Free zinc ions, as a major factor of ZnONP toxicity, disrupts free radical homeostasis in CCRF-CEM cells

Antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity potentials of green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles using the aqueous extract of Helichrysum cymosum

The current research involved the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using an aqueous extract of Helichrysum cymosum shoots, and subsequent characterization via different analytical methods, such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscope (TEM), and zeta potential. The biological effects of the ZnO-NPs were then tested against C3A hepatocyte cells and L6 myocyte cell lines via series of analysis, including cytotoxicity, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic effect via enzymatic inhibition. The UV-Vis analysis showed a maximum absorption spectrum at 360, and the TEM analysis reveals a spherical and hexagonal structures, with an average dimension of 28.05-58.3 nm, and the XRD reveals a crystalline hexagonal structure. The zeta potential evaluation indicated that the ZnO-NPs are relatively stable at - 20 mV, and the FTIR analysis identified some important functional group associated with phenolics, carboxylic acid, and amides that are responsible for reducing and stabilizing the ZnO-NPs. The synthesized ZnO-NPs demonstrated cytotoxic effects on the cell lines at higher concentrations (125 µg/mL and 250 µg/mL), complicating the interpretation of the results of the inflammatory and antioxidant assays. However, there was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the inhibitions of pancreatic lipase, alpha-glucosidase, and alpha-amylase, indicating beneficial antidiabetic effects.

Long-term exposure to PM2.5 leads to mitochondrial damage and differential expression of associated circRNA in rat hepatocytes

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is one of the four major causes of mortality globally. The objective of this study was to investigate the mechanism underlying liver injury following exposure to PM2.5 and the involvement of circRNA in its regulation. A PM2.5 respiratory tract exposure model was established in SPF SD male rats with a dose of 20 mg/kg, and liver tissue of rats in control group and PM2.5-exposed groups rats were detected. The results of ICP-MS showed that Mn, Cu and Ni were enriched in the liver. HE staining showed significant pathological changes in liver tissues of PM2.5-exposed group, transmission electron microscopy showed significant changes in mitochondrial structure of liver cells, and further mitochondrial function detection showed that the PM2.5 exposure resulted in an increase in cell reactive oxygen species content and a decrease in mitochondrial transmembrane potential, while the expression of SOD1 and HO-1 antioxidant oxidase genes was upregulated. Through high-throughput sequencing of circRNAs, we observed a significant down-regulation of 10 and an up-regulation of 17 circRNAs in the PM2.5-exposed groups. The functional enrichment and pathway analyses indicated that the differentially expressed circRNAs by PM2.5 exposure were primarily associated with processes related to protein ubiquitination, zinc ion binding, peroxisome function, and mitochondrial regulation. These findings suggest that the mechanism underlying liver injury induced by PM2.5-exposure may be associated with mitochondrial impairment resulting from the presence of heavy metal constituents. Therefore, this study provides a novel theoretical foundation for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying liver injury induced by PM2.5 exposure.

The utilization of nanotechnology in the female reproductive system and related disorders

The health of the reproductive system is intricately linked to female fertility and quality of life. There has been a growing prevalence of reproductive system disorders among women, particularly in younger age groups, resulting in significant adverse effects on their reproductive health. Consequently, there is an urgent need for effective treatment modalities. Nanotechnology, as an advanced discipline, provides innovative avenues for managing and treating diseases of the female reproductive system by enabling precise manipulation and regulation of biological molecules and cells. By utilizing nanodelivery systems, drugs can be administered with pinpoint accuracy, leading to reduced side effects and improved therapeutic efficacy. Moreover, nanomaterial imaging techniques enhance diagnostic precision and sensitivity, aiding in the assessment of disease severity and progression. Furthermore, the implementation of nanobiosensors facilitates early detection and prevention of ailments. This comprehensive review aims to summarize recent applications of nanotechnology in the treatment of female reproductive system diseases. The latest advancements in drug delivery, diagnosis, and treatment approaches will be discussed, with an emphasis on the potential of nanotechnology to improve treatment outcomes and overall quality of life.