Traditional Tuberculosis (TB) treatments and analgesic therapies are often associated with resistance and poor patient compliance, highlighting the need for improved delivery systems. SLNPs, with their lipid matrix encapsulation, offer promising solutions to these challenges, making them valuable tools for enhancing TB treatment and analgesic effects. The primary aim of this review was to assess and investigate the potential of SLNPs. This included evaluating their effectiveness in improving the Bioavailability (BA) and therapeutic results of anti-TB medications, along with their capacity to deliver prolonged analgesic effects. The formulation methods and applications of SLNPs have the potential to transform the treatment of tuberculosis and pain management. This review utilized multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, official websites, Google Scholar, Google Patent, and ResearchGate, to gather original review articles. Publications from the last 15 years, from August 31, 2009 to August 31, 2024, were selected for data compilation. The initial two authors conducted the selection, extraction, and review of the articles to compile the complete dataset. Over 70 studies, along with an additional 30, were selected for the review. These findings underscore the ability of SLNPs to overcome the obstacle of conventional drug therapies, supporting their application in TB treatment and pain management. Most studies suggest that SLNPs represent a significant advancement in drug delivery, offering a modern formulation approach that can enhance TB treatment and provide effective analgesic relief. However, the extent of these benefits may be underreported.
Magnetic Nanoparticles (MNPs) have gained significant attention in biomedical applications due to their unique magnetic properties, biocompatibility, and ability to be externally controlled. Their roles in targeted drug delivery, hyperthermia, medical imaging, and biomolecule extraction position them as promising tools for advanced medical and technological applications. This review examines recent advancements in the biomedical applications of MNPs, emphasizing their potential in treating chronic diseases, improving drug delivery systems, and enhancing diagnostic techniques, such as electrochemical and optical-based immunoassays. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using relevant scientific databases to examine recent studies focusing on their structural and functional properties, biomedical applications, and technological innovations in targeted therapy and diagnostics. MNPs have demonstrated remarkable efficiency in controlled drug release, hyperthermia-based cancer treatment, and improved imaging contrast in MRI. Their integration into immunoassays has enhanced the accuracy of biosensing. However, challenges such as stability, toxicity, and scalability remain significant obstacles to clinical translation. Despite these limitations, MNPs hold immense potential to revolutionize biomedical applications. Ongoing research focuses on optimizing their performance, enhancing biocompatibility, and overcoming current barriers. Advancements in surface modification and synthesis techniques are expected to further improve their efficacy, solidifying their role in future diagnostic and therapeutic innovations.
Polymer composites are used extensively in the automotive, aviation, and sports sectors. Recently, researchers have replaced glass fiber with recyclable natural fibers. The present investigation examined the sliding wear performance of glass/sisal fibre (GF/SF)-reinforced hybrid polymer nanocomposite under various axial loads (AL) and sliding velocity (SV), with and without nSiC fillers. A novel GF/SF fiber-reinforced hybrid nanocomposite with and without nano-SiC that complied with ASTM specifications was developed using a vacuum infusion technique. The percentage of nSiC fillers varied among 1 wt.%, 2 wt.%, and 3 wt.%. The pin-on-disc tribometer was employed to assess the tribological performance, viz., coefficient of friction (CoF) and wear rate (WR), of the composites at various process conditions. The hybrid nanocomposite with 2 wt. % nSiC had the lowest CoF and WR of all the constructed composites. At 30N AL and an SV of 0.419 m/s, the GF/SF/2% nano-SiC composite exhibited wear resistance approximately 2.3 times more than that of the GF/SF composite without nanofibers, 1.5 times higher than that of the GF/SF/1% nSiC composite, and 1.46 times higher than that of the GF/SF/3%nSiC composite. The CoF for unreinforced and 2 wt.% nSiC reinforced composites under an AL of 30 N was 0.481 and 0.394, respectively. The better wear properties of the GF/SF/2%nSiC composite were found to be due to uniform dispersion of nanofillers and stronger bonding between the fibres and the matrix. The findings indicated the nSiC filler loadings to significantly improve the GF/SF fibre composite's wear properties.
Polymeric nanocomposites have gained significant attention due to their potential for enhanced properties and applications across diverse industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, biomedical, and environmental sectors. This review examines the advancements in polymeric nanocomposites made possible by nanofillers and highlights the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in materials science. Using a detailed description of the methodology to select studies for inclusion and exclusion, key nanofillers such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, and metal-organic frameworks were examined for their ability to enhance the mechanical, thermal, electrical, and barrier properties of polymer matrices. Additionally, AI-based optimization approaches for synthesis and property prediction are discussed, along with a focus on green synthesis methods to align with sustainability goals. Nanofillers significantly improve polymer properties, enabling their use in various industries. AI has revolutionized nanocomposite synthesis, facilitating optimized processes and reliable property predictions. Green synthesis methods offer sustainable alternatives; however, challenges persist, including achieving uniform filler dispersion, ensuring biocompatibility for biomedical applications, and reducing the costs associated with large-scale synthesis. This review highlights the potential of polymeric nanocomposites, emphasizing the importance of establishing standard synthesis and characterization procedures to enhance reliability and promote sustainable development in materials science. Further research is essential to address current limitations and fully realize the potential of nanocomposites in advancing industrial applications.
Graphene Nano-Ribbon Tunnel Field-Effect Transistors (GNR TFETs) have emerged as a promising device structure for low-power and high-frequency applications due to their superior electrical properties. Gate engineering in GNR TFETs offers enhanced performance compared to conventional TFETs by optimizing carrier transport characteristics. The proposed model is formulated using Poisson’s Equation in a two-dimensional framework, solved analytically using the Parabolic Approximation method. The device structure incorporates two distinct gate metals (M1 and M2) and a high-k dielectric, Hafnium Di-Oxide (HfO2), to optimize bandgap narrowing. The analytical results are validated through simulations performed using the Technology Computer-Aided Design (TCAD) Silvaco tool, comparing Surface Potential, Electric Field, and Drain characteristics. The Double Material Double Gate (DM DG) GNR TFET optimizes the device performance with the help of material and gate engineering and increases surface potential, electric field, and drain current. Due to the higher ION/IOFF ratio and decreased subthreshold swing, the proposed device is suitable for high-frequency applications and improves the switching performance. The developed model demonstrates a sub-threshold swing of 24.49 mV/dec, an ION/IOFF ratio of 108, and a cut-off frequency of 28 GHz. These results align closely with TCAD simulations, confirming the model’s accuracy. The introduction of double-gate and double-material engineering significantly enhances device performance. The proposed DM DG GNR TFET exhibits superior electrical properties, making it a strong contender for low-power and high-frequency applications. Its improved ION/IOFF ratio and sub-threshold swing highlight its potential in next-generation electronic devices.
MXenes, 2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, or carbonitrides, have garnered significant research attention due to their exceptional properties. Delaminated MXenes (d- MXenes) have further expanded interest due to their enhanced functionalities. However, their instability in aqueous solutions and oxygen-rich environments at room temperature, leading to surface oxidation, remains a critical challenge. In this study, Ti3C2Tx and Mo2CTx multilayer MXenes were synthesized from their respective MAX phases (Ti3AlC2 and Mo2Ga2C) using a mixed etching solution of 12 M HCl, DI water, and 48% HF with ratios of 6:3:1 (for Ti3AlC2) and 6:1:3 (for Mo2Ga2C). The etched MXenes were further treated with 0.5 M LiCl to obtain delaminated MXene (d-MXene) sheets, dispersed in nitrogen-degassed DI water. The d-MXenes were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, HRSEM, and EDS. Samples were aged at room temperature for 20 days, after which fresh samples were also prepared from the same MXene solutions for comparison. HRSEM and EDS analyses revealed that 20-day-old d-MXene samples exhibited surface oxide formation, with Ti3C2Tx forming pinecone-like structures (TiO2) and Mo2CTx showing spherical oxide particles (MoO3). In contrast, freshly prepared d-MXene samples exhibited unoxidized smooth surfaces and sharp edges for Ti3C2Tx and uneven surfaces with bent edges for Mo2CTx. After 45 days in aqueous solutions at room temperature, the Ti3C2Tx solution color changed from transparent green to whitish, and the Mo2CTx from transparent brown to blue, confirming significant oxidation. These findings emphasize the need for deoxygenated storage conditions to enhance the stability and lifespan of Ti3C2Tx and Mo2CTx d-MXenes in both liquid and solid forms.
Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are characterized by their strong magnetization and paramagnetic behavior, making them potentially versatile enough for applications ranging from biomedical imaging, gene delivery, and waste management to MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) contrast agents. This review summarizes the different synthesis protocols of MNPs and their suitability in pollutant removal from wastewater, aiming for sustainability to ensure a high-quality environment, protect public health, and conserve water resources. MNPs, such as iron oxide nanoparticles, can be synthesized using various methods, including micro-emulsion, sol-gel, coprecipitation, green synthesis, and hydrothermal pathways. All these techniques are illustrated in this manuscript in a summarized form. Moreover, this article also reviews the roles of MNPs in environmental remediation and sustainable ecological practices. This includes the removal of inorganic and organic contaminants, heavy metals, and toxic chemical dyes from wastewater to reduce pollution load and promote a healthy ecosystem.
Introduction: MXenes, 2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, or carbonitrides, have garnered significant research attention due to their exceptional properties. Delaminated MXenes (d- MXenes) have further expanded interest due to their enhanced functionalities. However, their instability in aqueous solutions and oxygen-rich environments at room temperature, leading to surface oxidation, remains a critical challenge. Methods: In this study, Ti3C2Tx and Mo2CTx multilayer MXenes were synthesized from their respective MAX phases (Ti3AlC2 and Mo2Ga2C) using a mixed etching solution of 12 M HCl, DI water, and 48% HF with ratios of 6:3:1 (for Ti3AlC2) and 6:1:3 (for Mo2Ga2C). The etched MXenes were further treated with 0.5 M LiCl to obtain delaminated MXene (d-MXene) sheets, dispersed in nitrogen-degassed DI water. Results: The d-MXenes were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, HRSEM, and EDS. Samples were aged at room temperature for 20 days, after which fresh samples were also prepared from the same MXene solutions for comparison. method: The d-MXenes were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, HRSEM, and EDS. Samples were aged at room temperature for 20 days, after which fresh samples were also prepared from the same MXene solutions for comparison. Discussion: HRSEM and EDS analyses revealed that 20-day-old d-MXene samples exhibited surface oxide formation, with Ti3C2Tx forming pinecone-like structures (TiO2) and Mo2CTx showing spherical oxide particles (MoO3). In contrast, freshly prepared d-MXene samples exhibited unoxidized smooth surfaces and sharp edges for Ti3C2Tx and uneven surfaces with bent edges for Mo2CTx. Conclusion: After 45 days in aqueous solutions at room temperature, the Ti3C2Tx solution color changed from transparent green to whitish, and the Mo2CTx from transparent brown to blue, confirming significant oxidation. These findings emphasize the need for deoxygenated storage conditions to enhance the stability and lifespan of Ti3C2Tx and Mo2CTx d-MXenes in both liquid and solid forms.
Proteins and peptide drugs are easily degraded in the gastrointestinal tract when administered orally, decreasing their bioavailability, and hence are administered intravenously or subcutaneously, creating a demand for how to administer them orally efficiently. The present research aims to develop protein-loaded nanoparticles by the coacervation method using biodegradable polymers and study their different characteristics. The nanoparticles are prepared using low molecular-weight Chitosan and sodium alginate and characterized using instruments like Zetasizer, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), & UV Spectrophotometer, etc. The nanoparticles are further loaded with egg albumin to study protein loading and release characteristics. The empty nanoparticles have a size range of 226-589 nm and a Polydispersity Index (PDI) of 0.398-0.298. The minimum size of loaded nanoparticles was 180.2±7.82 nm, with a PDI value of 0.314±0.02. The maximum protein entrapment efficiency and loading percentage were 76.12% and 29.78%, respectively. The maximum in vitro protein release from 29.78 % loaded nanoparticles was 42.30% and 12.80% in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) and water as the test medium, respectively. The particle size, PDI, entrapment statistics, and prolonged protein release profile, etc, show the possibility of the nanoparticulate system to be used as a suitable vehicle for oral delivery of proteins and peptide drugs. The optimised standard protein-loaded nanoparticles have all the characteristics making them suitable vehicles for administering proteins and peptide drugs orally. The current Nanoparticulate development system offers a promising solution for the effective oral delivery of protein or peptides.
The nonwoven fabric industry has witnessed significant developments in recent years, with the emergence of diverse production methods to meet various needs and applications. Recently, a new technology has been developed for the production of nonwoven fabrics made from micro and nanofibers, known as solution blown spinning. This technology boasts high productivity and enables the manufacture of industrially viable webs. The air compressor in solution blown spinning machines is the most important component, as it pumps high-pressure air to blow the polymer material and form the fibers. Therefore, the air pressure used is a critical factor, as it ensures the high velocity of the compressed gas, which generates the shear force necessary for blowing the polymer and forming the fibers. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the effect of varying the high air pressure exiting the compressor cylinder on the properties of the resulting fiber web, including its composition, diameter, density, and productivity. Air pressure values were changed using a pressure gauge installed on the compressor outlet nozzle within a range of 1-5 bar. A blow-spinning process was carried out to form five nanofiber webs using a 7% weight-percent poly (lactic acid) solution at each pressure value, while keeping the other process parameters constant. The resulting webs were examined microscopically using SEM. The resulting microscopic images were then processed using Image J software, and the average fiber diameters, densities, and productivity were calculated for each sample based on the solution flow time. The results were then discussed graphically and statistically. The results indicated that the fiber formation process was better at lower pressures, with higher densities and smaller diameters on the nanoscale. The average fiber diameters within the studied pressure ranged between 554.7 and 1342.1 nm, and the smallest diameter measured was 350 nm. The statistical study also demonstrated a difference between fiber diameters. Essentially, the study yielded impressive results for fiber specification values. The fiber density in the surface layer of the samples also decreased with increasing air pressure, which is consistent with the results showing an increase in diameter. This led to a decrease in the polymer solution consumption time, accompanied by an increase in the solution flow rate, which doubled the production of fiber networks on the blower. The study demonstrated the possibility of controlling the diameters of the nanofibers to be produced before initiating the production process by calibrating the air pressure value exiting the cylinder and thus evaluating their speed during operation. In addition, the importance of using polylactic acid waste resulting from 3D printing, recycling it, and converting it into biodegradable and environmentally friendly nonwoven nanofibers was highlighted. These products could find wide future applications in medicine, healthcare, and environment fields by being used as nano-filters. The results of this research can be used as a basis for research conducted within the context of developing blow-spinning technology. We also propose the use of cameras to monitor the airflow during the rotary blowing process, measure air speed, determine product specifications, and compare them with the results of the hydraulic study presented in this research. If the results are consistent, the cost of equipment used in future research can be reduced by relying on the computational fluid dynamics calculations presented in this manuscript.
The present work examines the mass and heat transfer of water-based hybrid nanofluids across a vertically positioned stretched surface rooted in a porous medium with slip conditions where there is an inclined magnetic field. The effects of the inclined magnetic field, thermal radiations, viscous dissipation, and Joule heating are modelled in the mathematical formulations of the flow under consideration. The governing equations have been reduced to the dimensionless system through the development of appropriate similarity transformations. The governing equations are converted and then numerically solved by the Spectral Quasi Linearization Method (SQLM). The results of this work have been examined and discussed using various tables and figures, which show how changing certain parameters affects the profiles of temperature, concentration, and velocity. It is anticipated that this work will be a useful resource for researchers looking into nanofluid flows under different hypotheses and a repository of vital information for the development of novel heat transfer devices in the future. The flow characteristics and rates of heat transfer can be greatly impacted by the direction and intensity of the inclined magnetic field. In the presence of an inclined magnetic field, optimization studies can be carried out to identify the nondimensional parameters for the hybrid nanofluid flow over a stretching surface, and any other outcomes can be found in this study.
Para-nitrophenol (p-NP) is a toxic pollutant frequently released from industrial processes, posing risks to both environmental and human health. This study aimed to develop a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor using a Ti₃C₂Tx MXene-based ternary nanocomposite. A ternary nanocomposite comprising Ti₃C₂Tx, single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), and silver (Ag) nanoparticles was synthesized through ultrasonic dispersion and in situ chemical reduction under alkaline conditions. The resulting material was characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The composite was drop-cast onto a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and evaluated using cyclic voltammetry (CV). Multiple characterizations confirmed the formation of the nanocomposite. The Ti₃C₂Tx/SWCNT/Ag/GCE exhibited excellent performance for p-nitrophenol (p-NP) detection at a low reduction potential of –0.47 V. This sensor exhibited a linear detection range of 5–30 μM and 50–500 μM, with a detection limit of 0.32 μM. The Ti₃C₂Tx/SWCNT/Ag/GCE showed good repeatability and stability over multiple cycles. The enhanced electrocatalytic performance was attributed to the high conductivity of MXene, the fast electron transfer properties of SWCNTs, and the catalytic activity of Ag nanoparticles. This synergy enabled sensitive p-NP detection at a lower potential. The Ti₃C₂Tx/SWCNT/Ag-modified GCE presents a promising platform for the sensitive detection of environmental pollutants, such as p-NP. This study provides insights into the design of multifunctional nanocomposites for advanced electrochemical sensor applications.
Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated, inflammatory skin condition characterized by the hyperproliferation of keratinocytes. Dithranol is an established antipsoriatic agent with limitations in topical delivery due to poor skin permeation and irritation. Nanoemulsion gels offer an advanced approach to enhancing drug delivery and reducing adverse effects. A dithranol nanoemulsion gel was prepared using high-speed homogenization followed by ultrasonication, employing linseed oil, Tween 80, PEG 400, Carbopol 940, and badam gum. Characterization included FTIR, DSC, particle size, PDI, zeta potential, viscosity, spreadability, drug content, in vitro drug release, and accelerated stability studies. An in vivo anti-psoriatic evaluation was conducted using an imiquimod-induced psoriasis model. The optimized nanoemulsion gel had a particle size of 176.7 nm, a PDI of 0.189, and a zeta potential of -41.7 mV. DSC and FTIR confirmed drug-excipient compatibility. The formulation exhibited sustained drug release over 300 minutes and remained stable under accelerated conditions for 90 days. In vivo, dithranol nanoemulsion gel significantly reduced PASI scores, erythema, and skin thickness compared to controls without causing skin irritation. Nanoemulsion-based delivery enhanced the therapeutic efficacy of dithranol by improving transdermal penetration and site-specific drug delivery while minimizing irritation. The gel's physicochemical properties and in vivo performance affirmed its potential for clinical use in psoriasis. Dithranol nanoemulsion gel is a promising formulation for the topical treatment of psoriasis, offering improved stability, bioavailability, patient compliance, and therapeutic outcome.
Owing to its high surface area, tuneable porosity and unique electrochemical properties, porous silicon (PS) has been widely used in devices for electronics and biomedical applications. However, its long-term stability is compromised by spontaneous ageing, thus significantly impacting the performance, stability and reliability of PS-based devices. In this study, PS layers with varying porosities (30%, 40%, and 50%) were obtained by electrochemical anodization of p-type silicon (100) in hydrofluoric acid (HF)–ethanol solutions. The samples were stored under ambient environmental conditions (open air, room temperature) for a period of 12 months to assess spontaneous ageing effects. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDX) were used for structural and morphological changes. For electrochemical properties, Cyclic Voltammetry (C-V) was conducted in Potassium perchlorate (KClO₄) and Phosphate-Buffered Saline (PBS) solutions. All fresh PS layers with different porosity exhibit a resistive behaviour. The aged PS at 40% porosity samples exhibited a distinct resistive behaviour in comparison with a capacitive response for other porosities aged samples (30% and 50%), confirming the spontaneous passivation of the PS surface. SEM analysis showed a reduction in pore size, where pores were completely sealed by an oxide layer. Morphological analysis reveals a reduction in pore diameter and thickness for aged PS at 30% and 50% porosity can be attributed to the fact that our samples did not undergo heat treatment after anodization, which normally helps stabilize the structure. While at 40% porosity, the pores disappeared entirely, due to the formation of a thick, compact oxide layer. Electrochemical measurements showed a clear capacitive behaviour in the aged samples with 30% and 50% porosities, likely caused by spontaneous surface passivation and the presence of surface states. In contrast, the 40% porosity sample maintained a resistive behaviour, which can be explained by the presence of a dense oxide layer and the absence of accessible surface states. For the first time that this technique has been employed to assess the electrochemical changes induced by long-term storage under ambient conditions. Notably, our study demonstrates that the ageing –porosity is complex and that porosity is not the sole factor that influences the susceptibility of PS layers to environmental degradation. These findings offer valuable insights for researchers in order to develop surface passivation strategies to mitigate ageing effects, as to ensure the long-term stability of PS surfaces, enhancing their long-term functionality and maintaining optimal performance and durability.
Inter- and intramolecular hydroamination reactions serve as a prime example of sustainable organic chemistry. These reactions are catalytic, atom-economical (100% yield), and environmentally friendly, representing a process of fundamental simplicity where an amine is added to an alkyne substrate as well as alkenes or aromatic hydrocarbons. To synthesize enamines with higher yield, which are important intermediates in many natural and synthetic compounds, copper supported on MoO₃/SiO₂ mixed oxides was used as a highly effective catalyst for the direct hydroamination of phenylacetylene and α-naphthylamine. The catalysts were thoroughly characterized using techniques such as FT-IR, XRD, Raman, XPS, and measurements of acidic strength. Spectral data from FT-IR and Raman confirmed the successful incorporation of copper into the MoO3/SiO2 framework. The catalytic system exhibited significant enhancements in both conversion efficiency and selectivity for the desired products, attributed to the unique properties of the Cu- MoO3/SiO2 mixed oxide. This catalyst could be reused up to three cycles without any significant decline in activity, highlighting its environmental friendliness. The method offers advantages over conventional approaches, including simplicity, reduced reaction time, complete atom economy, mild conditions, broad substrate compatibility, recyclability, and an uncomplicated product isolation process.
Despite advancements in cancer therapy, the delivery of anti-cancer agents remains a significant challenge due to the toxicity of conventional treatments to healthy tissues, and the limited solubility and bioavailability of some therapeutic agents. Delivery systems based on nanoparticles have emerged as an effective way to address these issues. The primary goal of this study was to assess the ability of functionalized Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles (fMSNs) to transport 3,3'-diindolylmethane (DIM), a hydrophobic anticancer drug, to efficiently target Triple-Negative Breast Cancer cells (TNBCs), while posing the least number of adverse effects on cells that are healthy, and to evaluate the mechanism of action and potential cytotoxicity of DIM-fMSNs on TNBC cells. Functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized for uniformity and functionalization. DIM, a hydrophobic indole-based phytochemical, was loaded into the fMSNs to create DIM-fMSNs. The drug delivery system was tested in vitro on TNBC cells to assess its cellular uptake, bioavailability, and cytotoxic effects. Mechanistic studies were conducted to determine the pathways involved in DIM-fMSNs-induced cell death. Our findings demonstrate that the fMSNs effectively delivered drugs to MDA-MB-231 cell lines, resulting in significant suppression of the growth of cancer cells, and enhanced therapeutic efficacy in vitro, whilst demonstrating effective penetration into TNBC cells even at low concentrations. In vitro tests also showed that our nano-formulation was superior to toxic chemotherapy drugs like Doxorubicin in the treatment of TNBC at lower drug concentrations. Mechanistic studies involving the identification of key apoptotic proteins revealed that DIM-fMSNs induced mitochondriamediated apoptosis as the underlying mechanism of cell death in TNBC cells. The formulation demonstrated increased therapeutic efficacy and drug bioavailability with fewer harmful side effects on nearby normal cells and tissues. The study highlights the potential of DIM-loaded fMSNs as a potentially effective therapeutic approach for TNBC treatment. The use of fMSNs improved the solubility, bioavailability, and delivery of DIM, resulting in enhanced efficacy and reduced toxicity, introducing an innovative approach to future cancer therapies.
This review explores the growing field of neurotherapeutics, focusing on biofunctionalized nanocarriers as innovative systems to deliver therapeutic agents, such as curcumin, across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). It highlights the limitations of conventional methods and presents nanocarriers as promising solutions for overcoming these challenges. The methodology examines experimental techniques used to investigate curcumin-loaded nanoparticles and their application in treating neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Huntington’s disease. By integrating nanotechnology, pharmacology, and neuroscience, the review emphasizes the potential of smart vehicles to enhance brain-targeted therapies and outlines a path for future research. Future research should refine nanocarrier design for better specificity and efficiency in crossing the BBB, enhancing brain-targeted drug delivery. Advancements in nanotechnology may enable personalized neurotherapeutics tailored to patients' genetics and disease progression. Translating these innovations to clinical use will require addressing regulatory hurdles and conducting trials. In recent case studies, biofunctionalized exosomes and lipid-based nanocarriers efficiently transported curcumin across the blood-brain barrier, reducing inflammation in spinal cord injury models and amyloid plaque accumulation in Alzheimer's models, highlighting curcumin's potential in treating neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Multifunctional nanoparticles capable of delivering multiple drugs or combining diagnostic and therapeutic functions could transform neurological disorder treatment. Exploring other neurotherapeutic compounds beyond curcumin and studying the long-term safety, toxicity, and immune response of nanocarriers will be crucial for clinical succes
Gallic acid (GA) is an important biomarker with significant relevance in the food, pharmaceutical, and environmental industries, requiring highly sensitive and selective detection techniques. This study presents the development of a robust electrochemical sensor for GA detection, utilizing a zinc oxide/graphene oxide (ZnO/GO) nanocomposite-modified electrode, with a focus on applications for assessing the impact of GA on oral health. GO was synthesized via a modified Hummers' method, while ZnO nanoparticles with rodshaped morphology were prepared hydrothermally. The ZnO/GO composite film was created by combining their dispersions and thermal treatment. UV-visible spectra confirmed the interaction between ZnO and GO through redshift, and FTIR analysis revealed characteristic Zn-O and C-O bonds. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) demonstrated that the ZnO/GO-modified electrode detects GA at a remarkably low potential (0.1 V vs. Ag/AgCl) compared to previously reported GA sensors. This new sensor exhibited a low detection limit of 0.31 × 10-4 M and a wide linear response range from 50 – 250 μM with excellent sensitivity (slope = 0.0537 μA/μM, R² = 0.9971). In the future, this sensor may find some application in the field of dentistry to monitor the efficacy of the GA for patients undergoing dental treatments like dentin hypersensitivity, proliferation of oral bacteria, oral ulcer, plaque, remineralization, and gingivitis.
Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) represent a transformative advancement in the fight against cancer. They offer an innovative method for diagnosing the condition, managing its symptoms, and monitoring its progression in real-time. This paper explores the extraordinary potential of MNPs to revolutionize cancer therapy through advanced imaging methods, magnetic hyperthermia, and targeted drug delivery. Medical experts can now accurately target tumors using MNPs while inflicting minimum damage to healthy cells. The future innovation of personalized magnetotheranostic will involve MNPs by integrating real-time diagnostics with tailored treatment regimens based on the molecular profile of each patient's malignancy. MNPs will transform cancer immunotherapy through liquid biopsies for early cancer detection, gene therapy for resistant tumors, and immune modulation. Drug resistance and tumor recurrence represent significant challenges in oncology; nevertheless, MNPs, with breakthroughs such as biodegradable nanoparticle designs and enhancements facilitated by artificial intelligence, provide considerable promise for addressing these issues. Safer, more effective, and personalized cancer treatments are attainable, and this review illustrates the unequivocal potential of MNPs as a versatile, patient-centric strategy. In the future, MNPs may offer promise to cancer patients globally by enhancing survival rates and transforming cancer treatment to be more precise, minimally invasive, and adaptable.
Background: Therapeutic effects of plant metabolites have been used for the treatment of burns, wounds and infections over the centuries. Electrospun nanofibers containing plant metabolites have also been considered recently for the development of new and efficient wound dressings. Ferula assa-foetida has received much attention in traditional medicine due to its numerous healing properties. Objective: In the present study, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers containing aqueous extracts of F. assa-foetida gum (FAE) were prepared and characterized. The antibacterial activity of nanofibers was investigated. Methods: Electrospinning was utilized for the fabrication of PVA/FAE nanofibers. The morphology, physical and chemical properties of the synthesized nanofibers were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and contact angle test. Results: The uniform nanofibers with the average diameter of 256 nm were obtained by using 8 wt.% PVA, 1:4 (w: w %) ratio of PVA/FAE, needle to collector distance of 13 cm, 20 kV voltage, collector rotation speed of 3 m/min, and flow rate of 0.5 mL/h. The use of FAE led to the increased diameter of nanofibers and their contact angle compared to PVA nanofibers. Interestingly, the PVA/FAE nanofibers displayed considerable antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Conclusion: The overall results indicated that PVA/FAE nanofibers can be considered as a potential candidate for the preparation of wound dressings with antibacterial properties.
