Curcumin as a wound healing agent

Novel Physically Cross-Linked Curcumin-Loaded PVA/Aloe vera Hydrogel Membranes for Acceleration of Topical Wound Healing: In Vitro and In Vivo Experiments

This study aims to prepare novel cross-linked antimicrobial membranes composed of PVA-Aloe vera hydrogels using novel physically cross-linked method via transforming PVA to high crystalline structure using propanol. Curcumin was incorporated to improve the membrane biological properties; while gentamycin improved sharply antimicrobial properties. PVA-Aloe vera hydrogel membranes were analyzed by FTIR, SEM, XRD and TGA measurements for characterizing resultant cross-linked membranes. Physicochemical measurements, e.g., swelling and mechanical stability were assessed for further studying the dressings. Antibacterial activity of cross-linked PVA-Aloe vera-curcumin membranes was tested using five bacterial strains. Results showed that high Aloe vera content in cross-linked membranes has insignificant impact on the release of gentamicin. Adult Wister Albino rats were used to test membrane’s ability for improving the wound healing rate in vivo. In vivo findings showed that PVA/Aloe vera/curcumin membranes dramatically reduced the size of mouse full-thickness wounds, as indicated by a decrease in the wound size. Furthermore, histological tests of wounds dressed with membranes revealed a significant re-epithelialization; compared to wounds treated with cotton gauze and PVA/Aloe vera dressings without curcumin, showing curcumin’s efficacy. These results refer to PVA-Aloe vera-curcumin membrane has exceptional wound healing and skin regeneration capacity.

Curcumin Improves Keratinocyte Proliferation, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress through Mediating the SPAG5/FOXM1 Axis in an In Vitro Model of Actinic Dermatitis by Ultraviolet

Background

Chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD) is an abnormally proliferating photoallergic skin disease. Dysregulated inflammation and oxidative stress are the immediate factors in the abnormal proliferation of keratinocytes. This study aimed to investigate the effect of curcumin on the aberrant proliferation of keratinocytes in an in vitro (actinic dermatitis) AD model and the possible molecular mechanisms.

Methods

The keratinocytes were irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) to construct an in vitro AD model and then processed with different concentrations of curcumin. Cell viability, oxidative stress markers (SOD, GSH-PX, and MDA), activated oxygen species (ROS), and inflammation markers (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, and TNFα) were determined, respectively. Western blot was applied to assay the profiles of apoptosis-related proteins (Bax, Bcl-xL, Caspase3, Caspase8, and Caspase9), oxidative stress proteins (Keap1, Nrf2, HO-1, COX2, and iNOS), and inflammatory proteins (NF-κB, MMP1, and MMP9) and SPAG5/FOXM1. Functionally, SPAG5 or FOXM1 overexpression and knockdown models were constructed in keratinocytes to characterize their influence on UV irradiation-mediated keratinocyte dysfunction.

Results

Curcumin weakened UV-mediated inflammation, proliferation, and oxidative stress and impaired apoptosis in keratinocytes. UV boosted SPAG5/FOXM1 expression in cells, while curcumin concentration-dependently retarded SPAG5/FOXM1 expression. Overexpression of SPAG5/FOXM1 fostered UV-mediated inflammation, proliferation, oxidative stress, and intensified apoptosis, whereas curcumin mostly reversed the SPAG5/FOXM1-mediated effects. In addition, knocking down SPAG5/FOXM1 ameliorated UV-mediated keratinocyte dysfunction, whereas curcumin failed to exert further protective effects in cells with knockdown of SPAG5/FOXM1.

Conclusion

Curcumin modulated proliferation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis of keratinocytes by restraining the SPAG5/FOXM1 axis.

The combined use of photobiomodulation and curcumin-loaded iron oxide nanoparticles significantly improved wound healing in diabetic rats compared to either treatment alone

This experimental study examined the effects of curcumin-loaded iron oxide nanoparticles (CUR), photobiomodulation (PBM), and CUR + PBM treatments on mast cells (MC)s numbers and degranulation, inflammatory cells (macrophages, neutrophils), and wound strength in the last step of the diabetic wound repair process (maturation phase) in a rat model of type one diabetes mellitus (T1DM). T1DM was induced in 24 rats, and 1 month later, an excisional wound was created on each rat's back skin. The rats were then distributed into four groups: (1) untreated diabetic control group (UDCG); (2) rats treated with CUR (CUR); (3) rats exposed to PBM (890 nm, 80 Hz, 0.2 J/cm²) (PBM); (4) rats treated with CUR plus PBM (CUR + PBM). Fifteen days after surgery, skin tissue samples were taken for biomechanical and stereological evaluations. The biomechanical factor of maximum force was observed to be considerably improved in the CUR + PBM (p = 0.000), PBM (p = 0.014), and CUR (p = 0.003) groups compared to the UDCG. CUR + PBM, PBM, and CUR groups had significantly decreased total numbers of MC compared with the UDCG (all, p = 0.001). The results were significantly better in the CUR + PBM (p = 0.000) and PBM (p = 0.003) groups than in the CUR group. Inflammatory cell counts were significantly lower in the CUR + PBM, PBM, and CUR groups than in the UDCG (all, p = 0.0001). In all evaluating methods, the usage of CUR + PBM produced better results than the use of CUR or PBM alone (almost all tests, p = 0.0001). CUR + PBM, PBM, and CUR significantly improved the repair of diabetic skin wounds in type 1 DM rats through significant decreases of MC number, degranulation, and inflammatory cells as well as a noteworthy improvement in wound strength. The impact of CUR + PBM was superior to that of either PBM or CUR alone. It is suggested that CUR + PBM could be used as a MC stabilizer for the effective treatment of some related human diseases.

Secretory Fluid-Aggregated Janus Electrospun Short Fiber Scaffold for Wound Healing

Exudate management is critical to improve chronic wound healing. Herein, inspired by a Janus-structured lotus leaf with asymmetric wettability, a Janus electrospun short fiber scaffold is fabricated via electrospinning technologies and short fiber modeling. This scaffold is composed of hydrophilic 2D curcumin-loaded electrospun fiber and hydrophobic 3D short fiber via layer-by-layer assembly and electrostatic interactions which can aggregate the wound exudate by pumping from the hydrophobic layer to the hydrophilic via multiple contact points between hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibers, and simultaneously trigger the cascade release of curcumin in the upper 2D electrospun fiber. The 3D short fiber with high porosity and hydrophobicity can quickly aggregate exudate within 30 s after compounding with hydrophilic 2D electrospun fiber via a spontaneous pump. In vitro experiments show that Janus electrospun short fiber has good biocompatibility, and the cascade release of curcumin can significantly promote the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts. In vivo experiments show that it can trigger cascade release of curcumin by aggregating wound exudate, so as to accelerate wound healing process and promote collagen deposition and vascularization. Hence, this unique biometric Janus scaffold provides an alternative for chronic wound healing.

Gelatin-based nanofiber membranes loaded with curcumin and borneol as a sustainable wound dressing

Infection is a huge obstacle to wound healing. Thus, to enhance the healing of infected wounds, wound dressings that permit the dual delivery of antimicrobials and antioxidants are highly desirable. In this study, a series of gelatin-based nanofiber membranes with different curcumin contents were fabricated via solution electrospinning. The obtained membranes were characterized in terms of their morphologies, in addition to their physical, mechanical, and in vitro properties. The results showed that the membranes maintained an integrated morphology, excellent water absorption capability, satisfactory mechanical properties, and a high dissolution rate of curcumin. The addition of curcumin and borneol conferred the membranes the ability to inhibit Staphylococcus aureus and eliminate free radicals. Furthermore, cytocompatibility testing using the L929 cell line confirmed the excellent biocompatibility of the membranes. These gelatin-based nanofiber membranes loaded with curcumin and borneol can therefore be considered as promising materials for dressing wounds. Moreover, the use of biodegradable polymers and environmentally sustainable production techniques in this system render it suitable for the commercial manufacture of composite membranes.

Bioactive functional collagen-oxidized pullulan scaffold loaded with polydatin for treating chronic wounds

Prolonged inflammation, elevated matrix metalloproteinases, hypoxia, decreased vascularization, increased oxidative stress, and bacterial infection are typical signs of chronic non-healing diabetic wounds. Any agent that improves one or all factors could offer enhanced opportunities for better healing of diabetic wounds. In this study, a polyphenol (polydatin) incorporated collagen scaffold was prepared using a biocompatible crosslinker, oxidized pullulan (Col-OxP3-Po), to treat diabetic wounds. The scaffolds were characterized using SEM, FTIR, antioxidant activity, in vitro and in vivo wound healing assay, gene expression, and immunohistopathological studies. Polydatin incorporated scaffold exhibited 75 % antioxidant activity, hemostatic and erythrocyte adhesion properties. FTIR results proved the incorporation of polydatin in the Col-OxP3-Po scaffold. They were also non-toxic to the 3 T3 fibroblasts with a viability of 93 % and good cell attachment. In vivo, normal and diabetic wound healing studies showed that the Col-OxP3-Po scaffold treated group healed on days 16 and 21. The histological and immunohistochemistry analyses of the granulation tissues showed improved epithelialization, angiogenesis and enhanced collagen deposition by modulating TGF-β3 and MMP - 9 gene expressions favorable for better healing. Thus, this scaffold could be a newer treatment strategy for chronic non-healing wounds.

Scoping Review: Evaluation of Moringa oleifera (Lam.) for Potential Wound Healing in In Vivo Studies

Wound healing is a natural process to restore damaged tissues due to loss of tissue integrity. Moringa oleifera (locally known as merunggai in Malaysia) has been traditionally used in various ailments, including for wound management. To evaluate the wound healing properties in M. oleifera, publications were searched and selected following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement with predetermined inclusion criteria. The databases searched for primary studies include PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, LILACS, ClinicalTrials.gov, and CENTRAL. In total, 18 in vivo studies were included, which involved the leaves, while the remaining 5 studies involved other plant parts tested on excision, incision, dead space, abrasion, and burn-induced wound models. All studies reported significant wound healing abilities. Most studies used different topical formulations of aqueous leaves extract. The accumulation of collagen content and underlying wound healing mechanism through antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities may be contributed by its bioactive phytochemical content, which has the potential to accelerate the wound contraction, increase the rate of epithelialization, and protect tissues against oxidative damage. In conclusion, M. oleifera showed wound healing potential but further studies are warranted to determine the main bioactive phytocompounds and safety.

A Trilayer Dressing with Self-Pumping and pH Monitoring Properties for Promoting Abdominal Wall Defect Repair

Due to abdominal infection, excessive wound exudation, and intestinal fistula formation, the treatment of full-thickness abdominal wall defects has become a difficult challenge for clinic doctors. This clinical problem cannot be resolved with existing biomaterials. To facilitate the repair of the abdominal wall, we developed a novel wound dressing with directional biofluid transport. We used electrospinning to spin a trilayer dressing consisting of hydrolyzed poly-acrylonitrile (HPAN)/Curcumin (CUR), polyurethane (PU), and polycaprolactone (PCL). In vitro results show that the three-layer wound dressing is biocompatible, capable of directional transport of excessive wound exudation, preventing reverse penetration, and monitoring the pH of the wound. Furthermore, in vivo results show the trilayer wound dressing improves the wound microenvironment, reduces inflammatory factors, promotes angiogenesis, and accelerates abdominal wall repair. Thus, we believe that the novel trilayer electrospinning dressing could facilitate abdominal wall defect repair.

Protease-responsive hydrogel, cross-linked with bioactive curcumin-derived carbon dots, encourage faster wound closure

The pharmacological effects of curcumin can be ascribed to its dose-dependent activity. Therapeutic application of curcumin is hindered by its poor solubility and low bioavailability. Carbon dots are gaining attention in biomedical applications in view of their unique photo-physical properties. Some carbon dots derived from bioactive molecules have shown superior activity than the parent compound. With an aim to address the limitations of curcumin, herein we compared the wound healing activity of curcumin-derived carbon dots (CurCD) with curcumin. The improved solubility and stability of CurCD, combined with its superior proliferative, proangiogenic and anti-bacterial activity suggested that CurCD would be more beneficial than curcumin in wound healing. To enable the sustained release of CurCD at the wound site, a protease-responsive hydrogel (GHCD) was prepared with CurCD acting as a cross-linker. A comparative study using a skin excision model revealed that GHCD supported faster wound closure with improved angiogenesis and complete restoration of the epithelium. Apart from the establishment of CurCD as a wound healing agent, the study provides a novel carbon dot based approach for molecules with limitations of solubility and bioavailability.

Multifunctional and Smart Wound Dressings—A Review on Recent Research Advancements in Skin Regenerative Medicine

The healing of wounds is a dynamic function that necessitates coordination among multiple cell types and an optimal extracellular milieu. Much of the research focused on finding new techniques to improve and manage dermal injuries, chronic injuries, burn injuries, and sepsis, which are frequent medical concerns. A new research strategy involves developing multifunctional dressings to aid innate healing and combat numerous issues that trouble incompletely healed injuries, such as extreme inflammation, ischemic damage, scarring, and wound infection. Natural origin-based compounds offer distinct characteristics, such as excellent biocompatibility, cost-effectiveness, and low toxicity. Researchers have developed biopolymer-based wound dressings with drugs, biomacromolecules, and cells that are cytocompatible, hemostatic, initiate skin rejuvenation and rapid healing, and possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity. The main goal would be to mimic characteristics of fetal tissue regeneration in the adult healing phase, including complete hair and glandular restoration without delay or scarring. Emerging treatments based on biomaterials, nanoparticles, and biomimetic proteases have the keys to improving wound care and will be a vital addition to the therapeutic toolkit for slow-healing wounds. This study focuses on recent discoveries of several dressings that have undergone extensive pre-clinical development or are now undergoing fundamental research.

Curcumin induces mitochondrial apoptosis in human hepatoma cells through BCLAF1-mediated modulation of PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β signaling

Curcumin is a yellow pigment extracted from the rhizome of turmeric, a traditional Chinese medicine. Here, we tested the hypothesis that curcumin-mediated downregulation of BCLAF1 triggers mitochondrial apoptosis in hepatoma cells by inhibiting PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β signaling. Treatment of the human hepatoma cell lines, HepG2 and SK-Hep-1, with various concentrations of curcumin revealed a time-dependent and concentration-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation, increased apoptosis, cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, and reduced expression levels of PI3K, p-PI3K, AKT, p-AKT, GSK-3β, and p-GSK-3β. Additionally, curcumin suppressed the levels of apoptotic factors after treating the cells with LY294002, a PI3K inhibitor. Curcumin also suppressed the expression of BCLAF1. Treating stable BCLAF1 knockout HepG2 and SK-Hep-1 cells with curcumin further enhanced apoptosis and increased the number of cells in G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, while inhibiting the downregulation of PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway-related proteins. Treatment of a nude mouse xenograft model bearing HepG2 cells with curcumin inhibited tumor growth, disrupted the cellular structure of the tumor tissue, and suppressed the expression of BCLAF1 and PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β proteins. In summary, our in vitro and in vivo analyses show that curcumin downregulates BCLAF1 expression, inhibits the activation of the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway, and triggers mitochondrial apoptosis in HCC. These findings uncover a potential therapeutic strategy leveraging the antitumor effects of curcumin against HCC.

Potential Natural Biomolecules Targeting JAK/STAT/SOCS Signaling in the Management of Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease caused by the dysregulation of cytokines and other immune mediators. JAK/STAT is a classical signal transduction pathway involved in various biological processes, and its dysregulation contributes to the key aspects of AD pathogenesis. Suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) proteins negatively regulate the immune-related inflammatory responses mediated by the JAK/STAT pathway. JAK/STAT-mediated production of cytokines including IL-4, IL-13, IL-31, and TSLP inhibits the expression of important skin barrier proteins and triggers pruritus in AD. The expression of SOCS proteins regulates the JAK-mediated cytokines and facilitates maintaining the skin barrier disruptions seen in AD. STATs are crucial in dendritic-cell-activated Th2 cell differentiation in the skin, releasing inflammatory cytokines, indicating that AD is a Th2-mediated skin disorder. SOCS proteins aid in balancing Th1/Th2 cells and, moreover, regulate the onset and maintenance of Th2-mediated allergic responses by reducing the Th2 cell activation and differentiation. SOCS proteins play a pivotal role in inflammatory cytokine-signaling events that act via the JAK/STAT pathway. Therapies relying on natural products and derived biomolecules have proven beneficial in AD when compared with the synthetic regimen. In this review, we focused on the available literature on the potential natural-product-derived biomolecules targeting JAK/STAT/SOCS signaling, mainly emphasizing the SOCS family of proteins (SOCS1, SOCS3, and SOCS5) acting as negative regulators in modulating JAK/STAT-mediated responses in AD pathogenesis and other inflammatory disorders.

Glycosaminoglycan-Based Hydrogel Delivery System Regulates the Wound Microenvironment to Rescue Chronic Wound Healing

Chronic wounds cannot proceed through the normal, orderly, and timely sequence of repair. The adverse cycle between excess reactive oxide species (ROS) and a persistent inflammatory response is an important mechanism of impaired wound healing. Herein, by combining the intrinsic bioactivities of natural polysaccharides and natural drugs, a glycosaminoglycan-based hydrogel delivery system is proposed to regulate the wound microenvironment. Dynamic supramolecular cross-linking enables the hydrogel to easily encapsulate the drug and fully fill the wound area. As the backbone of the hydrogel, heparin captures inflammatory chemokines at the wound site, while hyaluronic acid mimics the function of ECM. The hydrophobic drug curcumin has been ingeniously encapsulated in the hydrogel through micellization, thereby exerting good ROS scavenging ability and anti-inflammatory activity. Evaluations in diabetic mice showed that this antioxidant and anti-inflammatory hydrogel was effective in reducing the influx of immune cells at the wound site and in down-regulating the inflammatory response. Accelerated wound healing was also observed, as evidenced by faster re-epithelialization and better ECM remodeling. The proposed hydrogel can regulate the microenvironment of wounds from multiple aspects and thereby achieve regression of wound repair, which may provide a new therapeutic strategy for chronic wounds.

An Investigation for Skin Tissue Regeneration Enhancement/Augmentation by Curcumin-Loaded Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery System (SEDDS)

Diabetes, one of the global metabolic disorders, is often associated with delayed wound healing due to the elevated level of free radicals at the wound site, which hampers skin regeneration. This study aimed at developing a curcumin-loaded self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) for diabetic wound healing and skin tissue regeneration. For this purpose, various curcumin-loaded SEDDS formulations were prepared and optimized. Then, the SEDDS formulations were characterized by the emulsion droplet size, surface charge, drug content/entrapment efficiency, drug release, and stability. In vitro, the formulations were assessed for the cellular uptake, cytotoxicity, cell migration, and inhibition of the intracellular ROS production in the NIH3T3 fibroblasts. In vivo, the formulations' wound healing and skin regeneration potential were evaluated on the induced diabetic rats. The results indicated that, after being dispersed in the aqueous medium, the optimized SEDDS formulation was readily emulsified and formed a homogenous dispersion with a droplet size of 37.29 ± 3.47 nm, surface charge of -20.75 ± 0.07 mV, and PDI value of less than 0.3. The drug content in the optimized formulation was found to be 70.51% ± 2.31%, with an encapsulation efficiency of 87.36% ± 0.61%. The SEDDS showed a delayed drug release pattern compared to the pure drug solution, and the drug release rate followed the Fickian diffusion kinetically. In the cell culture, the formulations showed lower cytotoxicity, higher cellular uptake, and increased ROS production inhibition, and promoted the cell migration in the scratch assay compared to the pure drug. The in vivo data indicated that the curcumin-loaded SEDDS-treated diabetic rats had significantly faster-wound healing and re-epithelialization compared with the untreated and pure drug-treated groups. Our findings in this work suggest that the curcumin-loaded SEDDS might have great potential in facilitating diabetic wound healing and skin tissue regeneration.

In vivo therapeutic efficacy of Curcuma longa extract loaded ethosomes on wound healing

Since ancient times, medicinal plants are widely accepted to promote the health and wellness of animals and mankind. The medicinal plant-based therapies have limitations of delayed onset of action, inconsistent absorption, low bioavailability, oxidation, and poor solubility. The encapsulation studies suggested improved efficacy. Therefore, the present study attempts to evaluate the efficacy of Curcuma longa extracts encapsulated in Ethosome on wound healing model compared to crude extract. The Curcuma longa extract swere prepared by cold percolation method and total curcuminoid content was determined by Reverse phase-HPLC. Three Ethosomal suspensions (ETS1, ETS2, and ETS3) were prepared and characterized for particle distribution, morphology, and absorption spectrum by Zetasizer, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and FTIR respectively. The Ethosomal suspension with the highest entrapment efficiency was applied topically at a varying concentrations (0.25, 0.5, and 1 g/cm²) on the surgically created wounds in rats. The efficacy of wound healing was evaluated by clinical observation, macroscopic evaluation of granulation tissue, colour digital image processing, and histology. The methanolic extract of Curcuma longa showed better antibacterial potential than ethanolic and aqueous. The total Curcuminoid content in the Curcuma longa rhizome was 4.03%. The size, PDI, zeta potential, and viscosity of Ethosomal suspension ranged from 34.8 to 371 nm, 0.236-1.178, 15.6-36.8mV, and 0.8460-0.8510, respectively. The ETS3 was found the most optimum combination with the highest entrapment efficiency and the topical application at a dose rate of 0.5 g/cm² and 1.0 g/cm² resulted in comparable wound contracture, pain score, histopathological score as compared to control groups.It was concluded that the Curcuma longa encapsulation in Ethosome resulted in improved wound appearance, granulation tissue score, and appearance with a shortened period of wound resolution at the cellular level as compared to crude extract.

Application of antibacterial nanoparticles in orthodontic materials

During the orthodontic process, increased microbial colonization and dental plaque formation on the orthodontic appliances and auxiliaries are major complications, causing oral infectious diseases, such as dental caries and periodontal diseases. To reduce plaque accumulation, antimicrobial materials are increasingly being investigated and applied to orthodontic appliances and auxiliaries by various methods. Through the development of nanotechnology, nanoparticles (NPs) have been reported to exhibit excellent antibacterial properties and have been applied in orthodontic materials to decrease dental plaque accumulation. In this review, we present the current development, antibacterial mechanisms, biocompatibility, and application of antibacterial NPs in orthodontic materials.

Nanomedicine-based strategies to improve treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis

Nanomedicine strategies were first adapted and successfully translated to clinical application for diseases, such as cancer and diabetes. These strategies would no doubt benefit unmet diseases needs as in the case of leishmaniasis. The latter causes skin sores in the cutaneous form and affects internal organs in the visceral form. Treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) aims at accelerating wound healing, reducing scarring and cosmetic morbidity, preventing parasite transmission and relapse. Unfortunately, available treatments show only suboptimal effectiveness and none of them were designed specifically for this disease condition. Tissue regeneration using nano-based devices coupled with drug delivery are currently being used in clinic to address diabetic wounds. Thus, in this review, we analyse the current treatment options and attempt to critically analyse the use of nanomedicine-based strategies to address CL wounds in view of achieving scarless wound healing, targeting secondary bacterial infection and lowering drug toxicity.

Phytochemistry and Biological Activity of Medicinal Plants in Wound Healing: An Overview of Current Research

Wound healing is a complicated process, and the effective management of wounds is a major challenge. Natural herbal remedies have now become fundamental for the management of skin disorders and the treatment of skin infections due to the side effects of modern medicine and lower price for herbal products. The aim of the present study is to summarize the most recent in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies on major herbal preparations, their phytochemical constituents, and new formulations for wound management. Research reveals that several herbal medicaments have marked activity in the management of wounds and that this activity is ascribed to flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and phenolic compounds. These phytochemicals can act at different stages of the process by means of various mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, collagen synthesis stimulating, cell proliferation, and angiogenic effects. The application of natural compounds using nanotechnology systems may provide significant improvement in the efficacy of wound treatments. Increasing the clinical use of these therapies would require safety assessment in clinical trials.

Nanoceria laden decellularized extracellular matrix-based curcumin releasing nanoemulgel system for full-thickness wound healing

Decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) has been widely used for wound healing. But, ECM failed to integrate tissue and restore the tissue function properly, when elevated levels of free radicals and biofilm formation occur at the wound site. Here, nanoemulgel systems were fabricated, considering the combinatorial approach of nanotechnology (nanoceria and curcumin nanoemulsion) and ECM gel of goat small intestine submucosa. The curcumin was encapsulated in the nanoemulgel system to enhance bioavailability in terms of antibacterial, antioxidant, sustained release and permeation at the wound site. Nanoceria was also incorporated to enhance the antibacterial, antioxidant and wound healing properties of the fabricated nanoemulgel formulation. All the formulations were porous, hydrophilic, biodegradable, antioxidant, antibacterial, hemocompatible, biocompatible, and showed enhanced wound healing rate. The formulation (DG-SIS/Ce/NC) showed the highest free radicals scavenging capacity and antibacterial property with prolonged curcumin release (62.9% in 96 h), skin permeability (79.7% in 96 h); showed better cell growth under normal and oxidative-stressed conditions: it also showed full-thickness wound contraction (97.33% in 14 days) with highest collagen synthesis at the wound site (1.61 μg/mg in 14 days). The outcomes of this study suggested that the formulation (DG-SIS/Ce/NC) can be a potential nanoemulgel system for full-thickness wound healing application.

Botanical Drugs in Traditional Chinese Medicine With Wound Healing Properties

Chronic and unhealed wound is a serious public problem, which brings severe economic burdens and psychological pressure to patients. Various botanical drugs in traditional Chinese medicine have been used for the treatment of wounds since ancient time. Nowadays, multiple wound healing therapeutics derived from botanical drugs are commercially available worldwide. An increasing number of investigations have been conducted to elucidate the wound healing activities and the potential mechanisms of botanical drugs in recent years. The aim of this review is to summarize the botanical drugs in traditional Chinese medicine with wound healing properties and the underlying mechanisms of them, which can contribute to the research of wound healing and drug development. Taken together, five botanical drugs that have been developed into commercially available products, and 24 botanical drugs with excellent wound healing activities and several multiherbal preparations are reviewed in this article.

Chondroitin sulfate deposited on foxtail millet prolamin/caseinate nanoparticles to improve physicochemical properties and enhance cancer therapeutic effects

In this study, curcumin (Cur)-loaded chondroitin sulfate (CS)-sodium caseinate (NaCas)-stabilized foxtail millet prolamin (FP) composite nanoparticles (NPs) were fabricated via a one-pot process. FP is capable of self-assembly via liquid antisolvent precipitation under neutral and alkaline conditions (pH 7.0-11.0). Under this condition, the microstructures of hydrophobic FP cores, amphiphilic NaCas and hydrophilic CS shells were fabricated readily by a one-pot method. With an optimal FP/NaCas/CS weight ratio of 3 : 2 : 4, FP-NaCas-CS NPs shared globular microstructures at about 145 nm, and hydrophobic interactions, electrostatic forces, and hydrogen bonds were the main driving forces for the formation and maintenance of stable FP-NaCas-CS NPs. CS coating enhanced the pH stability but reduced the ionic strength stability. The formed NPs were stable over a wide pH range from 2.0 to 8.0 and elevated salt concentrations from 0 to 3 mol L^-1 NaCl. FP-NaCas-CS NPs exhibited a higher Cur encapsulation efficiency of 93.4% and re-dispersion capability after lyophilization. Moreover, CS coating promoted selective accumulation in CD44-overexpressing HepG2 cells, resulting in higher inhibition of tumor growth compared to free Cur and FP-NaCas NP-encapsulated Cur. As for comparison, encapsulated Cur exhibited reduced cytotoxicity on normal liver cells L-O2. This preclinical study suggests that FP-NaCas-CS NPs could be very beneficial in terms of encapsulating hydrophobic drugs, improving the effectiveness of cancer therapies and reducing side effects on normal tissues.

Antibiotics-Free Compounds for Chronic Wound Healing

The rapid rise in the health burden associated with chronic wounds is of great concern to policymakers, academia, and industry. This could be attributed to the devastating implications of this condition, and specifically, chronic wounds which have been linked to invasive microbial infections affecting patients' quality of life. Unfortunately, antibiotics are not always helpful due to their poor penetration of bacterial biofilms and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Hence, there is an urgent need to explore antibiotics-free compounds/formulations with proven or potential antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound healing efficacy. The mechanism of antibiotics-free compounds is thought to include the disruption of the bacteria cell structure, preventing cell division, membrane porins, motility, and the formation of a biofilm. Furthermore, some of these compounds foster tissue regeneration by modulating growth factor expression. In this review article, the focus is placed on a number of non-antibiotic compounds possessing some of the aforementioned pharmacological and physiological activities. Specific interest is given to Aloevera, curcumin, cinnamaldehyde, polyhexanide, retinoids, ascorbate, tocochromanols, and chitosan. These compounds (when alone or in formulation with other biologically active molecules) could be a dependable alternative in the management or prevention of chronic wounds.

Tumor Remnant After Silicone Implant En Bloc Capsulectomy: The Magnetic Resonance Role

Recently, there has been an increase in surgeries to treat silicones implant complications. These procedures are generally related to diseased fibrous capsules, with capsular contracture the most common clinical manifestation. However, patients often do not undergo a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan for the explant surgical programming to access the fibrous capsule status and avoid residual diseased tissue. The accuracy of MRI to assess fibrous capsule breast neoplasm remnants depends on the surgical time. The ideal time for the evaluation is up to 72 hours after the surgery when the repaired tissue starts to appear. Up to 2-3 weeks after surgery, MRI can provide information on the presence of a residual tumor. After this period, the presence of scar tissue and granuloma impairs the analysis. This communication discusses the role of MRI in evaluating residual fibrous capsules in the postoperative period. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Medicinal Herbs from Phyto-informatics: An aid for Skin Burn Management

Skin burn injury is the most common cause of trauma that is still considered a dreadful condition in healthcare emergencies around the globe. Due to the availability of a variety of regimes, their management remains a dynamical challenge for the entire medical and paramedical community. Indeed, skin burn injuries are accompanied by a series of several devastating events that lead to sepsis and multiple organ dysfunction syndromes. Hence the challenge lies in to develop better understanding as well as clear diagnostic criteria and predictive biomarkers which are important in their management. Though there are several regimes available in the market, there are still numerous limitations and challenges in the management. In this review article, we have discussed the various biomarkers that could be targeted for managing skin burn injuries. Instead of focusing on allopathic medication which has its adverse events per se, we have discussed the history, ethnopharmacology properties, and prospects of identified phytomedicines from a well-established herbal informatics model. This review article not only discusses the benefits of scrutinized phytocompounds but also leads to develop novel druggable Phyto-compounds to target skin burn injury at lower cost with no adverse effects.

A New and Sensitive HPLC-UV Method for Rapid and Simultaneous Quantification of Curcumin and D-Panthenol: Application to In Vitro Release Studies of Wound Dressings

Curcumin (CUR) and D-panthenol (DPA) have been widely investigated for wound-healing treatment. In order to analyse these two compounds from a dosage form, such as polymer-based wound dressings or creams, an analytical method that allows the quantification of both drugs simultaneously should be developed. Here, we report for the first time a validated high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method coupled with UV detection to quantify CUR and DPA based on the standards set by the International Council on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. The separation of the analytes was performed using a C₁₈ column that utilised a mobile phase consisting of 0.001% v/v phosphoric acid and methanol using a gradient method with a run time of 15 min. The method is linear for drug concentrations within the range of 0.39–12.5 μg mL⁻¹ (R² = 0.9999) for CUR and 0.39–25 μg mL⁻¹ for DPA (R² = 1). The validated method was found to be precise and accurate. Moreover, the CUR and DPA solution was found to be stable under specific storage conditions. We, therefore, suggest that the HPLC-UV method developed in this study may be very useful in screening formulations for CUR and DPA within a preclinical setting through in vitro release studies.

Advanced drug delivery systems containing herbal components for wound healing

Management of chronic wound has an immense impact on social and economic conditions in the world. Healthcare costs, aging population, physical trauma, and comorbidities of diabetes and obesity seem to be the major factors of this increasing incidence of chronic wounds. Conditions of chronic wound could not restore functional epidermis; thus, delaying the closure of the wound opening in an expected manner. Failures in restoration of skin integrity delay healing due to changes in skin pathology, such as chronic ulceration or nonhealing. The role of different traditional medicines has been explored for use in the healing of cutaneous wounds, where several phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic acids, tannins are known to provide potential wound healing properties. However, the delivery of plant-based therapeutics could be improved by the novel platform of nanotechnology. Thus, the objectives of novel delivery strategies of principal bioactive from plant sources are to accelerate the wound healing process, avoid wound complications and enhance patient compliance. Therefore, the opportunities of nanotechnology-based drug delivery of natural wound healing therapeutics have been included in the present discussion with special emphasis on nanofibers, vesicular structures, nanoparticles, nanoemulsion, and nanogels.

Photodynamic Therapy with Natural Photosensitizers in the Management of Periodontal Disease Induced in Rats

This study aims to investigate the effect of new natural photosensitizers (PS) (based on oregano essential oil, curcuma extract, and arnica oil) through in vitro cytotoxicity and biological tests in rat-induced periodontal disease, treated with photodynamic therapy (aPDT). The cytotoxicity of PS was performed on human dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells (dMSCs) and human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cell lines. Periodontal disease was induced by ligation of the first mandibular molar of 25 rats, which were divided into 5 groups: control group, periodontitis group, Curcuma and aPDT-treated group, oregano and aPDT-treated group, and aPDT group. The animals were euthanized after 4 weeks of study. Computed tomography imaging has been used to evaluate alveolar bone loss. Hematological and histological evaluation showed a greater magnitude of the inflammatory response and severe destruction of the periodontal ligaments in the untreated group.. For the group with the induced periodontitis and treated with natural photosensitizers, the aPDT improved the results; this therapy could be an important adjuvant treatment. The obtained results of these preliminary studies encourage us to continue the research of periodontitis treated with natural photosensitizers activated by photodynamic therapy.

The role of flavonoids in inhibiting IL-6 and inflammatory arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the synovial joints. RA has well-known clinical manifestations and can cause progressive disability and premature death along with socioeconomic burdens. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been implicated in the pathology of RA where it can stimulate pannus formation, osteoclastogenesis, and oxidative stress. Flavonoids are plant metabolites with beneficial pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, and others. Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds found in a variety of plants, vegetables, and fruits. Many flavonoids have demonstrated anti-arthritic activity mediated mainly through the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This review thoroughly discusses the accumulate data on the role of flavonoids on IL-6 in RA.

Curcumin improves atherosclerosis by inhibiting the epigenetic repression of lncRNA MIAT to miR-124

Objectives: Atherosclerosis is a dominant cardiovascular disease. Curcumin has protective effect on atherosclerosis. However, the mechanisms remain to be explored. Methods: Atherosclerosis was induced by feeding mice with high-fat diet (HFD) and ox-low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were structured. Oil Red O staining was used to evaluate the plaques in the artery. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was conducted to detect the level of myocardial infarction associated transcript (MIAT), miR-124, and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2). We performed western blotting and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay to examine the expression of EZH2 and cytokines including IL-1β, TNFα, IL-6, and IL-8, respectively. RNA immunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) were used to validate the interaction between myocardial infarction associated transcript and EZH2. Flow cytometry and CCK-8 assay were used to examine cell apoptosis and proliferation, respectively. Results: Curcumin suppressed inflammation in atherosclerosis mouse model and ox-LDL-induced cell model. MIAT overexpression and miR-124 inhibition relieved the anti-inflammation effect of curcumin in ox-LDL-induced cell. MIAT regulated miR-124 by interacting with EZH2. Curcumin relieved ox-LDL-induced cell inflammation via regulating MIAT/miR-124 pathway. Conclusion: MIAT/miR-124 axis mediated the effect of curcumin on atherosclerosis and altered cell apoptosis and proliferation, both in vivo and in vitro. These data further support the application of curcumin in control of atherosclerosis advancement.

Hematological and biochemical investigations on the effect of curcumin and Thymoquinone in male mice exposed to Thioacetamide

Currently, living organisms are increasingly exposed to many toxic chemicals in the environment. These substances pose a threat to human life, other living organisms and ecosystem. In fact, there is an increasing requirement to search for safe therapeutic sources today. Medicinal plants and natural products have become of great importance globally because of their therapeutic potential and medicinal properties, as well as their availability and the absence of harmful side effects for most of them. The present study was designed to explore the potential protective effect of curcumin (CUR) and thymoquinone (TQ) in male rats exposed to thioacetamide (TAA). The experimental mice were divided into eight groups. Group 1 was served as control. Group 2 was exposed to 50 mg/ kg body weight of TAA. Group 3 was exposed to CUR and TAA. Mice of group 4 were treated with TQ and TAA. Mice of group 5 were exposed to CUR plus TQ and TAA. Group 6 was supplemented with CUR. Group 7 was subjected to TQ. Mice of group 8 were treated with CUR and TQ. Hematological and biochemical alterations were evaluated after one month. Significant increases of white blood corpuscles (WBC), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin (TB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) values were observed in group 2, while the values of red blood corpuscles (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb(, hematocrit (Hct), glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were statistically decreased. Treatment with CUR, TQ and their combination inhibited the hematological and biochemical alterations induced by TAA toxicity. Moreover, the most protective effect was observed in mice treated with CUR plus TQ. These new results suggested that the protective effect of CUR and TQ attributed to their antioxidant properties.

OUP accepted manuscript

Candida auris is an emerging, multi drug resistant fungal pathogen that has caused infectious outbreaks in over 45 countries since its first isolation over a decade ago, leading to in-hospital crude mortality rates as high as 72%. The fungus is also acclimated to disinfection procedures and persists for weeks in nosocomial ecosystems. Alarmingly, the outbreaks of C. auris infections in Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients have also been reported. The pathogenicity, drug resistance and global spread of C. auris have led to an urgent exploration of novel, candidate antifungal agents for C. auris therapeutics. This narrative review codifies the emerging data on the following new/emerging antifungal compounds and strategies: antimicrobial peptides, combinational therapy, immunotherapy, metals and nano particles, natural compounds, and repurposed drugs. Encouragingly, a vast majority of these exhibit excellent anti- C. auris properties, with promising drugs now in the pipeline in various stages of development. Nevertheless, further research on the modes of action, toxicity, and the dosage of the new formulations are warranted. Studies are needed with representation from all five C. auris clades, so as to produce data of grater relevance, and broader significance and validity.

Role of nutraceuticals on neurodegenerative diseases: neuroprotective and immunomodulant activity

Neurodegeneration is a degenerative process characterized by the progressive loss of the structure and function of neurons that involves several immune cells. It is the primary cause of dementia and other several syndromes, known as neurodegenerative diseases. These disorders are age-related and it is estimated that by 2040 there will be approximately 81.1 million people suffering from these diseases. In addition to the traditional pharmacological therapy, in recent years nutraceuticals, naturally based compounds with a broad spectrum of biological effects: anti-aging, antioxidants, hypoglycaemic, hypocholesterolemic, anticancer, anxiolytic, antidepressant, etc., assumed an important role in counteracting these pathologies. In particular, several compounds such as astaxanthin, baicalein, glycyrrhizin, St. John's wort, and Ginkgo biloba L. extracts show particular neuroprotective and immunomodulatory abilities, involving several immune cells and some neurotransmitters that play a critical role in neurodegeneration, making them particularly useful in improving the symptoms and progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

Antioxidant activity of Curcumin

In the past few years, multiple drugs have been produced from traditional raw materials and recent pandemic disease COVID-19 once again research on this matter is being conducted to determine potential therapeutic purposes of different Ayurvedic Indian medicines and herbs. One such medicinal herb is Curcuma longa. Curcumin is strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiangiogenic, anti-carcinogenic, as shown by multiple in vitro and in vivo studies. The action of the growth factor receptors is inhibited by curcumin. The anti-inflammatory effect of curcumin is obtained on the cytokines, proteolytic enzymes, eicosanoids, and lipid mediators. The superoxide radicals, nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide, are sifted by curcumin, while lipid peroxidation is inhibited. Such properties of the compound thus form the foundation for its various therapeutic and pharmacological effects could also hold antiviral properties including COVID-19. The aim of this research is to summarize the updated pharmacological activities of curcumin.

Herb-drug interaction: Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of anti-hypertensive drug amlodipine besylate in presence of lepidium sativum and curcuma longa

1. Effects of Lepidium sativum and Curcuma longa were investigated on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of antihypertensive drug (amlodipine).2. Hypertensive rats were treated with amlodipine, Lepidium sativum, Lepidium sativum + amlodipine, Curcuma longa, and Curcuma longa + amlodipine; and their blood pressures were measured. Amlodipine in plasma samples was analysed using UPLC-TQD. Product ions of amlodipine were monitored at m/z 409.18 > 238 and 409.18 > 294; and of nitrendipine at m/z 361.16 > 315.1 and 361.16 > 329.10.3. Lepidium sativum + amlodipine treatment showed highest reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP). Mean anti-hypertensive effect of Lepidium sativum and Curcuma longa was similar to amlodipine. Mean SBPs (1-24 h) of amlodipine, Lepidium sativum, Lepidium sativum + amlodipine, Curcuma longa, and Curcuma longa + amlodipine treated animals were found as 149.5 ± 2.4 mmHg, 151.6 ± 1.09 mmHg, and 141.8 ± 2.5 mmHg, 154.9 ± 2.2 mmHg and 144.4 ± 2.6 mmHg (p-values ≪0.05); respectively. Lepidium sativum and Curcuma longa significantly increased amlodipine C_max by 83% (p-value 0.018) and 53% (p-value 0.035); and AUC_0-t by 48% (p-value >0.05) and 56% (p-value 0.033); respectively.4. Results of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies are in agreement. Lepidium sativum and Curcuma longa augment antihypertensive effect of amlodipine, which is also supported by pharmacokinetic observations.

Effects of Quercetin and Curcumin Combination on Antibacterial, Antioxidant, In Vitro Wound Healing and Migration of Human Dermal Fibroblast Cells

Wound healing impairment due to a postponed, incomplete, or uncoordinated healing process has been a challenging clinical problem. Much research has focused on wound care, particularly on discovery of new therapeutic approaches for acute and chronic wounds. This study aims to evaluate the effect of the combination of quercetin and curcuminoids at three different ratios on the antimicrobial, antioxidant, cell migration and wound healing properties. The antioxidant activities of quercetin, curcuminoids and the mixtures were tested by DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging assays. The disc diffusion method was performed to determine the antibacterial activities of quercetin, curcuminoids and the mixtures against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. The cytotoxicity and cell migratory enhancing effects of quercetin, curcuminoids and the mixtures against human dermal fibroblasts were investigated by MTT assay, scratch assay and Transwell migration assay, respectively. The results showed the synergism of the quercetin and curcuminoid combination to inhibit the growth of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, with the inhibition zone ranging from 7.06 ± 0.25 to 8.78 ± 0.38 mm, respectively. The DPPH free radical scavenging assay demonstrated that the combination of quercetin and curcuminoids yielded lower IC₅₀ values (15.38–23.70 µg/mL) than curcuminoids alone (25.75 µg/mL). Quercetin and a 3:1 quercetin/curcuminoid mixture at non-toxic concentrations showed the ability to stimulate the migration of fibroblasts across the matrix, whereas only quercetin alone accelerated the wound closure of fibroblasts. In conclusion, the mixture of quercetin and curcuminoids at a 3:1 ratio was the best formulations for use in wound healing due to the antimicrobial, antioxidant and cell-migration-enhancing activities.

Effectiveness of turmeric (Curcuma Longa Linn) Gel Extract (GE) on wound healing: Pre-clinical test

OBJECTIVE

This research was basic research to identify the effect of turmeric extract tested by the in vivo method. The purpose of this study was to identify differences in the length of the wound at each concentration of gel preparations on days 3, 7, and 14, as well as differences in wound healing time at each concentration of gel preparations and, identify the most effective gel preparations for wound healing.

METHOD

This study is an experimental laboratory study with experimental animals using post-test only with control groups, the type of research used is a pre-clinical test (pre-clinical trial) on female rabbits. The sample size in this study was 12 rabbits grouped randomly. The length of each group's wounds was measured and observed on days 3, 7, and 14. Gel application was carried out twice a day in the morning and evening for 14 days. In this study, the experimental data were tested using Kruskal Wallis.

RESULTS

There were differences in wound length in each group treated with turmeric extract gel and base gel. Based on the mean wound length of each group, they experienced a reduction in wound length on days 3, 7, and 14. There were also differences in wound healing time in each group. In each group, wherein this case, the treatment group that was given 5% turmeric extract gel experienced a faster healing time <14 days than the other groups.

CONCLUSION

In general, turmeric extract gel at each concentration is effective against wound healing. Turmeric extract gel concentration is the most effective gel with a concentration of 5%, then followed by concentrations of 10% and 15%.

An overview on therapeutic role of Diferuloylmethane (Curcumin) in Azheimer’s disease and sleep disorders

Curcumin is widely used in spices in Asia. It has been widely explored for various diseases as therapeutic agent. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease associated with dementia and cognitive disabilities. With the progression of disease, various changes appear in the brain cells that greatly affect the daily routine of the patient including sleep-wake disturbances. In the last few decades, extensive research has been carried out on this disease suggesting the development of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for its treatment. Since long, turmeric has been used in Asian countries as a home remedy for treating various ailments. Curcumin is an active ingredient isolated from the turmeric plant and is composed of curcuminoids. Because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic and neuroprotective properties, curcumin can be safely administered to stop the progression of dementia and can be used for the development of such drugs that can reverse the neurotic damage caused by AD. This review article provides a comprehensive overview on the research carried out for AD using curcumin as active model drug.

Potency of complemeter therapy to the healing process of perineal wound; turmeric (Curcuma longa Linn) Infusa

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of yellow turmeric-infusa of 5% and 10% on the healing process of perineal wound grade II.

METHOD

The method used in this study is quasi-experiment with Pretest-Posttest Control Group design. The sampling technique is Exhaustive Sampling according to inclusion criteria. In this research consisted of three experimental groups with two intervention groups and one control group, with the number of subjects group was 15 people. Turmeric infusa is used daily by washing in the perineal wound area two times a day for 5 days postpartum. Monitoring of grade II perineal wound was performed three times, days 1, 5, and 7 postpartum using REEDA scale assessment. Data analysis used Kruskal-Wallis and Chi-Square tests.

RESULTS

The results showed that on the 5th and 7th postpartum days, there were differences in redness, edema, and approximation of wounds in each group (p<0.05) while the other REEDA parameters were not significantly different. There is also a difference in the time of perineal wound healing in each group, and it can be seen from the decrease and the total REEDA score. Turmeric infusa group 5% experienced healing on the 5th day postpartum, turmeric infusa 10% recovered on the 7th day postpartum, and the control group recovered more than 7 days.

CONCLUSION

Giving turmeric was proven to eliminate redness, edema, accelerate the closure, and perineal wound healing time, as seen from the p-value (p<0.05). However, turmeric infusa of 5% and 10% showed better effectiveness than turmeric infusa of 5%.

Nature-Inspired Hydrogel Network for Efficient Tissue-Specific Underwater Adhesive

Underwater adhesives with efficient, selective, and repeatable adhesion are urgently needed for biomedical applications. Catechol-containing hydrogel adhesives have aroused much interest, but the design of specific underwater adhesives to biotic surfaces is still a challenge. Here we report a facile way that recapitulates the adhesion mechanism of mussel and sea gooseberry for the development of robust and specific hydrogel adhesives. With an exquisite design of chemical bonding, catechol chemistry, and electrostatic interaction, the hydrogel consisting of poly(acrylic acid) grafted with N-hydroxysuccinimide ester (PAA-NHS ester), tea polyphenol (TP), chitosan (CS), and Al³⁺ exhibited fast, specific, and repeatable underwater adhesion to various biological tissues, such as porcine skin, intestine, liver, and shrimp. Furthermore, nanofibers-hydrogel composite (NF-HG) was prepared via the wicking effect of curcumin-loaded electrospun nanofibers. The NF-HG exhibited pH-responsive color changing properties, sustained drug release, and good cell viability, which made it suitable as a novel wound healing material. This strategy may provide great inspiration for designing multifunctional specific underwater adhesives.

Polydopamine-assisted decoration of Se nanoparticles on curcumin-incorporated nanofiber matrices for localized synergistic tumor-wound therapy

The management of surgical wounds incurred during tumor removal procedures has become a non-negligible issue. Herein, for the first time, an implantable polymer-based nanofiber matrix is developed for postoperative tumor management by promoting wound healing and preventing cancer recurrence. The multifunctional matrix is successfully prepared by assembling chitosan-stabilized Se nanoparticles (SeNPs) at the surface of polydopamine (PDA) modified poly(ε-caprolactone)/curcumin fibres (PCL/CUR), denoted as PCL/CUR/PDA@Se. In this system, PDA as functionalized layers coated onto the PCL/CUR surface favors the effective immobilization of SeNPs through a covalent bond, as well as acts as a gatekeeper guaranteeing the sustained release of CUR. The CUR/SeNPs present excellent antitumor efficacy, respectively, which supports the nanocomposite matrix to efficiently kill cancer cells in vitro by inducing mitochondrial dysfunction caused by the ROS overproduction, and significantly suppressing the tumor growth in vivo. Additionally, due to the synergistic antioxidant activity of CUR and SeNPs, the nanofibrous matrix distinctly facilitates the adhesion and proliferation of normal fibroblast cells, and simultaneously accelerates wound healing during tumor treatments in tumor-bearing mice. These results suggest that the PCL/CUR/PDA@Se matrix with bifunctional properties is a promising candidate for local tumor-wound therapy. This work offers an innovative strategy to develop new improved post-surgery therapies for cancer patients.

Biomedical Applications and Bioavailability of Curcumin-An Updated Overview

Curcumin, a yellow-colored molecule derived from the rhizome of Curcuma longa, has been identified as the bioactive compound responsible for numerous pharmacological activities of turmeric, including anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, etc. Nevertheless, the clinical application of curcumin is inadequate due to its low solubility, poor absorption, rapid metabolism and elimination. Advancements in recent research have shown several components and techniques to increase the bioavailability of curcumin. Combining with adjuvants, encapsulating in carriers and formulating in nanoforms, in combination with other bioactive agents, synthetic derivatives and structural analogs of curcumin, have shown increased efficiency and bioavailability, thereby augmenting the range of applications of curcumin. The scope for incorporating biotechnology and nanotechnology in amending the current drawbacks would help in expanding the biomedical applications and clinical efficacy of curcumin. Therefore, in this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the plethora of therapeutic potentials of curcumin, their drawbacks in efficient clinical applications and the recent advancements in improving curcumin's bioavailability for effective use in various biomedical applications.