pharmacological effects  Enhancement of oral health outcomes through anti- inflammatory properties  Antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens  Wound healing property may aid in periodontal diseases.

AS ATIVIDADES ANTIOXIDANTES DA PERESKIA ACULEATA MILLER

Ora-pro-nóbis (Pereskia aculeata Miller), a plant native to Brazil, is valued in traditional medicine for its nutritional and therapeutic properties. Recently, scientific interest has grown, particularly due to its antioxidant activities. It is rich in vitamins, iron, and proteins and has shown therapeutic effects such as wound healing and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. Identified bioactive compounds include phenolic acids, like caffeic acid, and flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol. Studies demonstrate high antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, with effectiveness in inhibiting both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The plant's mucilage, known for its water retention capacity, is valuable in the food industry as a thickening and stabilizing agent and also has wound-healing properties, leading to its use in ointments. The biopolymers found, such as arabinogalactans, have potential applications in food and pharmaceutical additives. Ora-pro-nóbis is a rich source of bioactive compounds with potential for new nutraceutical and pharmaceutical products, promoting health and disease prevention.

Evaluation of Biotechnological Active Peptides Secreted by Saccharomyces cerevisiae with Potential Skin Benefits.

Biotechnological active peptides are gaining interest in the cosmetics industry due to their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-collagenase (ACE) effects, as well as wound healing properties, making them suitable for cosmetic formulations. The antimicrobial activity of peptides (2-10 kDa) secreted by Saccharomyces cerevisiae Ethanol-Red was evaluated against dermal pathogens using broth microdilution and challenge tests. ACE was assessed using a collagenase activity colorimetric assay, antioxidant activity via spectrophotometric monitoring of nitrotetrazolium blue chloride (NBT) reduction, and anti-inflammatory effects by quantifying TNF-α mRNA in lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-exposed dermal fibroblasts. Wound healing assays involved human fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and dermal keratinocytes. The peptides (2-10 kDa) exhibited antimicrobial activity against 10 dermal pathogens, with the Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) ranging from 125 µg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus to 1000 µg/mL for Candida albicans and Streptococcus pyogenes. In the challenge test, peptides at their MICs reduced microbial counts significantly, fulfilling ISO 11930:2019 standards, except against Aspergillus brasiliensis. The peptides combined with MicrocareⓇ SB showed synergy, particularly against C. albicans and A. brasilensis. In vitro, the peptides inhibited collagenase activity by 41.8% and 94.5% at 250 and 1000 µg/mL, respectively, and demonstrated antioxidant capacity. Pre-incubation with peptides decreased TNF-α expression in fibroblasts, indicating anti-inflammatory effects. The peptides do not show to promote or inhibit the angiogenesis of endothelial cells, but are able to attenuate fibrosis, scar formation, and chronic inflammation during the final phases of the wound healing process. The peptides showed antimicrobial, antioxidant, ACE, and anti-inflammatory properties, highlighting their potential as multifunctional bioactive ingredients in skincare, warranting further optimization and exploration in cosmetic applications.

Green synthesis of polyethylene glycol coated, ciprofloxacin loaded CuO nanoparticles and its antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus

Antibacterial resistance requires an advanced strategy to increase the efficacy of current therapeutics in addition to the synthesis of new generations of antibiotics. In this study, copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) were green synthesized using Moringa oleifera root extract. CuO-NPs fabricated into a form of aspartic acid-ciprofloxacin-polyethylene glycol coated copper oxide-nanotherapeutics (CIP-PEG-CuO) to improve the antibacterial activity of NPs and the efficacy of the drug with controlled cytotoxicity. These NPs were charachterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x-rays diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Antibacterial screening and bacterial chemotaxis investigations demonstrated that CIP-PEG-CuO NPs show enhanced antibacterial potential against Gram-positive and Gram-negative clinically isolated pathogenic bacterial strains as compared to CuO-NPs. In ex-vivo cytotoxicity CIP-PEG-CuO-nano-formulates revealed 88% viability of Baby Hamster Kidney 21 cell lines and 90% RBCs remained intact with nano-formulations during hemolysis assay. An in-vivo studies on animal models show that Staphylococcus aureus were eradicated by this newly developed formulate from the infected skin and showed wound-healing properties. By using specially designed nanoparticles that are engineered to precisely transport antimicrobial agents, these efficient nano-drug delivery systems can target localized infections, ensure targeted delivery, enhance efficacy through increased drug penetration through physical barriers, and reduce systemic side effects for more effective treatment.

Discovering the anti-diabetic potential of pomegranate peel metabolites by examining molecular interplay with the thioredoxin-interacting protein.

Medicinal plants like Punica granatum (pomegranate) have traditional uses against diabetes, inflammation and other diseases. The study was initiated to get an insight into the interaction tendency of P. granatum derived compounds with diabetes associated human thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP). High glucose in diabetes induces production of TXNIP resulting in β-cells apoptosis. Its inhibition might reduce the diabetes incidence. To elucidate the therapeutic potential of P. granatum peel against diabetes through GC-MS based identification of extracted compounds followed by application of computational algorithms. P. granatum peel extracts were screened for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial and wound healing properties. Phytochemical and GC-MS based analysis were performed to identify the bioactive compounds. Molecular docking analysis was performed by Auto Dock Vina to predict the binding tendency of P. granatum derived compounds with TXNIP. The peel exhibited antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic activities, which were attributed to phytochemicals like phenols, tannins and steroids. GC-MS analysis identified 3,5-octadien-2-one, 1H-pyrrole -2,5-dione, Beta-D-lyxofuranoside, 5-O-(beta-D-lyxofuranosyl)-decyl, diethyl phthalate, 9-octadecenoic acid (Z)-, methyl ester, hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester, n-hexadecanoic acid, tetradecane, 2,6,10-trimethyl, bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, decane, 3,8-dimethyl, 9-octadecenoic acid (Z)-, methyl ester and bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in P. granatum peel extracts. Docking analysis revealed high binding affinities of bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and 9-octadecenoic acid with TXNIP i.e., -4.5 and -5.0 kcal/mol, respectively, reflecting these compounds as potent antidiabetic agents. This study validates the traditional uses of P. granatum peel and demonstrates how computational approaches can uncover pharmacologically active phytochemicals. The results suggest P. granatum peel is a promising source of novel therapeutics against diabetes, inflammation, and oxidation. Further studies on the optimization of identified ligands are warranted.

Hydrogel microspheres encapsulating lysozyme/MXene for photothermally enhanced antibacterial activity and infected wound healing

The high mortality and enormous economic burden of bacterially infected wounds remains a huge challenge for human health. The development of ideal wound dressings with desirable antibacterial and good wound healing properties still remains a major problem affecting the regeneration of bacterially infected wound tissue. Herein, we present novel alginate-based hydrogel microspheres containing lysozyme and MXene (i-Lyso@Alg), in which the positively charged lysozyme is immobilized on the negatively charged MXene by electrostatic interaction. Due to the presence of MXene, i-Lyso@Alg exhibits good thermal effect, drug release behavior and strong antibacterial activity under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. The synthesized i-Lyso@Alg can realize not only improvement of lysozyme stability but also photothermal responsive up-regulation for biocatalysis of lysozyme. The excellent antibacterial activities of i-Lyso@Alg were attributed to the photothermally enhanced lysozyme activity, assisted by bacterial death caused by local thermal effect of photothermally activated MXene and the physical damage due to the MXene. In addition, in the infected skin wounds of rats, i-Lyso@Alg + NIR significantly accelerates the wound healing process by inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors and bacterial (Staphylococcus aureus) infection, and inducing the expression of pro-angiogenic factors and tissue remodeling. Overall, the results of this study introduce a pioneering approach by integrating the unique photothermal properties of MXene with the enzymatic action of lysozyme within an alginate-based hydrogel microsphere. This synergistic system not only advances the frontier of antibacterial wound dressings but also represents a significant step towards effective management of infected wounds, which possesses great potential in clinical treatment of infected wounds.

Dual drug release profiles of salicylate-based polymers and encapsulated chlorhexidine as potential periodontitis treatments

Salicylate-based poly(anhydride-esters; SAPAEs) have demonstrated wound healing properties due to salicylic acid (SA) release during polymer degradation. Additionally, the polymers are deformable and self-adhesive due to their low Young’s modulus, lower glass transition temperature ( Tg), and inherent tackiness at body temperature. These properties make them particularly well-suited for therapeutic use in the bacteria-laden environment of the oral cavity. To enhance their therapeutic capabilities, the antiseptic chlorhexidine dihydrochloride was physically incorporated into SAPAEs for dual release of antiseptic and anti-inflammatory upon degradation. This study analyzes the thermomechanical properties of two SAPAE compositions (adipate homopolymer and 50:50 adipate:sebacate copolymer) and the release of chlorhexidine (incorporated at 10% (w/w)) from these polymers. Polymer adhesivity was monitored as a function of chlorhexidine incorporation and in vitro degradation time. Throughout in vitro degradation, the polymer systems had a low Young’s modulus and a Tg at or near body temperature. Incorporation of the antiseptic further decreased Young’s modulus and increased both the Tg and adhesivity. The release profiles were also evaluated and determined to be similar for the homopolymer and copolymer, although the homopolymer degradation occurred over a longer time period. Overall, the SAPAE systems have favorable properties for periodontal disease treatments by virtue of their controlled degradability, deformability, adhesivity, and release profiles with encapsulated antiseptic.

A Review on Dermal Wound Repair and Regeneration Using Antimicrobial-Loaded Microspheres Incorporated into Bovine Collagen Scaffold

In this paper, the developed microsphere-incorporated collagen scaffold presents a promising solution for delivering drugs over wound surfaces in a uniform and sustained manner. The biomaterials utilized in this system are of natural origin, minimizing potential toxicity from core materials, and collagen and gelatin exhibit active wound-healing properties. The collagen scaffold used for the delivery device offers several advantages, including minimizing dressing frequency, facilitating easier examination, and providing added aesthetic value. Furthermore, the protein-based biomaterial scaffold acts as a template for the extracellular matrix in the skin, enhancing the maturation of wounds and enabling the transition to the accelerated production of mature and aligned collagen fibers. The controlled release of antimicrobial drugs through denatured collagens and gelatin microspheres, as well as the efficient healing observed in in vivo studies, demonstrate the potential of this system for effective wound care. Overall, the incorporation of ciprofloxacin-loaded microspheres in porous collagen scaffold offers sustained releases of ciprofloxacin in infected environments, as supported by histological examination showing well-formed epidermis and dermis in the connective tissue of the skin. The system’s ability to heal full-thickness wounds within a significantly shorter time frame compared to antibiotic-incorporated collagen sponges further emphasizes its efficacy in wound healing.

Aegle marmelos – Modern Herbal medicine

AegleMarmelos, also known as bael in India, is a plant belonging to the Rutaceae family. It has been used to treat diseases since ancient times. Its various parts, such as fruit, leaves, and bark, stem, and roots, are used in various diseases. It contains a wide range of alkaloids, which are used to treat various ailments. Its medicinal properties include anti-diarrheal, anti-dyestradiol, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-radiol, radio protective, and anti pyretic. It also has analgesic properties, analgesic properties, constipation properties, respiratory infection properties, antioxidant properties, hepatoprotection properties, wound healing properties, and many more. This plant is considered to be one of the most important medicinal plants in the field due to its medicinal properties. It is used in herbalism and is an easily accessible source of healthcare in rural and tribal regions. In this review, we have attempted to summarise the phytochemicals and pharmacological studies of an important medicinal plant, AegleMarmelos. Oxidative Stress and Inflammation are critical factors that play a role in nearly all life style disorders including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, ulcers and cancer. The aim of this study was to isolate and catalyze the catheterization of furanocoatrimin from the earlobes L.

Optimization of Microwave-Assisted Green Synthesis of Zinc oxide nanoparticles Using Ocimum americanum and Euphorbia hirta Extracts: In Vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Cytotoxicity, and Wound Healing Properties

Optimization of Microwave-Assisted Green Synthesis of Zinc oxide nanoparticles Using Ocimum americanum and Euphorbia hirta Extracts: In Vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Cytotoxicity, and Wound Healing Properties

Organ-Specific Metabolomics of Aerial Parts of Melochia corchorifolia for Antibiofilm and Wound Healing Activities.

Melochia corchorifolia is a well-known perennial herb and has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of a wide number of diseases. However, the phytochemical investigation in the different organs of the M. corchorifolia was poorly understood. In the present study, the organ-specific metabolomic profiling of leaves, stems, and vegetable extract of M. corchorifolia was determined, and their potential antibiofilm activity with wound healing properties was evaluated. The UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MSE analysis showed 59 compounds in the leaf, stem, and vegetable extracts of M. corchorifolia. The crystal violet staining assay clearly showed that the extracts of M. corchorifolia have excellent antibiofilm activity against Proteus mirabilis and Salmonella typhi. The extracts of M. corchorifolia also caused the architecture of the bacterial biofilm by inhibiting the adherence to polystyrene and auto-aggregation and subsequently inhibiting the growth and colonization of the biofilm-forming bacteria P. mirabilis and S. typhi. The extracts of M. corchorifolia accelerate the wound healing process in BALB/c mice by completely closing the wound on the 20th day of treatment. Together, the phytochemicals present in the leaf, stem, and vegetable extracts of M. corchorifolia are responsible for potent antibiofilm and wound healing properties and could be used as an excellent remedy for treating chronic wounds and their associated infectious disease.

Enhanced Production and Therapeutic Evaluation of TP4 Peptide in Pichia pastoris Against Hepatocellular Carcinoma HUH-7 Cells

Tilapia piscidin 4 (TP4), a cationic antimicrobial peptide, is recognized for its diverse biological roles, including antibacterial, wound-healing, and anticancer properties. Herein, the codon-optimized sequence of TP4 peptide was expressed using the pPICZαA expression vector containing the AOX1 promoter, a strong and inducible promoter, in the Pichia pastoris KM71H expression system. Recombinant TP4 peptide was purified by Ni-NTA affinity chromatography. After purification, the anticancer activity of TP4 was assessed in HUH-7 hepatocellular carcinoma cells, and the underlying mechanisms were determined. In the present study, it was demonstrated for the first time that recombinant TP4 displayed strong anticancer activity in the human HUH-7 cell line. The TP4 antimicrobial peptide can be used as a competitive candidate for the treatment of cancer cells due to its anticancer effects.

Formulation and evaluation of ointment containing hydroalcoholic extract derived from the bark of Moringa oleifera for wound healing activity in rat model

Background: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a hydroalcoholic extract derived from the bark of Moringa oleifera in facilitating the healing process of second-degree burns wounds. Moreover, a comprehensive assessment was carried out on standardized M. oleifera bark to ascertain its physiochemical characteristics, botanical compound layout, and antioxidant activity, all of which play a crucial role in its capacity to facilitate the healing process of burns. Methods: For 14 days, the efficacy of ointments containing a hydroalcoholic extract of M. oleifera bark at concentrations of 5% and 10% was evaluated for treating second-degree burns in rats. Additionally, histological analysis was conducted on skin tissue samples. Results: The M. oleifera bark extract exhibited TPC (52.56 mg/gm of dried extract) and TFC (84.33 mg/gm of dried extract) value along with antioxidant activity (IC50 value of 0.98 µg/ml) for radical scavenging, in the presence of several phytochemicals. The most favorable outcomes were achieved using a 10% ointment composition, demonstrating a wound closure and tissue repair rate of 83.04 ± 0.89%, along with a noteworthy decrease in tissue oxidative stress indicators. Histological investigations have verified the wound-healing properties of M. oleifera bark extract. Conclusion: Due to its significant antioxidant properties and its capacity to create a moist environment for wounds, M. oleifera has the potential to serve as a natural treatment for burns. Additional clinical trials are recommended to validate the efficacy of M. oleifera bark extract as a therapeutic agent for wound healing.

Enhanced wound healing properties of biodegradable PCL/alginate core-shell nanofibers containing Salvia abrotanoides essential oil and ZnO nanoparticles

Electrospun nanofibrous membranes, with their unique structural features, can potentially enhance wound healing through controlled delivery of active agents. Here, an innovative porous nanofibrous membrane was developed as a dressing patch with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory functionalities for cutaneous wound healing. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and Salvia abrotanoides essential oil (SAEO) were incorporated into sodium alginate, which served as the shell. Poly(ε-caprolactone) was used as the core of coaxial electrospun wound dressing nanofibers (PCL/SA@ZnO/SAEO). With the addition of ZnO NPs and SAEO, the average diameter of nanofibers was 187 ± 51 nm, with improved tensile strength (4.7 ± 0.4 MPa), elongation at break (32.9 ± 2.1), and elastic modulus (21.4 ± 2.0). Concurrent application of ZnO NPs and SAEO increased antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli and promoted the proliferation, attachment, and viability (>90 %) of L929 cells. The PCL/SA@ZnO/SAEO scaffold accelerated the healing time with total wound healing over 14 days in mouse models carrying full-thickness wounds compared to the nanofibrous scaffold without additives. Histopathological examinations demonstrated better tissue regeneration, i.e., enhanced collagen deposition, improved re-epithelialization, and neovascularization, and increased quantity of hair follicles. Moreover, the chicken chorioallantoic membrane assay confirmed the synergistic angiogenic effects of SAEO and ZnO NPs. Finally, the in vitro and in vivo results proposed the bioactive core-shell nanofibers synthesized as encouraging wound dressing materials for hastening the healing of cutaneous wounds.

Anticancer Activity and Mechanism of Action of Couroupita guianensis Bark Decoction in Gastric Adenocarcinoma Cancer Cell Line.

Couroupita guianensis, a medicinal plant autochthonal to South America and South India, is widely used in the ethnomedicine of the indigenous peoples of these regions thanks to its alleged antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and wound-healing properties. The majority of studies have mainly analyzed organic extracts of the Indian plant's flowers and leaves, with limited research on its bark decoction, traditionally used in Amazonian shamanic medicine. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effects of the bark decoction and its main fractions obtained through chromatographic separation, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms in AGS gastric cancer cells. Viability, cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis and protein expression related to these processes were evaluated. Both the bark decoction and fraction III significantly inhibited cell viability, and the cytotoxic effect was linked to cell cycle blockade and the induction of apoptosis also through an engulfment of the autophagic flux. Increased expression or activation of the key proteins (p53, p21, cdk2, Bak, caspases, pAMPK, pAkt, beclin, p62 and LC3BII) involved in these processes was observed. The results obtained confirmed an important anticancer effect of C. guianensis bark decoction, providing scientific validation for its use in traditional medicine and highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent against gastric cancer.

Hydrogel for slow-release drug delivery in wound treatment

Abstract When skin comes into direct contact with the outside environment, it becomes extremely prone to injury and external factors can make wounds difficult to heal. Traditional medical dressings often cause secondary injury and are poorly resistant to infection. Hydrogels offer a promising alternative to overcome these difficulties. In this study, chitosan (CS)/gelatin (GEL)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogels were developed by chemical cross-linking and loaded with the drug kitasamycin (KM) for testing. The hydrogels’ in vitro drug release and wound-healing properties were assessed. For 48 h, the drug release from the hydrogel in vitro persisted, which was significantly longer than the release time of the KM solution. Antimicrobial activity tests showed that the loaded KM hydrogel maintained its bacteriostatic ability at the same concentration as the KM solution, and during in vitro bacteriostatic inhibition, the duration of bacteriostatic inhibition of the KM hydrogel was significantly prolonged compared to that of the KM solution. This confirms the controlled release capability of the hydrogel. In addition, the hydrogel reduced the wound size in mice by 96 % and histopathological tests showed complete re-epithelialization of the wound. The prepared hydrogels successfully demonstrated their potential ability to control drug release and promote skin wound healing.

Rhamnus prinoides leaf extract loaded polycaprolactone-cellulose acetate nanofibrous scaffold as potential wound dressing: An in vitro study

Rhamnus prinoides leaf contains carbohydrates, saccharides, phenolic acids, and diterpenes with antibacterial, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, Rhamnus prinoides leaf extract was successfully incorporated into polycaprolactone-cellulose acetate (PCL-CA) nanofibers through electrospinning technique for the first time. The mats' morphology, diameter, chemical, and crystalline structure were characterized. The study investigated the mats' antibacterial activity, wound healing, cytotoxicity, drug release behaviour, hydrophilicity, and water absorbency properties. The results revealed that the mats exhibited continuous, smooth, without-beads, and interconnected structures, with average fiber diameters ranging from 385 ± 21 nm to 332 ± 74 nm. The antibacterial effeciency was remarkable against S. aureus and E. coli, achieving bacterial reduction percentages exceeding 99 % at concentrations of 3 % and above against S. aureus and 5 % and above against E. coli. Cytotoxic tests showed low-cytotoxicity up to an extract concentration of 7 %. The extract release increases with an increase in concentration. In vitro wound healing assay, the mats enhanced cell migration to the wound area. Additionally, the incorporation of Rhamnus prinoides significantly improved the hydrophilicity and water absorbency of the nanofibers. Overall, the study highlights the mats' broad antimicrobial and wound healing properties with less cytotoxicity, hydrophilicity, and water absorbency, making them promising for use as wound dressings.