Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jiaqi Xu, Manyue Zhang, Wenzhen Du, Jiuhong Zhao, Guixia Ling, Peng Zhang
Summary: The emerging 3D bioprinting technology has brought hope for the development of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Chitosan-based supramolecular hydrogels are considered as ideal materials for 3D bioprinting. However, the mechanical properties of these hydrogels still require further research and exploration.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jaemin Shim, Jiseon Kang, Seok Il Yun
Summary: The novel chitosan-dipeptide hydrogel prepared exhibited excellent stability and drug release properties, making it a promising candidate for localized and controlled drug delivery in cancer therapy.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Michal Dziadek, Kinga Dziadek, Szymon Salagierski, Mariola Drozdowska, Andrada Serafim, Izabela-Cristina Stancu, Piotr Szatkowski, Aneta Kopec, Izabella Rajzer, Timothy E. L. Douglas, Katarzyna Cholewa-Kowalska
Summary: This study modified chitosan-based hydrogels with 2,3,4-trihydroxybenzaldehyde (THBA) for the first time and crosslinked them with pectin (PC), bioactive glass (BG), and rosmarinic acid (RA). THBA served as a crosslinker, improving the mechanical properties, swelling capacity, and degradation rate of the hydrogels. It also exhibited high antioxidant activity and antiproliferative effect on cancer cells without harming normal cells. The addition of PC enhanced the mechanical strength of the hydrogels, while the combination with BG improved their stability in PBS. All hydrogels modified with BG showed the ability to mineralize in simulated body fluid (SBF). RA not only enhanced antioxidant and anticancer activities but also promoted the mineralization process.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zehao Gong, Qiang Yan
Summary: A new category of supramolecular hydrogel system held by multiple radical-radical interactions is reported, with photosensitive cross-linking structure. The mechanical performance of the resulting hydrogel materials can be regulated by temporal control of light irradiation, and the reversible collapse of the hydrogels can be promoted by adding radical scavenger or exerting reduction voltage.
CHINESE CHEMICAL LETTERS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Trung Thang Vu, Sonyabapu Yadav, Obireddy Sreekanth Reddy, Sung-Han Jo, Soo-Bin Joo, Byeong Kook Kim, Eun Ju Park, Sang-Hyug Park, Kwon Taek Lim
Summary: Selective delivery of anticancer drug molecules to the tumor site enhances local drug dosages, improving the patient's quality of life by minimizing the negative effects of chemotherapy. In this study, we developed a reduction-responsive chitosan-based injectable hydrogel for controlled delivery of doxorubicin (DOX). The hydrogel exhibited proper swelling ratio, gelation time, mechanical strength, network morphology, and high drug-loading efficiency (>= 92%). In vitro release studies showed pH-dependent drug release, and the hydrogel demonstrated biocompatibility and anticancer activity against HEK-293 and HT-29 cancer cell lines.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Meng Wang, Huihua Huang, Chaokang Huang, Shujun Liu, Xiaohong Peng
Summary: The novel nanocapsule-embedded hydrogel dressing (MCNG-H), formed by crosslinking magnolol-grafted-chitosan hydrochloride (CSCl-MAG) with genipin, shows sustained antibacterial and antioxidant properties. MCNG-H exhibits good swelling properties and biocompatibility, with the combination of CSM-H and MCNGs effectively inhibiting bacteria and eliminating reactive oxygen species (ROS). The pH-responsive release of loaded MAG in MCNG-H ensures sustained release and long-term antibacterial and anti-oxidant activities. In a splinted excisional dermal wound model, MCNG-H significantly accelerates wound healing, making it a promising dressing for infected wounds.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Yongyan Yang, Gangying Feng, Jingfei Wang, Ruiting Zhang, Shuangling Zhong, Jia Wang, Xuejun Cui
Summary: A supramolecular hydrogel with temperature and pH responsiveness was successfully fabricated by modifying chitosan with orotic acid and 2,6-diaminopurine. The hydrogel demonstrated thermoreversible properties and exhibited thixotropic behavior. Hydrogen bonds and pi-pi interactions were identified as the main driving forces for the formation of the hydrogel through intermolecular self-assembly, as confirmed by FTIR spectra and XRD pattern. The hydrogel showed excellent electrical conductivity and precise release of gastrointestinal drugs, indicating promising applications in the field.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Biophysics
Xiuqiong Chen, Lili Sun, Hongcai Wang, Shanshan Cao, Ting Shang, Huiqiong Yan, Qiang Lin
Summary: This study integrated alginate hydrogels with nano-silica to produce nano-silica reinforced alginate-chitosan-gelatin nanocomposite hydrogels for biomedical purposes. The experimental findings show that the physicochemical properties and biological activities of the hydrogels were influenced by the content of nano-silica. This research provides a foundation for overcoming the limitations of alginate hydrogels and expanding their potential applications in tissue engineering.
COLLOIDS AND SURFACES B-BIOINTERFACES
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Laura Nicolle, Celine M. A. Journot, Sandrine Gerber-Lemaire
Summary: Chitosan, a natural biopolymer, has attracted great interest in research fields due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical properties. Various types of chemical modifications, including covalent and non-covalent methods, have been applied to improve its properties. Characterization techniques for chitosan derivatives are also important in determining their composition and physical properties.
Article
Polymer Science
Yihao Zhang, Ruijia Liu, He Li, You Li, Xinqi Liu
Summary: This study investigated the interaction between 0.1 wt% soybean trypsin inhibitor (STI) and different concentrations of chitosan (CS) in aqueous solutions under different pH conditions. The formation of soluble/insoluble complexes between STI and CS was observed through hydrophobic or electrostatic interactions. The study also discussed the protective effect of the complexes on STI stability in simulated gastric juice. The results provide theoretical references for the development of supramolecular-structured carrier substances based on CS and STI.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ikumi Akita, Yohei Ishida, Tetsu Yonezawa
Summary: Recent developments in electron microscopy and novel techniques have allowed for direct imaging of organic molecules, particularly supramolecular assemblies utilizing multivalent electrostatic interactions on anionically charged clay mineral nanosheets. The stable fixation of organic molecules during electron microscopic imaging was achieved through the utilization of heavy metal atom markers in annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy. This strategy demonstrates versatility and potential application in a wide range of supramolecular systems, enhancing atomic-scale imaging capabilities.
JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY C
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Jiahua Zhou, Dongjian Shi, Tatsuo Kaneko, Weifu Dong, Mingqing Chen
Summary: A novel thermoresponsive system based on electrostatic interactions is reported, which achieves reversible thermoresponsive behavior without any volume change by loading aluminum chloride (AlCl3) into poly(2-hydroxyethyl acrylate) (PHEA) hydrogels. The thermoresponsive hydrogel demonstrates high transparency and excellent luminous modulation capability.
MACROMOLECULAR RAPID COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Cheng Xu, Xiongzhi Zhang, Simin Liu
Summary: This study reports a low-molecular-weight hydrogelator for constructing graphene oxide-based supramolecular hybrid hydrogels, which exhibit shearthinning, self-healing properties, and stimuli-responsive behavior to pH and competing guests. The proposed concept of assembled electrostatic cross-linker (AEC) can also be applied to construct other novel stimuli-responsive supramolecular materials.
COLLOIDS AND SURFACES A-PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND ENGINEERING ASPECTS
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Chuyi Qi, Zhixian Dong, Yuekai Huang, Jinbao Xu, Caihong Lei
Summary: In this study, a tough supramolecular hydrogel with outstanding anti-swelling feature, superior tensile strength, large stretchability, and robust wet adhesion to diverse substrates was prepared by modifying hydrophilic poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) with hydrophobic lauryl methacrylate (LMA) in the presence of a high concentration of the cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The hydrogel showed keen sensitivity and pronounced stability both in air and underwater, and could be easily recycled by dissolving in anhydrous ethanol.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
He Meng, Wenyan Ye, Chunlei Wang, Zeyu Gao, Bingxuan Hu, Caiqi Wang
Summary: This study proposes a new strategy to enhance the mechanical properties of hydrogels through the modulation of ionic interactions. The strategy involves the formation of crystalline micro-nanoparticles (CMNPs) through confinement assembly, and the introduction of these CMNPs into polyacrylamide hydrogels. The composite hydrogels showed significantly improved modulus, fracture stress, and toughness without affecting their tensile properties. Furthermore, a strain sensor for monitoring human motion was designed and demonstrated its potential application in wearable flexible electronics.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2022)
Review
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Zahid Hussain, Dalya Jamal Ahmed, Ranim Mohammed Alkabra, Hnin Ei Thu, Shahzeb Khan, Mohammad Sohail, Rai Muhammad Sarfraz, Nor Amlizan Ramli
Summary: Wound healing is a complex process that can be promoted by using hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid-based nanomedicines have shown significant efficacy in the treatment of different types of skin injuries.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF POLYMERIC MATERIALS AND POLYMERIC BIOMATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Huma Butt, Muhammad Usman Minhas, Kifayat Ullah Khan, Muhammad Sohail, Ikrima Khalid, Sehrish Rehmani, Muhammad Suhail
Summary: In this study, beta-cyclodextrin-based pH-responsive hydrogels were prepared by grafting 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulphonic acid (AMPS) and methacrylic acid (MAA) using the free radical polymerization technique. Captopril was loaded as a model drug. The properties of the hydrogels were influenced by the acrylamide sulphonate and methacrylate-modified beta-cyclodextrin. The swelling dynamics and drug release of the hydrogels were pH-responsive, with the highest swelling and drug release observed at pH 7.4. The addition of beta-cyclodextrin, AMPS, and MAA increased the gel fraction of the hydrogels.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Syed Ahmed Shah, Muhammad Sohail, Marcel Karperien, Castro Johnbosco, Arshad Mahmood, Mubeen Kousar
Summary: Biopolymer-based thermoresponsive injectable hydrogels containing multifunctional characteristics show great potential for diabetic wound regeneration. In this study, Chitosan-CMC-g-PF127 injectable hydrogels loaded with Curcumin were developed, which exhibited viscoelastic behavior, good swelling properties, and a controlled release profile. The hydrogels demonstrated good biocompatibility and tissue regenerative ability, making them a promising platform for sustained drug delivery.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Fahimeh Zahednezhad, Parvin Zakeri-Milani, Javid Shahbazi Mojarrad, Muhammad Sarfraz, Mohammad Mahmoudian, Behzad Baradaran, Hadi Valizadeh
Summary: This study investigates the cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of surface-modified cisplatin (CisP) loaded liposomes in macrophage and cancer cells. Modified/un-modified liposomes were prepared and characterized for various properties. The results show that the modified liposomes demonstrate higher cellular uptake and increased cytotoxicity in the studied cells. Acetyl carnitine modification of CisP-liposomes can be considered an effective approach for increasing cellular uptake and cytotoxicity in cancer and macrophage cells.
JOURNAL OF DRUG DELIVERY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Muhammad Naeem Mustafa, Pervaiz Ali Channar, Muhammad Sarfraz, Aamer Saeed, Syeda Abida Ejaz, Mubashir Aziz, Fatmah Ali Alasmary, Hanadi Yaqob Alsoqair, Hussain Raza, Song Ja Kim, Asad Hamad
Summary: Deposition of hydroxyapatite or alkaline phosphate crystals on soft tissues leads to pathological calcification diseases, and alkaline phosphatase inhibitors have potential role in eradicating these diseases. A series of novel quinolinyl iminothiazolines was synthesized and evaluated for alkaline phosphatase inhibition potential. Compound N-benzamide quinolinyl iminothiazoline (6g) exhibited the maximum inhibitory effect and can be suggested for further testing.
JOURNAL OF ENZYME INHIBITION AND MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Sheza Muqaddas, Mohsin Javed, Sohail Nadeem, Muhammad Adeel Asghar, Ali Haider, Muhammad Ahmad, Ahmad Raza Ashraf, Arif Nazir, Munawar Iqbal, Norah Alwadai, Azhar Ahmad, Abid Ali
Summary: Electrochemical sensors are in high demand for real-time monitoring of health parameters. A flexible and wearable glucose sensor composed of copper oxide-modified carbon nanotube fibers (CuO@CNTFs) has been developed, with excellent catalytic activity. The unique structure of CNT fibers provides efficient conductivity and mechanical strength, surpassing other fibrous materials. The deposition of CuO nanoparticles onto the fiber surface further enhances sensor performance. The CuO@CNTFs exhibit high sensitivity, low detection limit, wide linear range, and superior electrode performance, making them a promising solution for glucose sensing.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ali Raza, Tahir Ali Chohan, Muhammad Sarfraz, Talha Ali Chohan, Muhammad Imran Sajid, Rakesh Kumar Tiwari, Siddique Akber Ansari, Hamad M. Alkahtani, Shabana Yasmeen Ansari, Umair Khurshid, Hammad Saleem
Summary: FGFR1 is a promising target for anticancer drug development. This study applies computational techniques to explore the binding mechanism of pyrrolo-pyrimidine derivatives against FGFR1, resulting in the identification of potential target sites.
JOURNAL OF BIOMOLECULAR STRUCTURE & DYNAMICS
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Tanees Farooq, Muhammad Sohail, Syed Ahmed Shah, Arshad Mahmood, Aya Hamid Mohammad Qalawlus, Mehboob Ur Rehman Kashif, Mubeen Kousar
Summary: This study developed pH-responsive pullulan-based hydrogels loaded with curcumin nanocrystals, micelles, and coarse curcumin. In-vitro characterization studies support the development of hydrogels. The hydrogels showed significant swelling at pH 7.4, with the optimized formulation exhibiting q values of 5.938% at higher pH and 2.382% at lower pH. Nanocrystal-laden hydrogel exhibited 86.250% drug release at pH 7.4 and better release compared to micelles and coarse curcumin-laden hydrogel. Nanocrystals also showed enhanced solubility, physical stability, and permeation. The study demonstrated a promising approach for developing Pu-g-MAA hydrogels and incorporating lipophilic drugs.
JOURNAL OF DRUG DELIVERY SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Amna Khalid, Hafiz Shoaib Sarwar, Muhammad Sarfraz, Muhammad Farhan Sohail, Aamir Jalil, Yousef A. Bin Jardan, Rabia Arshad, Ifrah Tahir, Zulcaif Ahmad
Summary: Microneedle patches made of thiolated chitosan (TCS) and polyvinyl acetate (PVA) were developed for the systemic delivery of dydrogesterone (DYD). The microneedle patch showed sustained release of DYD and good penetration into the skin, indicating its potential as an effective transdermal delivery system.
SAUDI PHARMACEUTICAL JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Hamid Saeed Shah, Sumera Zaib, Muhammad Sarfraz, A. Alhadhrami, Mohamed M. Ibrahim, Aamir Mushtaq, Faisal Usman, Memoona Ishtiaq, Muhammad Sajjad, Hafiz Muhammad Mazhar Asjad, Umar Farooq Gohar
Summary: This study synthesized chitosan-silver nanoparticles (ChAgNPs) containing Eugenol (EGN) and evaluated their anticancer activity against breast cancer cells (MCF-7). The findings demonstrated that EGN-ChAgNPs exhibited stronger anticancer activity than pure EGN. Cell cycle analysis and genotoxicity experiments supported the initial cytotoxicity results. Mouse experiments also showed a reduction in tumor weight and improved survival rate in the EGN-ChAgNPs treated group. Based on protein-ligand interactions, EGN was found to have a favorable interaction with Aurora Kinase A. Overall, these results suggest that EGN-ChAgNPs may be a safe and efficient drug delivery method for breast cancer treatment.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Touba Khaliq, Muhammad Sohail, Muhammad Usman Minhas, Arshad Mahmood, Abubakar Munir, Aya Hamid Mohammad Qalawlus, Nazish Jabeen, Mubeen Kousar, Zobia Anwar
Summary: The study aims to develop a new multifunctional biopolymer-based hydrogel membrane dressing that can release cefotaxime sodium at the wound site. Sodium alginate enhances collagen production in the skin, while hyaluronic acid plays a significant role in the wound healing cascade. These biopolymers are essential ingredients for the fabrication of hydrogel membranes. The developed membranes showed suitable characteristics for wound healing of diabetic wounds, with rapid re-epithelization and decreased inflammation.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Asad Ur Rahman, Fiaz Alam, Muhammad Khan, Muhammad Sarfraz, Abdul Basit, Tawseef Ahmad, Muhammad Ali Khokhar, Sayyad Ali, Kifayat Ullah Khan
Summary: This study assessed the aphrodisiac activities of Mirabilis jalapa root extract on male rats through in silico, in vitro, and in vivo studies. The extract contained compounds and minerals that inhibit the activity of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) enzyme, which may contribute to its aphrodisiac effects. In addition, the extract significantly enhanced erection and sexual performance in rats, inhibited PDE-5 enzyme activity, and increased testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels. Therefore, Mirabilis jalapa root extract is a potential alternative treatment for erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.
Review
Oncology
Muhammad Sarfraz, Abida Khan, Gaber El-Saber Batiha, Muhammad Furqan Akhtar, Ammara Saleem, Basiru Olaitan Ajiboye, Mehnaz Kamal, Abuzer Ali, Nawaf M. Alotaibi, Shams Aaghaz, Muhammad Irfan Siddique, Mohd Imran
Summary: Mangiferin, derived from Mangifera indica L., has shown potential as an anticancer agent. Researchers have explored its effects on breast cancer cells through in vitro and in vivo models. However, its low solubility and bioavailability have posed challenges, prompting the use of nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems to enhance its efficacy and safety.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sumera Zaib, Hamid Saeed Shah, Imtiaz Khan, Zobia Jawad, Muhammad Sarfraz, Huma Riaz, Hafiz Muhammad Mazhar Asjad, Memoona Ishtiaq, Hanan A. Ogaly, Gehan Othman, Dalia Abd El Moneim Ahmed
Summary: Chitosan-silver nanoparticles containing Diosgenin (DGN-ChAgNPs) were synthesized and evaluated for their anticancer activity against breast cancer cells. The results showed promising inhibitory effects on cell proliferation, suggesting the potential of DGN-ChAgNPs as a treatment therapy for breast cancer.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2024)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Greta Camilla Magnano, Marika Quadri, Elisabetta Palazzo, Roberta Lotti, Francesca Loschi, Stefano Dall'Acqua, Michela Abrami, Francesca Larese Filon, Alessandra Marconi, Dritan Hasa
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the loading of sildenafil citrate in three commercial transdermal vehicles using 3D full-thickness skin equivalent and compare the results with permeability experiments using porcine skin. The results showed that the results obtained using the 3D skin equivalent were comparable to those obtained using porcine skin, suggesting that the 3D skin model can be a valid alternative for ex-vivo skin absorption experiments.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS
(2024)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
James W. Mckeage, Andrew Z. H. Tan, Andrew J. Taberner
Summary: Needle-free jet injection is a promising alternative drug delivery technique that offers rapid, non-invasive, and large-volume injections. The study presents a prototype multi-orifice nozzle and a computational fluid dynamic model to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of this technology.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS
(2024)
