Article
Polymer Science
Ana S. Neto, Patricia Pereira, Ana C. Fonseca, Carla Dias, Mariana C. Almeida, Ines Barros, Catarina O. Miranda, Luis P. de Almeida, Paula V. Morais, Jorge F. J. Coelho, Jose M. F. Ferreira
Summary: The study focused on developing multifunctional biphasic calcium phosphate scaffolds coated with biopolymers loaded with antibiotic drug Rifampicin. The drug release profiles were different between PCL and PEU-coated scaffolds, with PCL showing a faster burst release. The effectiveness of the scaffolds in inhibiting bacterial growth depends on the specific bacterial strain and the type of polymer coating, influencing the drug release behavior.
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Yanan Zhao, Honglei Kang, Xiaopei Wu, Pengzhen Zhuang, Rong Tu, Takashi Goto, Feng Li, Honglian Dai
Summary: A drug carrier system composed of gelatin-coated hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with pro-osteogenic parathyroid (PTH) and anti-osteoclastogenic alendronate (ALN) is constructed and compounded into calcium magnesium phosphate cement (MCPC). It enhances osteoporotic bone regeneration in ovariectomized rats by promoting osteogenic differentiation, inhibiting osteoclastogenesis, and accelerating vascularization. The MCPC/HMSNs@ALN-PTH/GM demonstrates a synergistic effect on osteogenesis, osteoclastogenesis, and angiogenesis, holding potential for other biomaterials design and clinical management.
ADVANCED HEALTHCARE MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Shabnam Anjum, Dilip Kumar Arya, Mohammad Saeed, Daoud Ali, Mohammad Saud Athar, Wang Yulin, Saud Alarifi, Xixi Wu, P. S. Rajinikanth, Qiang Ao
Summary: This study focuses on the development of PVP and PVA nanofiber composite scaffolds enriched with hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles and alendronate (ALN) for bone regeneration applications. The physicochemical properties and bone regeneration potential of the scaffolds were investigated. The results demonstrated that the developed nanofiber scaffolds exhibited suitable water uptake capacity, chemical compatibility, and increased in-vitro degradation, making them promising for tissue regeneration. The addition of HA enhanced the physiochemical properties of the scaffolds. The non-toxic and biocompatible behavior of the nanofiber scaffolds was confirmed by cell viability and adhesion assays. The assays also showed osteoblast promotion and osteoclast inhibition, indicating the potential of the scaffolds for bone regeneration applications.
FRONTIERS IN BIOENGINEERING AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Bin Fang, Pengcheng Qiu, Chen Xia, Dan Cai, Chenchen Zhao, Yan Chen, Haiping Wang, Shijie Liu, Haomai Cheng, Zhibin Tang, Bang Wang, Shunwu Fan, Xianfeng Lin
Summary: A new antibacterial material for multifunctional bone infection therapy was synthesized in this study, which not only has biofilm inhibition properties but also maintains sustained bactericidal ability. In vivo studies confirmed the effectiveness of the material for bone infection and osteogenesis.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Chang Xu, Yue Kang, Xufeng Dong, Daqing Jiang, Min Qi
Summary: A multifunctional scaffold, composed of porous polymers and exosomes derived from hBMSCs, was designed to promote bone regeneration. This scaffold released bioactive copper ions and exosomes, which stimulated osteogenesis and angiogenesis, leading to cell-free bone tissue engineering.
CHINESE CHEMICAL LETTERS
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Ce Zhu, Miaomiao He, Dan Sun, Yong Huang, Leizhen Huang, Meixuan Du, Jingcheng Wang, Juehan Wang, Zhongyang Li, Bowen Hu, Yueming Song, Yubao Li, Ganjun Feng, Limin Liu, Li Zhang
Summary: The study developed the first 3D-printed PEEK-based bone scaffold with multiple functions for treating challenging bone diseases. The scaffold, coated with a drug-laden hydroxyapatite layer, utilized graphene nanosheets for on-demand photothermal conversion under laser irradiation. The presence of antibiotics and anti-cancer drugs enhanced treatment efficacy against drug-resistant bacteria and osteosarcoma cells.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Wenhua Li, Siteng Li, Jinwei Zhang, Haoming Zhong, Jie Liang, Shijia Huang, Gaozu Liao, Bao Zhang, Chenglong Liu
Summary: A multifunctional photothermal scaffold was developed in this study, which could accelerate bone regeneration and combat bacterial infection. The scaffold promoted osteogenic differentiation through BMP-2 release and upregulation of heat shock protein expression mediated by near-infrared light. Additionally, black phosphorus nanosheets exhibited antibacterial effects under the mediation of near-infrared light, which was beneficial for preventing bacterial infections.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2022)
Article
Biochemical Research Methods
Bianyun Cai, Leizhen Huang, Jingcheng Wang, Dan Sun, Ce Zhu, Yong Huang, Shujun Li, Zhijun Guo, Limin Liu, Ganjun Feng, Yubao Li, Li Zhang
Summary: The multifunctional, hierarchical structured bone scaffold designed in this study possesses unique photothermal conversion properties and drug release capabilities, making it suitable for in vitro bone cancer ablation and bone regeneration. The scaffold demonstrates excellent biocompatibility and osteointegration function in an animal model.
BIOCONJUGATE CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Guannan Zhang, Ying Lu, Jianbo Song, Di Huang, Meiwen An, Weiyi Chen, Peide Han, Xiaohong Yao, Xiangyu Zhang
Summary: A novel multifunctional scaffold material has been developed to inhibit the proliferation of bone tumor cells and promote bone formation through near infrared irradiation, which is of great significance for treating tissue damage after bone tumor resection.
JOURNAL OF COLLOID AND INTERFACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Zukai Liu, Nathaniel Jillette, Paul Robson, Albert Wu Cheng
Summary: We developed a novel platform called CREST that can simultaneously execute multiple RNA modulation functions on different RNA targets. By appending RNA scaffolds to Cas13 gRNA and fusing cognate RNA binding proteins with enzymatic domains, we achieved manipulation of RNA. Additionally, we reconstituted the enzyme activity of ADAR2 at target sites by fusing split fragments of its deaminase domain to dCas13 and/or PUFc, reducing off-target events significantly.
NUCLEIC ACIDS RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Dentistry, Oral Surgery & Medicine
Junseob Yun, Jungwon Lee, Cheol Woo Ha, Seong Je Park, Sungtae Kim, Ki-Tae Koo, Yang-Jo Seol, Yong-Moo Lee
Summary: This study investigated the effect of 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds with or without hyaluronic acid (HA) in a rabbit calvaria model. The results showed that 3D-printed PLA scaffolds were biocompatible and integrated well with the bone defect margin, providing a proper space for new bone formation. Therefore, 3D-printed PLA/HA may be a potential tool to enhance bone augmentation.
JOURNAL OF PERIODONTOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Multidisciplinary
Xiaodong Hou, Yixing Chen, Feng Chen, Junfeng Liu, Tianlong Wang, Yiping Luo, Shaohua Jia, Peng Wang, Shuo Tan, Bingqiang Lu, Zifei Zhou, Longpo Zheng
Summary: In this study, a composite hydrogel scaffold was constructed by hybridizing hydroxyapatite microtube and GelMA hydrogels, showing high adhesion performance, mechanical properties, breathability, and signal transmission function. The scaffold also exhibited excellent proliferation and differentiation ability of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in vitro and bone repair capability in vivo, offering a new idea for bone defect repair with a simple but practical strategy.
COMPOSITES PART B-ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Simone Murchio, Matteo Benedetti, Anastasia Berto, Francesca Agostinacchio, Gianluca Zappini, Devid Maniglio
Summary: Despite advances in metal additive manufacturing (AM), there are limitations for its application in the biomedical field, particularly in terms of osseointegration. To overcome these issues, the authors developed a hybrid composite scaffold combining different manufacturing techniques. The scaffolds were characterized for their physical and mechanical properties, as well as cytotoxicity assessment.
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Wei Zhao, Zhipeng Huang, Liwu Liu, Wenbo Wang, Jinsong Leng, Yanju Liu
Summary: Bone tissue engineering involves the development of 3D printed porous scaffolds based on shape memory polymer composite (SMPC), which are designed with the addition of magnetic nanoparticles for perfect matching when implanted in the body. The designs are inspired by thorough observation and analysis of lotus root structures, with experiments demonstrating the reliability and biological activity of the scaffolds.
COMPOSITES SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Marcos Aurelio Junior Dahlem, Ronald W. Nguema Edzang, Andre Luis Catto, Jean-Manuel Raimundo
Summary: Quinone-based compounds are a common form of antibiotics that show high efficiency against various bacterial infections. Due to their natural origins and diverse bioactivities, these compounds are increasingly popular and widely used in traditional herbal medicine. This article discusses the bioactive profiles and anti-biofilm properties of quinone-based antibiotics based on recent literature.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Maria Minodora Marin, Madalina Albu Kaya, Durmus Alpaslan Kaya, Roxana Constantinescu, Bogdan Trica, Ioana Catalina Gifu, Elvira Alexandrescu, Cristina Lavinia Nistor, Rebeca Leu Alexa, Raluca Ianchis
Summary: A novel nanocomposite material was synthesized by mixing a crosslinked polysaccharide hydrogel with a bioactive ingredient for wound healing. The effect of varying the ratio between hydrogel components on swelling, degradation rate, and thermo-mechanical behavior was analyzed. The resulting crosslinked structures were characterized using FTIR and microscopy analyses. The antimicrobial activity of the crosslinked hydrogels loaded with the bioactive agent was evaluated against two bacterial strains. The results demonstrated that the synthesized biopolymer nanocomposites have suitable properties for use as antibacterial wound dressings.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Angela Spoiala, Cornelia-Ioana Ilie, Denisa Ficai, Anton Ficai, Ecaterina Andronescu
Summary: Honey has been used since ancient times for therapeutic and nutritional purposes. It has significant antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and wound-healing properties. Scientific researchers have focused on using bee products for apitherapy to strengthen the immune system. Honey's composition, including antioxidant compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids, plays a significant role in its biological activity and potential health benefits.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ludmila Motelica, Ovidiu-Cristian Oprea, Bogdan-Stefan Vasile, Anton Ficai, Denisa Ficai, Ecaterina Andronescu, Alina Maria Holban
Summary: In this paper, the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) by forced solvolysis in different alcohols was reported, and the influence of alcohol type (n-butanol, ethylene glycol, and glycerin) on the size and properties of the NPs was studied. The photocatalytic activity of the NPs against a dye mixture and their antibacterial effects were also investigated. The results showed that the NPs exhibited good photocatalytic activity, with degradation efficiency reaching 99.99%, and strong inhibition of bacterial growth, indicating their potential applications in water purification.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Joanna Kisala, Bogdan Stefan Vasile, Anton Ficai, Denisa Ficai, Renata Wojnarowska-Nowak, Tomasz Szreder
Summary: This study presents the degradation of TBBPA using two Fe3O4 magnetic photocatalysts (F1 and F2). The results indicate that both catalysts are effective for the reductive degradation of TBBPA. Quantum chemical calculations show that the degradation process follows the Eley-Rideal mechanism.
Article
Polymer Science
Nicoleta Mirela Marin, Georgiana Dolete, Ludmila Motelica, Roxana Trusca, Ovidiu Cristian Oprea, Anton Ficai
Summary: In this study, two chelating resins were prepared and used for the simultaneous adsorption of toxic metal ions. The stability of the obtained resins was evaluated, and they showed excellent stability in various mediums. Adsorption studies were conducted on complex acid effluents polluted with metal ions, and the affinity series for the chelating resins were obtained. The results showed promising potential for wastewater treatment in the context of the circular economy approach.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Angela Spoiala, Cornelia-Ioana Ilie, Ludmila Motelica, Denisa Ficai, Augustin Semenescu, Ovidiu-Cristian Oprea, Anton Ficai
Summary: Cancer is a devastating disease that has been a major cause of death and morbidity worldwide since ancient times. Traditional therapies for cancer have limitations, but the use of nanoparticles in cancer diagnosis and treatment has shown significant advancements, overcoming these limitations. Nanoparticles can be used for simultaneous diagnosis and treatment, providing early detection and selective destruction of cancer cells. Choosing the best cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management methods is crucial.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Andreea-Isabela Lazar, Kimia Aghasoleimani, Anna Semertsidou, Jahnavi Vyas, Alin-Lucian Rosca, Denisa Ficai, Anton Ficai
Summary: This paper reviews the control, reproducibility, and limitations of using graphene and graphene-related materials (GRMs) in biomedical applications. It assesses the potential impact of GRMs on human health and explores the composition-structure-activity relationships that cause toxicity. The study aims to understand the unique interactions between GRMs and biomolecules, cells, and tissues, considering their physicochemical properties.
Article
Polymer Science
Georgiana Dolete, Cornelia-Ioana Ilie, Cristina Chircov, Bogdan Purcareanu, Ludmila Motelica, Alina Morosan, Ovidiu Cristian Oprea, Denisa Ficai, Ecaterina Andronescu, Lia-Mara Ditu
Summary: The study aims to develop a hydrogel-based film for sustained and controlled release of vancomycin. Magnetite-coated malic acid nanoparticles (Fe3O4/malic) and MCM-41 were synthesized and loaded with vancomycin for wound dressings. The films exhibited morpho-structural homogeneity, sustained release, and enhanced antimicrobial activity. Magnetite incorporation was also considered for magneto-responsive stimulation of vancomycin diffusion.
Article
Polymer Science
Maria Minodora Marin, Ioana Catalina Gifu, Gratiela Gradisteanu Pircalabioru, Madalina Albu Kaya, Rodica Roxana Constantinescu, Rebeca Leu Alexa, Bogdan Trica, Elvira Alexandrescu, Cristina Lavinia Nistor, Cristian Petcu, Raluca Ianchis
Summary: Natural polysaccharides are recommended for medical applications due to their low cytotoxicity and hydrophilicity. Polysaccharides can be used in additive manufacturing to achieve various customized 3D structures. In this study, silica nanoparticles were added to a microbial polysaccharide to obtain printable hydrogel nanocomposites.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ionela C. Voinea, Cristina F. Alistar, Alina Banciu, Roua G. Popescu, Sorina N. Voicu, Mihai Nita-Lazar, Gabriela Geanina Vasile, Stefania Gheorghe, Alexa -Maria Croitoru, Georgiana Dolete, Dan Eduard Mihaiescu, Anton Ficai, Marcela Popa, Luminita Marutescu, Gratiela Gradisteanu Pircalabioru, Nicolae Craciun, Sorin Avramescu, George Catalin Marinescu, Mariana-Carmen Chifiriuc, Miruna S. Stan, Anca Dinischiotu
Summary: In recent decades, increased contamination intake and habitat destruction have caused significant changes in aquatic ecosystems. The accumulation of environmental contaminants in aquatic organisms has disrupted the antioxidant/prooxidant balance in fish. This study evaluated the levels of organic, inorganic, and microbiological pollutants in four leisure lakes in Bucharest, Romania, to compare their impact on hepatopancreas and gill metabolism and antioxidant defense.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Catalin Paun, Ludmila Motelica, Denisa Ficai, Anton Ficai, Ecaterina Andronescu
Summary: Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have multiple applications in the biomedical field, including drug delivery, biosensors, and cancer treatment. With their highly tunable properties, MOFs can be precisely tuned for drug release, providing great potential for precision medicine.
Article
Polymer Science
Alexandra Elena Stoica (Oprea), Alexandra Catalina Birca, Dan Eduard Mihaiescu, Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu, Anton Ficai, Hildegard Herman, Balta Cornel, Marcel Rosu, Sami Gharbia, Alina Maria Holban, Bogdan Stefan Vasile, Ecaterina Andronescu, Anca Oana Hermenean
Summary: The majority of the world's PET is used for fiber production (over 60%) and food packaging (30%), making it a major pollutant. This study aims to create and analyze nanostructured membranes made from recycled PET and Fe3O4@UA nanoparticles using electrospinning. The resulting fibers inhibit microbial colonization and biofilm formation, offering potential applications in food packaging and antimicrobial textiles.
Article
Polymer Science
Georgiana-Madalina Lemnaru (Popa), Ludmila Motelica, Roxana Doina Trusca, Cornelia Ioana Ilie, Alexa-Maria Croitoru, Denisa Ficai, Ovidiu Oprea, Anicuta Stoica-Guzun, Anton Ficai, Lia-Mara Ditu, Bianca-Maria Tihauan
Summary: The aim of this study was to develop antimicrobial dressings using bacterial cellulose loaded with nutmeg and fir needle essential oils. The excellent properties of bacterial cellulose, such as biocompatibility, stability, and water absorption, make it a suitable support material. The results demonstrated that the dressings inhibited the adhesion of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Thermal analysis and infrared characterization confirmed the binding of essential oils to the membrane.
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Maria Demeter, Andreea Mariana Negrescu, Ion Calina, Anca Scarisoreanu, Madalina Albu Kaya, Marin Micutz, Marius Dumitru, Anisoara Cimpean
Summary: This study synthesized three different recipes of multi-component hydrogels using e-beam irradiation, which can be utilized for the development of drug delivery systems. These hydrogels exhibit good physical and chemical stability, strong mechanical properties, transparent structure, and elasticity, making them suitable for efficient drug loading.
JOURNAL OF FUNCTIONAL BIOMATERIALS
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Diana-Elena Radulescu, Otilia Ruxandra Vasile, Ecaterina Andronescu, Anton Ficai
Summary: Bone tissue engineering is a popular research area due to the rising prevalence of tissue-damaging or degenerative diseases. The use of hydroxyapatite (HA), a biomaterial with biocompatibility and similarity to human bone, is widely explored for enhancing bioactivity and regenerative processes. However, HA has limitations in mechanical properties for load-bearing applications and can benefit from doping with trace elements to improve bioactivity and antibacterial activity. This review provides comprehensive information on HA properties, synthesis methods, applications, and the importance of doping ions in HA structures.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
