Hyperthermia induced by photothermal therapy can cause certain damage to surrounding healthy tissues and cells. In contrast, low-temperature photothermal therapy (LTPTT) has emerged as an alternative due to its non-invasiveness and safety. However, tumor cells can upregulate the molecular chaperone heat shock protein upon thermal stimulation, thereby compromising the therapeutic efficacy of LTPTT. Based on this, this study designed and developed ZIF-8 nanoparticles loaded with gambogic acid (GA), and modified the surface of these nanoparticles with Au nanoparticles to obtain the composite nano-system ZIF-8@Au@GA (ZAG). ZAG can accumulate in the tumor site through the enhanced permeability and retention effect and achieve LTPTT in synergy with an 808 nm laser. The loaded GA, as a natural inhibitor of heat-shock protein 90, can directly exert an anti-tumor effect. Meanwhile, the small-sized Au nanoparticles can act as glucose oxidase mimics to consume cellular ATP levels, further reversing the thermal tolerance of tumor cells, and can also upregulate reactive oxygen species such as HO to kill tumor cells. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments have demonstrated that the designed ZAG composite system, in combination with an 808 nm laser, can achieve favorable LTPTT efficacy without any toxic side effects. This integrated dual-enhancement strategy for LTPTT designed in this study offers a new perspective for tumor therapy.

Degenerative retinal diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and retinitis pigmentosa, cause irreversible vision loss by destroying vital retinal cells and represent major global health concerns. Traditional therapies have limited success in fully restoring vision due to the complex retinal structure and blood-retinal barriers (BRBs), though they may help alleviate symptoms or slow disease progression in some cases. Nanochemistry and peptide-based systems represent breakthrough approaches by leveraging nanoscale precision and biological specificity. This review examines the chemical design and synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs), nanoscaffolds, and peptide conjugates used in retinal neural regeneration. It also explores their biomedical applications, especially in targeted drug delivery, tissue engineering, and cellular repair. Biodegradable polymeric NPs, liposomes, and hybrid nanostructures are designed to cross barriers, release drugs in a controlled manner, and enhance biocompatibility. PEGylation improves stability and reduces immune responses in the ocular environment, while peptide functionalization enables specific cellular targeting and minimizes inflammatory reactions. Peptide-functionalized platforms, such as RGD-modified NPs and self-assembling hydrogels, provide receptor-mediated targeting and extracellular matrix (ECM) mimicry to support retinal regeneration for improved stem cell differentiation and neuroprotection. We discuss drug/gene delivery mechanisms, cellular interactions, and immune modulation, as well as neuroprotection, stem cell therapy, and diagnostic applications. Preclinical studies have demonstrated promising efficacy in animal models; however, concerns regarding scalability, long-term safety, and non-invasive delivery persist. Next-generation technologies, such as stimuli-responsive NPs, computationally designed peptides, and patient-specific delivery systems, are on the horizon to address unmet clinical needs. By marrying nanochemistry's precision with peptides' bioactivity, these technologies have the potential to transform retinal disease treatment, enabling the restoration of vision and an improvement in quality of life for millions of people worldwide.

Degradation of Silk fibroin (SF) provides essential nutrients such as amino acids and peptides for cell proliferation, but cannot provide a slow and sustained O release for osteoblastogenesis, which limits the bone repair effects. For the fabrication of highly personalized and complex bone repair scaffolds, 3D printing technology acts as a tailored tool for the clinical challenge. Therefore, we designed a SilMA/XLG/CaO scaffold system for O supply, which consists of modified photo-crosslinking SF (SilMA), lithium magnesium silicate (XLG) and CaO. The combination of modified SF (SilMA) and lithium magnesium silicate (XLG) improves the printability and topological controllability, promoting vascularization and osteogenesis differentiation. Besides, the multi-dimensional modification of CaO enhances the mechanical properties of the scaffolds as well as the adjustability of the O release, providing favorable conditions for osteoblastogenesis. Most importantly, the topology and oxygen release of the 3D printed scaffolds synergistically induced neovascularization and osteoblast differentiation with Mg generated by scaffold degradation. Mechanistically, SilMA/XLG/CaO upregulates of angiogenic factors VEGF, CD31, and key osteogenesis proteins RUNX2 and BMP-2, resulting in collagen production and calcium deposition. Overall, our study provides a new strategy for bioactive scaffold preparation that exhibits significant clinical potentials for complex bone defects.

Polylactic acid (PLA) is widely used as biomedical material due to its good biocompatibility and biodegradability. A PLA honeycomb-shaped porous scaffold as bone graft substitute was printed by 3D-printed. Coating and mineralization treatment was used in order to further improve the properties of the PLA scaffold. The materials were characterized by infrared spectroscopy (IR) and Xray diffraction (XRD). The structure of the scaffolds was observed by electric scanning microscope (SEM). The hydrophilicity of the material was observed by contact angle tester. Compression tests were carried out to evaluate the strength of the scaffolds. The biocompatibility of the scaffolds was evaluated by MTT. The behaviors and responses of preosteoblast cells on the scaffolds were studied as well. The porosity of the 3D-printed PLA scaffold was 82.6%. The compressive strength and compressive modulus value of the PLA scaffolds was 8.22 ± 0.16 MPa and 244.3 ± 5.7 MPa, respectively. Coating and mineralization treatment could improved the hydrophilicity, strength and the biocompatibility of the scaffold. The 3D-printed PLA porous scaffold has a good prospect for application as artificial scaffold for bone tissue engineering.

Processed perinatal tissue allografts have emerged as adjunctive treatment options for chronic wounds. Different processing techniques used to manufacture perinatal tissue allografts can substantially alter their material and biochemical properties. Thus, the aim of this study was to perform multi-scale characterizations of a dual-layer amnion and full-thickness amnion/chorion allograft. Histological and biochemical techniques were used to evaluate the extracellular matrix (ECM) microarchitecture and composition of a dual-layer amnion and a full-thickness amnion/chorion allograft. Established assays were performed to quantify graft sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG), collagen, growth factor, and cytokine content. cellular responses, including proliferation, metabolic activity, and migration of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) was used to assess bioactivity of graft extracts. Histological analysis of dual-layer amnion and full-thickness amnion/chorion grafts demonstrated preservation of native ECM layers containing intact cell nuclei, GAGs, collagen, and elastin. sGAG and collagen content of the grafts were comparable to native tissue values reported in literature. Angiogenic, regenerative, matrix remodeling, immunomodulatory, and neurotrophic growth factors were found in dual-layer amnion and full-thickness amnion/chorion grafts. Both grafts induced a significant increase in metabolic activity of HDFs compared to negative controls. Dual-layer amnion and full-thickness amnion/chorion wound care allografts are comprised of an intact microarchitecture containing a variety of ECM components that can provide bioactive signals to HDFs.

In this study, porous PLA structures were prepared using the porogen leaching technique, specifically with sodium chloride (NaCl) of particle sizes 200-300 µm and 400-500 µm, and polyethylene glycol (PEG) with molecular weights of 3,000, 6,000, or 10,000 g/mol. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) characterization of the cross-sections revealed that larger NaCl particle sizes contributed to an increased degree of pore connectivity, while PEG with the lowest molecular weight accelerated the leaching process. As the concentration of NaCl in the polymeric matrix increased, its removal became more effective, as indicated by lower residual percentages during thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Additionally, lower residual percentages were recorded for the systems containing PEG prior to leaching. Although the average diameter of the resulting pores decreased in systems that used PEG, the porous structure achieved was more uniform, with both micro- and macro-porosity observed on the surfaces of the scaffold cross-sections. This variation in pore geometry is desirable and can be tailored for specific applications in scaffold construction for tissue engineering. Water exposure altered the inherent properties of PLA, affecting its suitability for short-term, soft-tissue compatible scaffolds. Solution viscometry revealed a molecular weight drop to contribute to accelerated biodegradation. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) showed a decrease in the glass transition temperature (T), and in cold crystallization temperature (T). In addition, the thermal degradation resistance of PLA decreased, as determined by TGA experiments. The aforementioned changes were significantly amplified in PLA specimens subjected to dual leaching of both PEG and NaCl.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), a global health issue, affects approximately 10% of the population. However, limited treatment options, such as dialysis or transplantation, have significant drawbacks. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the potential of a collagen sheet derived from human perirenal adipose tissue for kidney regeneration. Collagen sheets were derived from discarded perirenal adipose tissues and implanted into partially nephrectomized mice. The right kidneys were completely removed, and 2 mm of the upper and lower poles of the left kidneys were resected. A collagen sheet measuring 1 × 1 × 3 mm was implanted in the mid-pole of the left kidney following partial resection of renal parenchyme. Renal function, inflammation, and tissue regeneration were evaluated using serum analysis, PCR, histological staining, and immunohistochemistry to assess structural and functional improvements. The collagen sheet reduced pro-inflammatory markers, minimized fibrosis, and restored renal function indicators such as BUN and cystatin C, though creatinine levels remained unchanged. Regenerative markers, including PAX2 and Wt1, were significantly elevated, indicating enhanced tissue repair and structural recovery. The perirenal adipose tissue-derived collagen sheet demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects and promoted renal tissue regeneration. These findings suggest its potential as a biomaterial for renal injury management. However, further research is needed to evaluate long-term efficacy, optimize application methods, and ensure clinical safety.

Effective treatment of skin wounds is essential due to the skin's protective, regulatory, and aesthetic functions. Post-injury infections can significantly impair healing, highlighting the need for advanced biomaterials that combine antimicrobial activity with regenerative potential. In this study, we developed a multifunctional chitosan/gelatin/polyvinyl alcohol (CS/GEL/PVA) nanocomposite containing magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles loaded with quercetin (MgO@QC), aimed at enhancing wound healing and promoting keratinocyte growth factor 1 (KGF1) expression. MgO nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized using DLS, zeta potential, FTIR, XRD, FESEM, and TEM. Quercetin was successfully loaded onto the MgO nanoparticles with a high loading efficiency of 99%, as confirmed by spectroscopic analyses. The resulting nanocomposite demonstrated favorable physicochemical properties, including uniform morphology, excellent swelling behavior (∼79%), optical clarity, and robust structural integrity. Hemolysis assays revealed excellent hemocompatibility, while in vitro cytotoxicity tests confirmed biocompatibility up to 500 µg/mL. Cell proliferation and migration assays (MTT and scratch test) showed dose-dependent enhancement of fibroblast activity, particularly at 1 mg/mL. The nanocomposite also significantly upregulated KGF1 gene expression, suggesting its role in stimulating epithelial regeneration. In vivo studies using a murine excisional wound model demonstrated accelerated wound closure and tissue regeneration in the MgO@QC-treated group, supported by histological evidence of angiogenesis, re-epithelialization, and reduced inflammation. The CS/GEL/PVA/MgO@QC nanocomposite offers a biocompatible and bioactive platform that significantly enhances wound healing. These findings suggest its strong potential for clinical application as an advanced wound dressing for acute and chronic skin injuries.

Membrane materials containing dense and porous layers are greatly needed for periodontal-guided tissue regeneration (GTR) surgery. Silk fibroin (SF) has been widely used in medical biomaterials. However, conventional methods make it difficult to prepare suitable SF membranes for periodontal GTR. Here, an integrated Janus SF membrane (JSFM)-a membrane with two distinct sides-with dense and porous layers was directly prepared by unidirectional nanopore dehydration (UND) and freeze-drying. The effects of UND duration on the JSFM were examined. In addition, the biocompatibility of the membranes was examined in vitro and in vivo. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the resulting membrane had a Janus structure when the UND was performed for less than 4.5 h. With extended UND duration, the Janus structure disappeared, and the swelling ratio and water uptake abilities of the membranes decreased significantly while the mechanical properties were enhanced. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy indicated that the crystalline structure of the porous layer gradually increased with increasing UND duration. The in vivo study indicated that the membrane could support the growth and proliferation of human periodontal ligament fibroblast cells (hPDLs), and the dense layer of the membrane effectively prevented the migration of hPDLs. The in vivo study performed in rats demonstrated that the membranes have good biocompatibility. Therefore, a new membrane type with a special Janus structure was developed. The membrane shows excellent biocompatibility and can intercept cells for exploitation in various biomedical applications, particularly in periodontal GTR.

Millions of people suffer from traumatic ligament ruptures every year. Tears of the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee are the most common ligament tear requiring surgical intervention. Without surgical intervention, this type of injury can be debilitating, painful, and athletic career-ending. Furthermore, damage to the ACL can lead to troublesome, chronic complications such as accelerated progression of osteoarthritis, even with modern surgical intervention. Most commonly, patients have their torn or ruptured ACL reconstructed with the use of a tendon graft, either autograft or allografts. Both graft material can result in prolonged and painful healing with limited capacity for total remodeling of the graft. It is hypothesized that these grafts can improve healing through the use of gold nanoparticles conjugated to the grafts. The proposed mechanism of enhanced ligamentization is through reduced excessive levels of inflammation. The conjugation process and modified physical properties of the grafts were examined, as well the cellular response to these alterations. The results demonstrated that the AuNP conjugated tendon grafts had a significant effect on cellular oxidation and inflammation levels. Additionally, the cells were shown to be biocompatible with AuNP modified grafts, as evidenced by metabolic and proliferation assays, however there was a notable decrease in these measures especially at the higher AuNPs concentration. It appeared that a AuNP concentration of less than 50 g/g AuNP to tissue will elicit a positive biocompatibility response while still reducing inflammatory response.

Hemostasis is critical for ensuring surgical success over the past few decades. Various topical hemostatic agents have been developed to promote hemostasis in various surgeries, particularly in cases where traditional surgical techniques are not applicable. However, the hemostatic performance of most agents is often limited by their reliance on a single component. Therefore, it is necessary to develop composite hemostatic agents that integrate multiple materials from diverse sources to enhance hemostatic efficacy. In addition, existing hemostatic agents in solid forms are not often effective in scenarios involving irregularly shaped or deep wounds, as well as endoscopic surgical procedures. In this study, a gelatin-chitosan-thrombin (GCT) composite hemostatic hydrogel was prepared using cross-linking method. The agent's properties, including morphology, water absorption ratio, swelling ratio, and cytotoxicity were systematically evaluated. A rabbit spinal laminectomy model and a rat live injury model were used to evaluate the hemostatic efficacy of GCT agent. Histological assessment was performed to investigate its biocompatibility. The three-dimensional porous structure of the GCT agent endows it with a high absorption capacity and a low swelling ratio. The GCT agent demonstrates superior hemostatic performance in terms of blood loss and bleeding time compared to existing agents . In addition, the GCT agent exhibits excellent biodegradability and biocompatibility , and minimal hemolytic and cytotoxic effects . Therefore, the novel composite hemostatic hydrogel would be a strong candidate for surgical hemostasis especially when precise application is required.

This study explored the characteristics of a ropivacaine-loaded hydrogel designed for sustained local anesthesia, using a gelatin matrix crosslinked with different concentrations of NHS-PEG-NHS. The hydrogel was comprehensively characterized through electron microscopy, rheology, biocompatibility testing, drug release and degradation analysis, and neurotoxicity assessment. Results showed the hydrogel had excellent gelation properties, a porous 3D network structure with pore size decreasing as crosslinker concentration increased, and enhanced gel strength with higher crosslinker concentrations. As the crosslinker content increases, the network pore size decreases, enabling sustained drug release and thereby prolonging the duration of nerve block. It also demonstrated good biocompatibility, demonstrate the viability of experiments. In drug release studies, the hydrogel effectively controlled ropivacaine release, achieving a more linear profile and reducing initial burst release. This demonstrates the material's suitability for sustained-release delivery systems. Degradation studies indicated the hydrogel could persist locally for extended periods, which determine the drug's sustained release behavior within the body and consequently dictate the duration of nerve block. The neurotoxicity of local anesthetics exhibits a dose-dependent relationship. neurotoxicity experiments demonstrate that gel-loaded drugs significantly attenuate the neurotoxicity of ropivacaine, with the degree of toxicity reduction positively correlated with NHS-PEG-NHS content. This indicates that the sustained-release properties of hydrogel materials prevent the abrupt release of drugs. Sciatic nerve block was performed in mice using 0.144% w/v ropivacaine. The free-ropivacaine group exhibited a sensory block duration of 3.2 h and a motor block duration of 2.24 h. In contrast, the hydrogel formulation significantly prolonged analgesia, extending sensory blockade to approximately 13.66 h and motor blockade to 10.35 h, while inducing only minimal inflammatory responses at the injection site. The study concluded that the ropivacaine-loaded hydrogel, with its 3D crosslinked network structure, effectively modulated drug release kinetics, prolonged nerve blockade, and reduced neurotoxicity, offering a promising novel solution for local anesthetic formulation improvement.

In this study, we report the design and fabrication of a novel biomimetic composite scaffold (PSGO) and systematically assess its potential for bone tissue engineering. The PSGO scaffold was fabricated using three-dimensional (3D) printing technology with a base matrix composed of polyethylene glycol (PEG), sodium alginate (SA), and gelatin (GEL). Obacunone-loaded polycaprolactone (OA@PM) microspheres were embedded within the scaffold to enable sustained drug release, thereby creating a structure with precise architecture and functional gradients. Comprehensive characterization of the scaffold's surface morphology, rheological properties, and drug release behavior was performed. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the PSGO scaffold significantly promoted the proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), enhanced the expression of key osteogenic markers (RUNX-2 and OCN), and facilitated mineralized matrix formation. Furthermore, in vivo evaluation using a rat calvarial critical-size defect model-assessed via micro-computed tomography and histological analysis-confirmed its excellent osteogenic performance, with substantial new bone formation observed at both the defect margins and center. With its outstanding biocompatibility, osteoinductive capabilities, and controlled drug release properties, the PSGO scaffold offers a promising new approach for the clinical repair of large-scale bone defects.

The development of nanoparticle-based wound dressings marks a significant advancement in the management of chronic and non-healing wounds. Silver-based dressings have been used in wound management due to their strong antimicrobial properties. However, their clinical effectiveness depends on formulation, concentration, and duration of use. Recently, copper oxide dressings (CODs) have emerged as a novel alternative, offering both antimicrobial and regenerative benefits. We reviewed clinical studies, meta-analyses, and cost-effectiveness analyses on silver nanoparticle (AgNP), ionic silver, nanocrystalline silver, and copper oxide dressings across various wound types, including diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, pressure ulcers, surgical wounds, and burns. Emphasis was placed on dressing formulations, silver or copper concentrations, clinical efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Traditional silver formulations, such as silver sulfadiazine (1%) and silver nitrate (0.5%), demonstrate antimicrobial activity but are limited by cytotoxicity and lack of long-term healing benefits. Nanocrystalline silver and ionic silver hydrofiber dressings provide sustained release, proving most effective in infection-prone and early inflammatory phases. Enhanced formulations (Aquacel® Ag + Extra™) show promise in treating biofilm-related wounds but need more robust data. By contrast, CODs have demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy alongside stimulation of angiogenesis, fibroblast proliferation, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Early clinical evidence suggests that CODs may accelerate healing in refractory wounds and offer cost advantages over negative pressure therapy, though large-scale trials remain limited. Silver dressings, particularly nanocrystalline and ionic hydrofiber formulations, remain clinically useful for infection control and short-term wound management, while older silver salts are less favorable due to toxicity and limited efficacy. CODs represent a biologically attractive alternative with dual antimicrobial and regenerative properties. Nonetheless, the current body of evidence is insufficient to declare a paradigm shift in wound healing, and CODs should presently be regarded as promising adjuncts pending validation in high-quality randomized trials.

Tissue-engineered arteries using natural scaffolds could overcome the drawbacks of autografts or artificial conduits used in the repair of many congenital cardiac defects and coronary artery bypass grafts. In this study, we present a novel approach based on the use of decellularized xenogeneic matrix scaffolds preconditioned with human peripheral blood stem cells for future cardiovascular therapy. Cellular components of porcine carotid arteries (n = 40) were removed with physical, chemical and enzymatic means. The decellularized arteries were preconditioned by perfusion with human peripheral blood solution for 10 days. The decellularized and preconditioned grafts were characterized for their histological and functional integrity. To demonstrate proof-of-concept, we used a sub-acute (96 h) rabbit model where either only decellularized porcine arteries or preconditioned with autologous rabbit blood solution were implanted in the abdominal aorta of the animals. The rabbits were examined by Doppler ultrasound and histology. Histology and molecular analysis showed absence of cells and preservation of extracellular cell matrix (ECM) proteins in decellularized porcine arteries. Preconditioning of arteries with human blood showed a thin lining of intima with blood and cells. In the rabbit implant model, although blood flow was detected in all rabbits at 24 h, the animals implanted with only decellularized arteries showed lumen filled with thrombus. However, in preconditioned arteries, thrombosis was not seen at either 24 or 96 h. Taken together, these results suggest that these decellularization and preconditioning protocols using autologous blood may be adaptable for successful tissue-engineering of xeno-arteries for human application. However, further research to improve preconditioning efficiency and long-term animal studies are needed.

PEEK is a promising biomaterial for orthopedic and dental applications due to its excellent mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and bone-like elastic modulus. However, its bioinert surface limits osseointegration and predisposes it to wear debris-induced inflammation, hindering its use in load-bearing implants. To address these challenges, this study proposes a composite modification strategy combining gradient sulfonation with polydopamine (PDA) coating to enhance the bioactivity, tribological performance, and interfacial stability of PEEK. Surface characterization revealed that sulfonation introduced porous structures and hydrophilic sulfonic acid groups, while PDA further improved wettability and enabled chelation-mediated hydroxyapatite (HA) mineralization. Tribological tests demonstrated that optimal sulfonation reduced the friction coefficient and wear width, whereas excessive sulfonation (60 min) degraded mechanical properties due to adhesive wear. In vitro mineralization confirmed that PDA-coated samples exhibited robust HA deposition, attributed to catechol/amino group-mediated nucleation. Additionally, HSO/PDA synergistically enhanced antibacterial efficacy by chemically disrupting bacterial membranes. A polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) graft layer was constructed on the surface of PEEK substrate, and its interfacial bonding performance under frictional shear load was evaluated. These results demonstrate that the HSO/PDA composite modification optimizes PEEK's multifunctional performance, offering a viable route for developing advanced biomimetic joint implants with improved osseointegration, wear resistance, and long-term stability.

Three-dimensional (3D)-printed poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) scaffolds lack sufficient bioactivity for optimal bone tissue engineering applications. This shortcoming can be overcome by coating PCL scaffolds with collagen and hydroxyapatite (PCL/col-HA) or by applying a collagen coating to PCL-HA composite scaffolds (PCL-HA/col). Here we aimed to test which type of scaffold is more effective in stimulating osteogenic activity. Moreover, the scaffolds' physicomechanical properties were characterized. 3D-printed PCL/col-HA containing 10, 20, or 30% HA particles, and 3D-printed PCL-HA/col containing 10, 20, or 30% HA particles with collagen coating were fabricated. MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts were cultured on the scaffolds for 14 days. The physicomechanical properties of the scaffolds and pre-osteoblast functionality were evaluated through experiments and finite element (FE) modeling. We found that coating of PCL scaffolds with collagen and HA or coating of PCL-HA composite scaffolds with collagen changed the geometry and topography of the scaffold surfaces. Furthermore, PCL/col-HA and PCL-HA/col showed higher surface roughness and elastic modulus, but lower water contact angle, than PCL scaffolds. FE-modeling showed that all scaffolds tolerated up to 2% compressive strain, which was lower than their yield stress. 3D-printed PCL/col-HA and PCL-HA/col scaffolds promoted pre-osteoblast proliferation and osteogenic activity compared to unmodified PCL scaffolds. PCL-HA/col scaffolds increased pre-osteoblast proliferation and collagen deposition, whereas PCL/col-HA scaffolds increased alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium deposition. Osteogenic activity of pre-osteoblasts was more enhanced on 3D-printed PCL/col-HA scaffolds than on PCL-HA/col scaffolds, particularly in the short-term, which seems promising for bone tissue engineering.

The rational design of biofunctional nanocomposites through structural and interfacial engineering is central to advancing next-generation biomaterials. In this study, we developed a multifunctional silver-based nanocomposite with dual-level modification; albumin (Alb) is used as a biopolymeric stabilizer, while extract, rich in alpha-terpinyl acetate (aTA), served as a surface-functionalizing agent. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) confirmed aTA as the predominant phytoconstituent (97.7% match). Dynamic light scattering revealed progressive size increases from 67.17 nm (AgNPs) to 145.73 nm (Alb-AgNPs) and 365.7 nm (Alb-AgNPs-aTA), indicating successful stepwise functionalization. Structural transformations were supported by UV-Vis spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD), which revealed changes in surface plasmon resonance and crystalline phases. Thermal analysis (DSC and TGA) demonstrated improved thermal stability, with a pronounced DTG peak at 333.2°C. Molecular dynamics simulations suggested strong Alb-aTA interactions that enhance nanocomposite stability. assays on HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells showed improved biocompatibility and anticancer efficacy for Alb-AgNPs-aTA (IC = 24 µg/mL). This study presents a thermally stable, structurally engineered nanocomposite with demonstrated bioactivity and potential applicability in drug delivery and cancer therapy, contributing to the broader understanding of how nanoscale modifications influence biological performance.

Nanotechnology is transforming the area of corneal tissue engineering by improving scaffold design and enabling sophisticated therapeutic strategies. Nanomaterials are being used to improve the corneal scaffolds' mechanical strength, permeability, and transparency, as well as to enable the therapeutic agents' targeted delivery by nanocarriers. These improvements deal with important problems in corneal repair, like inflammation, infections, and neovascularization. While corneal transplantation remains a standard treatment, the risk of rejection and availability of donor tissue are the main limitations. Recent improvements in electrospinning have made it possible to make nanofibers that look like the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). These fibers have a large surface area and high porosity, which help cells grow, stick to each other, and change into different types of cells. Both synthetic and natural polymers have been successfully employed to fabricate biocompatible and biodegradable nanofibers, indicating their potential for the treatment of various corneal disorders. Electrospun nanofibers are very useful for corneal tissue engineering because they are easy to use, can be used in surgery, and are structurally similar to the cornea. Adding nanofibers and nanoparticles to corneal tissue engineering improves the scaffold and allows for targeted therapies, which means that there are more advanced ways to reconstruct and rehabilitate the cornea. This study investigates the application of naturally derived and synthetic nanoparticles in drug delivery systems and the development of composite nanoparticles, highlighting their potential to improve corneal tissue engineering techniques.

Iron oxide nanoparticles (FeONPs) have promising biomedical applications but are limited by potential cytotoxic and genotoxic risks. This study addresses these concerns by synthesizing mycosynthesized FeONPs (M.FeONPs) having angiogenic properties using , a mangrove-derived fungus, to enhance biocompatibility and reduce toxicity. The results showed that chemically synthesized FeONPs induced oxidative stress, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis, whereas M.FeONPs exhibited lower toxicity and better compatibility in CHO-K1 cells. In vitro, genotoxicity assessments further revealed that FeONPs caused significant chromosomal aberrations and DNA damage, while M.FeONPs had reduced genotoxic effects. In vivo studies using Swiss albino mice confirmed that M.FeONPs induced minimal systemic toxicity, maintaining stable hematological and biochemical profiles, unlike FeONPs, which triggered immune stress and mild organ inflammation. In vivo, genotoxicity studies also demonstrated that M.FeONPs caused lesser clastogenic, mitotic, aneugenic, and teratogenic effects than chemically synthesized FeONPs. Hence, these findings confirm the potential of M.FeONPs for biomedical applications, particularly in reproductive health and therapeutics applications.

In this study, we explored the design of polymeric nanocapsules as vehicles for controlled release of iron. Amphiphilic block copolymers (ABCs) composed of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL) segments were synthesized via ring-opening polymerization (ROP), using PEG and methoxy-PEG (mPEG) with varying molecular weights as macroinitiators. Structural and molecular characterizations using infrared spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance and gel permeation chromatography confirmed successful copolymerization and narrow dispersity indices (Ð <1.5). Iron-loaded nanocapsules were formulated using the double emulsion solvent evaporation (DESE) technique with synthesized PEG-b-PCL copolymers as polymeric precursors. The impact of the copolymer composition on the particle size, morphology, and encapsulation efficiency (EE%) was evaluated. Spherical nanocapsules with diameters below 500 nm were obtained, and a positive correlation was observed between copolymer molecular weight and EE%, with the highest value (74.4%) achieved for the Fe@COP5-96 formulation. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis revealed that iron incorporation altered the thermal behavior of the copolymers, resulting in a shift of the melting peaks toward lower temperatures and a decrease in melting enthalpy, consistent with reduced crystallinity arising from ion-polymer interactions. The iron release kinetics exhibited a sustained release behavior. These results demonstrate the potential of PEG-b-PCL nanocapsules as effective carriers for ionic species with promising applications in nutrient delivery and medical therapies.