The potential role of Hypericum perforatum in wound healing: A literature review on the phytochemicals, pharmacological approaches, and mechanistic perspectives.

St. John's Wort, commonly known as Hypericum perforatum L., is a flowering plant in the Clusiaceae family that traditionally been employed for treating anxiety, depression, wounds, burns, sunburn, irritation, and stomach ailments. This review provides a synopsis of H. perforatum L. phytoconstituents and their biological effects, highlighting its beneficial therapeutic properties for dermatological indications, as well as its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-angiogenic activity in various applications including wound healing and skin conditions such as eczema, sun burn and minor burns also spastic paralysis, stiff neck and mood disorders as anti-depressant and nerve pains such as neuralgia. The data were collected from several databases as Web of Science PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus and Google Scholar using the terms: "H. perforatum L.", "H. perforatum L. /phytochemistry," and "H. perforatum extracts/wound healing" collected from 1994 to 2023. The findings suggest H. perforatum L. acts through various mechanisms and plays a role in each phase of the wound healing process, including re-epithelialization, angiogenesis, wound contraction, and connective tissue regeneration. H. perforatum L. enhances collagen deposition, decreases inflammation, inhibits fibroblast migration, and promotes epithelialization by increasing the number of fibroblasts with polygonal shape and the number of collagen fibers within fibroblasts. H. Perforatum L. extracts modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation were found to accelerate the wound healing process via inhibition of inflammatory mediators' production like interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, cyclooxygenase-2 gene expression, and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Thus, H. perforatum L. represents a potential remedy for a wide range of dermatological problems, owing to its constituents with beneficial therapeutic properties. H. perforatum L. could be utilized in the development of novel wound healing therapies.

Co-delivery of doxorubicin/sorafenib by DNA-decorated green ZIF-67-based nanocarriers for chemotherapy and hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.

Zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 (ZIF-67) has been decorated with natural biomaterials and DNA to develop a promising strategy and suitable and safe co-delivery platform for doxorubicin and sorafenib (DOX-SOR). FT-IR, XRD, FESEM, and TEM were used to characterize the modified MOFs. Combined Ginkgo biloba leaf extract and E. coli DNA were used as green decorations, and as environmentally-friendly methods to be developed, and DOX and SOR were attached to the porosity and on the surface of the MOFs. TEM and FESEM images demonstrated that the green MOFs were successfully synthesized for biomedical applications and showed their cubic structure. As a result of the nanocarrier-drug interactions, 59.7% and 60.2% of the drug payload were achieved with DOX and SOR, respectively. HEK-293, HT-29, and MCF-7 cells displayed excellent viability by decoration with DNA and Ginkgo biloba leaf extract at low and high concentrations (0.1 and 50 µg/mL), suggesting they could be used in biomedical applications. MTT assays demonstrated that the nanocarriers are highly biocompatible with normal cells and possess anticancer properties when applied to HT-29 and MCF-7 cells. As a result of Ginkgo biloba leaf extract and DNA modification, DOX-SOR release was prolonged and pH-sensitive (highest release at pHs 4.5 and 5.5). The internalization and delivery of the drug were also studied using a 2d fluorescence microscope, demonstrating that the drug was effectively internalized. Cell images showed NPs internalizing in MCF-7 cells, proving their efficacy as drug delivery systems.

Cold atmospheric plasma modification and electrical conductivity induction in gelatin/polyvinylidene fluoride nanofibers for neural tissue engineering.

BACKGROUND: This research follows some investigations through neural tissue engineering, including fabrication, surface treatment, and evaluation of novel self-stimuli conductive biocompatible and degradable nanocomposite scaffolds. METHODS: Gelatin as a biobased material and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) as a mechanical, electrical, and piezoelectric improvement agent were co-electrospun. In addition, polyaniline/graphene (PAG) nanoparticles were synthesized and added to gelatin solutions in different percentages to induce electrical conductivity. After obtaining optimum PAG percentage, cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) treatment was applied over the best samples by different plasma variable parameters. Finally, the biocompatibility of the scaffolds was analyzed and approved by in vitro tests using two different PC12 and C6 cell lines. In the present study the morphology, FTIR, dynamic light scattering, mechanical properties, wettability, contact angle tests, differential scanning calorimetric, rate of degradation, conductivity, biocompatibility, gene expression, DAPI staining, and cell proliferation were investigated. RESULTS: The PAG percentage optimization results revealed fiber diameter reduction, conductivity enhancement, young's modulus improvement, hydrophilicity devaluation, water uptake decrement, and degradability reduction in electrospun nanofibers by increasing the PAG concentration. Furthermore, ATR-FTIR, FE-SEM, AFM, and contact angle tests revealed that helium CAP treatment improves scaffold characterizations for 90 s in duration time. Furthermore, the results of the MTT assay, FE-SEM, DAPI staining, and RT-PCR revealed that samples containing 2.5% w/w of PAG are the most biocompatible, and CAP treatment increases cell proliferation and improves neural gene expression in the differentiation medium. CONCLUSIONS: According to the results, the samples with the 2.5% w/w of PAG could provide a suitable matrix for neural tissue engineering in terms of physicochemical and biological.

Folate-Targeted Curcumin-Loaded Niosomes for Site-Specific Delivery in Breast Cancer Treatment: In Silico and In Vitro Study.

As the most common cancer in women, efforts have been made to develop novel nanomedicine-based therapeutics for breast cancer. In the present study, the in silico curcumin (Cur) properties were investigated, and we found some important drawbacks of Cur. To enhance cancer therapeutics of Cur, three different nonionic surfactants (span 20, 60, and 80) were used to prepare various Cur-loaded niosomes (Nio-Cur). Then, fabricated Nio-Cur were decorated with folic acid (FA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) for breast cancer suppression. For PEG-FA@Nio-Cur, the gene expression levels of Bax and p53 were higher compared to free drug and Nio-Cur. With PEG-FA-decorated Nio-Cur, levels of Bcl2 were lower than the free drug and Nio-Cur. When MCF7 and 4T1 cell uptake tests of PEG-FA@Nio-Cur and Nio-Cur were investigated, the results showed that the PEG-FA-modified niosomes exhibited the most preponderant endocytosis. In vitro experiments demonstrate that PEG-FA@Nio-Cur is a promising strategy for the delivery of Cur in breast cancer therapy. Breast cancer cells absorbed the prepared nanoformulations and exhibited sustained drug release characteristics.

Advancements in tissue engineering for cardiovascular health: a biomedical engineering perspective.

Myocardial infarction (MI) stands as a prominent contributor to global cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality rates. Acute MI (AMI) can result in the loss of a large number of cardiomyocytes (CMs), which the adult heart struggles to replenish due to its limited regenerative capacity. Consequently, this deficit in CMs often precipitates severe complications such as heart failure (HF), with whole heart transplantation remaining the sole definitive treatment option, albeit constrained by inherent limitations. In response to these challenges, the integration of bio-functional materials within cardiac tissue engineering has emerged as a groundbreaking approach with significant potential for cardiac tissue replacement. Bioengineering strategies entail fortifying or substituting biological tissues through the orchestrated interplay of cells, engineering methodologies, and innovative materials. Biomaterial scaffolds, crucial in this paradigm, provide the essential microenvironment conducive to the assembly of functional cardiac tissue by encapsulating contracting cells. Indeed, the field of cardiac tissue engineering has witnessed remarkable strides, largely owing to the application of biomaterial scaffolds. However, inherent complexities persist, necessitating further exploration and innovation. This review delves into the pivotal role of biomaterial scaffolds in cardiac tissue engineering, shedding light on their utilization, challenges encountered, and promising avenues for future advancement. By critically examining the current landscape, we aim to catalyze progress toward more effective solutions for cardiac tissue regeneration and ultimately, improved outcomes for patients grappling with cardiovascular ailments.

Enhanced antibacterial activity of porous chitosan-based hydrogels crosslinked with gelatin and metal ions.

Addressing the increasing drug resistance in pathogenic microbes, a significant threat to public health, calls for the development of innovative antibacterial agents with versatile capabilities. To enhance the antimicrobial activity of non-toxic biomaterials in this regard, this study focuses on novel, cost-effective chitosan (CS)-based hydrogels, crosslinked using gelatin (GEL), formaldehyde, and metallic salts (Ag+, Cu2+, and Zn2+). These hydrogels are formed by mixing CS and GEL with formaldehyde, creating iminium ion crosslinks with metallic salts without hazardous crosslinkers. Characterization techniques like FTIR, XRD, FESEM, EDX, and rheological tests were employed. FTIR analysis showed metal ions binding to amino and hydroxyl groups on CS, enhancing hydrogelation. FESEM revealed that freeze-dried hydrogels possess a crosslinked, porous structure influenced by various metal ions. Antibacterial testing against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria demonstrated significant bacterial growth inhibition. CS-based hydrogels containing metal ions showed reduced MIC and MBC values against Staphylococcus aureus (0.5, 8, 16 µg/mL) and Escherichia coli (1, 16, 8 µg/mL) for CS-g-GEL-Ag+, CS-g-GEL-Cu2+, and CS-g-GEL-Zn2+. MTT assay results confirmed high biocompatibility (84.27%, 85.24%, 84.96% viability at 10 µg/mL) for CS-based hydrogels towards HFF-1 cells over 48 h. Therefore, due to their non-toxic nature, these CS hydrogels are promising for antibacterial applications.

Advances and Challenges of Sensing in Water Using CRISPR-Cas Technology.

The groundbreaking gene-editing mechanism, CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats), paired with the protein Cas9, has significantly advanced the realms of biology, medicine, and agriculture. Through its precision in modifying genetic sequences, CRISPR holds the potential to alter the trajectory of genetic disorders and accelerate advancements in agriculture. While its therapeutic potential is profound, the technology also invites ethical debates centered on responsible use and equity in access. Parallelly, in the environmental monitoring sphere and sensing in water, especially biosensors have been instrumental in evaluating natural water sources' quality. These biosensors, integrating biological components with detection techniques, have the potential to revolutionize healthcare by providing rapid and minimally invasive diagnostic methods. However, the design and application of these sensors bring forth challenges, especially in ensuring sensitivity, selectivity, and ethical data handling. This article delves into the prospective use of CRISPR-Cas technology for sensing in water, exploring its capabilities in detecting diverse biomarkers, hazardous substances, and varied reactions in water and wastewater systems.

Biomedical applications of cerium vanadate nanoparticles: a review.

Cerium vanadate nanoparticles (CeVO4 NPs), which are members of the rare earth orthovanadate nanomaterial family, have generated considerable interest due to their diverse properties and prospective biomedical applications. The current study, which provides a comprehensive overview of the synthesis and characterization techniques for CeVO4 NPs, emphasizes the sonochemical method as an efficient and straightforward technique for producing CeVO4 NPs with tunable size and shape. This paper investigates the toxicity and biocompatibility of CeVO4 NPs, as well as their antioxidant and catalytic properties, which allow them to modify the redox state of biological systems and degrade organic pollutants. In addition, the most recent developments in the medicinal applications of CeVO4 NPs, such as cancer treatment, antibacterial activity, biosensing, and drug or gene delivery, are emphasized. In addition, the disadvantages of CeVO4 NPs, such as stability, aggregation, biodistribution, and biodegradation, are outlined, and several potential solutions are suggested. The research concludes with data and recommendations for developing and enhancing CeVO4 NPs in the biomedical industry.

Enhanced methylene blue adsorption using single-walled carbon nanotubes/chitosan-graft-gelatin nanocomposite hydrogels.

In the present study, single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) incorporating chitosan-graft-gelatin (CS-g-GEL/SWCNTs) hydrogels were fabricated with multiple advantages, including cost-effectiveness, high efficiency, biodegradability, and ease of separation for methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solution. To verify the successful formulation of the prepared hydrogels, various characterization methods such as NMR, FTIR, XRD, FE-SEM, TGA, BET, and EDX were employed. The removal efficiency of CS-g-GEL/SWCNTs nanocomposite hydrogel increased significantly to 98.87% when the SWCNTs percentage was increased to 20%. The highest adsorption was observed for pH = 9, an adsorbent dose = 1.5 g L-1, a temperature = 25 °C, a contact time = 60 min, and a contaminant concentration = 20 mg L-1. Based on the thermodynamic results, spontaneous adsorption occurred from a negative Gibbs free energy (ΔG°). In addition, the thermodynamic analysis of the adsorption process revealed an average enthalpy of - 21.869 kJ mol-1 for the adsorption process at a temperature range of 25-45 °C, which indicates its spontaneous and exothermic behavior. The Langmuir isotherm model was successfully used to describe the equilibrium behavior of adsorption. The pseudo-first-order model better described adsorption kinetics compared to the pseudo-second-order, intra-particle, and Elovich models. CS-g-GEL/SWCNTs hydrogels have improved reusability for five consecutive cycles, suggesting that they may be effective for removing anionic dyes from aquatic environments.

Nanomaterials-Based Targeting of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Cancer: A Cutting-Edge Review of Current Trends.

This review article spotlights the burgeoning potential of using nanotherapeutic strategies to target long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cancer cells. This updated discourse underlines the prominent role of lncRNAs in instigating cancer, facilitating its progression, and metastasis, validating lncRNAs' potential for being effective diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The manuscript offers an in-depth examination of different strategies presently employed to modulate lncRNA expression and function for therapeutic purposes. Among these strategies, Antisense Oligonucleotides (ASOs), RNA interference (RNAi) technologies, and the innovative clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based gene editing tools garner noteworthy mention. A significant section of the review is dedicated to nanocarriers and their crucial role in drug delivery. These nanocarriers' efficiency in targeting lncRNAs in varied types of cancers is elaborated upon, validating the importance of targeted therapy. The manuscript culminates by reaffirming the promising prospects of targeting lncRNAs to enhance the accuracy of cancer diagnosis and improve treatment efficacy. Consequently, new paths are opened to more research and innovation in employing nanotherapeutic approaches against lncRNAs in cancer cells. Thus, this comprehensive manuscript serves as a valuable resource that underscores the vital role of lncRNAs and the various nano-strategies for targeting them in cancer treatment. Future research should also focus on unraveling the complex regulatory networks involving lncRNAs and identifying fundamental functional interactions to refine therapeutic strategies targeting lncRNAs in cancer.

Hydrogel Encapsulation Techniques and Its Clinical Applications in Drug Delivery and Regenerative Medicine: A Systematic Review.

Hydrogel encapsulation is a promising carrier for cell and drug delivery due to its ability to protect the encapsulated entities from harsh physiological conditions and enhance their therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability. However, there is not yet consensus on the optimal hydrogel type, encapsulation method, and clinical application. Therefore, a systematic review of hydrogel encapsulation techniques and their potential for clinical application is needed to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date overview. In this systematic review, we searched electronic databases for articles published between 2008 and 2023 that described the encapsulation of cells or drug molecules within hydrogels. Herein, we identified 9 relevant studies that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria of our study. Our analysis revealed that the physicochemical properties of the hydrogel, such as its porosity, swelling behavior, and degradation rate, play a critical role in the encapsulation of cells or drug molecules. Furthermore, the encapsulation method, including physical, chemical, or biological methods, can affect the encapsulated entities' stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy. Challenges of hydrogel encapsulation include poor control over the release of encapsulated entities, limited shelf life, and potential immune responses. Future directions of hydrogel encapsulation include the development of novel hydrogel and encapsulation methods and the integration of hydrogel encapsulation with other technologies, such as 3D printing and gene editing. In conclusion, this review is useful for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers who are interested in this field of drug delivery and regenerative medicine that can serve as a guide for the future development of novel technologies that can be applied into clinical practice.

Biotin-functionalized nanoparticles: an overview of recent trends in cancer detection.

Electrochemical bio-sensing is a potent and efficient method for converting various biological recognition events into voltage, current, and impedance electrical signals. Biochemical sensors are now a common part of medical applications, such as detecting blood glucose levels, detecting food pathogens, and detecting specific cancers. As an exciting feature, bio-affinity couples, such as proteins with aptamers, ligands, paired nucleotides, and antibodies with antigens, are commonly used as bio-sensitive elements in electrochemical biosensors. Biotin-avidin interactions have been utilized for various purposes in recent years, such as targeting drugs, diagnosing clinically, labeling immunologically, biotechnology, biomedical engineering, and separating or purifying biomolecular compounds. The interaction between biotin and avidin is widely regarded as one of the most robust and reliable noncovalent interactions due to its high bi-affinity and ability to remain selective and accurate under various reaction conditions and bio-molecular attachments. More recently, there have been numerous attempts to develop electrochemical sensors to sense circulating cancer cells and the measurement of intracellular levels of protein thiols, formaldehyde, vitamin-targeted polymers, huwentoxin-I, anti-human antibodies, and a variety of tumor markers (including alpha-fetoprotein, epidermal growth factor receptor, prostate-specific Ag, carcinoembryonic Ag, cancer antigen 125, cancer antigen 15-3, etc.). Still, the non-specific binding of biotin to endogenous biotin-binding proteins present in biological samples can result in false-positive signals and hinder the accurate detection of cancer biomarkers. This review summarizes various categories of biotin-functional nanoparticles designed to detect such biomarkers and highlights some challenges in using them as diagnostic tools.

Integration of MXene and Microfluidics: A Perspective.

The fusion of MXene-based materials with microfluidics not only presents a dynamic and promising avenue for innovation but also opens up new possibilities across various scientific and technological domains. This Perspective delves into the intricate synergy between MXenes and microfluidics, underscoring their collective potential in material science, sensing, energy storage, and biomedical research. This intersection of disciplines anticipates future advancements in MXene synthesis and functionalization as well as progress in advanced sensing technologies, energy storage solutions, environmental applications, and biomedical breakthroughs. Crucially, the manufacturing and commercialization of MXene-based microfluidic devices, coupled with interdisciplinary collaborations, stand as pivotal considerations. Envisioning a future where MXenes and microfluidics collaboratively shape our technological landscape, addressing intricate challenges and propelling innovation forward necessitates a thoughtful approach. This viewpoint provides a comprehensive assessment of the current state of the field while outlining future prospects for the integration of MXene-based entities and microfluidics.

Artificial intelligence ethics in precision oncology: balancing advancements in technology with patient privacy and autonomy.

Precision oncology is a rapidly evolving field that uses advanced technologies to deliver personalized cancer care based on a patient's unique genetic and clinical profile. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in precision oncology has shown great potential to improve diagnosis, treatment planning, and treatment outcomes. However, the integration of AI in precision oncology also raises important ethical considerations related to patient privacy, autonomy, and protection from bias. In this opinion paper, an overview is provided of previous studies that have explored the use of AI in precision oncology and the ethical considerations associated with this technology. The conclusions of these studies are compared, and the importance of approaching the use of AI in precision oncology with caution is emphasized. It is stressed that patient privacy, autonomy, and protection from bias should be made central to the development and use of AI in precision oncology. Clear guidelines and regulations must be established to ensure that AI is used ethically and for the benefit of patients. The use of AI in precision oncology has the potential to revolutionize cancer care, but it should be ensured that it striked a balance between advancements in technology and ethical considerations. In conclusion, the use of AI in precision oncology is a promising development that has the potential to improve cancer outcomes. However, ethical considerations related to patient privacy, autonomy, and protection from bias must be central to the development and use of AI in precision oncology.

Environmental implications of metal-organic frameworks and MXenes in biomedical applications: a perspective.

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and MXenes have demonstrated immense potential for biomedical applications, offering a plethora of advantages. MXenes, in particular, exhibit robust mechanical strength, hydrophilicity, large surface areas, significant light absorption potential, and tunable surface terminations, among other remarkable characteristics. Meanwhile, MOFs possess high porosity and large surface area, making them ideal for protecting active biomolecules and serving as carriers for drug delivery, hence their extensive study in the field of biomedicine. However, akin to other (nano)materials, concerns regarding their environmental implications persist. The number of studies investigating the toxicity and biocompatibility of MXenes and MOFs is growing, albeit further systematic research is needed to thoroughly understand their biosafety issues and biological effects prior to clinical trials. The synthesis of MXenes often involves the use of strong acids and high temperatures, which, if not properly managed, can have adverse effects on the environment. Efforts should be made to minimize the release of harmful byproducts and ensure proper waste management during the production process. In addition, it is crucial to assess the potential release of MXenes into the environment during their use in biomedical applications. For the biomedical applications of MOFs, several challenges exist. These include high fabrication costs, poor selectivity, low capacity, the quest for stable and water-resistant MOFs, as well as difficulties in recycling/regeneration and maintaining chemical/thermal/mechanical stability. Thus, careful consideration of the biosafety issues associated with their fabrication and utilization is vital. In addition to the synthesis and manufacturing processes, the ultimate utilization and fate of MOFs and MXenes in biomedical applications must be taken into account. While numerous reviews have been published regarding the biomedical applications of MOFs and MXenes, this perspective aims to shed light on the key environmental implications and biosafety issues, urging researchers to conduct further research in this field. Thus, the crucial aspects of the environmental implications and biosafety of MOFs and MXenes in biomedicine are thoroughly discussed, focusing on the main challenges and outlining future directions.

Achillea millefolium: Mechanism of action, pharmacokinetic, clinical drug-drug interactions and tolerability.

Background: Achillea millefolium, known as Yarrow, is a medicinal plant in the Asteraceae family which is one of the oldest known botanicals used by humans and itis one of the most important medicinal plants in the pharmaceutical field. Purpose: This review discusses pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and mechanism of action of the most important component of Achillea millefolium. There are a variety of same species such as white, red and yellow yarrow and all of these species have been discussed in this manuscript. We focus on previously discovered hormonal, antibiotic, and anticancer drug interactions with Achillea millefolium that may decrease or increase the concentration of certain drugs. We categorized different interactions of this herb into minor and serious ones, such as affecting Cytochromes P450 metabolism enzyme, resulting in a concentration rise in drugs such as Erythromycin, Diazepam, and Cyclosporine.The reason of writing a review article in this field is our enthusiasm for pharmacology of herbal ingredients and also, we want to gather other scientists' and our knowledge in this review for future researchers who like to know more about this plant pharmacological criteria in order to make their way. Method: Pharmacological and phytochemical-specific details of Achillea millefolium, as well as related keywords, were used to conduct a literature search across the following essential collections of electronic databases: Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct. Outcome: Achillea millefolium medical indications are the treatment of spasmodic gastrointestinal ulcers, inflammation, wound healing, and cancers, as well as excellent antioxidant activity. Camphene, Limonene, Apigenin and some other components show anti-inflammatory effects by cyclooxygenase inhibition, prostaglandin E2 inhibition and other mechanisms. Studies showed 90 % of its essential oil consists of monoterpenes which can be mutually beneficial with extract components. Conclusion: A. millefolium can play a significant role as a strong antioxidant and anticancer source, positively affecting gastrointestinal inflammations.

Multi-responsive chitosan-based hydrogels for controlled release of vincristine.

As medical research progresses, the derivation and development of biological materials such as hydrogels have steadily gained more interest. The biocompatibility and non-toxicity of chitosan make chitosan hydrogels potential carriers for drug delivery. This work aims to develop two multi-reactive, safe, and highly swellable bio-hydrogels consisting of chitosan-graft-glycerol (CS-g-gly) and carboxymethyl chitosan-graft-glycerol (CMCS-g-gly), for sustained and controlled drug release, improved bioavailability along with entrapment in nanocarriers, which reduces side effects of vincristine sulphate. CS-g-gly and CMCS-g-gly are successfully prepared and fully characterized using analytical techniques. Under various conditions, the prepared hydrogels exhibit a high swelling ratio. Vincristine-loaded CS-g-gly (VCR/CS-g-gly), and CMCS-g-gly (VCR/CMCS-g-gly) show high encapsulation efficiency between 72.28-89.97%, and 56.97-71.91%, respectively. VCR/CS-g-gly show a sustained release behavior, and the maximum release of VCR from hydrogels reached 82% after 120 h of incubation. MCF-7 (breast cancer cell line) and MCF-10 (normal breast cell line) are evaluated for cell viability and apoptosis induction. The in-vitro anti-tumor efficacy is investigated using flow cytometry. The tetrazolium-based MTT assay of hydrogels shows no evidence of significant cytotoxicity in MCF-7 and MCF-10 cells. According to these findings, these hydrogels can effectively deliver drugs to MCF-7 and other breast cancer cells.

Synthesis and characterization of chitosan/collagen/polycaprolactone hydrogel films with enhanced biocompatibility and hydrophilicity for artificial tendon applications.

Regenerative medicine confronts various obstacles, such as creating and advancing biomaterials. Besides being safe, such materials should promote cellular activity. Polycaprolactone (PCL) has numerous medical applications as an engineering material. However, these polymers lack hydrophilicity. Herein, chitosan (CS)/collagen (COL)/polycaprolactone hydrogel films (CSCPs) were synthesized with different weight ratios of PCL; specifically, CS/COL (CSC): PCL content of 1:3, 1:6, and 1:9. For this purpose, novel COL immobilization on CS was performed via covalent attachment. Following the addition of PCL to CSC hydrogel, the resulting CSCP hydrogel films were characterized using tensile measurements, TGA, XRD, FTIR, and FE-SEM. A greater PCL content increases the elongation at break from 134.8 to 369.5 % and the tensile strength of the hydrogel films from 4.8 to 18.4 MPa. The hydrophobicity of prepared specimens was assessed through water absorption and contact-angle tests. For CSCP3 to CSCP9, the water contact angle increased from 61.03° to 70.82°. After 48 days, CSCP6 and CSCP9 hydrogel films demonstrated a slow rate of degradation, losing <15 % of their weight. Moreover, all three types of hydrogel films exhibited high biocompatibility (higher than 95 % after three days), as confirmed by the MTT assay. The hemolysis rates of CSCP hydrogel films were <2 %, which could be deemed safe for contact with a blood environment. The presence of no costly and bio-based crosslinking agents and desired characteristics for tissue engineering applications suggest that CSCP hydrogel films may be promising candidates for use in artificial tendons.

The role of microRNA-21 (miR-21) in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and prognosis of gastrointestinal cancers: A review.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs regulating the expression of several target genes. miRNAs play a significant role in cancer biology, as they can downregulate their corresponding target genes by impeding the translation of mRNA (at the mRNA level) as well as degrading mRNAs by binding to the 3'-untranslated (UTR) regions (at the protein level). miRNAs may be employed as cancer biomarkers. Therefore, miRNAs are widely investigated for early detection of cancers which can lead to improved survival rates and quality of life. This is particularly important in the case of gastrointestinal cancers, where early detection of the disease could substantially impact patients' survival. MicroRNA-21 (miR-21 or miRNA-21) is one of the most frequently researched miRNAs, where it is involved in the pathophysiology of cancer and the downregulation of several tumor suppressor genes. In gastrointestinal cancers, miR-21 regulates phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4), mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 7 (SMAD7), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase /protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), ß-catenin, tropomyosin 1, maspin, and ras homolog gene family member B (RHOB). In this review, we investigate the functions of miR-21 in pathogenesis and its applications as a diagnostic and prognostic cancer biomarker in four different gastrointestinal cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC), pancreatic cancer (PC), gastric cancer (GC), and esophageal cancer (EC).

Combinational System of Lipid-Based Nanocarriers and Biodegradable Polymers for Wound Healing: An Updated Review.

Skin wounds have imposed serious socioeconomic burdens on healthcare providers and patients. There are just more than 25,000 burn injury-related deaths reported each year. Conventional treatments do not often allow the re-establishment of the function of affected regions and structures, resulting in dehydration and wound infections. Many nanocarriers, such as lipid-based systems or biobased and biodegradable polymers and their associated platforms, are favorable in wound healing due to their ability to promote cell adhesion and migration, thus improving wound healing and reducing scarring. Hence, many researchers have focused on developing new wound dressings based on such compounds with desirable effects. However, when applied in wound healing, some problems occur, such as the high cost of public health, novel treatments emphasizing reduced healthcare costs, and increasing quality of treatment outcomes. The integrated hybrid systems of lipid-based nanocarriers (LNCs) and polymer-based systems can be promising as the solution for the above problems in the wound healing process. Furthermore, novel drug delivery systems showed more effective release of therapeutic agents, suitable mimicking of the physiological environment, and improvement in the function of the single system. This review highlights recent advances in lipid-based systems and the role of lipid-based carriers and biodegradable polymers in wound healing.