1
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Motta AM, Mariani P, Itri R, Spinozzi F. Self-assembling properties of mono and di-rhamnolipids characterized using small-angle X-ray scattering. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2024; 241:114038. [PMID: 38905813 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2024.114038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Rhamnolipids are glycolipid surfactants composed by a hydrophilic head of either one (mono-RL) or two (di-RL) rhamnose moieties coupled to hydroxyaliphatic chains that can be of different lengths. In spite of their importance in different fields of applications, as bioremediation processes for instance, self-aggregation physico-chemical properties of RLs are not unique. This because a variety of aggregates morphologies (shape and size) can either exist or coexist in aqueous dispersion due to mono-RL:di-RL molar ratio, hydrophobic tails length, pH and the presence of co-surfactants and additives. Recently, a theorethical approach reported the self-assembling morphologies of either pure mono or di-RL in aqueous environment, predicting the formation of spherical to ellipsoidal micelles to worm-like and disk-like aggregates depending on RL concentration and fatty acid chain length. In order to add new information to those previously available, the present work investigated the self-assembling properties of mono-RL-C10-C10 and di-RL-C10-C10 separately in aqueous dispersion by small angle X-Ray scattering (SAXS). A novel approach was applied to the data analysis coupling the scattering length density profiles of the RLs chemical groups and Monte Carlo simulations. Such an approach allowed us to infer about the preferred mono-RL and di-RL conformations that fit better in the self-assembling morphologies. In this way, we show that mono-RL-C10-C10 self-assembles into lamella-like aggregates coexisting with 30 % of multi-lamella aggregates (circa of 5 closed stacked lamella) from a concentration ranging from 10 to 50 mM, with hydrophobic thickness of about 12 Å, a hydrated polar head thickness of 10 Å, and an area per glycolipid of 76 Å2. On the other hand, di-RL prefers to self-associate into flexible cylinder-like aggregates, from 70 mM to 110 mM concentration, with hydrophobic radius on the order of 7.5 Å, a hydrated polar shell of 21.5 Å, with hydropobic/polar interface of 110 Å2 per glycolipid. Interestingly, the parameters obtained from the best fitting to the experimental data associated to the volume fraction distribution of the chemical groups within the aggregates revealed that the hydrophobic chains are more disordered in mono-RL planar aggregates than in di-RL worm-like aggregates, as well as the hydration properties. Further, the addition of 100 mM NaCl in di-RL aqueous dispersion leads to the formation of longer worm-like aggregates. Taking together, this work opens a new avenue regarding characterization of biosurfactants self-assembling properties by using SAXS, also contributing to prepare more efficient biosurfactant dispersions depending on the desired applications in industrial sectors and bioremediation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paolo Mariani
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Italy
| | - Rosangela Itri
- Applied Physics Department, Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Francesco Spinozzi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Italy.
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2
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da Costa Ribeiro A, T. Tominaga T, Moretti Bonadio TG, P. da Silveira N, C. Leite D. A Study on the Behavior of Smart Starch- co-poly( N-isopropylacrylamide) Hybrid Microgels for Encapsulation of Methylene Blue. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:27349-27357. [PMID: 38947796 PMCID: PMC11209679 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c01947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Hybrid microgels made from starch nanoparticles (SNPs) and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) p(NIPAM) were used as promising hosts for the methylene blue (MB) dye. In this paper, these thermoresponsive microgels were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential measurements (ZP), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and evaluated as carriers for skin-targeted drug delivery. The hybrid microgel-MB systems in PBS solution were also studied by UV-vis spectroscopy and DLS, revealing discernible differences in spectral intensity and absorption shifts compared to microgels devoid of MB. This underscores the successful integration of methylene blue within the SNPs-co-p(NIPAM) microgels, signifying their potential as efficacious drug delivery vehicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andresa da Costa Ribeiro
- Applied
Physics in Materials Group, Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste, Guarapuava, PR 85040-167, Brazil
| | - Tania T. Tominaga
- Applied
Physics in Materials Group, Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste, Guarapuava, PR 85040-167, Brazil
| | - Taiana G. Moretti Bonadio
- Applied
Physics in Materials Group, Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste, Guarapuava, PR 85040-167, Brazil
| | - Nádya P. da Silveira
- Post
Graduation Program in Chemistry (PPGQ), Chemistry Institute, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS 91501-970, Brazil
| | - Daiani C. Leite
- Laboratório
de Superfícies e Macromoléculas (SM Lab), Departamento
de Física, Universidade Federal de
Santa Maria, Santa
Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
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3
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Bi X, Peng H, Xiong H, Xiao L, Zhang H, Li J, Sun Y. Fabrication of the Rapid Self-Assembly Hydrogels Loaded with Luteolin: Their Structural Characteristics and Protection Effect on Ulcerative Colitis. Foods 2024; 13:1105. [PMID: 38611409 PMCID: PMC11011723 DOI: 10.3390/foods13071105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Luteolin (LUT) is a fat-soluble flavonoid known for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Nonetheless, its use in the food industry has been limited due to its low water solubility and bioavailability. In this study, hyaluronic acid, histidine, and luteolin were self-assembled to construct tubular network hydrogels (HHL) to improve the gastrointestinal stability, bioavailability, and stimulation response of LUT. As anticipated, the HHL hydrogel's mechanical strength and adhesion allow it to withstand the challenging gastrointestinal environment and effectively extend the duration of drug presence in the body. In vivo anti-inflammatory experiments showed that HHL hydrogel could successfully alleviate colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in mice by reducing intestinal inflammation and restoring the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Moreover, HHL hydrogel also regulated the intestinal microorganisms of mice and promoted the production of short-chain fatty acids. The HHL hydrogel group demonstrated a notably superior treatment effect compared to the LUT group alone. The hydrogel delivery system is a novel method to improve the absorption of LUT, increasing its bioavailability and enhancing its pharmaceutical effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Bi
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, China; (X.B.); (H.X.); (L.X.)
| | - Han Peng
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California, Davis, 1 Shields Ave., Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Hua Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, China; (X.B.); (H.X.); (L.X.)
| | - Lihua Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, China; (X.B.); (H.X.); (L.X.)
| | - Hua Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China; (H.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Jiang Li
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China; (H.Z.); (J.L.)
| | - Yong Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, China; (X.B.); (H.X.); (L.X.)
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4
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Pepe A, Moretti P, Yoneda JS, Carducci F, Itri R, Mariani P. Self-oriented anisotropic structure of G-hydrogels as a delicate balance between attractive and repulsive forces. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:15196-15205. [PMID: 37624640 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr01348k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Guanine (G) hydrogels are very attractive materials made by the supramolecular organization of G-derivatives in water. In this paper, hydrogels composed of guanosine 5'-monophosphate (GMP) and guanosine (Gua), that make long, flexible and knotted G-quadruplexes, were investigated by small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS and WAXS) to comprehend the origin of their unique orientational properties. The SAXS intensity, analysed at a fixed scattering vector modulus Q as a function of polar angle, allowed us to derive the Maier-Saupe orientation parameter m. The strong dependence of m on hydrogel composition and temperature demonstrated that the preferred orientation is controlled by the quadruplex surface charge and flexibility. Indeed, a possible correlation between the orientation parameter m and the quadruplex-to-quadruplex lateral interactions was explored. Results confirmed that the balance between attractive and repulsive interactions plays a main role in the orientational anisotropy: quadruplex clusters lose their orientational properties when attractive interactions decrease. The key role of the number of negative charges per unit length of the G-quadruplex filaments was confirmed by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) observations. Indeed, directionality histograms showed that in the presence of a large amount of Gua, G-quadruplexes follow preferential orientations other than those related to the strong interactions with the K+ pattern on the mica surface. The fact that lateral quadruplex-to-quadruplex interactions, even in the presence of external (opposing) forces, can tune the hydrogel alignment in a given preferred direction provides novel possibilities for scaffold/3D printing applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Pepe
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Paolo Moretti
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Juliana S Yoneda
- Department of Applied Physics, Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Brazilian Synchrotron Light Laboratory (LNLS), Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Federica Carducci
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Rosangela Itri
- Department of Applied Physics, Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paolo Mariani
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
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5
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Feyissa Z, Edossa GD, Gupta NK, Negera D. Development of double crosslinked sodium alginate/chitosan based hydrogels for controlled release of metronidazole and its antibacterial activity. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20144. [PMID: 37809897 PMCID: PMC10559936 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Double network sodium alginate/chitosan hydrogels were prepared using calcium chloride (CaCl2) and glutaraldehyde as the crosslinking agents by the ionotropic interaction method for controlled metronidazole release. The effect of polymer ratios and CaCl2 amount is investigated by the developing porosity, gel fraction, and extent of swelling in simulated physiological fluids. Interaction between the polymers with the formation of crosslinked structures, good stability, phase nature, and morphology of the hydrogels is revealed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. A sodium alginate/chitosan hydrogel (weight ratio of 75:25) crosslinked with two percent CaCl2 is chosen for the in-situ loading of 200 mg of metronidazole. The drug release kinetics using different models show that the best-fit Korsmeyer-Peppas model suggests metronidazole release from the matrix follows diffusion and swelling-controlled time-dependent non-Fickian transport related to hydrogel erosion. This composition displays enhanced antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zerihun Feyissa
- Department of Applied Chemistry, School of Applied Natural Science, Adama Science and Technology University, P.O. Box 1888, Adama, Ethiopia
| | - Gemechu Deressa Edossa
- Department of Applied Chemistry, School of Applied Natural Science, Adama Science and Technology University, P.O. Box 1888, Adama, Ethiopia
| | - Neeraj Kumar Gupta
- Department of Applied Chemistry, School of Applied Natural Science, Adama Science and Technology University, P.O. Box 1888, Adama, Ethiopia
| | - Defaru Negera
- Department of Applied Chemistry, School of Applied Natural Science, Adama Science and Technology University, P.O. Box 1888, Adama, Ethiopia
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6
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Fang J, Zheng L, Liu Y, Peng Y, Yang Q, Huang Y, Zhang J, Luo L, Shen D, Tan Y, Lu X, Feng G. Smart G-quadruplex hydrogels: From preparations to comprehensive applications. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 247:125614. [PMID: 37414320 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the accelerated development of G-quadruplexes and hydrogels has driven the development of intelligent biomaterials. Based on the excellent biocompatibility and special biological functions of G-quadruplexes, and the hydrophilicity, high-water retention, high water content, flexibility and excellent biodegradability of hydrogels, G-quadruplex hydrogels are widely used in various fields by combining the dual advantages of G-quadruplexes and hydrogels. Here, we provide a systematic and comprehensive classification of G-quadruplex hydrogels in terms of preparation strategies and applications. This paper reveals how G-quadruplex hydrogels skillfully utilize the special biological functions of G-quadruplexes and the skeleton structure of hydrogels, and expounds its applications in the fields of biomedicine, biocatalysis, biosensing and biomaterials. In addition, we deeply analyze the challenges in preparation, applications, stability and safety of G-quadruplex hydrogels, as well as potential future development directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Fang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Lijuan Zheng
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yan Liu
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yuxin Peng
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Qinghui Yang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yuewen Huang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Jiali Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Lixin Luo
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Dunkai Shen
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yuyan Tan
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Xuefen Lu
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Guangfu Feng
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
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7
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Godoy-Gallardo M, Merino-Gómez M, Mateos-Timoneda MA, Eckhard U, Gil FJ, Perez RA. Advanced Binary Guanosine and Guanosine 5'-Monophosphate Cell-Laden Hydrogels for Soft Tissue Reconstruction by 3D Bioprinting. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023. [PMID: 37319328 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c23277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Soft tissue defects or pathologies frequently necessitate the use of biomaterials that provide the volume required for subsequent vascularization and tissue formation as autrografts are not always a feasible alternative. Supramolecular hydrogels represent promising candidates because of their 3D structure, which resembles the native extracellular matrix, and their capacity to entrap and sustain living cells. Guanosine-based hydrogels have emerged as prime candidates in recent years since the nucleoside self-assembles into well-ordered structures like G-quadruplexes by coordinating K+ ions and π-π stacking, ultimately forming an extensive nanofibrillar network. However, such compositions were frequently inappropriate for 3D printing due to material spreading and low shape stability over time. Thus, the present work aimed to develop a binary cell-laden hydrogel capable of ensuring cell survival while providing enough stability to ensure scaffold biointegration during soft tissue reconstruction. For that purpose, a binary hydrogel made of guanosine and guanosine 5'-monophosphate was optimized, rat mesenchymal stem cells were entrapped, and the composition was bioprinted. To further increase stability, the printed structure was coated with hyperbranched polyethylenimine. Scanning electron microscopic studies demonstrated an extensive nanofibrillar network, indicating excellent G-quadruplex formation, and rheological analysis confirmed good printing and thixotropic qualities. Additionally, diffusion tests using fluorescein isothiocyanate labeled-dextran (70, 500, and 2000 kDa) showed that nutrients of various molecular weights may diffuse through the hydrogel scaffold. Finally, cells were evenly distributed throughout the printed scaffold, cell survival was 85% after 21 days, and lipid droplet formation was observed after 7 days under adipogenic conditions, indicating successful differentiation and proper cell functioning. To conclude, such hydrogels may enable the 3D bioprinting of customized scaffolds perfectly matching the respective soft tissue defect, thereby potentially improving the outcome of the tissue reconstruction intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Godoy-Gallardo
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona 08195, Spain
| | - Maria Merino-Gómez
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona 08195, Spain
| | - Miguel A Mateos-Timoneda
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona 08195, Spain
| | - Ulrich Eckhard
- Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Molecular Biology Institute of Barcelona (IBMB), Higher Scientific Research Council (CSIC), Barcelona Science Park, Baldiri Reixac 15-21, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - F Javier Gil
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona 08195, Spain
| | - Roman A Perez
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona 08195, Spain
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8
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Calabria D, Pace A, Lazzarini E, Trozzi I, Zangheri M, Guardigli M, Pieraccini S, Masiero S, Mirasoli M. Smartphone-Based Chemiluminescence Glucose Biosensor Employing a Peroxidase-Mimicking, Guanosine-Based Self-Assembled Hydrogel. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:650. [PMID: 37367015 DOI: 10.3390/bios13060650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Chemiluminescence is widely used for hydrogen peroxide detection, mainly exploiting the highly sensitive peroxidase-luminol-H2O2 system. Hydrogen peroxide plays an important role in several physiological and pathological processes and is produced by oxidases, thus providing a straightforward way to quantify these enzymes and their substrates. Recently, biomolecular self-assembled materials obtained by guanosine and its derivatives and displaying peroxidase enzyme-like catalytic activity have received great interest for hydrogen peroxide biosensing. These soft materials are highly biocompatible and can incorporate foreign substances while preserving a benign environment for biosensing events. In this work, a self-assembled guanosine-derived hydrogel containing a chemiluminescent reagent (luminol) and a catalytic cofactor (hemin) was used as a H2O2-responsive material displaying peroxidase-like activity. Once loaded with glucose oxidase, the hydrogel provided increased enzyme stability and catalytic activity even in alkaline and oxidizing conditions. By exploiting 3D printing technology, a smartphone-based portable chemiluminescence biosensor for glucose was developed. The biosensor allowed the accurate measurement of glucose in serum, including both hypo- and hyperglycemic samples, with a limit of detection of 120 µmol L-1. This approach could be applied for other oxidases, thus enabling the development of bioassays to quantify biomarkers of clinical interest at the point of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donato Calabria
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Francesco Selmi 2, I-40126 Bologna, Italy
- Interdepartmental Centre for Industrial Aerospace Research (CIRI AEROSPACE), Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Baldassarre Canaccini 12, I-47121 Forlì, Italy
| | - Andrea Pace
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Francesco Selmi 2, I-40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Lazzarini
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Francesco Selmi 2, I-40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Ilaria Trozzi
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Francesco Selmi 2, I-40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Martina Zangheri
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Francesco Selmi 2, I-40126 Bologna, Italy
- Interdepartmental Centre for Industrial Agrofood Research (CIRI AGRO), Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Quinto Bucci 336, I-47521 Cesena, Italy
- Interdepartmental Centre for Industrial Research in Advanced Mechanical Engineering Applications and Materials Technology (CIRI MAM), Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Viale Risorgimento 2, I-40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Guardigli
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Francesco Selmi 2, I-40126 Bologna, Italy
- Interdepartmental Centre for Industrial Aerospace Research (CIRI AEROSPACE), Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Baldassarre Canaccini 12, I-47121 Forlì, Italy
- Interdepartmental Centre for Industrial Research in Renewable Resources, Environment, Sea and Energy (CIRI FRAME), Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Sant'Alberto 163, I-48123 Ravenna, Italy
| | - Silvia Pieraccini
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Francesco Selmi 2, I-40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Masiero
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Francesco Selmi 2, I-40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Mara Mirasoli
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Francesco Selmi 2, I-40126 Bologna, Italy
- Interdepartmental Centre for Industrial Aerospace Research (CIRI AEROSPACE), Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Baldassarre Canaccini 12, I-47121 Forlì, Italy
- Interdepartmental Centre for Industrial Research in Renewable Resources, Environment, Sea and Energy (CIRI FRAME), Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Sant'Alberto 163, I-48123 Ravenna, Italy
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9
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Merino-Gómez M, Godoy-Gallardo M, Wendner M, Mateos-Timoneda MA, Gil FJ, Perez RA. Optimization of guanosine-based hydrogels with boric acid derivatives for enhanced long-term stability and cell survival. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1147943. [PMID: 37020512 PMCID: PMC10069680 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1147943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue defects can lead to serious health problems and often require grafts or transplants to repair damaged soft tissues. However, these procedures can be complex and may not always be feasible due to a lack of available tissue. Hydrogels have shown potential as a replacement for tissue grafts due to their ability to support cell survival and encapsulate biomolecules such as growth factors. In particular, guanosine-based hydrogels have been explored as a potential solution, but they often exhibit limited stability which hampers their use in the biofabrication of complex grafts. To address this issue, we explored the use of borate ester chemistry and more complex boric acid derivatives to improve the stability and properties of guanosine-based hydrogels. We hypothesized that the aromatic rings in these derivatives would enhance the stability and printability of the hydrogels through added π-π stack interactions. After optimization, 13 compositions containing either 2-naphthylboronic acid or boric acid were selected. Morphology studies shows a well-defined nanofibrilar structure with good printable properties (thixotropic behaviour, print fidelity and printability). Moreover, the pH of all tested hydrogels was within the range suitable for cell viability (7.4–8.3). Nevertheless, only the boric acid-based formulations were stable for at least 7 days. Thus, our results clearly demonstrated that the presence of additional aromatic rings did actually impair the hydrogel properties. We speculate that this is due to steric hindrance caused by adjacent groups, which disrupt the correct orientation of the aromatic groups required for effective π-π stack interactions of the guanosine building block. Despite this drawback, the developed guanosine-boric acid hydrogel exhibited good thixotropic properties and was able to support cell survival, proliferation, and migration. For instance, SaOS-2 cells planted on these printed structures readily migrated into the hydrogel and showed nearly 100% cell viability after 7 days. In conclusion, our findings highlight the potential of guanosine-boric acid hydrogels as tissue engineering scaffolds that can be readily enhanced with living cells and bioactive molecules. Thus, our work represents a significant advancement towards the development of functionalized guanosine-based hydrogels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Merino-Gómez
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Sant Cugat del Vallès, Spain
| | - Maria Godoy-Gallardo
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Sant Cugat del Vallès, Spain
- *Correspondence: Maria Godoy-Gallardo, ; Roman A. Perez,
| | - Mathias Wendner
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Sant Cugat del Vallès, Spain
| | - Miguel A. Mateos-Timoneda
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Sant Cugat del Vallès, Spain
| | - F. Javier Gil
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Sant Cugat del Vallès, Spain
- Department of Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Sant Cugat del Vallès, Spain
| | - Roman A. Perez
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Sant Cugat del Vallès, Spain
- *Correspondence: Maria Godoy-Gallardo, ; Roman A. Perez,
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10
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Godoy-Gallardo M, Merino-Gómez M, Matiz LC, Mateos-Timoneda MA, Gil FJ, Perez RA. Nucleoside-Based Supramolecular Hydrogels: From Synthesis and Structural Properties to Biomedical and Tissue Engineering Applications. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:40-61. [PMID: 36524860 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c01051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Supramolecular hydrogels are of great interest in tissue scaffolding, diagnostics, and drug delivery due to their biocompatibility and stimuli-responsive properties. In particular, nucleosides are promising candidates as building blocks due to their manifold noncovalent interactions and ease of chemical modification. Significant progress in the field has been made over recent years to allow the use of nucleoside-based supramolecular hydrogels in the biomedical field, namely drug delivery and 3D bioprinting. For example, their long-term stability, printability, functionality, and bioactivity have been greatly improved by employing more than one gelator, incorporating different cations, including silver for antibacterial activity, or using additives such as boric acid or even biomolecules. This now permits their use as bioinks for 3D printing to produce cell-laden scaffolds with specified geometries and pore sizes as well as a homogeneous distribution of living cells and bioactive molecules. We have summarized the latest advances in nucleoside-based supramolecular hydrogels. Additionally, we discuss their synthesis, structural properties, and potential applications in tissue engineering and provide an outlook and future perspective on ongoing developments in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Godoy-Gallardo
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Department of Basic Science, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, 08195 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Merino-Gómez
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Department of Basic Science, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, 08195 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luisamaria C Matiz
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Department of Basic Science, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, 08195 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel A Mateos-Timoneda
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Department of Basic Science, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, 08195 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Javier Gil
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Department of Basic Science, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, 08195 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, 08195 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roman A Perez
- Bioengineering Institute of Technology (BIT), Department of Basic Science, International University of Catalonia (UIC), Carrer de Josep Trueta, 08195 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
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Spinozzi F, Alcaraz JP, Ortore MG, Gayet L, Radulescu A, Martin DK, Maccarini M. Small-Angle Neutron Scattering Reveals the Nanostructure of Liposomes with Embedded OprF Porins of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:15026-15037. [PMID: 36459683 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c01342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The use of liposomes as drug delivery systems emerged in the last decades in view of their capacity and versatility to deliver a variety of therapeutic agents. By means of small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), we performed a detailed characterization of liposomes containing outer membrane protein F (OprF), the main porin of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterium outer membrane. These OprF-liposomes are the basis of a novel vaccine against this antibiotic-resistant bacterium, which is one of the main hospital-acquired pathogens and causes each year a significant number of deaths. SANS data were analyzed by a specific model we created to quantify the crucial information about the structure of the liposome containing OprF, including the lipid bilayer structure, the amount of protein in the lipid bilayer, the average protein localization, and the effect of the protein incorporation on the lipid bilayer. Quantification of such structural information is important to enhance the design of liposomal delivery systems for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Spinozzi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Jean-Pierre Alcaraz
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, TIMC, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Maria Grazia Ortore
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Landry Gayet
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, TIMC, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Aurel Radulescu
- Jülich Centre for Neutron Science JCNS at Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Donald K Martin
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, TIMC, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Marco Maccarini
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, TIMC, 38000 Grenoble, France
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Amalina F, Razak ASA, Krishnan S, Zularisam A, Nasrullah M. Dyes removal from textile wastewater by agricultural waste as an absorbent – A review. CLEANER WASTE SYSTEMS 2022; 3:100051. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clwas.2022.100051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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Zheng J, Song X, Yang Z, Yin C, Luo W, Yin C, Ni Y, Wang Y, Zhang Y. Self-assembly hydrogels of therapeutic agents for local drug delivery. J Control Release 2022; 350:898-921. [PMID: 36089171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Advanced drug delivery systems are of vital importance to enhance therapeutic efficacy. Among various recently developed formulations, self-assembling hydrogels composed of therapeutic agents have shown promising potential for local drug delivery owing to their excellent biocompatibility, high drug-loading efficiency, low systemic toxicity, and sustained drug release behavior. In particular, therapeutic agents self-assembling hydrogels with well-defined nanostructures are beneficial for direct delivery to the target site via injection, not only improving drug availability, but also extending their retention time and promoting cellular uptake. In brief, the self-assembly approach offers better opportunities to improve the precision of pharmaceutical treatment and achieve superior treatment efficacies. In this review, we intend to cover the recent developments in therapeutic agent self-assembling hydrogels. First, the molecular structures, self-assembly mechanisms, and application of self-assembling hydrogels are systematically outlined. Then, we summarize the various self-assembly strategies, including the single therapeutic agent, metal-coordination, enzyme-instruction, and co-assembly of multiple therapeutic agents. Finally, the potential challenges and future perspectives are discussed. We hope that this review will provide useful insights into the design and preparation of therapeutic agent self-assembling hydrogels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zheng
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro & Nano Materials Interface Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Xianwen Song
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro & Nano Materials Interface Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Zhaoyu Yang
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Chao Yin
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro & Nano Materials Interface Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Weikang Luo
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Chunyang Yin
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro & Nano Materials Interface Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Yaqiong Ni
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro & Nano Materials Interface Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China.
| | - Yi Zhang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro & Nano Materials Interface Science, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China.
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Liu X, Wang J, Xu X, Zhu H, Man K, Zhang J. SDF-1 Functionalized Hydrogel Microcarriers for Skin Flap Repair. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:3576-3588. [PMID: 35899941 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Critically sized skin flaps used to treat skin defects often suffer from necrosis due to insufficient blood supply. Hence there is an urgent need to improve the survival rate of skin flaps by promoting local angiogenesis. The delivery of growth factor loaded microcarriers have shown promise in enhancing defect repair, however, their rapid clearance from the defect site limits their regenerative potential. Thus, it is critical to develop microcarriers which can promote the sustained release of bioactive factors to effectively stimulate tissue repair. This study aimed to develop a stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) loaded microcarrier coated with Matrigel (MC@SDF-1@Mat) to promote skin flap repair. SEM imaging showed that the surface of the microcarrier was coated by a porous Matrigel film. The drug release experiment showed that the Matrigel-coated microcarriers enhanced the sustained release of the model drug methylene blue when compared to uncoated group. MC@SDF-1@Mat significantly promoted the proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis of HUVECs via CCK-8, wound healing assay, and tube formation assay, respectively. Moreover, the murine random skin flap model was further established and treated. It was found that the flap necrosis area in the MC@SDF-1@Mat treated group was significantly reduced. H&E and Masson staining showed the histological structure and collagen organization exhibited a normal phenotype in the MC@SDF-1@Mat treated group. Additionally, CD31 immunohistochemical analysis showed that the MC@SDF-1@Mat treated group exhibited the greatest degree of neovascularization. In conclusion, our SDF-1 functionalized gelatin-based hydrogel microcarrier has potential clinical applications in promoting skin flap repair and drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochuan Liu
- Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Technology in Stomatology, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523710, P.R. China
| | - Jinsi Wang
- Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Technology in Stomatology, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523710, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoqin Xu
- Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Technology in Stomatology, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523710, P.R. China
| | - Hong Zhu
- Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Technology in Stomatology, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523710, P.R. China
| | - Kenny Man
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Jingying Zhang
- Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Technology in Stomatology, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523710, P.R. China
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Wang H, Wang L, Guo S, Liu Z, Zhao L, Qiao R, Li C. Rutin-Loaded Stimuli-Responsive Hydrogel for Anti-Inflammation. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:26327-26337. [PMID: 35642748 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c02295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
An active flavonoid compound rutin was incorporated into a guanosine phenylborate hydrogel (GBR) by a stimuli-responsive borate ester linkage for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The components and morphology of the drug delivery system were characterized by NMR, UV-vis spectroscopy, and AFM. Rheological measurements revealed the required injectability and self-healing ability, which contributed to its application in rectal administration. The cell assays proved the excellent compatibility and safety of the system, and a possible pathway to form multicellular aggregates. In vitro drug-release studies showed that the hydrogel exhibited good stability in physiological medium, and the drug was almost completely released (more than 90 wt % after 24 h of incubation) in acidic pH and excessive ROS-containing medium, realizing the dual-responsive release of pH/ROS. In vivo activities of the GBR hydrogel showed higher therapeutic efficacy than free rutin in a colitis mice model, and it could significantly inhibit overexpressed inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and IL-6. Degradation studies of the hydrogel provided further evidence for the safety of its in vivo application. The work provided a simple strategy to prepare a G-quadruplex drug carrier, which was expected to achieve multi-drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P. R. China
| | - Lin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P. R. China
| | - Shasha Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P. R. China
| | - Zehao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P. R. China
| | - Luqing Zhao
- Digestive Disease Center, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100029, P. R. China
| | - Renzhong Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P. R. China
| | - Chao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, P. R. China
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Walunj MB, Srivatsan SG. Heterocycle-modified 2'-Deoxyguanosine Nucleolipid Analogs Stabilize Guanosine Gels and Self-assemble to Form Green Fluorescent Gels. Chem Asian J 2021; 17:e202101163. [PMID: 34817121 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202101163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Nucleoside-lipid conjugates are very useful supramolecular building blocks to construct self-assembled architectures suited for biomedical and material applications. Such nucleoside derivatives can be further synthetically manipulated to endow additional functionalities that could augment the assembling process and impart interesting properties. Here, we report the design, synthesis and self-assembling process of multifunctional supramolecular nucleolipid synthons containing an environment-sensitive fluorescent guanine. The amphiphilic synthons are composed of an 8-(2-(benzofuran-2-yl)vinyl)-guanine core and alkyl chains attached to 3'-O and 5'-O-positions of 2'-deoxyguanosine. The 2-(benzofuran-2-yl)vinyl (BFV) moiety attached at the C8 position of the nucleobase adopted a syn conformation about the glycosidic bond, which facilitated the self-assembly process through the formation of a G-tetrad as the basic unit. While 3',5'-diacylated BFV-modified dG analog stabilized the guanosine hydrogel by hampering the crystallization process and imparted fluorescence, BFV-modified dGs containing longer alkyl chains formed a green fluorescent organogel, which transformed into a yellow fluorescent gel in the presence of a complementary non-fluorescent cytidine nucleolipid. The ability of the dG analog containing short alkyl chains to modulate the mechanical property of a gel, and interesting fluorescence properties and self-assembling behavior exhibited by the dG analogs containing long alkyl chains in response to heat and complementary base underscore the potential use of these new supramolecular synthons in material applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manisha B Walunj
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune, 411008, India
| | - Seergazhi G Srivatsan
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune, 411008, India
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Thermo- and pH-Responsive Gelatin/Polyphenolic Tannin/Graphene Oxide Hydrogels for Efficient Methylene Blue Delivery. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26154529. [PMID: 34361681 PMCID: PMC8347097 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26154529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Gelatin (GE), amino-functionalized polyphenolic tannin derivative (TN), and graphene oxide (GO) were associated to yield thermo- and pH-responsive hydrogels for the first time. Durable hydrogel assemblies for drug delivery purposes were developed using the photosensitizer methylene blue (MB) as a drug model. The cooling GE/TN blends provide brittle physical assemblies. To overcome this disadvantage, different GO contents (between 0.31% and 1.02% wt/wt) were added to the GE/TN blend at 89.7/10.3 wt/wt. FTIR and RAMAN spectroscopy analyses characterized the materials, indicating GO presence in the hydrogels. Incorporation studies revealed a total MB (0.50 mg/mL) incorporation into the GE/TN-GO hydrogel matrices. Additionally, the proposed systems present a mechanical behavior similar to gel. The GO presence in the hydrogel matrices increased the elastic modulus from 516 to 1650 Pa. SEM revealed that hydrogels containing MB present higher porosity with interconnected pores. Dissolution and swelling degree studies revealed less stability of the GE/TN-GO-MB hydrogels in SGF medium (pH 1.2) than SIF (pH 6.8). The degradation increased in SIF with the GO content, making the polymeric matrices more hydrophilic. MB release studies revealed a process controlled by Fickian diffusion. Our results point out the pH-responsible behavior of mechanically reinforced GE/TN-GO-MB hydrogels for drug delivery systems purposes.
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