Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Songul Ulag, Elif Ilhan, Ramazan Demirhan, Ali Sahin, Betul Karademir Yilmaz, Burak Aksu, Mustafa Sengor, Denisa Ficai, Aurel Mihail Titu, Anton Ficai, Oguzhan Gunduz
Summary: Biocompatible nanofiber patches consisting of PVA/GEL/Ps were fabricated via electrospinning. The addition of 0.5% GEL into PVA was found to be an ideal matrix, and 3% Ps was effective in promoting stem cell proliferation and antimicrobial properties. Studies on the antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa should be further investigated.
Article
Ophthalmology
Fiona Stapleton, Chris H. L. Lim, Suhyun Kweon, Donald Tan, Jodhbir S. Mehta
Summary: Cosmetic contact lens related corneal infections in Asia account for a significant proportion of overall cases, predominantly affecting young females who wear hydrogel lenses.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Ophthalmology
Pauline Khoo, Maria Cabrera-Aguas, Stephanie L. Watson
Summary: This study retrospectively reported the clinical profile and microbiology of patients with microbial keratitis post accelerated corneal collagen cross-linking. The results showed that post-CXL microbial keratitis was predominantly associated with gram-positive bacteria and in some cases delayed epithelial healing, leading to moderate to poor patient outcomes.
ASIA-PACIFIC JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Duoduo Wu, Dawn Ka-Ann Lim, Blanche Xiao Hong Lim, Nathan Wong, Farhad Hafezi, Ray Manotosh, Chris Hong Long Lim
Summary: Corneal cross-linking (CXL) using riboflavin and ultraviolet A (UVA) light is a versatile treatment option for a variety of corneal diseases, including keratoconus. Recent advances include PACK-CXL for infectious keratitis and CurV customized protocols, which have generated increased interest in the field.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Zhongwen Li, Jiewei Jiang, Kuan Chen, Qianqian Chen, Qinxiang Zheng, Xiaotian Liu, Hongfei Weng, Shanjun Wu, Wei Chen
Summary: Keratitis is the main cause of corneal blindness worldwide, early detection and treatment are key to avoiding vision loss. A deep learning system for automated classification of keratitis and other cornea abnormalities has been developed to help address the shortage of ophthalmologists in resource-limited settings.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Review
Ophthalmology
Celia Garcia-Lopez, Marina Rodriguez-Calvo-de-Mora, Davide Borroni, Jose-Maria Sanchez-Gonzalez, Vito Romano, Carlos Rocha-de-Lossada
Summary: During infectious keratitis, the overexpression of MMPs, particularly MMP-2 and MMP-9, leads to the degradation of corneal collagen and can cause complications. Nonspecific treatments like tetracyclines and corticosteroids are used as adjuvants to antimicrobials to alleviate corneal degradation and inflammation. Specific MMP inhibitors, pro-MMP activator inhibitors, and anti-cytokine agents have also been reported. Further studies are needed to investigate the potential of these treatments in managing infectious keratitis.
SURVEY OF OPHTHALMOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Ophthalmology
Tanya Trinh, Gisella Santaella, Michael Mimouni, Zale Mednick, Eyal Cohen, Nir Sorkin, David S. Rootman, Allan R. Slomovic, Clara C. Chan
Summary: Neurotrophic keratopathy (NK) is a chronic disease characterized by persistent epithelial defects and corneal perforation, requiring various treatment modalities. Herpetic, pars plana vitrectomy, and neurosurgical causes are common contributing factors.
Article
Ophthalmology
Chenyang Dai, Rao Me, Nan Gao, Guanyu Su, Xinyi Wu, Fu-Shin X. Yu
Summary: IL-36/IL36R signaling plays a protective role in fungal keratitis by promoting AMP expression and by suppressing fungal infection-induced expression of proinflammatory cytokines in a dendritic cell- and macrophage-independent manner.
INVESTIGATIVE OPHTHALMOLOGY & VISUAL SCIENCE
(2021)
Letter
Ophthalmology
David Lamas-Francis, Mercedes Trevino, Hugo Perez-Freixo, Laura Martinez-Perez, Rosario Tourino, Teresa Rodriguez-Ares
Summary: This article reports a rare case of epithelial keratitis caused by human monkeypox, confirmed by PCR analysis of the corneal epithelium. Various treatments were prescribed, and the corneal defect closed successfully after 20 days.
OCULAR IMMUNOLOGY AND INFLAMMATION
(2022)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Susanna Sagerfors, Chrysoula Karakoida, Martin Sundqvist, Birgitta Ejdervik Lindblad, Bo Soderquist
Summary: The study compared two different methods of corneal culture in infectious keratitis, with the standard method yielding higher proportions of positive culture outcomes and microorganisms compared to the indirect inoculation method. However, a combination of direct and indirect inoculation could reduce the number of corneal samples without significant differences in culture outcomes or proportion of detected microorganisms.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE
(2021)
Review
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Mihail Zemba, Otilia-Maria Dumitrescu, Andreea-Elena Dimirache, Daniel Constantin Branisteanu, Florian Balta, Marian Burcea, Andreea Dana Moraru, Sinziana Gradinaru
Summary: Infectious keratitis is a leading cause of visual morbidity worldwide, with prompt and adequate treatment being crucial for maintaining corneal integrity. Currently, the gold standard for diagnosis is the isolation of microorganisms in cultures and examination of smears, but newer techniques such as PCR, NGS, and IVCM show promise as potential replacements.
EXPERIMENTAL AND THERAPEUTIC MEDICINE
(2022)
Article
Biology
Alberto Recchioni, Ankur Barua, Alberto Dominguez-Vicent
Summary: This study demonstrates how in-vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) improved diagnosis and treatment in three patients with complex corneal disorders. IVCM imaging was able to provide more accurate diagnosis and guide clinicians towards optimized treatment in case one, where laboratory cell culture was inconclusive. In case two, IVCM helped differentiate between an immune-mediated response and fungal keratitis, leading to tailored treatment. In case three, IVCM was crucial in predicting early immune changes and prescribing appropriate treatment for dry eye disease. IVCM is a valuable non-invasive imaging technique that enhances diagnostic precision and allows for personalized treatment adjustments.
Article
Ophthalmology
Muthiah Srinivasan, Thulasiraj Ravilla, Valaguru Vijayakumar, Devanesam Yesunesan, Iswarya Mani, John P. Whitcher, Catherine E. Oldenburg, Kieran S. O'brien, Thomas M. Lietman, Jeremy D. Keenan
Summary: A community health worker program increases referrals to local eye care providers but does not significantly affect the incidence of corneal ulcers.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Edurne Gonzalez, Aitor Barquero, Belen Munoz-Sanchez, Maria Paulis, Jose Ramon Leiza
Summary: Green electrospinning is a new technology that uses a template polymer to spin a polymer from an aqueous dispersion, providing an environmentally friendly and safe method for spinning hydrophobic polymers. The study found that factors such as template polymer molar mass, total solids content, and particle/template ratio influence fiber morphology, while surfactant used, surface functionality of polymer particles, and particle size distribution also play a role. Additionally, viscosity of the initial blend, particle packing, and surface chemistry of polymer particles are important for obtaining high-quality nanofibers.
Article
Polymer Science
Sailing Lei, Chengdong Xiong, Zhenzhen Quan, Xiaohong Qin, Jianyong Yu
Summary: A theoretical model has been established to predict the diameter and stretching of electrospinning jets, showing differences between fully charged and partly charged jets in terms of radius variation. The stretching of jets is predicted to gradually increase as the surface charge tends to saturation, as demonstrated by experimental results in agreement with theoretical values. This work provides insight into controlling jet stretching and fiber diameter for the design of electrospun nanofibers.
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Fatih Ciftci, Nilufer Duygulu, Yasemin Yilmazer, Oguzhan Gunduz, Cem Bulent Ustundag
Summary: In this study, poly(lactic-acid) (PLA) polymer-based nanofiber was prepared using the electrospinning method. Antioxidant and antibiotic materials were incorporated into the PLA matrix. The nanofiber showed excellent inhibition against various microorganisms and demonstrated good cell adhesion.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF POLYMERIC MATERIALS AND POLYMERIC BIOMATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Esra Pilavci, Musa Ayran, Dilay Ulubay, Elif Kaya, Gulgun Tinaz, Ozlem Bingol Ozakpinar, Aykut Sancakli, Oguzhan Gunduz
Summary: In this study, a new polymer combination of Gelatin methacrylate (GelMA)/Polycaprolactone (PCL)/Chitosan (CS) was used to fabricate nanofiber composites for wound dressing applications. The influence of different ratios of GelMA concentration on the nanofiber structure and morphology was examined. The results showed that higher concentrations of GelMA led to improved mechanical strength, hydrophilic properties, and a slower degradation rate in the nanofiber composites. The composites also displayed antibacterial activity and supported high cell proliferation and adhesion in vitro. The 10 wt% GelMA-based nanofiber composites showed great potential for wound dressing applications.
JOURNAL OF BIOACTIVE AND COMPATIBLE POLYMERS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Ihsan Fatih Ertas, Muhammet Uzun, Eray Altan, Md Humayun Kabir, Merve Gurboga, Ozlem Bingol Ozakpinar, Gulgun Tinaz, Oguzhan Gunduz
Summary: In this study, nanofiber patches composed of Silk fibroin/poly (caprolactone)/Lanolin were successfully synthesized using the electrospinning method. The morphology and mechanical properties of the nanofiber patches were found to be influenced by the concentration of Lanolin. The cytotoxicity of the patches was observed, showing toxicity towards fibroblast cells. The nanofiber patches did not exhibit antibacterial activity nor good biocompatibility.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Huseyin Erkus, Tuba Bedir, Elif Kaya, Gulgun Bosgelmez Tinaz, Oguzhan Gunduz, Mariana-Carmen Chifiriuc, Cem Bulent Ustundag
Summary: In this study, gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) microneedles loaded with amoxicillin (AMX) were developed using digital light processing (DLP) based 3D printing technology. The fabricated microneedles showed good mechanical properties and antimicrobial activity, suggesting their potential as a next-generation medical device for bacterial infection management.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Sumeyye Cesur, Elif Ilhan, Esra Pilavci, Rabia Betul Sulutas, Merve Gurboga, Ozlem Bingol Ozakpinar, Elif Kaya, Marcin Heljak, Gulgun Bosgelmez Tinaz, Faik Nuzhet Oktar, Oguzhan Gunduz, Ewa Kijenska-Gawronska
Summary: In this study, dual-drug loaded nanofibrous patches were produced by electrospinning for the treatment of corneal ulcers. The patches showed controlled release profiles for up to 96 hours and exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus. The patches also demonstrated superior effects on cell spreading and proliferation. This study provides a potential rapid treatment option for aggressive corneal ulcers.
MACROMOLECULAR MATERIALS AND ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Ceramics
Mehmet Can Arpak, Sibel Daglilar, Cevriye Kalkandelen, Liliana-Marinela Balescu, Hilal Turkoglu Sasmazel, Iuliana Pasuk, George E. Stan, Kagan Durukan, Oguzhan Gunduz
Summary: This study evaluates the effects of Mn doping on the morpho-structural features, mechanical performance, and in vitro biological response of β-TCP derived bioceramics. Mn doping above 0.05 wt.% improved densification, while densification remained constant at sintering temperatures of 1200 - 1300°C. Structural analysis revealed that samples sintered at 1000 and 1100°C consisted mainly of β-TCP with a minor amount of HA. At higher temperatures (1200 and 1300°C), the formation of α-TCP was observed at the expense of β-TCP and HA. Mn doping was confirmed by lattice parameter changes. Mn doping decreased the mechanical performance of the β-TCP-based ceramics. Osteoblastic cells showed higher metabolic activity and viability in ceramics with Mn doping levels below 0.1 wt.%. No cytotoxic effects were observed up to 21 days. Mn-doped β-TCPs exhibited significantly increased alkaline phosphatase activity compared to pure β-TCP.
JOURNAL OF THE AUSTRALIAN CERAMIC SOCIETY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Sule Ilgar, Songul Ulag, Ali Sahin, Oguzhan Gunduz, Cem Bulent Ustundag
Summary: Skin is a protective barrier that can regenerate itself, but loss of this property leads to delayed wound healing. Nanocarrier drug delivery systems and modern wound dressings can improve therapeutic efficacy. This study loaded amoxicillin and rifampicin into bismuth ferrite particles for controlled release in 3D scaffolds, aiming to reduce inflammation risk and increase therapeutic efficacy.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Hatice Karabulut, Songul Ulag, Basak Dalbayrak, Elif Damla Arisan, Turgut Taskin, Mehmet Mucahit Guncu, Burak Aksu, Alireza Valanezhad, Oguzhan Gunduz
Summary: In this study, a dental membrane scaffold was fabricated using 3D printing and the antimicrobial effect of pomegranate seed and peel extract was investigated. The scaffold, made of polyvinyl alcohol, starch, and pomegranate seed and peel extracts, was designed to cover the damaged area and aid in healing. The addition of starch and pomegranate extract improved the biocompatibility of the scaffold and showed significant antimicrobial effects.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Musa Ayran, Hatice Karabulut, Kudret Irem Deniz, Gamze Ceren Akcanli, Songul Ulag, Alexa-Maria Croitoru, Bianca-Maria Tihauan, Ali Sahin, Denisa Ficai, Oguzhan Gunduz, Anton Ficai
Summary: By utilizing novel microfibrous scaffolds containing quercetin (Q), this research evaluated their effects on skeletal muscle regeneration. The combination of bismuth ferrite (BFO), polycaprolactone (PCL), and Q formed a well-ordered microfibrous structure. The Q-loaded microfibrous scaffolds demonstrated strong antimicrobial properties, biocompatibility with mesenchymal stem cells, and improved drug release capability with electrically conductive scaffolds. These findings highlight the potential of PCL/BFO/Q microfibrous scaffolds in enhancing skeletal muscle tissue engineering.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Muhammet Sefa Izgordu, Musa Ayran, Songul Ulag, Ridvan Yildirim, Berrak Bulut, Ali Sahin, Mehmet Mucahit Guncu, Burak Aksu, Oguzhan Gunduz
Summary: This study investigates the fabrication of 3D-printed scaffolds using sodium alginate, gelatin-methacryloyl, and polyvinyl alcohol for skin tissue replacement. Gentamicin sulfate is added to the scaffolds to provide antibacterial activity, and the effect of GS amount on various properties is studied. The results demonstrate that GS addition enhances antibacterial activity and biocompatibility of the scaffolds.
MACROMOLECULAR MATERIALS AND ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Ceramics
Gizem Mahmutoglu, Aysenur Topsakal, Eray Altan, Nilgun Kuskonmaz, Sibel Daglilar, Faik Nuzhet Oktar, Gokce Erdemir, Serap Erdem Kuruca, Sibel Akyol, Oguzhan Gunduz, Besim Ben-Nissan
Summary: Bone tissue engineering is based on a comprehensive understanding of bone structure, bone mechanics, and biology. Various synthesis strategies have been intensively researched to create nanostructured hydroxyapatite powders with customized properties. The study found that pH levels of 9 to 11 and calcination temperatures of 600 to 800°C were suitable for producing nanohydroxyapatite powders with appropriate cytocompatibility for bone graft production and biomedical applications.
JOURNAL OF THE AUSTRALIAN CERAMIC SOCIETY
(2023)
Meeting Abstract
Cell & Tissue Engineering
Marcin Heljak, Mustafa Sengor, Oguzhan Gunduz, Wojciech Swieszkowski, Ewa Kijenska-Gawronska
TISSUE ENGINEERING PART A
(2023)
Review
Engineering, Multidisciplinary
Selcen Ari Yuka, Ali Akpek, Alican Ozarslan, Alperen Vural, Anil Tevfik Kocer, Ayca Aslan, Aysegul B. Karaaltin, Bahar Gok, Begum Bahar Yilmaz, Benan Inan, Betul Mutlu, Beyza Karacaoglu, Burcu Doymus, Cem Bulent Ustundag, Cem Ozel, Didem Ozcimen, Dogan Cakan, Eda Nur Yetiskin Morkan, Emel Akyol, Emre Karaduman, Fatih Ciftci, Gorke Gurel Pekozer, Gulcan Aysin Karaca, Hakan Amasya, Hatice Demir, Hilal Calik, Huseyin Uvet, Kaan Orhan, Maria Daaboul, Mehmet Burcin Piskin, Murat Topuzogullari, Nuri Aydin, Oguzhan Gunduz, Osman Kucuk, Ozan Baris Kurtur, Rabia Cakir Koc, Sakip Onder, Sevil Yucel, Shifa Alhamwi, Sinan Simsek, Sinem Birant, Songul Ulag, Sueheyla Kaya, Sumeyra Ayan, Tugba Ozer, Yasemin Budama Kilinc, Yeliz Basaran Elalmis, Yetkin Zeki Yilmaz
Summary: The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 has led to profound changes in social, economic, and scientific fields worldwide. Urgent public health needs have driven innovation in diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. Advances in RT-PCR based diagnostic tests, rapid diagnostic kits, vaccine development, and pharmaceutical treatments have been made. These approaches are informed by multidisciplinary knowledge in health biotechnology. The COVID-19 pandemic has not only impacted viral infections but also accelerated the development of novel approaches in various scientific areas.
SIGMA JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND NATURAL SCIENCES-SIGMA MUHENDISLIK VE FEN BILIMLERI DERGISI
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Ecem Dogan, Mustaf Sengor, Oguzha Gunduz, Cem Bulent Ustundag
Summary: This study aims to obtain nanoparticles and nanofibers from a mixture of xanthan gum (XG) and gelatine (GEL) polymers using the electrospinning method. Ten different groups were produced and evaluated for their physical, chemical, and morphological properties. Results showed that GEL/XG nanoparticles could be used as carriers and proper ratios and electrospinning parameters were determined for the production of nanoparticles and nanofibers. These findings have implications in developing composite nanostructures for regenerative and drug release applications.
REVISTA ROMANA DE MATERIALE-ROMANIAN JOURNAL OF MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Christopher Igwe Idumah, I. C. Nwuzor, S. R. Odera, U. J. Timothy, U. Ngenegbo, F. A. Tanjung
Summary: This paper presents recent advancements in drug delivery applications of polymeric hydrogel nanoarchitectures and hydrogel derivatives, including the incorporation of nanoparticulates and the enhancement of the chemical, biological, electrical, and mechanical properties of hydrogels. The application of magnetically responsive and smart hydrogels as drug delivery systems is also discussed.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF POLYMERIC MATERIALS AND POLYMERIC BIOMATERIALS
(2024)
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Remya K. Rajan, Sunitha Chandran, Annie John, Ramesh Parameswaran
Summary: This study outlines the fabrication and characterization of pamidronate (PDS) embedded nanofibrous scaffolds based on polycaprolactone/polycaprolactone-polyethyleneglycol-polycaprolactone (PCL/CEC) blends for osteoporotic bone defect management. The electrospinning technique was utilized to fabricate PDS-loaded scaffolds, and the effect of PDS on the blends was evaluated in terms of surface morphology, wettability, biodegradability, and in vitro cytocompatibility. The results showed that the PCL/CEC-PDS scaffolds had a fibroporous architecture, appropriate mechanical properties, and the ability to support cell growth, indicating their potential for managing osteoporotic bone defects.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF POLYMERIC MATERIALS AND POLYMERIC BIOMATERIALS
(2024)
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Kubra Aydin, Handan Sevim, Hatice Kaplan Can
Summary: This study aims to develop a new dental material by designing, synthesizing, and characterizing nanocomposites, and evaluate their cytotoxic effects on human gingival fibroblasts. The results of this research will contribute to a better understanding of the properties and safety of this material, providing reference for clinical applications in dentistry.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF POLYMERIC MATERIALS AND POLYMERIC BIOMATERIALS
(2024)
Review
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Angelica Jimenez-Rosales, Stefani Cortes-Camargo, Pedro Estanislao Acuna-Avila
Summary: The immune response to drug-delivering systems and implanted medical devices based on biomaterials is complex, and the goal is to design biomaterials that can respond to stimuli, preserve tissue function, and optimize cellular structures. Understanding the material's structure and location, as well as the severity of damage and other factors, is crucial in developing biocompatible biomaterials.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF POLYMERIC MATERIALS AND POLYMERIC BIOMATERIALS
(2024)
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Fatemeh Daliri Shadmehri, Ehsan Karimi, Ehsan Saburi
Summary: Bone tissue engineering utilizes polymeric scaffolds and stem cells to create a supportive matrix resembling the in vivo environment for bone repair. The study found that a composite matrix of polycaprolactone and fibrin enhanced the differentiation of adipose-derived stem cells into osteo-like cells.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF POLYMERIC MATERIALS AND POLYMERIC BIOMATERIALS
(2024)