Particle Zeta Potential Research Articles

Valorizing pig hooves for activated carbon production with efficient Methyl green adsorption, DFT insights and bacterial removal via bio-adsorbent column

ABSTRACT This study describes the use of a novel activated carbon (AC) adsorbent produced from pig hoove waste for the effective removal of Methyl Green (MG) from aqueous solutions. The AC, synthesized through KOH activation, boasts a substantial surface area of 334.031 m2/g and a total pore volume of 0.007 cm³/g. Comprehensive characterization was performed using proximate and ultimate (CHNS) analysis, BET, SEM, TEM, EDX, XRD, FT-IR, XPS, TGA, particle size analysis, zeta potential and zero-point charge (pHZPC). Adsorption data fit the Langmuir isotherm model exceptionally well (R 2 = 0.99) indicating monolayer adsorption and followed pseudo-second-order kinetics implying chemisorption. The thermodynamic studies revealed that the adsorption of the MG dye is a spontaneous and endothermic phenomenon. Density Functional Theory (DFT) computations elucidated the adsorption mechanism, highlighting the critical role of oxygen functional groups. The AC’s unique properties enabled the development of a bio-adsorbent carbon column capable of removing Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus from raw water samples with a 99% removal efficiency. The study also explored the potential for AC regeneration, demonstrating its versatility and sustainability for various applications. This research not only presents an efficient method for dye removal but also underlines the significance of repurposing waste materials, thereby supporting waste reduction and promoting eco-friendly practices for long-term environmental solutions and pollutant mitigation.

Continuous electrophoretic separation of submicron-microplastics from freshwater

Anthropogenic and natural weathering processes have produced submicron microplastics (MPs), an emerging contaminant. Due to small size, the treatment of submicron plastics particles by membrane processes requires small cutoff membranes, which necessitates great pressure gradient and suffers from clogging. The present study aims to develop an electrophoretic separation system for the separation of negatively charged submicron plastics particles from water. An electric field was supplied to produce an electrostatic force to counter the drag force in the permeation stream, thereby, preventing submicron plastics particles from entering the permeate. The critical electric field (Ec) for complete particles removal was estimated based on the dilute-to-influent flow rate ratio (qd), zeta potential, and size of submicron plastics particles. The result showed that at steady-state, particle removal could reach 99% at E > Ec at qd = 0.5. The distribution of plastics particles during electrophoretic separation was analyzed considering electrophoresis and particle deposition. The particle removal efficiency can be modelled by hydraulic condition and critical electric field. Finally, the engineering aspects such as long-term operation, electrode degradation and influence of coexisted constituents were evaluated. The operation cost of electrophoretic separation was calculated to be USD 0.48/m3, which is cost-effective at small scales compared to conventional membrane processes.

Azelaic acid-based lyotropic liquid crystals gel for acne vulgaris: Formulation optimization, antimicrobial activity and dermatopharmacokinetic study

The proposed study aimed to develop a topical gel containing azelaic acid (AZA)-based lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs) for the treatment of acne vulgaris. AZA-based LLCs were optimized by varying Poloxamer-407 and polyvinyl alcohol concentration using a central composite design, which showed that both independent variables had a significant effect on the formulation. The highest desirable trial of AZA-based LLCs (Batch-7) containing 300 mg poloxamer-407 and 100 mg polyvinyl alcohol depicted the particle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency of 184.2 nm, −16.1 mV, and 79.96 %, respectively. TEM images confirmed the globular vesicles of LLCs, and ATR-FTIR and DSC results confirmed the compatibility of formulation excipients. In vitro, the release of AZA, AZA-based LLCs, AZA-based LLC gel, and marketed gel showed a release of 23.29, 95.24, 91.07 and 59.88 %, respectively, after 24 h in phosphate buffer pH 6.8. Ex vivo release of AZA-based LLC gel displayed an 86.56 % release after 24 h. The antimicrobial activity of AZA-based LLC gel exhibited a comparable efficacy with marketed gel against Cutibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus epidermis and Staphylococcus aureus. The acute dermal irritation study indicated excellent safety and skin compatibility of AZA-based LLC gel without any erythema and edema. The dermatopharmacokinetic study displayed an enhanced drug retention for AZA-based LLC gel (146.121 ± 21.13 µg/cm2) than marketed gel (58.58 ± 15.95 µg/cm2) in the dermal layer, which would improve its therapeutic effect. These outcomes proved that AZA-based LLC gel has the potential to enhance skin penetration and retention for effective management of acne vulgaris.

Optimization of nano-structured lipid carriers for enhanced salbutamol delivery via buccal mucoadhesive film

Salbutamol sulphate (SS) is a widely prescribed β2 agonist for different respiratory disorders. However, its short plasma half-life and poor oral bioavailability strongly limit its compliance. This study targeted formulating SS in nanostructured lipid carriers (SS-NLCs) embedded in a buccal mucoadhesive film to enhance bioavailability and sustain release through an easy route of administration aiming to improve patient compliance and reduce dose-related side effects. SS-NLCs were prepared using glycerol monostearate (GMS), Labrasol® oil, and poloxamer 407 utilizing a full 23 factorial design. Eight SS-loaded NLCs formulations were evaluated for particle size distribution, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency. The optimum formula selected according to design expert® statistical analysis, was subsequently incorporated in a polymeric buccal mucoadhesive film and subjected to in vitro and in vivo characterization. The optimum SS-NLCs showed a mean particle size of 119.1 ± 1.28 nm, polydispersity index of 0.248 ± 0.023, zeta potential of - 40.9 ± 0.47 mV, and entrapment efficiency of 68.20 ± 2.05 % with apparent controlled release. Casting SS-NLCs in a mucoadhesive polymeric mixture resulted in a smooth strong film with a prolonged in vitro drug release duration reaching 10 h. In vivo, buccal application of the formulated film showed significantly higher Cmax (107.53 ± 5.20 ng/ml) and delayed Tmax to 4 h with improving the bioavailability of SS by 4.10 folds compared to oral SS solution. Consequently, the buccal polymeric mucoadhesive film of SS-NLCs holds promise as an alternative route for sustained release, enhancing bioavailability, and improving therapeutic efficacy in treating respiratory disorders.

Chitosan/siRNA nanoparticles targeting PARP-1 attenuate Neuroinflammation and apoptosis in hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress in Neuro2a cells

Hyperglycemia induces an excessive production of superoxide by the mitochondria's electron-transport chain triggers several pathways of injury contributing to the development of diabetic complications. This increase in oxidative and nitrosative stress triggers the activation of PARP-1, a nuclear enzyme, through mechanisms such as DNA damage. siRNA-chitosan nanoparticles were formed based on electrostatic interaction, their particle size, zeta potential, STEM, and cellular uptake were characterized. Neuro2a cells were treated with low glucose (LG) and high glucose (HG) for 24 and 48 h. Neuro2a cells were pre-treated with negative siRNA, naked siRNA, siRNA-Lipofectamine™300, and ChNPs-5. qRT-PCR was used to analyze the expression of regulatory, inflammatory, and apoptotic biomarkers. The siRNA-chitosan complex at the weight ratio 1:3000 were approximately uniform spheres with particle size 150.5 nm and a positive zeta potential of about +41.5 mV. The uptake of FITC-labeled nanoparticles into Neuro2a cells was visualized using fluorescence microscopy with no significant cytotoxicity compared to the control cells. High glucose stimulation of Neuro2a cells increased PARP1 expression, and with siRNA-ChNP (1:3000) treatment, significant inhibition of PARP1 expression is observed that consequently reversed the expression of regulatory genes like SIRT1, FOXO1, FOXO3, and p53. PARP-1 inhibition reduced HG-induced inflammatory response, including NF-kB, IL6, IL1β, TNFα, iNOS, and TGF-β expression, and HG-induced apoptosis response, such as Cas-3, Cas-9, BAK, BAX, and AIF expression. This study highlights the crucial role of siRNA delivery via ChNPs and PARP-1 inhibition in hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress in Neuro2a cells and PARP-1 inhibition may be a feasible strategy for the treatment of hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress.

Designing an active green packaging material based on black chickpea protein isolate electrospun nanofibers containing citral nanoliposomes

Active green packaging with a sustainability perspective is one of the trending fields in the food industry. In this regard, we designed an eco-friendly packaging material based on black chickpea protein isolate (BCPI) electrospun nanofibers (NFs) containing citral-loaded nanoliposomes (NLPs). The particle size, PDI, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency of the produced citral-loaded NLPs were 145 nm, 0.27, -37 mV, and 88%, respectively. BCPI was successfully extracted and used to produce electrospun NFs. The NLPs were incorporated into BCPINFs at 0, 0.25, 0.5, and 1% w/w concentrations. All samples displayed a narrow, strip-like morphology. However, the incorporation of NLPs significantly (p<0.05) increased the average fiber diameter (400–600 nm). The chemical structure of NFs was investigated, revealing the formation of new interactions among components. The thermal stability and crystalline structure of BCPI-based NFs showed no significant change with the addition of NLPs. However, NLPs concentrations higher than 0.25% enhanced the tensile strength and surface hydrophobicity of NFs. In addition, incorporating citral-loaded NLPs into NFs at concentrations higher than 0.25% provided antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Based on the obtained results, the activated BCPI-based NFs with 0.5% w/w of citral-loaded NLPs was selected as the optimal NFs sample.

Preparation, characterization, and ex vivo evaluation of isoxanthohumol nanosuspension

This study assessed the equilibrium solubility, oil–water distribution coefficient, and dissociation constant of Isoxanthohumol (IXN), and formulated IXN nanoparticles (IXN-Nps) using a micro media grinding method. The research characterized the particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, morphology, and structure of the nanoparticles, and evaluated the optimal cryoprotectant. Additionally, the study examined the toxicity and in vitro and in vivo release of IXN on HT-29 cells. IXN is classified as a Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS) II class drug with weak acidity. The average particle size of IXN-Nps is 249.500 nm, with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.149 and a zeta potential of −25.210 mV. The research identified 5 % mannitol as the optimal cryoprotectant. Compared to IXN, the half-maximal inhibitory concentration of IXN-Nps decreased to one-third, demonstrating a significant inhibitory effect on HT-29 colon cancer cells. The in vitro cumulative release rate of IXN-Nps within 24 h was 3.5 times higher than that of the IXN solution. In vivo pharmacokinetic results revealed that the oral bioavailability of IXN-Nps increased significantly by 2.8 times compared to the IXN solution. The correlation coefficient (r = 0.9227) exceeded the critical value for significance at the 0.01 (r = 0.834) level, indicating a strong correlation between in vivo and in vitro results. Consequently, the nanosuspension overcame the low solubility limitation of IXN and proved to be an effective method for enhancing the oral bioavailability of IXN

Implementation of Silver Nanoparticles Green Synthesized with Leaf Extract of Coccinia grandis as Antimicrobial Agents Against Head and Neck Infection MDR Pathogens.

Head and neck infections (HNI) associated with multidrug resistance (MDR) offer several health issues on a global scale due to inaccurate diagnosis. This study aimed to identify the bacteria and Candidal isolates and implement the silver nanoparticles green synthesized with leaf extract of Coccinia grandis (Cg-AgNPs) as a therapeutic approach against HNI pathogens. The Cg-AgNPs were characterized by the UV-visible spectrophotometer, FT-IR analysis, Zeta particle size, Zeta potential, and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) analysis to validate the synthesis of nanoparticles. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of Cg-AgNPs was presented by the zone of inhibition (ZOI), minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentration (MBC/MFC), and antibiofilm assay. Moreover, the cell wall rupture assay was visualized on SEM for the morphological study of antimicrobial activities, and the in-vivo toxicity was performed in a swiss mice model to evaluate the impact of Cg-AgNPs on various biological parameters. Different bacterial strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and Candida sp. (Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida orthopsilosis, and Candida glabrata) were identified. The MIC, MBC, and antibiofilm potential of Cg-AgNPs were found to be highest against A. baumannii: 1.25 μg/ml, 5 μg/ml, and 85.01±5.19% respectively. However, C. albicans and C. orthopsilosis revealed 23 mm and 21 mm of ZOI. Subsequently, the micromorphology of the cell wall rupture assay confirmed the efficacy of Cg-AgNPs, and no significant alterations were seen in biochemical and hematological parameters on the swiss mice model in both acute and subacute toxicity studies. The green synthesized Cg-AgNPs have multifunctional activities like antibacterial, anticandidal, and antibiofilm activity with no toxicity and can be introduced against the HNI pathogens.

Chitosomal Encapsulation Enhances the Anticancer Efficacy of a Theobromine Analogue: An Integrated In Silico and In Vitro Study

Aims: This study aims to prepare and investigate the potential of theobromine derivative-loaded chitosomes as an effective anticancer drug. Background: [Formula: see text]-Benzyl-2-(3,7-dimethyl-2,6-dioxo-2,3,6,7-tetrahydro-1[Formula: see text]-purin-1-yl)acetamide (T-1-BA) exhibited promising anticancer potential. Loaded chitosomes, highlighting their suitability as a drug delivery system. The study builds on the significance of targeted drug delivery systems for enhanced anticancer efficacy. Objectives: To prepare T-1-BA-loaded chitosomes (T-1-BA-PC-CS complex) using the thin film hydration technique. To examine the colloidal characteristics, entrapment efficiency, and stability of the T-1-BA-PC-CS complex. To assess the in vitro anticancer efficacy of the T-1-BA-PC-CS complex against Hct116 and A549 cancer cell lines comparing the free T-1-BA, blank chitosomes, and the standard EGFR inhibitor, Lapatinib. Methods: The T-1-BA-PC-CS complex was prepared through the thin film hydration technique. Colloidal characteristics, including particle size, PDI, and zeta potential, were examined. In vitro anticancer efficacy was assessed through IC[Formula: see text] values, comparative analyses, SI calculations, cell cycle analysis, flow cytometry, and wound healing assays. Results: The T-1-BA-PC-CS complex demonstrated reduced IC[Formula: see text] values against Hct116 and A549 cell lines, indicating enhanced cytotoxicity compared to free T-1-BA and blank chitosomes. Comparative analyses highlighted superior anticancer activity. SI values indicated preferential cytotoxic effects on cancer cell lines. Flow cytometry analysis revealed cell cycle alterations and increased apoptosis. Wound healing assays showed a significant impact on migration and wound healing in A549 cells. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the T-1-BA-PC-CS complex holds great promise as an anticancer therapeutic by efficiently inducing favorable alterations in cell cycle phases and apoptosis, demonstrating its potential for further development in cancer treatment.

Enhancing the Cytotoxic Effects of Carboplatin and Cisplatin on Liposomes in Oral Cancer Cells with Curcumin

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma remains challenging to treat effectively with conventional chemotherapy, leading researchers to explore synergistic combinations to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Combining curcumin with platinum-based drugs, such as cisplatin and carboplatin, has demonstrated potential in enhancing cytotoxic effects. However, limited studies have explored these combinations’ efficacy and sustained release profile in liposomal form specifically for oral cancer. This study investigates the enhanced cytotoxic effects of cisplatin-curcumin and carboplatin-curcumin nanoliposome formulations on CAL 27 oral cancer cells. Methods and Materials: Nanoliposomes encapsulating cisplatin or carboplatin with curcumin were formulated and characterized by particle size, zeta potential, and polydispersity index (PDI) to ensure optimized delivery properties. Particle sizes of the cisplatin and carboplatin nanoliposomes ranged from 175 to 187 nm, with a zeta potential greater than -30 mV, indicating good stability, and PDI values less than 0.48, suggesting uniform particle size distribution. In vitro cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay at 24, 48, and 96 hours across different curcumin concentrations. Results: Cisplatin-curcumin and carboplatin-curcumin nanoliposome formulations demonstrated significantly increased cytotoxicity in CAL 27 cells compared to control groups. Drug release studies indicated a sustained release profile, with approximately 22% of cisplatin and 28% of carboplatin released over 52 hours, which may prolong therapeutic effects by maintaining drug availability within the cancer cells. Conclusion: The findings suggest that cisplatin-curcumin and carboplatin-curcumin nanoliposomal formulations enhance the cytotoxic effects of these chemotherapeutic agents while providing a stable, sustained release profile.

Pickering Emulsion Stabilized by Different Concentrations of Whey Protein–Cress Seed Gum Nanoparticles

Nanoparticles based on food-grade materials are promising materials to develop Pickering emulsions for food applications. Initially, this study focuses on the development of nanoparticles through the utilization of a soluble complex of whey protein concentrate (WPC) and cress seed gum (CSG), which were modified by calcium chloride (CaCl2) as a cross-linker. The response surface methodology was used to investigate the impact of different concentrations of WPC (1–4% w/v), CSG (0–1% w/v), and CaCl2 (1–3 mM) on particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and Zeta potential. The optimum conditions for the production of CSG–WPC nanoparticles (WPC–CSG NPs) were 0.31% (w/v) CSG, 1.75% (w/v) WPC, and 1.69 mM CaCl2, resulting in nanoparticles with average size of 236 nm and Zeta potential of −22 mV. Subsequently, oil-in-water (O/W) Pickering emulsions were produced with different concentrations of WPC–CSG NPs in optimum conditions. The contact angles of the WPC–CSG NPs were 41.44° and 61.13° at concentrations of 0.5% and 1%, respectively, showing that NPs are suitable for stabilizing O/W Pickering emulsions. Pickering emulsion viscosity rose from 80 to 500 mPa when nanoparticle concentration increased from 0.5% to 1%. Results also showed that WPC–CSG NPs enable stable O/W Pickering emulsions during storage and thermal treatment, confirming that protein–polysaccharide NPs can provide a sufficient steric hindrance.

Enhancing Antimicrobial Activity of Thyme Essential Oil Through Cellulose Nano Crystals-Stabilized Pickering Emulsions.

Essential oils (EOs), such as thyme essential oil (TEO), are widely known for their antimicrobial properties; however, their direct application in food systems is limited due to their poor stability, which affects their efficacy. This study aims to improve the stability and antimicrobial efficacy of TEO by encapsulating it in Pickering emulsions stabilized with cellulose nanocrystals (CNC). Two formulations of Pickering emulsions with 5% and 10% TEO were prepared and compared to traditional surfactant-based emulsions. The stability of the emulsions was assessed over 21 days, and particle size, zeta potential, Raman spectroscopy, and FTIR were used for characterization. The antimicrobial activity was tested against several foodborne pathogens, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values determined. The 10% TEO Pickering emulsion showed antimicrobial activity, with MIC50 values of 4096 µg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, while the 5% TEO formulation had no effect at MIC50 > 8192 µg/mL. The CNC-stabilized Pickering emulsions exhibited superior stability, showing no phase separation over 21 days. The findings suggest that CNC-stabilized Pickering emulsions are effective at improving the stability and antimicrobial performance of TEO, making them a promising natural preservative for food packaging and safety. Further research is recommended to optimize the formulation and broaden TEO's application in food preservation.

Plasma-derived exosomes of Edwardsiella piscicida challenged olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus): Characterization and miRNA profiling for potential biomarkers screening

Exosomes are released from multiple cell types as part of their normal physiology as well as during acquired abnormalities. In this study, we investigated the effect of pathogenic Edwardsiella piscicida infection on olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) exosomes at morphometric, physicochemical, and molecular levels. Unique cup-shaped exosomes were isolated from the plasma of non-infected (PBS-Exo) and E. piscicida experimentally challenged (Ep-Exo) olive flounder using ultracentrifugation. The average particle size, concentration, and zeta potential were 150.9 ± 6.9 nm, 5.67 × 1010 particles/mL, and −25.6 ± 1.36 mV for PBS-Exo while 138.7 ± 1.9 nm, 1.22 × 1011 particles/mL, and −35 ± 1.82 mV for Ep-Exo, respectively. Expression of tetraspanin markers (CD81, CD9, and CD63) confirmed the presence of olive flounder exosomes. Differentially expressed (DE) known (9) and novel (29) miRNAs (log2 fold change ≥1; p < 0.05) were identified in the Ep-Exo that could be potential as diagnostic biomarkers for the infection. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses revealed that the predicted target genes of the DE miRNAs were highly enriched in metabolic and immune roles. Both PBS-Exo and Ep-Exo were non-toxic in vitro (up to 100 μg/mL) and in vivo (up to 400 μg/mL). Compared to the vehicle, PBS-Exo at 50 μg/mL induced Nf-kB (>1.50-fold) while at 100 μg/mL, Il8, Il10, Nf-kB, P53, and Inf were induced (>1.50-fold) in fathead minnow cells (FHMs). This suggests that the PBS-Exo contains molecules that moderately stimulate gene expression. In the future, validating the exact olive flounder immune response target genes that interact with DE miRNAs in Ep-Exo will be crucial for investigating the host-pathogen interactions, immune defense mechanisms, and therapeutic targets for olive flounder against E. piscicida infection.

Development and in vitro evaluation of a lignin-PLGA nanocarrier for florfenicol delivery

Florfenicol (FF) is a widely used antimicrobial in veterinary medicine because of its broad antimicrobial activity, although it has certain limitations and raises concerns about the development of antimicrobial resistance genes. These limitations highlight the need to explore novel drug with controlled release systems to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of FF, while minimizing the potential for resistance development. This study introduces an innovative approach for the design, synthesis, and evaluation of lignin-poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)-FF nanoparticles. By leveraging the properties of PLGA and lignin, this study aimed to augment the solubility, stability, and bioavailability of FF, thereby enabling dosage reduction and consequently diminishing the likelihood of resistance emergence and other limitations. Lignin-PLGA nanoparticles encapsulating FF were synthesized and characterized to assess their physicochemical properties, such as particle size, zeta potential, and drug loading efficiency. The release profile, antimicrobial efficacy, and cytotoxicity were evaluated. Comparative analyses with standard FF formulations were performed to ascertain the superior performance and potential benefits of the nanoparticle-based antimicrobials. Our findings indicate that the synthesized lignin-PLGA nanoparticles exhibited favorable drug delivery attributes, including a controlled and sustained release mechanism, significantly enhanced antimicrobial activity at reduced concentrations relative to free FF, with minimal cytotoxic effects. Importantly, the nanoparticle system inhibited bacterial biofilm formation, which is a key factor in the onset and spread of antimicrobial resistance. These findings underscore the potential of integrating biodegradable polymers with natural compounds to forge innovative pathways in drug delivery, addressing critical challenges in veterinary medicine.

Impact of Nano-Pomegranate Seed Oil on the Expression of TLR2 and TLR4 Genes in A549 Cells Sensitized with Alternaria alternata Cellular Extract

Background: Allergies impact nearly 30% of the world's population, with fungi being remarkable contributors to allergic sensitivity. Exposure to fungi allergens can trigger allergic reactions and severe asthma has been linked to hypersensitivity to fungi such as Aspergillus and Alternaria spp. Alternaria alternata, a common allergen in respiratory allergic diseases, releases proteases that initiate Th2 responses, causing inflammatory cytokine production. Given the anti-inflammatory properties of Pomegranate Seed Oil (PSO) and the potential of Nano-emulsions (NEs) to enhance drug delivery, this study investigates the impact of PSO-loaded NEs on TLR2 and TLR4 gene expression in A549 cells sensitized with A. alternata extract (ALT). Methods: A. alternata (ATCC 6663) was cultured and processed to obtain a cytosolic extract, with protein content measured using the Bradford method. Using a Soxhlet apparatus, PSO was extracted from cleaned, dried seeds and analyzed by gas chromatography. Alginate nanospheres containing PSO were prepared through a modified water-in-oil emulsification method and characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential. A549 cells were cultured and treated with various ALT, PSO, and PSO-loaded NEs combinations. Following treatment, RNA was extracted, and real-time RT- PCR was conducted to analyze TLR2 and TLR4 gene expression. Results: All treatment groups showed an increase in TLR2 gene expression compared to the control, with the ALT combined with PSO (P+ALT) causing the highest increase at 4.82-fold. Free PSO (P) and free NEs (NP) resulted in 3.92-fold and 2.93-fold increases, respectively, while the ALT and PSO- loaded NEs (NP+ALT) led to 2.26-fold and 2.50-fold increases. For TLR4 gene expression, the ALT treatment increased expression by 2.29-fold, but treatments containing PSO (P, P+ALT, NP+ALT) reduced TLR4 expression, with P+ALT and NP+ALT causing 0.45-fold and 0.61-fold decreases. Conclusion: The study confirms that herbal extracts like PSO selectively upregulate TLR2 and downregulate TLR4, suggesting targeted therapeutic potential in inflammation and immune modulation. PSO-loaded NEs demonstrated superior anti-inflammatory effects, supporting their development for treating inflammatory diseases and warranting further research into their molecular mechanisms and therapeutic applications.

Nanoencapsulation with Eudragit® and chia mucilage increases the stability and antifungal efficacy of carvacrol against Aspergillus spp.

Carvacrol is a consolidated natural antimicrobial. However, its use in food is a challenge due to characteristic odour and high volatility. Nanoencapsulation has emerged to overcome these drawbacks. Aspergillus spp. represent a concern in grapes for causing rot and producing mycotoxins. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of carvacrol (unencapsulated and loaded into Eudragit® and chia nanocapsules) on the growth of Aspergillus species. Spore germination and mycelial growth of Aspergillus spp. were evaluated using the agar dilution culture method. The stability of nanocapsules during storage was monitored monthly by evaluating the particle size distribution, polydispersity index, and zeta potential. Antifungal and antitoxigenic effectiveness of nanocapsules were assessed by counting fungal colony-forming units and determining mycotoxin levels in grapes. A dose-dependent effect of carvacrol (unencapsulated and encapsulated forms) on spore germination and mycelial growth was observed. During 180 days of storage, carvacrol into Eudragit® nanocapsules preserved their nanometric dimensions, whereas chia nanocapsules maintained this characteristic for 30 days. The antifungal effectiveness of both encapsulated forms persisted for 210 days. No mycotoxin was found, even when fungal growth was not completely suppressed. Nanoencapsulated carvacrol proved to be a new promising antifungal product to ensure quality and safety in the grape production chain.

Sustainable synthesize of beetroot extract-silver-iron oxide (BE-Ag-Fe2O3) bimetallic nanoparticles for antioxidant studies

In this work, beetroot extract is used to synthesize the silver-iron oxide (Ag-Fe2O3) bimetallic nanoparticles, which are then characterized and used for the antioxidant studies. Phenolic components were found to coat the nanoparticles, according to FT-IR analysis. Tannins and flavonoids in the extract serve as stabilizing and reducing agents. SEM revealed spherical bimetallic nanoparticles that were roughly 40 nm in size. Crystallinity and purity were shown by XRD examination, which also revealed unique reflection peaks. Particle size and zeta potential values clearly confirm that, the prepared bimetallic nanoparticles are in nano size and it is stable in nature. Furthermore, in this study, the antioxidant properties of produced bimetallic nanoparticles are examined, and their efficacy is compared to that of beetroot extract. Beetroot extract-silver-iron oxide (BE-Ag-Fe2O3) bimetallic nanoparticles showed improved radical scavenging effectiveness when compared to DPPH. Moreover, bimetallic nanoparticles demonstrated increased radical scavenging efficacy in relation to DPPH and H2O2. Surprisingly, at 20 mg/ml, the BE-Ag-Fe2O3) bimetallic nanoparticles showed good scavenging activity, reaching 84.65%. The produced bimetallic NPs had greater antioxidant activity than the plant extract, according to an analysis of the total antioxidant capacity and free radical scavenging activity data. Electron donation property of main constituent of beetroot extract was analysed by density functional theory (DFT) and Monte Carlo (MC) simulation. Consequently, this work implies that beetroot extract assisted bimetallic NPs could be a flexible material with a range of uses in the biomedical area.Graphical

Novel Liposome-Gel Formulations Containing a Next Generation Postbiotic: Characterization, Rheological, Stability, Release Kinetic, and In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity Studies.

In recent years, in addition to the positive effects of probiotics and prebiotics on health, increasing research has shown that postbiotics also have significant potential in the health field. Postbiotics are bioactive components produced by probiotic bacteria during fermentation and may exhibit antimicrobial activity. This study investigated the antimicrobial effects of liposomal postbiotics formulated in gel. Various postbiotic-containing liposomal systems have been developed and optimized to prepare formulations. Optimized liposomes and liposomal postbiotic-containing gel forms were examined in terms of particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, structural properties, encapsulation efficiency, permeability, release profiles, and stability. Finally, the antimicrobial activities of the postbiotics and the optimum gel formulation LG1 were evaluated on Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus hirae, and Candida albicans strains using disk diffusion and microdilution methods. The optimum liposome formulation L1 was determined to have a particle size of 185.32 ± 0.80 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.206 ± 0.012, a zeta potential of 35.0 ± 0.5 mV, and an encapsulation efficiency of 17.52%. Its permeability was determined as 51.52% at the end of 6 h. In vitro release studies showed that the drug release profile was in accordance with first-order kinetics and suitable for controlled release. The findings show that formulated postbiotics have similar antimicrobial activity to free postbiotics. These results suggest that liposomal gel formulations support the antimicrobial effects of postbiotics while providing advantages of use. In conclusion, the findings contribute to a better understanding of the antimicrobial potential of postbiotics and lipogelosomal postbiotics and optimize their use in pharmaceutical applications.

Zein decorated rifaximin nanosuspension: approach for sustained release and anti-bacterial efficacy enhancement.

Aim: The goal of the present work was to formulate zein-decorated rifaximin (RFX) nanosuspension to attain sustained release as well as effectiveness against Escherichia coli (E. coli).Methods: The RFX nanosuspension was fabricated by using antisolvent addition method followed by coating using hydroalcoholic zein solution. The optimized RFX-NS and RFX-NS@zein was lyophilized for further spectroscopic evaluations. In vitro antibacterial potential was elucidated using well diffusion method whereas MIC value was determined by microbroth dilution method against E. coli for RFX-NS and pure RFX.Results: Box-Behnken Design was employed to assess the effects of independent variables on quality target product profile of RFX-NS. Optimized RFX-NS depicted particle size of 193.5±4.45nm with 76.49±1.71% drug content. The significant change in particle size and zeta potential confirmed the formation of zein coated RFX-NS (RFX-NS@zein). In vitro release study depicted, 96.91±1.21% release of RFX from RFX-NS in 6h whereas 97.47±1.99% RFX release was observed from RFX-NS@zein at the end of 12h. Antibacterial assay of RFX-NS and free RFX against E. coli displayed MIC value of 15.44±0.01μg/ml and 72.96±0.25μg/ml, respectively.Conclusion: The results highlighted a significance of nanosuspension for improving the solubility of RFX and its antibacterial potential against E. coli.

Antioxidant and anticancer activities of hesperetin and its novel formulations in KB cells.

This study aimed to formulate the hesperetin nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) containing oro-mucosal gel for its activity assessment on the KB cell line. NLCs were prepared with glyceryl monostearate, oleic acid, and lecithin using a modified constant-temperature emulsification technique. The particle size analysis, in vitro drug release studies, etc., of prepared NLCs were evaluated. The formulated gels were analyzed with respect to spreadability, extrudability, swelling index, texture analysis, etc. The particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and drug entrapment of nanocarriers were recorded to be 221.733 ± 61.536nm, 0.381 ± 0.091, - 51.433 ± 4.143mV, and 89.29%, respectively. The optimized NLCs in 24h released 87.14 ± 6.62% of the drug. The round shape of NLCs was noticed with scanning electron microscopy. The pH, spreadability, extrudability, swelling index, content uniformity, and drug release studies of hesperetin NLCs-containing gel (HNG) were found to be 6.81 ± 0.04, 2.49 ± 0.04cm.mg/s, 539.04 ± 32.88g/cm2, 4.27 ± 0.47, 107.98 ± 1.93%, and 90.17 ± 6.67% (in 48h), respectively. The developed formulations showed promising in vitro anticancer and antioxidant activities. HNP results authorize that the formulation may be beneficial for the treatment of oral cancer.