Preparation and characterization of epigallocatechin gallate, ascorbic acid, gelatin, chitosan nanoparticles and their beneficial effect on wound healing of diabetic mice

Morin-Based Nanoparticles for Regulation of Blood Glucose

Morin, a naturally occurring bioactive compound shows great potential as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory agent, and regulator of blood glucose levels. However, its low water solubility, poor lipid solubility, limited bioavailability, and rapid clearance in vivo hinder its application in blood glucose regulation. To address these limitations, we report an enzymatically synthesized nanosized morin particle (MNs) encapsulated in sodium alginate microgels (M@SA). This approach significantly enhances morin's delivery efficiency and therapeutic efficacy in blood glucose regulation. Utilizing horseradish peroxidase, we synthesized MNs averaging 305.7 ± 88.7 nm in size. These MNs were then encapsulated via electrohydrodynamic microdroplet spraying to form M@SA microgels. In vivo studies revealed that M@SA microgels demonstrated prolonged intestinal retention and superior efficacy compared with unmodified morin and MNs alone. Moreover, MNs notably improved glucose uptake in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, M@SA microgels effectively regulated blood glucose, lipid profiles, and oxidative stress in diabetic mice while mitigating liver, kidney, and pancreatic damage and enhancing anti-inflammatory responses. Our findings propose a promising strategy for the oral administration of natural compounds for blood glucose regulation, with implications for broader therapeutic applications.

Advancements in wound healing: integrating biomolecules, drug delivery carriers, and targeted therapeutics for enhanced tissue repair

Wound healing, a critical biological process vital for tissue restoration, has spurred a global market exceeding $15 billion for wound care products and $12 billion for scar treatment. Chronic wounds lead to delayed or impaired wound healing. Natural bioactive compounds, prized for minimal side effects, stand out as promising candidates for effective wound healing. In response, researchers are turning to nanotechnology, employing the encapsulation of these agents into drug delivery carriers. Drug delivery system will play a crucial role in enabling targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to promote tissue regeneration and address underlying issues such as inflammation, infection, and impaired angiogenesis in chronic wound healing. Drug delivery carriers offer distinct advantages, exhibiting a substantial ratio of surface area to volume and altered physical and chemical properties. These carriers facilitate sustained and controlled release, proving particularly advantageous for the extended process of wound healing, that typically comprise a diverse range of components, integrating both natural and synthetic polymers. Additionally, they often incorporate bioactive molecules. Despite their properties, including poor solubility, rapid degradation, and limited bioavailability, various natural bioactive agents face challenges in clinical applications. With a global research, emphasis on harnessing nanomaterial for wound healing application, this research overview engages advancing drug delivery technologies to augment the effectiveness of tissue regeneration using bioactive molecules. Recent progress in drug delivery has poised to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of natural compounds in wound healing applications.

Bioinspired Zn-MOF doped radial porous chitosan-based sponge with antibacterial and antioxidant properties for rapid hemostasis and wound healing

Herein, a novel bioinspired radial porous zinc-based metal-organic framework (Zn-MOF) doped sodium alginate/chitosan derivatives/pullulan-based SA/PSCS/Pul/Zn-MOF (SPCP/Zn) composites sponge with excellent antioxidant and antibacterial properties was fabricated by the ice-templating method. Boric acid (BA) and Ca2+, which were respectively used as hydrogen- and ionic- bonding cross-linkers, provided strong mechanical properties for sponge matrix composed of SA, PSCS, and Pul. The obtained SPCP/Zn sponge exhibited uniform porous morphology, proper hydrophilicity, and admirable biocompatibility. In addition, the SPCP/Zn sponge achieved a sustained release of Zn2+ and gallic acid, which displayed powerful antibacterial and antioxidant activities. Importantly, the SPCP/Zn sponge exhibited shorter rapid hemostasis (20.4 ± 2.9 s) and lower blood loss (19.8 ± 4.3 mg). The SPCP/Zn sponge also showed faster wound closure ratio for the rat full-thickness skin defect model. It was revealed that SPCP/Zn sponge could significantly accelerate and enhance wound healing through downregulating inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and increasing the expression of growth factors (VEGF). Due to its excellent properties, the SPCP/Zn sponge may have promising potential in wound healing applications.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate promotes wound healing response in diabetic mice by activating keratinocytes and promoting re-epithelialization

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a metabolic disorder that causes numerous complications including impaired wound healing and poses a significant challenge for the management of diabetic patients. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a natural polyphenol that exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative benefits in skin wounds, however, the direct effect of EGCG on epidermal keratinocytes, the primary cells required for re-epithelialization in wound healing remains unknown. Our study aims to examine the underlying mechanisms of EGCG's ability to promote re-epithelialization and wound healing in T2D-induced wounds. Murine models of wound healing in T2D were established via feeding high-fat high-fructose diet (HFFD) and the creation of full-thickness wounds. Mice were administered daily with EGCG or vehicle to examine the wound healing response and underlying molecular mechanisms of EGCG's protective effects. Systemic administration of EGCG in T2D mice robustly accelerated the wound healing response following injury. EGCG induced nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and promoted cytokeratin 16 (K16) expression to activate epidermal keratinocytes and robustly promoted re-epithelialization of wounds in diabetic mice. Further, EGCG demonstrated high binding affinity with Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), thereby inhibiting KEAP1-mediated degradation of NRF2. Our findings provide important evidence that EGCG accelerates the wound healing response in diabetic mice by activating epidermal keratinocytes, thereby promoting re-epithelialization of wounds via K16/NRF2/KEAP1 signaling axis. These mechanistic insights into the protective effects of EGCG further suggest its therapeutic potential as a promising drug for treating chronic wounds in T2D.

Cross-Linked Alginate Dialdehyde/Chitosan Hydrogel Encompassing Curcumin-Loaded Bilosomes for Enhanced Wound Healing Activity

The current study aimed to fabricate curcumin-loaded bilosomal hydrogel for topical wound healing purposes, hence alleviating the poor aqueous solubility and low oral bioavailability of curcumin. Bilosomes were fabricated via the thin film hydration technique using cholesterol, Span® 60, and two different types of bile salts (sodium deoxycholate or sodium cholate). Bilosomes were verified for their particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential (ZP), entrapment efficiency (EE%), and in vitro drug release besides their morphological features. The optimum formulation was composed of cholesterol/Span® 60 (molar ratio 1:10 w/w) and 5 mg of sodium deoxycholate. This optimum formulation was composed of a PS of 246.25 ± 11.85 nm, PDI of 0.339 ± 0.030, ZP of -36.75 ± 0.14 mv, EE% of 93.32% ± 0.40, and the highest percent of drug released over three days (96.23% ± 0.02). The optimum bilosomal formulation was loaded into alginate dialdehyde/chitosan hydrogel cross-linked with calcium chloride. The loaded hydrogel was tested for its water uptake capacity, in vitro drug release, and in vivo studies on male Albino rats. The results showed that the loaded hydrogel possessed a high-water uptake percent at the four-week time point (729.50% ± 43.13) before it started to disintegrate gradually; in addition, it showed sustained drug release for five days (≈100%). In vivo animal testing and histopathological studies supported the superiority of the curcumin-loaded bilosomal hydrogel in wound healing compared to the curcumin dispersion and plain hydrogel, where there was a complete wound closure attained after the three-week period with a proper healing mechanism. Finally, it was concluded that curcumin-loaded bilosomal hydrogel offered a robust, efficient, and user-friendly dosage form for wound healing.

Biomolecular and cellular effects in skin wound healing: the association between ascorbic acid and hypoxia-induced factor

The skin serves as a barrier to protect the body from environmental microorganisms and is the largest tissue of the body and any damage must be quickly and effectively repaired. The fundamental purpose of dermal fibroblasts is to produce and secrete extracellular matrix, which is crucial for healing wounds. The production of collagen by dermal fibroblasts requires the cofactor ascorbic acid, a free radical scavenger. In skin wounds, the presence of Ascorbic acid (AA) decreases the expression of pro-inflammatory factors and increases the expression of wound-healing factors. In addition, AA plays an important role in all three phases of wound healing, including inflammation, proliferation, and regeneration. On the other hand, growing evidence indicates that hypoxia improves the wound healing performance of mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium compared to the normoxic-conditioned medium. In a hypoxic-conditioned medium, the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and keratinocytes (important cells in accelerating skin wound healing) increase. In this review, the role of AA, hypoxia, and their interactions on wound healing will be discussed and summarized by the in vitro and in vivo studies conducted to date.

Copper-Epigallocatechin Gallate Enhances Therapeutic Effects of 3D-Printed Dermal Scaffolds in Mitigating Diabetic Wound Scarring

Morbid dermal templates, microangiopathy, and abnormal inflammation are the three most critical reasons for the scarred healing and the high recurrence rate of diabetic wounds. In this present study, a combination of a methacrylated decellularized extracellular matrix (ECMMA, aka EM)-based hydrogel system loaded with copper-epigallocatechin gallate (Cu-EGCG) capsules is proposed to fabricate bio-printed dermal scaffolds for diabetic wound treatment. Copper ions act as a bioactive element for promoting angiogenesis, and EGCG can inhibit inflammation on the wound site. In addition to the above activities, EM/Cu-EGCG (E/C) dermal scaffolds can also provide optimized templates and nutrient exchange space for guiding the orderly deposition and remodeling of ECM. In vitro experiments have shown that the E/C hydrogel can promote angiogenesis and inhibit the polarization of macrophages to the M1 pro-inflammatory phenotype. In the full-thickness skin defect model of diabetic rats, the E/C dermal scaffold combined with split-thickness skin graft transplantation can alleviate pathological scarring via promoting angiogenesis and driving macrophage polarization to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. These may be attributed to the scaffold-actuated expression of angiogenesis-related genes in the HIF-1α/vascular endothelial growth factor pathway and decreased expression of inflammation-related genes in the TNF-α/NF-κB/MMP9 pathway. The results of this study show that the E/C dermal scaffold could serve as a promising artificial dermal analogue for solving the problems of delayed wound healing and reulceration of diabetic wounds.

Biochemical and histological insights of 1,4-polyisoprene isolated from Sphenocentrum jollyanum pierre (menispermaceae) stem in wound healing activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sphenocentrum jollyanum whole stem extract is used traditionally in combination with its leaves to treat chronic wounds and also ameliorate conditions that exacerbate wounds such as diabetes mellitus.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study isolated the major wound healing bioactive compound from the non-polar fraction of S. jollyanum extract and evaluated the in vivo wound healing activity of a 0.10% w/w 1,4-polyisoprene-based ointment in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The major bioactive constituent of S. jollyanum was isolated using a wound healing activity-guided approach and characterized the compound using 1D and 2D-NMR spectroscopic techniques. The wound healing activity study adopted both excision (wound contraction) and incision (biochemical) models.

RESULTS

In the excision model, the 1,4-polyisoprene caused 99% wound closure and restored the excised wound on day 12. On the 6th and 12th post-wounding days, 1,4-polyisoprene caused a significant (p < 0.001) elevation in the tensile strength (486 g) of the incision wound compared with the control (388 g). The biochemical (hexosamine and hydroxyproline) and antioxidant/inflammatory (ascorbic acid, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase) parameters increased significantly while malondialdehyde was down-regulated in the wounds treated with 1,4-polyisoprene compared with control. The histological analysis of tissue sections taken from the edge and center of the wounds at 0-12 days post wounding revealed an increased tissue regeneration, accelerated collagen formation, and epidermal regeneration without edema or inflammation on the 12th day.

CONCLUSION

The major wound healing constituent of S. jollyanum is 1,4-polyisoprene and the study has provided a new class of compounds for further optimization.

Sustainable Approach of Functional Biomaterials-Tissue Engineering for Skin Burn Treatment: A Comprehensive Review

Burns are a widespread global public health traumatic injury affecting many people worldwide. Non-fatal burn injuries are a leading cause of morbidity, resulting in prolonged hospitalization, disfigurement, and disability, often with resulting stigma and rejection. The treatment of burns is aimed at controlling pain, removing dead tissue, preventing infection, reducing scarring risk, and tissue regeneration. Traditional burn wound treatment methods include the use of synthetic materials such as petroleum-based ointments and plastic films. However, these materials can be associated with negative environmental impacts and may not be biocompatible with the human body. Tissue engineering has emerged as a promising approach to treating burns, and sustainable biomaterials have been developed as an alternative treatment option. Green biomaterials such as collagen, cellulose, chitosan, and others are biocompatible, biodegradable, environment-friendly, and cost-effective, which reduces the environmental impact of their production and disposal. They are effective in promoting wound healing and reducing the risk of infection and have other benefits such as reducing inflammation and promoting angiogenesis. This comprehensive review focuses on the use of multifunctional green biomaterials that have the potential to revolutionize the way we treat skin burns, promoting faster and more efficient healing while minimizing scarring and tissue damage.

Modulating Inflammation-Mediated Diseases via Natural Phenolic Compounds Loaded in Nanocarrier Systems

The global increase and prevalence of inflammatory-mediated diseases have been a great menace to human welfare. Several works have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory potentials of natural polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoid derivatives (EGCG, rutin, apigenin, naringenin) and phenolic acids (GA, CA, etc.), among others (resveratrol, curcumin, etc.). In order to improve the stability and bioavailability of these natural polyphenolic compounds, their recent loading applications in both organic (liposomes, micelles, dendrimers, etc.) and inorganic (mesoporous silica, heavy metals, etc.) nanocarrier technologies are being employed. A great number of studies have highlighted that, apart from improving their stability and bioavailability, nanocarrier systems also enhance their target delivery, while reducing drug toxicity and adverse effects. This review article, therefore, covers the recent advances in the drug delivery of anti-inflammatory agents loaded with natural polyphenolics by the application of both organic and inorganic nanocarriers. Even though nanocarrier technology offers a variety of possible anti-inflammatory advantages to naturally occurring polyphenols, the complexes' inherent properties and mechanisms of action have not yet been fully investigated. Thus, expanding the quest on novel natural polyphenolic-loaded delivery systems, together with the optimization of complexes' activity toward inflammation, will be a new direction of future efforts.

Bio-functional hydrogel with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory dual properties to combat with burn wound infection

Burn infection delays wound healing and increases the burn patient mortality. Consequently, a new dressing with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory dual properties is urgently required for wound healing. In this study, we propose a combination of methacrylate gelatin (GelMA) hydrogel system with silver nanoparticles embed in γ-cyclodextrin metal-organic frameworks (Ag@MOF) and hyaluronic acid-epigallocatechin gallate (HA-E) for the burn wound infection treatment. Ag@MOF is used as an antibacterial agent and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has exhibited biological properties of anti-inflammation and antibacterial. The GelMA/HA-E/Ag@MOF hydrogel enjoys suitable physical properties and sustained release of Ag+. Meanwhile, the hydrogel has excellent biocompatibility and could promote macrophage polarization from M1 to M2. In vivo wound healing evaluations further demonstrate that the GelMA/HA-E/Ag@MOF hydrogel reduces the number of the bacterium efficiently, accelerates wound healing, promotes early angiogenesis, and regulates immune reaction. A further evaluation indicates that the noncanonical Wnt signal pathway is significantly activated in the GelMA/HA-E/Ag@MOF hydrogel treated group. In conclusion, the GelMA/HA-E/Ag@MOF hydrogel could serve as a promising multifunctional dressing for the burn wound healing.

Effects of green tea polyphenol extract and epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate on diabetes mellitus and diabetic complications: Recent advances

Diabetes mellitus is one of the major non-communicable diseases accounting for millions of death annually and increasing economic burden. Hyperglycemic condition in diabetes creates oxidative stress that plays a pivotal role in developing diabetes complications affecting multiple organs such as the heart, liver, kidney, retina, and brain. Green tea from the plant Camellia sinensis is a common beverage popular in many countries for its health benefits. Green tea extract (GTE) is rich in many biologically active compounds, e.g., epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG), which acts as a potent antioxidant. Recently, several lines of evidence have shown the promising results of GTE and EGCG for diabetes management. Here, we have critically reviewed the effects of GTE and EGCC on diabetes in animal models and clinical studies. The concerns and challenges regarding the clinical use of GTE and EGCG against diabetes are also briefly discussed. Numerous beneficial effects of green tea and its catechins, particularly EGCG, make this natural product an attractive pharmacological agent that can be further developed to treat diabetes and its complications.

A Comprehensive Review of the Application of Nanoparticles in Diabetic Wound Healing: Therapeutic Potential and Future Perspectives

Diabetic wounds are one of the most challenging public health issues of the 21st century due to their inadequate vascular supply, bacterial infections, high levels of oxidative stress, and abnormalities in antioxidant defenses, whereas there is no effective treatment for diabetic wounds. Due to the distinct properties of nanoparticles, such as their small particle size, elevated cellular uptake, low cytotoxicity, antibacterial activity, good biocompatibility, and biodegradability. The application of nanoparticles has been widely used in the treatment of diabetic wound healing due to their superior anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities. These nanoparticles can also be loaded with various agents, such as organic molecules (eg, exosomes, small molecule compounds, etc.), inorganic molecules (metals, nonmetals, etc.), or complexed with various biomaterials, such as smart hydrogels (HG), chitosan (CS), and hyaluronic acid (HA), to augment their therapeutic potential in diabetic wounds. This paper reviews the therapeutic potential and future perspective of nanoparticles in the treatment of diabetic wounds. Together, nanoparticles represent a promising strategy in the treatment of diabetic wound healing. The future direction may be to develop novel nanoparticles with multiple effects that not only act in wound healing at all stages of diabetes but also provide a stable physiological environment throughout the wound-healing process.

Simultaneous loading of (-)-epigallocatechin gallate and ferulic acid in chitosan-based nanoparticles as effective antioxidant and potential skin-whitening agents

Chitosan (CS) based nanoparticles simultaneously loaded with (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and ferulic acid (FA) were fabricated via ionic gelation method modified by sodium tripolyphosphate and genipin (G-CS-EGCG-FA NPs). The particle size, morphology, entrapment efficiency, rheological properties, antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activity of NPs were investigated. The G-CS-EGCG-FA NPs exhibited irregular ellipsoidal shape with average diameter of 412.3 nm and high DPPH and ABTS·⁺ scavenging ability. The entrapment efficiency of EGCG and FA in NPs was 46.0 ± 1.3 % and 46.8 ± 1.6 %, respectively. CS-based NPs show no toxic effects on NIH 3 T3 cells and B16-F10 melanoma cells with concentration <200 μg/mL and 25 μg/mL, respectively and the cell viability ranged from 100 % to 118 %. Meanwhile, the oxidative repaired capacity of G-CS-EGCG-FA NPs (200 μg/mL) in H₂O₂-induced cells was over 100 %, higher than that of the same dose of free EGCG or FA. Moreover, the tyrosinase inhibition activity of G-CS-EGCG-FA NPs (25 μg/mL) (84.6 %) was more potent than that of free EGCG (55.3 %), free FA (47.1 %) and kojic acid, indicating the good skin repairing and whitening ability of G-CS-EGCG-FA NPs. Given these results, this research provides new insights for designing novel particles loaded with dual bioactive agents that possess synergistic benefits.

Photochemoprevention of ultraviolet Beam Radiation-induced DNA damage in keratinocytes by topical delivery of nanoformulated Epigallocatechin-3-gallate

Ultraviolet Beam (UVB) radiation is the main cause of skin cancer worldwide. Besides biocompatibility, the instability and limited skin permeability are the most challenging features of many effective photochemopreventive agents. (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a natural polyphenolic compound extracted from Camellia sinensis that has been demonstrated to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. We evaluated the efficacy of three innovative EGCG nanoformulations in chemoprevention of UVB-induced DNA damage in keratinocytes. Results indicated that the EGCG nanoformulations reduced UVB-induced oxidative stress elevation and DNA damage. The nanoformulations also reduced the UVB-induced formation of pyrimidine and pyrimidone photoproducts in 2D human immortalized HaCaT keratinocytes and SKH-1 hairless mice through antioxidant effects and possibly through absorption of UVB radiation. In addition, EGCG nanoformulations inhibited UVB-induced chemokine/cytokine activation and promoted EGCG skin permeability and stability. Taken together, the results suggest the use of EGCG nanoformulations as potential natural chemopreventive agents during exposure to UVB radiation.

Main Pathological Changes of Benign Ureteral Strictures

Objective

To identify the pathological classification of benign ureteral strictures according to the histological features and explore the relationship between various pathological types and inflammatory cells, fibroblasts, and collagen.

Patients and Methods

Thirty one specimens from patients diagnosed with ureteral strictures between 2013 and 2021 were included and classified according to the histopathological characteristics. The number of fibroblasts and inflammatory cells was counted, and the proportion of type I and type III collagen in ureteral stricture tissues was detected by picrosirius red staining.

Results

We identified three types of benign ureteral strictures in 31 specimens: inflammatory cell infiltration (n = 10, 32%), fibroplasia (n = 14, 45%), and hyalinization (n = 7, 23%), with significant differences in obstruction history and hydronephrosis grades among the three types. The number of inflammatory cells (lymphocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils) was significantly lower in hyalinization ureteral strictures than in the other two types (p &lt; 0.05). The number of foreign-body giant cells associated with foreign-body reactions increased significantly in suture-induced ureteral strictures (p &lt; 0.05). Fibroplasia type had the largest number of fibroblasts, whereas the other two types had smaller numbers. The results of type I and III collagen analysis showed that type I and III collagen were the most abundant in hyalinization among all ureteral stricture types (p &lt; 0.05). Compared to ureteral strictures, the content of type I and III collagen in atresia increased significantly (p &lt; 0.05).

Conclusion

Common pathological types of benign ureteral strictures include inflammatory cell infiltration, fibroplasia, and hyalinization. Changes in type I and III collagen, inflammatory cells, and fibroblasts in different pathological types may be related to the progression of ureteral strictures.

Application of chitosan nanoparticles in skin wound healing

The rising prevalence of impaired wound healing and the consequential healthcare burdens have gained increased attention over recent years. This has prompted research into the development of novel wound dressings with augmented wound healing functions. Nanoparticle (NP)-based delivery systems have become attractive candidates in constructing such wound dressings due to their various favourable attributes. The non-toxicity, biocompatibility and bioactivity of chitosan (CS)-based NPs make them ideal candidates for wound applications. This review focusses on the application of CS-based NP systems for use in wound treatment. An overview of the wound healing process was presented, followed by discussion on the properties and suitability of CS and its NPs in wound healing. The wound healing mechanisms exerted by CS-based NPs were then critically analysed and discussed in sections, namely haemostasis, infection prevention, inflammatory response, oxidative stress, angiogenesis, collagen deposition, and wound closure time. The results of the studies were thoroughly reviewed, and contradicting findings were identified and discussed. Based on the literature, the gap in research and future prospects in this research area were identified and highlighted. Current evidence shows that CS-based NPs possess superior wound healing effects either used on their own, or as drug delivery vehicles to encapsulate wound healing agents. It is concluded that great opportunities and potentials exist surrounding the use of CSNPs in wound healing.

Preparation and characterization of succinyl chitosan and succinyl chitosan nanoparticle film: In vitro and in vivo evaluation of wound healing activity

Development of novel wound dressing materials having the ability to prevent bacterial infections and capable of accelerating the tissue regeneration process is utmost important, since the wounds in patients can cause severe health issues. In the present work, we synthesized novel N-succinyl chitosan nanoparticles (N-SuC NPs) films and tested their antimicrobial, cytotoxicity, and in vitro and in vivo wound healing activity. N-SuC NPs were synthesized by ionic gelation method, and subsequently N-SuC NPs films were prepared by solution casting method using synthesized N-SuC NPs. The prepared N-SuC NPs films showed significant antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 6 mg/mL and <8 mg/mL, respectively. The biocompatibility and the in vitro wound healing activity of N-SuC NPs films were analyzed using human dermal fibroblast (HDF) cells. In vivo cutaneous wound healing of the N-SuC NPs film was investigated using the Wister rat model, and the studies showed that the N-SuC NPs film significantly accelerated the wound healing process by inducing more blood vessels formation and tissue granulation. The experimental results showed that synthesized N-SuC NPs film had excellent antimicrobial, cytotoxicity and wound healing activity, indicating that it could be used in biomedical applications.

The Effects of Intravenous Vitamin C on Stress Response Severity in Abdominal Hysterectomy Following Prolonged Fasting Time

Background

Inevitable prolonged fasting time before surgery leads to inflammatory reactions, surgery-related stress response, and consequently unfavorable outcomes; thus, developing strategies to mitigate these consequences is crucial.

Objectives

In this study, we evaluated the effect of ascorbic acid on stress response reduction in abdominal hysterectomy following prolonged fasting time.

Methods

Eligible women candidates for abdominal hysterectomy following prolonged fasting time were enrolled in the study and divided into 2 groups of vitamin C [group C; 1 g intravenously (IV) before surgery] and placebo (group P). Before induction of anesthesia, C-reactive protein (CRP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and blood sugar (BS) were measured and compared between the 2 groups at 4-point times, 24 and 48 hours immediately after extubation.

Results

Finally, the data of 80 patients were included for the final analysis. A statistically significant difference was observed between the 2 groups in terms of CRP and BS values in T1 CRP serum levels; at the end of the study, CRP values were 0.5 ± 0.55 and 0.92 ± 0.69 in groups C and P, respectively (P = 0.012), and BS levels were 124.12 ± 18.11 and 152.0 ± 17.36 in groups C and P, respectively (P = 0.0001). However, this significant difference was not observed at T2 regarding CRP (P = 0.145) and BS (P = 0.135), as well as at T3 regarding CRP (P = 0.282) and BS (P = 0.213). However, according to both CRP and BS values, the trend of changes from T0 to T3 was significant in the 2 groups (P < 0.0001). Hemodynamic parameters were not significantly different between the 2 groups. No adverse event was reported in the 2 groups.

Conclusions

We found that ascorbic acid could induce short-term positive effects in abdominal hysterectomy following prolonged fasting time. Obviously, the optimal dosage, timing, and specific cases that benefit the most from this intervention should be investigated.

Epigallocatechin Gallate: The Emerging Wound Healing Potential of Multifunctional Biomaterials for Future Precision Medicine Treatment Strategies

Immediate treatment for cutaneous injuries is a realistic approach to improve the healing rate and minimise the risk of complications. Multifunctional biomaterials have been proven to be a potential strategy for chronic skin wound management, especially for future advancements in precision medicine. Hence, antioxidant incorporated biomaterials play a vital role in the new era of tissue engineering. A bibliographic investigation was conducted on articles focusing on in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies that evaluate the effect and the antioxidants mechanism exerted by epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in wound healing and its ability to act as reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavengers. Over the years, EGCG has been proven to be a potent antioxidant efficient for wound healing purposes. Therefore, several novel studies were included in this article to shed light on EGCG incorporated biomaterials over five years of research. However, the related papers under this review's scope are limited in number. All the studies showed that biomaterials with scavenging ability have a great potential to combat chronic wounds and assist the wound healing process against oxidative damage. However, the promising concept has faced challenges extending beyond the trial phase, whereby the implementation of these biomaterials, when exposed to an oxidative stress environment, may disrupt cell proliferation and tissue regeneration after transplantation. Therefore, thorough research should be executed to ensure a successful therapy.

Beneficial Effects of Green Tea EGCG on Skin Wound Healing: A Comprehensive Review

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is associated with various health benefits. In this review, we searched current work about the effects of EGCG and its wound dressings on skin for wound healing. Hydrogels, nanoparticles, micro/nanofiber networks and microneedles are the major types of EGCG-containing wound dressings. The beneficial effects of EGCG and its wound dressings at different stages of skin wound healing (hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation and tissue remodeling) were summarized based on the underlying mechanisms of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, angiogenesis and antifibrotic properties. This review expatiates on the rationale of using EGCG to promote skin wound healing and prevent scar formation, which provides a future clinical application direction of EGCG.

Poly(glycerol sebacate)-co-poly(ethylene glycol)/Gelatin Hybrid Hydrogels as Biocompatible Biomaterials for Cell Proliferation and Spreading

Synthetic polymers have been widely employed to prepare hydrogels for biomedical applications, such as cell culture, drug delivery, and tissue engineering. However, the activity of cells cultured in the synthetic polymer-based hydrogels faces the challenges of limited cell proliferation and spreading compared to cells cultured in natural polymer-based hydrogels. To address this concern, a hybrid hydrogel strategy is demonstrated by incorporating thiolated gelatin (GS) into the norbornene-functionalized poly (glycerol sebacate)-co-polyethylene glycol (Nor_PGS-co-PEG, NPP) network to prepare highly biocompatible NPP/GS_UV hydrogels after the thiol-ene photo-crosslinking reaction. The GS introduces several desirable features (i.e., enhanced water content, enlarged pore size, increased mechanical property, and more cell adhesion sites) to the NPP/GS_UV hydrogels, facilitating the cell proliferation and spreading inside the network. Thus, the highly biocompatible NPP/GS_UV hydrogels are promising materials for cell encapsulation and tissue engineering applications. Taken together, the hybrid hydrogel strategy is demonstrated as a powerful approach to fabricate hydrogels with a highly friendly environment for cell culture, expanding the biomedical applications of hydrogels.

Ascorbic Acid and Iron Supplement Treatment Improves Stem Cell-Mediated Cartilage Regeneration in a Minipig Model

BACKGROUND

The transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into cartilage defects has led to variable cartilage repair outcomes. Previous in vitro studies have shown that ascorbic acid and reduced iron independently can improve the chondrogenic differentiation of MSCs. However, the combined effect of ascorbic acid and iron supplementation on MSC differentiation has not been investigated.

PURPOSE

To investigate the combined in vivo effects of ascorbic acid and a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved iron supplement on MSC-mediated cartilage repair in mature Göttingen minipigs.

STUDY DESIGN

Controlled laboratory study.

METHODS

We pretreated bone marrow-derived MSCs with ascorbic acid and the FDA-approved iron supplement ferumoxytol and then transplanted the MSCs into full-thickness cartilage defects in the distal femurs of Göttingen minipigs. Untreated cartilage defects served as negative controls. We evaluated the cartilage repair site with magnetic resonance imaging at 4 and 12 weeks after MSC implantation, followed by histological examination and immunofluorescence staining at 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Ascorbic acid plus iron-pretreated MSCs demonstrated a significantly better MOCART (magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue) score (73.8 ± 15.5), better macroscopic cartilage regeneration score according to the International Cartilage Repair Society (8.6 ± 2.0), better Pineda score (2.9 ± 0.8), and larger amount of collagen type II (28,469 ± 21,313) compared with untreated controls (41.3 ± 2.5, 1.8 ± 2.9, 12.8 ± 1.9, and 905 ± 1326, respectively). The obtained scores were also better than scores previously reported in the same animal model for MSC implants without ascorbic acid.

CONCLUSION

Pretreatment of MSCs with ascorbic acid and an FDA-approved iron supplement improved the chondrogenesis of MSCs and led to hyaline-like cartilage regeneration in the knee joints of minipigs.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Ascorbic acid and iron supplements are immediately clinically applicable. Thus, these results, in principle, could be translated into clinical applications.

Therapeutic and Ameliorative Effects of Active Compounds of Combretum molle in the Treatment and Relief from Wounds in a Diabetes Mellitus Experimental Model

Foot ulcers are one of the leading causes of severe and high mortality in diabetics. It is known that wound healing in diabetics is a very complicated process due to the direct severe effect of diabetes mellitus on blood vessels, causing difficulty in wound healing. Many methods of treatment have recently been employed for novel dressings for the promotion of tissue regeneration and rapid wound closure. Combretum molle is composed of chemical compounds, such as lignin, gallic acid, and ellagic acid. Twenty male rats that were 4 months of age were divided into a I-a diabetic foot ulcer group as the control group and a II-a diabetic group (wound + Combretum molle). This study investigated the antioxidant and excellent healing effects of the extract of Combretum molle in repairing skin damaged by diabetes. This was confirmed by elevated antioxidant enzymes in the animals’ tissues in diabetic rats treated with this extract. The recovery of the alterations in the skin layers led to great improvements, which proved the Combretum molle’s promising capacity for wound healing in diabetics with wounds that mimic diabetic foot ulcers. This treatment can be considered a promising opportunity for patients with severe foot ulcers and may open the door to more discoveries about this plant’s medical capabilities.

Sustained release of epigallocatechin-3-gallate from chitosan-based scaffolds to promote osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cell

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a kind of flavonoids and has the ability to promote differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into osteoblasts. However, the EGCG is easily metabolized by cells during cell culture, which reduces its bioavailability. Therefore, in this paper, EGCG-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (ECN) were fabricated and entrapped into chitosan/alginate (CS/Alg) scaffolds to form CS/Alg-ECN scaffolds for improving the bioavailability of EGCG. The human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs) were cultured on CS/Alg-ECN scaffolds to induce osteogenic differentiation. The results indicated that the CS/Alg-ECN scaffolds continuously released EGCG for up to 16 days. Besides, these results suggested that CS/Alg-ECN scaffolds promoted osteoblast differentiation through activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Collectively, this study demonstrated that the entrapment ECN into CS/Alg scaffolds was a promising strategy for promoting osteogenesis of MSCs.

A journey to the world of fascinating ZnO nanocomposites made of chitosan, starch, cellulose, and other biopolymers: Progress in recent achievements in eco-friendly food packaging, biomedical, and water remediation technologies

Green chemistry or in other words "green world" is referred to a sustainable environment using biocompatible, biodegradable, renewable, economical, and simple materials, and methods. Without any exaggeration, the exceptional chemical and physical properties of ZnO bionanocomposites beside various utilizations, make it vital materials in research and green chemistry field. Biocompatible ZnO nanoparticles with fascinating antimicrobial, physicochemical, as well as photocatalytic performance could be applied as a prominent candidate to reinforce diverse biopolymer matrixes, for instance, chitosan, starch, cellulose, gelatin, alginate, poly(hydroxyalkanoates), carrageenan, and so on. With a combination of advantageous properties of these materials, they could be illustrated specific utilizations in different areas. In this regard, the following context focuses on highlighting the recent achievements of this category of material on three important and widely used scopes: eco-friendly food packaging, biomedical specially wound dressings, and water remediation technologies.

Preparation, characterization and wound healing effect of vaccarin-chitosan nanoparticles

Wound healing is a complex, dynamic and difficult process. Much effort and attempt has been made to accelerate this process. The purpose of this study is to prepare nanoparticles loaded with vaccarin (VAC-NPS)hydrogel and evaluate its effect on promoting wound healing. In the present study, the physicochemical properties of VAC-NPS were characterized. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to observe the morphology of VAC-NPS. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) was employed to assessment the biocompatibility of VAC-NPS in vitro. The wound healing function of VAC-NPS hydrogels was evaluated in the full-thickness dermal wound in a rat model. The results indicated that VAC-NPS was spherical like particles with uniform particle size distribution and no obvious aggregation with a diameter of (216.6 ± 10.1)nm. The loading capacity and encapsulation efficiency of VAC in the nanoparticles were (14.3 ± 1.2) % and (51.7 ± 1.7) % respectively. MTT assay demonstrated that the VAC-NPS had no cytotoxicity and could promote HUVEC proliferation and migration. In vivo results showed that VAC-NPS promotes wound healing, and the mechanism may be through up-regulating IL-1β and PDGF-BB, promoting angiogenesis. VAC-NPS might have a potential application value for the treatment of the wound healing and a promising performance in bio-medically relevant systems.

Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate-Loaded Gold Nanoparticles: Preparation and Evaluation of Anticancer Efficacy in Ehrlich Tumor-Bearing Mice

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a pleiotropic compound with anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. To enhance EGCG anticancer efficacy, it was loaded onto gold nanoparticles (GNPs). EGCG-GNPs were prepared by a simple green synthesis method and were evaluated using different techniques. Hemocompatibility with human blood and in vivo anticancer efficacy in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma-bearing mice were evaluated. EGCG/gold chloride molar ratio had a marked effect on the formation and properties of EGCG-GNPs where well-dispersed spherical nanoparticles were obtained at a molar ratio not more than 0.8:1. The particle size ranged from ~26 to 610 nm. High drug encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity of ~93 and 32%, respectively were obtained. When stored at 4 °C for three months, EGCG-GNPs maintained over 90% of their drug payload and had small changes in their size and zeta potential. They were non-hemolytic and had no deleterious effects on partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, and complement protein C3 concentration. EGCG-GNPs had significantly better in vivo anticancer efficacy compared with pristine EGCG as evidenced by smaller tumor volume and weight and higher mice body weight. These results confirm that EGCG-GNPs could serve as an efficient delivery system for EGCG with a good potential to enhance its anticancer efficacy.

Enhancement of the permeability and activities of epigallocatechin gallate by quaternary ammonium chitosan/fucoidan nanoparticles

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has many biological functions; however, the use of EGCG in biomedical and food industries was limited due to its poor oral absorption and high susceptibility to degradation. In this study, a mucoadhesive quaternary chitosan was synthesized and combined with fucoidan (FD) (or depolymerized lower molecular weight fucoidan, LMWF) to prepare EGCG-loaded nanoparticles, which extended EGCG release over 300 min and enhanced the transepithelial permeation of EGCG using Caco-2 cells as a model for intestinal absorption. The nanoparticls protected EGCG against degradation in phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) and the remaining EGCG was 1.7-folds higher than the control (EGCG alone). The additive effects of EGCG combined with FD or LMWF in the nanoparticles increased the DPPH radical scavenging activity and the enzyme inhibitory activity against α-amylase (2.82-4.92 fold increase) and α-glucosidase (1.35-1.67 fold increase), while quaternary chitosan helped to enhance the antibacterial effect of EGCG.