Understanding the bidirectional interactions between two-dimensional materials, microorganisms, and the immune system

Eco-friendly versatile shielding revolution: Tannin tailored bamboo waste composite with wave-absorbing, flame retardancy, and antibacterial abilities

The swift evolution of fifth-generation technology has intensified the need for lightweight, high-efficiency, and low-reflection multifunctional electromagnetic interference shielding materials, crucial in combating escalating electromagnetic pollution in complex application environments. To tackle these challenges, an innovative solution has emerged: a biocomposite crafted from discarded bamboo materials. This innovation incorporates a meticulously engineered functional coating composed of tannic acid, boric acid, and polyvinyl alcohol. Additionally, the integration of highly conductive Ti3C2Tx (MXene) nanosheets onto the surface of bamboo powders enhances the EMI shielding efficiency of composites, achieving an impressive ∼40.9 dB. Meanwhile, significant improvements in mechanical reinforcement have been achieved, along with increases in the relative values of key performance indicators: tensile strength (89.8 %), tensile modulus (79.6 %), flexural strength (51.6 %), flexural modulus (35.1 %), and impact strength (45.4 %). Furthermore, the introduction of functional components grants the composite exceptional flame retardancy and antibacterial properties against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Beyond these strides, the utilization of bamboo waste as a composite pioneer a paradigm shift in waste utilization, converting refuse into invaluable resources.

Nanosafety: a Perspective on Nano-Bio Interactions

Engineered nanomaterials offer numerous benefits to society ranging from environmental remediation to biomedical applications such as drug or vaccine delivery as well as clean and cost-effective energy production and storage, and the promise of a more sustainable way of life. However, as nanomaterials of increasing sophistication enter the market, close attention to potential adverse effects on human health and the environment is needed. Here a critical perspective on nanotoxicological research is provided; the authors argue that it is time to leverage the knowledge regarding the biological interactions of nanomaterials to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of the human health and environmental impacts of these materials. Moreover, it is posited that nanomaterials behave like biological entities and that they should be regulated as such.

Looking both ways: Electroactive biomaterials with bidirectional implications for dynamic cell-material crosstalk

Cells exist in natural, dynamic microenvironmental niches that facilitate biological responses to external physicochemical cues such as mechanical and electrical stimuli. For excitable cells, exogenous electrical cues are of interest due to their ability to stimulate or regulate cellular behavior via cascade signaling involving ion channels, gap junctions, and integrin receptors across the membrane. In recent years, conductive biomaterials have been demonstrated to influence or record these electrosensitive biological processes whereby the primary design criterion is to achieve seamless cell-material integration. As such, currently available bioelectronic materials are predominantly engineered toward achieving high-performing devices while maintaining the ability to recapitulate the local excitable cell/tissue microenvironment. However, such reports rarely address the dynamic signal coupling or exchange that occurs at the biotic-abiotic interface, as well as the distinction between the ionic transport involved in natural biological process and the electronic (or mixed ionic/electronic) conduction commonly responsible for bioelectronic systems. In this review, we highlight current literature reports that offer platforms capable of bidirectional signal exchange at the biotic-abiotic interface with excitable cell types, along with the design criteria for such biomaterials. Furthermore, insights on current materials not yet explored for biointerfacing or bioelectronics that have potential for bidirectional applications are also provided. Finally, we offer perspectives aimed at bringing attention to the coupling of the signals delivered by synthetic material to natural biological conduction mechanisms, areas of improvement regarding characterizing biotic-abiotic crosstalk, as well as the dynamic nature of this exchange, to be taken into consideration for material/device design consideration for next-generation bioelectronic systems.

Nanodrug Delivery Systems for Myasthenia Gravis: Advances and Perspectives

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare chronic autoimmune disease caused by the production of autoantibodies against the postsynaptic membrane receptors present at the neuromuscular junction. This condition is characterized by fatigue and muscle weakness, including diplopia, ptosis, and systemic impairment. Emerging evidence suggests that in addition to immune dysregulation, the pathogenesis of MG may involve mitochondrial damage and ferroptosis. Mitochondria are the primary site of energy production, and the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated due to mitochondrial dysfunction can induce ferroptosis. Nanomedicines have been extensively employed to treat various disorders due to their modifiability and good biocompatibility, but their application in MG management has been rather limited. Nevertheless, nanodrug delivery systems that carry immunomodulatory agents, anti-oxidants, or ferroptosis inhibitors could be effective for the treatment of MG. Therefore, this review focuses on various nanoplatforms aimed at attenuating immune dysregulation, restoring mitochondrial function, and inhibiting ferroptosis that could potentially serve as promising agents for targeted MG therapy.

MoS2 2D materials induce spinal cord neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity affecting locomotor performance in zebrafish

MoS2 nanosheets belong to an emerging family of nanomaterials named bidimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDCs). The use of such promising materials, featuring outstanding chemical and physical properties, is expected to increase in several fields of science and technology, with an enhanced risk of environmental dispersion and associated wildlife and human exposures. In this framework, the assessment of MoS2 nanosheets toxicity is instrumental to safe industrial developments. Currently, the impact of the nanomaterial on the nervous tissue is unexplored. In this work, we use as in vivo experimental model the early-stage zebrafish, to investigate whether mechano-chemically exfoliated MoS2 nanosheets reach and affect, when added in the behavioral ambient, the nervous system. By high throughput screening of zebrafish larvae locomotor behavioral changes upon exposure to MoS2 nanosheets and whole organism live imaging of spinal neuronal and glial cell calcium activity, we report that sub-acute and prolonged ambient exposures to MoS2 nanosheets elicit locomotor abnormalities, dependent on dose and observation time. While 25 μg mL-1 concentration treatments exerted transient effects, 50 μg mL-1 ones induced long-lasting changes, correlated to neuroinflammation-driven alterations in the spinal cord, such as astrogliosis, glial intracellular calcium dysregulation, neuronal hyperactivity and motor axons retraction. By combining integrated technological approaches to zebrafish, we described that MoS2 2D nanomaterials can reach, upon water (i.e. ambient) exposure, the nervous system of larvae, resulting in a direct neurological damage.

Recent Advances in Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials for Healthcare Monitoring

The development of advanced technologies for the fabrication of functional nanomaterials, nanostructures, and devices has facilitated the development of biosensors for analyses. Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, with unique hierarchical structures, a high surface area, and the ability to be functionalized for target detection at the surface, exhibit high potential for biosensing applications. The electronic properties, mechanical flexibility, and optical, electrochemical, and physical properties of 2D nanomaterials can be easily modulated, enabling the construction of biosensing platforms for the detection of various analytes with targeted recognition, sensitivity, and selectivity. This review provides an overview of the recent advances in 2D nanomaterials and nanostructures used for biosensor and wearable-sensor development for healthcare and health-monitoring applications. Finally, the advantages of 2D-nanomaterial-based devices and several challenges in their optimal operation have been discussed to facilitate the development of smart high-performance biosensors in the future.

Tailoring functional two-dimensional nanohybrids: A comprehensive approach for enhancing photocatalytic remediation

Photocatalysis is gaining prominence as a viable alternative to conventional biohazard treatment technologies. Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have become crucial for fabricating novel photocatalysts due to their nanosheet architectures, large surface areas, and remarkable physicochemical properties. Furthermore, a variety of applications are possible with 2D nanomaterials, either in combination with other functional nanoparticles or by utilizing their inherent properties. Henceforth, the review commences its exploration into the synthesis of these materials, delving into their inherent properties and assessing their biocompatibility. Subsequently, an overview of mechanisms involved in the photocatalytic degradation of pollutants and the processes related to antimicrobial action is presented. As an integral part of our review, we conduct a systematic analysis of existing challenges and various types of 2D nanohybrid materials tailored for applications in the photocatalytic degradation of contaminants and the inactivation of pathogens through photocatalysis. This investigation will aid to contribute to the formulation of decision-making criteria and design principles for the next generation of 2D nanohybrid materials. Additionally, it is crucial to emphasize that further research is imperative for advancing our understanding of 2D nanohybrid materials.

Advances in MXene-based luminescence sensing strategies

MXenes have attracted the attention of many researchers as one of the latest two-dimensional (2D) materials over the last decade. Their great potential for biosensing has also been fully exploited after the discovery of their unique properties such as superior optical properties, excellent hydrophilicity, good thermal stability, excellent mechanical property, high electrical conductivity, biocompatibility, large surface area, and ease of surface functionalization. In the MXene-based luminescence sensing strategy, MXenes typically appear in the form of nanosheets, quantum dots and modified MXene nanocomposites, and they are utilized as different sensing platforms or as a luminescence source. In this review, we focused on the MXene-based luminescence sensing strategies, including fluorescence, electrochemiluminescence and chemiluminescence sensors and the comparison of their performance. Finally, the perspectives of the MXene-based luminescence sensors are discussed.

Black phosphorus-based nanoparticles induce liver cancer cell mitochondrial apoptosis and immune cell tumor infiltration for enhancing dendritic cell therapy

Cellular immunotherapy is a crucial aspect of current tumor immunotherapy, though it presents several challenges such as immune cell dysfunction, limited recognition of neoantigens, and inadequate lymphocyte infiltration into the tumor microenvironment. This study proposes a novel approach utilizing a combination of dendritic cell (DC)-based cellular immunotherapy and a photothermal nanoadjuvant black phosphorus (BP) nanoparticles to overcome these challenges. A new platform called PLGA@BP-R848, which consists of modifying poly-(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) onto BP nanosheets loading the immune adjuvant R848. The PLGA@BP-R848 nanoparticles demonstrated exceptional drug delivery and release capabilities, as well as a photothermal effect, biocompatibility, and the ability to activate the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway Blc-2-Bax-Cytochrome c-caspase-3 and inhibit the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway. In a hepatocellular carcinoma mouse model, the binding of PLGA@BP-R848 nanoparticles and dendritic cells primed with GPC3 peptides, successfully induced a systemic anti-tumor immune response. PLGA@BP-R848 nanoparticles bolster immune cell infiltration into tumors and induce cancer cell apoptosis. The synergistic therapy involving dendritic cells and photothermal nanoadjuvant effectively suppressed tumor growth, and facilitated the formation of tertiary lymphatic structures (TLS) in tumors. This study presents a novel approach in using photothermal nanoadjuvants to advance antitumor effect of cellular immunotherapy, such as DCs therapy.

Environmental and Health Impacts of Graphene and Other Two-Dimensional Materials: A Graphene Flagship Perspective

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have attracted tremendous interest ever since the isolation of atomically thin sheets of graphene in 2004 due to the specific and versatile properties of these materials. However, the increasing production and use of 2D materials necessitate a thorough evaluation of the potential impact on human health and the environment. Furthermore, harmonized test protocols are needed with which to assess the safety of 2D materials. The Graphene Flagship project (2013-2023), funded by the European Commission, addressed the identification of the possible hazard of graphene-based materials as well as emerging 2D materials including transition metal dichalcogenides, hexagonal boron nitride, and others. Additionally, so-called green chemistry approaches were explored to achieve the goal of a safe and sustainable production and use of this fascinating family of nanomaterials. The present review provides a compact survey of the findings and the lessons learned in the Graphene Flagship.

Advancing piezoelectric 2D nanomaterials for applications in drug delivery systems and therapeutic approaches

Precision drug delivery and multimodal synergistic therapy are crucial in treating diverse ailments, such as cancer, tissue damage, and degenerative diseases. Electrodes that emit electric pulses have proven effective in enhancing molecule release and permeability in drug delivery systems. Moreover, the physiological electrical microenvironment plays a vital role in regulating biological functions and triggering action potentials in neural and muscular tissues. Due to their unique noncentrosymmetric structures, many 2D materials exhibit outstanding piezoelectric performance, generating positive and negative charges under mechanical forces. This ability facilitates precise drug targeting and ensures high stimulus responsiveness, thereby controlling cellular destinies. Additionally, the abundant active sites within piezoelectric 2D materials facilitate efficient catalysis through piezochemical coupling, offering multimodal synergistic therapeutic strategies. However, the full potential of piezoelectric 2D nanomaterials in drug delivery system design remains underexplored due to research gaps. In this context, the current applications of piezoelectric 2D materials in disease management are summarized in this review, and the development of drug delivery systems influenced by these materials is forecast.

Nanocrystals for Deep-Tissue In Vivo Luminescence Imaging in the Near-Infrared Region

In vivo imaging technologies have emerged as a powerful tool for both fundamental research and clinical practice. In particular, luminescence imaging in the tissue-transparent near-infrared (NIR, 700-1700 nm) region offers tremendous potential for visualizing biological architectures and pathophysiological events in living subjects with deep tissue penetration and high imaging contrast owing to the reduced light-tissue interactions of absorption, scattering, and autofluorescence. The distinctive quantum effects of nanocrystals have been harnessed to achieve exceptional photophysical properties, establishing them as a promising category of luminescent probes. In this comprehensive review, the interactions between light and biological tissues, as well as the advantages of NIR light for in vivo luminescence imaging, are initially elaborated. Subsequently, we focus on achieving deep tissue penetration and improved imaging contrast by optimizing the performance of nanocrystal fluorophores. The ingenious design strategies of NIR nanocrystal probes are discussed, along with their respective biomedical applications in versatile in vivo luminescence imaging modalities. Finally, thought-provoking reflections on the challenges and prospects for future clinical translation of nanocrystal-based in vivo luminescence imaging in the NIR region are wisely provided.

Recent Advances of Emerging Metal-Containing Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials in Tumor Theranostics

In recent years, metal-containing two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, among various 2D nanomaterials have attracted widespread attention because of their unique physical and chemical properties, especially in the fields of biomedical applications. Firstly, the review provides a brief introduction to two types of metal-containing 2D nanomaterials, based on whether metal species take up the major skeleton of the 2D nanomaterials. After this, the synthetical approaches are summarized, focusing on two strategies similar to other 2D nanomaterials, top-down and bottom-up methods. Then, the performance and evaluation of these 2D nanomaterials when applied to cancer therapy are discussed in detail. The specificity of metal-containing 2D nanomaterials in physics and optics makes them capable of killing cancer cells in a variety of ways, such as photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, sonodynamic therapy, chemodynamic therapy and so on. Besides, the integrated platform of diagnosis and treatment and the clinical translatability through metal-containing 2D nanomaterials is also introduced in this review. In the summary and perspective section, advanced rational design, challenges and promising clinical contributions to cancer therapy of these emerging metal-containing 2D nanomaterials are discussed.

The gut microbiome meets nanomaterials: exposure and interplay with graphene nanoparticles

Graphene-based nanoparticles are widely applied in many technology and science sectors, raising concerns about potential health risks. Emerging evidence suggests that graphene-based nanomaterials may interact with microorganisms, both pathogens and commensal bacteria, that dwell in the gut. This review aims to demonstrate the current state of knowledge on the interplay between graphene nanomaterials and the gut microbiome. In this study, we briefly overview nanomaterials, their usage and the characteristics of graphene-based nanoparticles. We present and discuss experimental data from in vitro studies, screening tests on small animals and rodent experiments related to exposure and the effects of graphene nanoparticles on gut microbiota. With this in mind, we highlight the reported crosstalk between graphene nanostructures, the gut microbial community and the host immune system in order to shed light on the perspective to bear on the biological interactions. The studies show that graphene-based material exposure is dosage and time-dependent, and different derivatives present various effects on host bacteria cells. Moreover, the route of graphene exposure might influence a shift in the gut microbiota composition, including the alteration of functions and diversity and abundance of specific phyla or genera. However, the mechanism of graphene-based nanomaterials' influence on gut microbiota is poorly understood. Accordingly, this review emphasises the importance of studies needed to establish the most desirable synthesis methods, types of derivatives, properties, and safety aspects mainly related to the routes of exposure and dosages of graphene-based nanomaterials.

Two-dimensional molybdenum disulfide nanosheets evoke nitric oxide-dependent antibacterial effects

Nanomaterials are currently being explored as novel antimicrobial agents. In this study, we first investigated the ability of two-dimensional (2D) molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets to trigger neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) using neutrophil-differentiated HL-60 cells as well as primary human peripheral blood neutrophils. We then addressed whether the MoS2 nanosheets themselves function as antibacterial agents. We found that MoS2 and Na2MoO4 both triggered NETs, as evidenced by the quantification of neutrophil elastase (NE) activity and immunofluorescence staining of extracellular NE, as well as scanning electron microscopy. The release of NETs was found to be nitric oxide (NO)-dependent. We also found that the MoS2 nanosheets but not the soluble salt prompted acellular NO production in the presence of NaNO2. The acellular generation of NO, suggestive of nanozyme properties of the MoS2 nanosheets, was demonstrated by electron paramagnetic resonance analysis. Electrochemical analysis using cyclic voltammetry confirmed the redox transition of the MoS2 nanosheets. Finally, MoS2 nanosheets inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli in the presence of sodium nitrate. Taken together, MoS2 nanosheets triggered cellular effects as well as acellular antibacterial effects, and we provided evidence for nitrite reductase-like properties of MoS2.

The Influence of the Microbiome on Immunotherapy for Gastroesophageal Cancer

Immunotherapy has shown promise as a treatment option for gastroesophageal cancer, but its effectiveness is limited in many patients due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) commonly found in gastrointestinal tumors. This paper explores the impact of the microbiome on the TME and immunotherapy outcomes in gastroesophageal cancer. The microbiome, comprising microorganisms within the gastrointestinal tract, as well as within malignant tissue, plays a crucial role in modulating immune responses and tumor development. Dysbiosis and reduced microbial diversity are associated with poor response rates and treatment resistance, while specific microbial profiles correlate with improved outcomes. Understanding the complex interactions between the microbiome, tumor biology, and immunotherapy is crucial for developing targeted interventions. Microbiome-based biomarkers may enable personalized treatment approaches and prediction of patient response. Interventions targeting the microbiome, such as microbiota-based therapeutics and dietary modifications, offer the potential for reshaping the gut microbiota and creating a favorable TME that enhances immunotherapy efficacy. Further research is needed to reveal the underlying mechanisms, and large-scale clinical trials will be required to validate the efficacy of microbiome-targeted interventions.

The role of macrophages in rosacea: implications for targeted therapies

Introduction

Rosacea, a widespread chronic skin condition, may be influenced by macrophages, key immune cells in the skin, although their exact role is not yet fully understood. This review delves into the function of macrophages, their potential contribution to rosacea pathogenesis, current treatments, and promising macrophage-targeted therapies. It concludes by identifying knowledge gaps and potential areas for future rosacea research.

Method

Leveraging systematic and narrative literature review techniques, we conducted a comprehensive search of databases such as PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Utilizing keywords like "rosacea" and "macrophages", we targeted English articles from the last 5 years (2018-2023). We manually checked reference lists of relevant articles for additional studies. We included only articles emphasizing macrophages' role in rosacea and/or the development of related therapies and published within the specified timeframe.

Results

The systematic search of electronic databases yielded a total of 4,263 articles. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 156 articles were selected for inclusion in this review. These articles included original research studies, review articles, and clinical trials that focused on the role of macrophages in rosacea and/or the development of macrophage-targeted therapies for the disease. The selected articles provided a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the current state of research on macrophages in rosacea, including their function in the skin, the potential mechanisms through which they may contribute to rosacea pathogenesis, and the current treatments and therapies available for the disease. Additionally, the articles identified gaps in knowledge regarding the role of macrophages in rosacea and suggested potential areas for future research.

Conclusion

This literature review emphasizes the important role that macrophages, vital immune cells in the skin, may play in the pathogenesis of rosacea, a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder. The selected studies suggest potential mechanisms by which these cells might contribute to rosacea progression, although these mechanisms are not yet fully understood. The studies also spotlight current rosacea treatments and illuminate the promising potential of new macrophage-focused therapies. Despite these insights, significant gaps persist in our understanding of the precise role of macrophages in rosacea. Future research in this area could provide further insights into the pathogenesis of rosacea and contribute to the development of more effective, targeted therapeutic strategies.

Dietary artemisinin boosts intestinal immunity and healthy in fat greenling (Hexagrammos otakii)

Introduction

Artemisinin (ART) is very common as a diet additive due to its immunoregulatory activities. Nonetheless, the immunoregulatory mechanism of ART in marine fish remains unknown. This study comprehensively examined the effects and explored the potential mechanism of ART ameliorating intestinal immune disease (IID) in fat greenlings (Hexagrammos otakii).

Methods and results

The targets of ART were screened using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. Here, eight putative targets of ART were collected and identified with the Uniprot database, and 1419 IID-associated target proteins were filtered through the Drugbank, Genecards, OMIM, and PHARMGKB Databases. The results of Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways point out that ART may have immunoprotective effects by regulating cellular responses to stress, hypoxia, inflammation, and vascular endothelial growth factor stimulus through the hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) signaling pathway. The findings of molecular docking indicated that ART contains one active ingredient and three cross-targets, which showed a kind combination with hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF1-a), transcription factor p65 (RELA), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), respectively. Furthermore, an ART feeding model was established to assess the ART's immunoprotect effect on the intestine of H.otakii in vivo. The D48 group showed smaller intestinal structural changes after being challenged by Edwardsiella tarda. The supplementation of ART to the diet improved total superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and reduced the malondialdehyde (MDA) in intestine of H. otakii. The expression of transcription factor p65, HIF1-α, VEGF-A, cyclin D1, matrix metalloprotease 9 (MMP9), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) was decreased after dietary ART in the intestinal of H. otakii.

Discussion

The present results demonstrated that dietary ART improved antioxidants and immunity, optimized the intestinal structure, and increased resistance to E. tarda through the SOD2/nuclear-factor-kappa- B (NFkB)/HIF1-a/VEGF-A pathway in the intestinal tract of H.otakii. This study integrated pharmacological analysis and experimental validation and revealed the mechanism of ART on IID, which provides insight into the improvement of IID in H. otakii.

Biomimetic nanoparticles for tumor immunotherapy

Currently, tumor treatment research still focuses on the cancer cells themselves, but the fact that the immune system plays an important role in inhibiting tumor development cannot be ignored. The activation of the immune system depends on the difference between self and non-self. Unfortunately, cancer is characterized by genetic changes in the host cells that lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and evade immune surveillance. Cancer immunotherapy aims to coordinate a patient's immune system to target, fight, and destroy cancer cells without destroying the normal cells. Nevertheless, antitumor immunity driven by the autoimmune system alone may be inadequate for treatment. The development of drug delivery systems (DDS) based on nanoparticles can not only promote immunotherapy but also improve the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (ITM), which provides promising strategies for cancer treatment. However, conventional nano drug delivery systems (NDDS) are subject to several limitations in clinical transformation, such as immunogenicity and the potential toxicity risks of the carrier materials, premature drug leakage at off-target sites during circulation and drug load content. In order to address these limitations, this paper reviews the trends and progress of biomimetic NDDS and discusses the applications of each biomimetic system in tumor immunotherapy. Furthermore, we review the various combination immunotherapies based on biomimetic NDDS and key considerations for clinical transformation.