RESUMEN
Aerogels are unique solid materials that consist mainly of air and have an extremely low density, large open pores, and a large internal surface area [...].
RESUMEN
Diaper rash, mainly occurring as erythema and itching in the diaper area, causes considerable distress to infants and toddlers. Increasing evidence suggests that an unequal distribution of microorganisms on the skin contributes to the development of diaper dermatitis. Probiotic bacteria, like Staphylococcus epidermidis, are crucial for maintaining a healthy balance in the skin's microbiome, among others, through their fermentative metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids. Using a defined prebiotic as a carbon source (e.g., as part of the diaper formulation) can selectively trigger the fermentation of probiotic bacteria. A proper material choice can reduce diaper rash incidence by diminishing the skin exposure to wetness and faeces. Using 3D printing, we fabricated carbon-rich materials for the top sheet layer of baby diapers that enhance the probiotic activity of S. epidermidis. The developed materials' printability, chemical composition, swelling ability, and degradation rate were analysed. In addition, microbiological tests evaluated their potential as a source of in situ short-chain fatty acid production. Finally, biocompatibility testing with skin cells evaluated their safety for potential use as part of diapers. The results demonstrate a cost-effective approach for producing novel materials that can tailor the ecological balance of the skin microflora and help treat diaper rash.
Asunto(s)
Dermatitis del Pañal , Prebióticos , Impresión Tridimensional , Dermatitis del Pañal/tratamiento farmacológico , Humanos , Polisacáridos/química , Polisacáridos/farmacología , Staphylococcus epidermidis/efectos de los fármacos , Lactante , Piel/efectos de los fármacos , Piel/microbiología , Piel/patología , ProbióticosRESUMEN
Examining the critical role of anticoagulants in medical practice, particularly their central function in preventing abnormal blood clotting, is of the utmost importance. However, the study of interactions between blood proteins and alternative anticoagulant nano-surfaces is still understood poorly. In this study, novel approach involving direct functionalisation of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MNPs) as carriers with sulphated dextran (s-dext) is presented, with the aim of evaluating the potential of magnetically-responsive MNPs@s-dext as anticoagulants. The physicochemical characterisation of the synthesised MNPs@s-dext includes crystal structure analysis, morphology study, surface and electrokinetic properties, thermogravimetric analysis and magnetic properties` evaluation, which confirms the successful preparation of the nanocomposite with sulfonate groups. The anticoagulant potential of MNPs@s-dext was investigated using a standardised activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) test and a modified APTT test with a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) which confirmed the anticoagulant effect. Time-resolved solid-liquid interactions between the MNPs@s-dext and model blood proteins bovine serum albumin and fibrinogen were also investigated, to gain insight into their hemocompatibility, and revealed protein-repellence of MNPs@s-dext against blood proteins. The study also addressed comprehensive cytotoxicity studies of prepared nanocomposites, and provided valuable insights into potential applicability of MNPs@s-dext as a promising magnetic anticoagulant in biomedical contexts.
Asunto(s)
Anticoagulantes , Sulfato de Dextran , Nanocompuestos , Anticoagulantes/farmacología , Anticoagulantes/química , Humanos , Nanocompuestos/química , Nanocompuestos/toxicidad , Sulfato de Dextran/química , Albúmina Sérica Bovina/química , Coagulación Sanguínea/efectos de los fármacos , Nanopartículas Magnéticas de Óxido de Hierro/química , Nanopartículas Magnéticas de Óxido de Hierro/toxicidad , Animales , Compuestos Férricos/química , Compuestos Férricos/farmacología , Fibrinógeno/química , Supervivencia Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Tiempo de Tromboplastina Parcial , Nanopartículas de Magnetita/química , Nanopartículas de Magnetita/toxicidadRESUMEN
Skin in vitro models offer much promise for research, testing drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices, reducing animal testing and extensive clinical trials. There are several in vitro approaches to mimicking human skin behavior, ranging from simple cell monolayer to complex organotypic and bioengineered 3-dimensional models. Some have been approved for preclinical studies in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. However, development of physiologically reliable in vitro human skin models remains in its infancy. This review reports on advances in in vitro complex skin models to study skin homeostasis, aging, and skin disease.