Invivo and invitro evaluation of antitumor effects of iron oxide and folate core shell-iron oxide nanoparticles / Avaliação in vivo e in vitro dos efeitos antitumorais de nanopartículas de óxido de ferro e óxido de ferro com núcleo de folato

Abstract Nanoparticles are considered viable options in the treatment of cancer. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) and magnetite folate core shell (MFCS) on leukemic and hepatocarcinoma cell cultures as well as their effect on the animal model of acute myelocytic leukemia (AML). Through current study nanoparticles were synthesized, characterized by various techniques, and their properties were studied to confirm their nanostructure. Invivo study, nanoparticles were evaluated to inspect their cytotoxic activity against SNU-182 (human hepatocellular carcinoma), K562 (human leukemia), and THLE2 (human normal epithelial liver) cells via MTT test. Apoptotic signaling proteins Bcl-2 and Caspase-3 expression were inspected through RT-PCR method. A cytotoxic effect of MNPs and MFCS was detected in previous cell cultures. Moreover, the apoptosis was identified through significant up-regulation of caspase-3, with Bcl-2 down-regulation. Invitro study, AML was induced in rats by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea followed by oral treatment with MNPS and MFCS. Biochemical indices such as aspartate and alanine amino transferases, and lactate dehydrogenase activities, uric acid, complete blood count, and Beta -2-microglubulin were assessed in serum. Immunophenotyping for CD34 and CD38 detection was performed. Liver, kidney, and bone marrow were microscopically examined. Bcl-2 promoter methylation, and mRNA levels were examined. Although, both MNPs and MFCS depict amelioration in biochemical parameters, MFCS alleviated them toward normal control. Anticancer activity of MNPs and MFCS was approved especially for AML. Whenever, administration of MFCS was more effective than MNPs. The present work is one of few studies used MFCS as anticancer agent.

Resumo Nanopartículas são consideradas opções viáveis ​​no tratamento do câncer. Este estudo foi conduzido para investigar o efeito de nanopartículas de magnetita (MNPs) e núcleo de folato de magnetita (MFCS) em culturas de células leucêmicas e de hepatocarcinoma, bem como seu efeito no modelo animal de leucemia mielocítica aguda (LMA). Através do atual estudo, nanopartículas foram sintetizadas, caracterizadas por várias técnicas, e suas propriedades foram estudadas para confirmar sua nanoestrutura. No estudo in vivo, as nanopartículas foram avaliadas para inspecionar sua atividade citotóxica contra células SNU-182 (carcinoma hepatocelular humano), K562 (leucemia humana) e THLE2 (fígado epitelial humano normal) por meio do teste MTT. A expressão das proteínas sinalizadoras apoptóticas Bcl-2 e Caspase-3 foram inspecionadas através do método RT-PCR. Um efeito citotóxico de MNPs e MFCS foi detectado em culturas de células anteriores. Além disso, a apoptose foi identificada por meio de regulação positiva significativa da Caspase-3, com regulação negativa de Bcl-2. No estudo in vitro, a AML foi induzida em ratos por N-metil-N-nitrosoureia seguida por tratamento oral com MNPS e MFCS. Índices bioquímicos como aspartato e alanina aminotransferases e atividades de lactato desidrogenase, ácido úrico, hemograma completo e Beta-2-microglubulina foram avaliados no soro. A imunofenotipagem para detecção de CD34 e CD38 foi realizada. Fígado, rim e medula óssea foram examinados microscopicamente. A metilação do promotor Bcl-2 e os níveis de mRNA foram examinados. Embora tanto os MNPs quanto os MFCS representem uma melhora nos parâmetros bioquímicos, o MFCS os aliviou em direção ao controle normal. A atividade anticâncer de MNPs e MFCS foi aprovada especialmente para AML. Sempre, a administração de MFCS foi mais eficaz do que MNPs. O presente trabalho é um dos poucos estudos que utilizou o MFCS como agente anticâncer.

Study on the role of nano antibacterial materials in orthodontics (a review) / Estudo sobre o papel dos materiais nanoantibacterianos na ortodontia

Nanoparticles (NPs) are insoluble particles with a diameter of fewer than 100 nanometers. Two main methods have been utilized in orthodontic therapy to avoid microbial adherence or enamel demineralization. Certain NPs are included in orthodontic adhesives or acrylic resins (fluorohydroxyapatite, fluorapatite, hydroxyapatite, SiO2, TiO2, silver, nanofillers), and NPs (i.e., a thin layer of nitrogen-doped TiO2 on the bracket surfaces) are coated on the surfaces of orthodontic equipment. Although using NPs in orthodontics may open up modern facilities, prior research looked at antibacterial or physical characteristics for a limited period of time, ranging from one day to several weeks, and the limits of in vitro studies must be understood. The long-term effectiveness of nanotechnology-based orthodontic materials has not yet been conclusively confirmed and needs further study, as well as potential safety concerns (toxic effects) associated with NP size.

Nanopartículas (NPs) são partículas insolúveis com diâmetro inferior a 100 nanômetros. Dois métodos principais têm sido utilizados na terapia ortodôntica para evitar a aderência microbiana ou a desmineralização do esmalte: NPs são incluídas em adesivos ortodônticos ou resinas acrílicas (fluoro-hidroxiapatita, fluorapatita, hidroxiapatita, SiO2, TiO2, prata, nanopreenchimentos) e NPs são revestidas nas superfícies de equipamentos ortodônticos, ou seja, uma camada fina de TiO2 dopado com nitrogênio nas superfícies do braquete. Embora o uso de NPs em ortodontia possa tornar acessível modernos recursos, pesquisas anteriores analisaram as características antibacterianas ou físicas por um período limitado de tempo, variando de 24 horas a várias semanas, por isso devem ser compreendidos os limites dos estudos in vitro. A eficácia de longo prazo de materiais ortodônticos com base em nanotecnologia ainda não foi confirmada de forma conclusiva, o que exige mais estudos, bem como potenciais preocupações de segurança (efeitos tóxicos) associadas ao tamanho da NP.

Poly-ε-caprolactone based nanoparticles for delivery of genistein in melanoma treatment

Abstract We developed poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL)-based nanoparticles containing D-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol-1000 succinate (TPGS) or Poloxamer 407 as stabilizers to efficiently encapsulate genistein (GN). Two formulations, referred to as PNTPGS and PNPol, were prepared using nanoprecipitation. They were characterized by size and PDI distribution, zeta potential, nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), GN association (AE%), infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). PNTPGS-GN exhibited a particle size of 141.2 nm, a PDI of 0.189, a zeta potential of -32.9 mV, and an AE% of 77.95%. PNPol-GN had a size of 146.3 nm, a better PDI than PNTPGS-GN (0.150), a less negative zeta potential (-21.0 mV), and an AE% of 68.73%. Thermal and spectrometric analyses indicated that no new compounds were formed, and there was no incompatibility detected in the formulations. Cellular studies revealed that Poloxamer 407 conferred less toxicity to PCL nanoparticles. However, the percentage of uptake decreased compared to the use of TPGS, which exhibited almost 80% cellular uptake. This study contributes to the investigation of stabilizers capable of conferring stability to PCL nanoparticles efficiently encapsulating GN. Thus, the PCL nanoparticle proposed here is an innovative nanomedicine for melanoma therapy and represents a strong candidate for specific pre-clinical and in vivo studies.

Influence of the addition of nanohydroxyapatite to scaffolds on proliferation and differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells: a systematic review of in vitro studies

One of the main challenges of tissue engineering in dentistry is to replace bone and dental tissues with strategies or techniques that simulate physiological tissue repair conditions. This systematic review of in vitro studies aimed to evaluate the influence of the addition of nanohydroxyapatite (NHap) to scaffolds on cell proliferation and osteogenic and odontogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells. In vitro studies on human stem cells that proliferated and differentiated into odontogenic and osteogenic cells in scaffolds containing NHap were included in this study. Searches in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, OpenGrey, ProQuest, and Cochrane Library electronic databases were performed. The total of 333 articles was found across all databases. After reading and analyzing titles and abstracts, 8 articles were selected for full reading and extraction of qualitative data. Results showed that despite the large variability in scaffold composition, NHap-containing scaffolds promoted high rates of cell proliferation, increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity during short culture periods, and induced differentiation, as evidenced by the high expression of genes involved in osteogenesis and odontogenesis. However, further studies with greater standardization regarding NHap concentration, type of scaffolds, and evaluation period are needed to observe possible interference of these criteria in the action of NHap on the proliferation and differentiation of human stem cells.

Niobium oxyhydroxide as a bioactive agent and reinforcement to a high-viscosity bulk-fill resin composite

Abstract Objective The present in vitro study incorporated niobium oxyhydroxide fillers into an experimental high-viscosity bulk-fill resin composite to improve its mechanical performance and provide it a bioactive potential. Methodology Scanning electron microscopy synthesized and characterized 0.5% niobium oxyhydroxide fillers, demonstrating a homogeneous morphology that represented a reinforcement for the feature. Fillers were weighed, gradually added to the experimental resin composite, and homogenized for one minute, forming three groups: BF (experimental high-viscosity bulk-fill resin composite; control), BF0.5 (experimental high-viscosity bulk-fill resin composite modified with 0.5% niobium oxyhydroxide fillers), and BFC (commercial bulk-fill resin composite Beautifil Bulk U, Shofu; positive control). In total, 10 specimens/groups (8 × 2 × 2 mm) underwent flexural strength (FS) tests in a universal testing machine (Instron) (500N). Resin composites were also assessed for Knoop hardness (KH), depth of cure (DoC), degree of conversion (DC), elastic modulus (E), and degree of color change (ΔE). The bioactive potential of the developed resin composite was evaluated after immersing the specimens into a simulated body fluid in vitro solution and assessing them using a Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscope with an attenuated total reflectance accessory. One-way ANOVA, followed by the Tukey's test (p<0.05), determined FS, DC, KH, and ΔE. For DoC, ANOVA was performed, which demonstrated no significant difference between groups (p<0.05). Conclusions The high-viscosity bulk-fill resin composite with 0.5% niobium oxyhydroxide fillers showed promising outcomes as reinforcement agents and performed well for bioactive potential, although less predictable than the commercial resin composite with Giomer technology.

Invivo and invitro evaluation of antitumor effects of iron oxide and folate core shell-iron oxide nanoparticles

Abstract Nanoparticles are considered viable options in the treatment of cancer. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) and magnetite folate core shell (MFCS) on leukemic and hepatocarcinoma cell cultures as well as their effect on the animal model of acute myelocytic leukemia (AML). Through current study nanoparticles were synthesized, characterized by various techniques, and their properties were studied to confirm their nanostructure. Invivo study, nanoparticles were evaluated to inspect their cytotoxic activity against SNU-182 (human hepatocellular carcinoma), K562 (human leukemia), and THLE2 (human normal epithelial liver) cells via MTT test. Apoptotic signaling proteins Bcl-2 and Caspase-3 expression were inspected through RT-PCR method. A cytotoxic effect of MNPs and MFCS was detected in previous cell cultures. Moreover, the apoptosis was identified through significant up-regulation of caspase-3, with Bcl-2 down-regulation. Invitro study, AML was induced in rats by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea followed by oral treatment with MNPS and MFCS. Biochemical indices such as aspartate and alanine amino transferases, and lactate dehydrogenase activities, uric acid, complete blood count, and Beta -2-microglubulin were assessed in serum. Immunophenotyping for CD34 and CD38 detection was performed. Liver, kidney, and bone marrow were microscopically examined. Bcl-2 promoter methylation, and mRNA levels were examined. Although, both MNPs and MFCS depict amelioration in biochemical parameters, MFCS alleviated them toward normal control. Anticancer activity of MNPs and MFCS was approved especially for AML. Whenever, administration of MFCS was more effective than MNPs. The present work is one of few studies used MFCS as anticancer agent.

Resumo Nanopartículas são consideradas opções viáveis no tratamento do câncer. Este estudo foi conduzido para investigar o efeito de nanopartículas de magnetita (MNPs) e núcleo de folato de magnetita (MFCS) em culturas de células leucêmicas e de hepatocarcinoma, bem como seu efeito no modelo animal de leucemia mielocítica aguda (LMA). Através do atual estudo, nanopartículas foram sintetizadas, caracterizadas por várias técnicas, e suas propriedades foram estudadas para confirmar sua nanoestrutura. No estudo in vivo, as nanopartículas foram avaliadas para inspecionar sua atividade citotóxica contra células SNU-182 (carcinoma hepatocelular humano), K562 (leucemia humana) e THLE2 (fígado epitelial humano normal) por meio do teste MTT. A expressão das proteínas sinalizadoras apoptóticas Bcl-2 e Caspase-3 foram inspecionadas através do método RT-PCR. Um efeito citotóxico de MNPs e MFCS foi detectado em culturas de células anteriores. Além disso, a apoptose foi identificada por meio de regulação positiva significativa da Caspase-3, com regulação negativa de Bcl-2. No estudo in vitro, a AML foi induzida em ratos por N-metil-N-nitrosoureia seguida por tratamento oral com MNPS e MFCS. Índices bioquímicos como aspartato e alanina aminotransferases e atividades de lactato desidrogenase, ácido úrico, hemograma completo e Beta-2-microglubulina foram avaliados no soro. A imunofenotipagem para detecção de CD34 e CD38 foi realizada. Fígado, rim e medula óssea foram examinados microscopicamente. A metilação do promotor Bcl-2 e os níveis de mRNA foram examinados. Embora tanto os MNPs quanto os MFCS representem uma melhora nos parâmetros bioquímicos, o MFCS os aliviou em direção ao controle normal. A atividade anticâncer de MNPs e MFCS foi aprovada especialmente para AML. Sempre, a administração de MFCS foi mais eficaz do que MNPs. O presente trabalho é um dos poucos estudos que utilizou o MFCS como agente anticâncer.

Study on the role of nano antibacterial materials in orthodontics (a review)

Abstract Nanoparticles (NPs) are insoluble particles with a diameter of fewer than 100 nanometers. Two main methods have been utilized in orthodontic therapy to avoid microbial adherence or enamel demineralization. Certain NPs are included in orthodontic adhesives or acrylic resins (fluorohydroxyapatite, fluorapatite, hydroxyapatite, SiO2, TiO2, silver, nanofillers), and NPs (i.e., a thin layer of nitrogen-doped TiO2 on the bracket surfaces) are coated on the surfaces of orthodontic equipment. Although using NPs in orthodontics may open up modern facilities, prior research looked at antibacterial or physical characteristics for a limited period of time, ranging from one day to several weeks, and the limits of in vitro studies must be understood. The long-term effectiveness of nanotechnology-based orthodontic materials has not yet been conclusively confirmed and needs further study, as well as potential safety concerns (toxic effects) associated with NP size.

Resumo Nanopartículas (NPs) são partículas insolúveis com diâmetro inferior a 100 nanômetros. Dois métodos principais têm sido utilizados na terapia ortodôntica para evitar a aderência microbiana ou a desmineralização do esmalte: NPs são incluídas em adesivos ortodônticos ou resinas acrílicas (fluoro-hidroxiapatita, fluorapatita, hidroxiapatita, SiO2, TiO2, prata, nanopreenchimentos) e NPs são revestidas nas superfícies de equipamentos ortodônticos, ou seja, uma camada fina de TiO2 dopado com nitrogênio nas superfícies do braquete. Embora o uso de NPs em ortodontia possa tornar acessível modernos recursos, pesquisas anteriores analisaram as características antibacterianas ou físicas por um período limitado de tempo, variando de 24 horas a várias semanas, por isso devem ser compreendidos os limites dos estudos in vitro. A eficácia de longo prazo de materiais ortodônticos com base em nanotecnologia ainda não foi confirmada de forma conclusiva, o que exige mais estudos, bem como potenciais preocupações de segurança (efeitos tóxicos) associadas ao tamanho da NP.

Surface Analysis of a Universal Resin Composite and Effect of Preheating on its Physicochemical Properties

Abstract This study was aimed at analyzing the surface properties of a universal resin composite and evaluating the effect of preheating on its physicochemical properties. Two commercial resin composites were used under two conditions: Filtek Universal Restorative (UR); UR preheated (URH); Filtek Supreme (FS) and FS preheated (FSH). The film thickness (FT) test (n = 10) was done using two glass slabs under compression. Flexural strength (FLS) and modulus (FLM) were evaluated using a three-point flexion test (n = 10). Polymerization shrinkage stress (PSS) was evaluated in a universal testing machine (n = 5). Gap width (GW) between composite and mold was measured in internally polished metallic molds (n = 10). The degree of conversion (DC) was evaluated by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (n = 3). The morphology of the filler particles was checked by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and EDX analysis. Surface gloss (SG) and surface roughness (SR) were evaluated before and after mechanical brushing (n = 10). The outcomes were submitted to 2-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Lower mean values of FT were observed for the preheated groups when compared to the non-preheated groups. URH and FSH showed higher mean values of FLS and FLM when compared with UR and FS. No differences were observed between groups in the PSS test. The GW was higher for the UR and FS groups when compared with URH and FSH. The DC was higher for preheated resin composites when compared to the non-preheated groups. The SR of the UR composite was higher than the FS after mechanical brushing, while the SG was higher for the FS groups. In conclusion, the universal resin composite tested generally presented similar physicochemical properties compared with the nanofilled resin composite and either similar or slightly inferior surface properties. The preheating improved or maintained all properties evaluated.

Resumo Neste estudo avaliou-se propriedades físico-químicas e de superfície de um compósito universal pré-aquecido e comparado a um compósito convencional. Foram utilizados dois compósitos comerciais: Filtek Universal Restorative (UR); UR pré-aquecido (URH); Filtek Supreme (FS) e FS pré-aquecido (FSH). O teste de espessura de película (EP) (n = 10) foi feito usando duas placas de vidro sob compressão. A resistência à flexão (RF) e o módulo flexural (MF) foram avaliados por meio do teste de flexão de três pontos (n = 10). A tensão de contração de polimerização (TCP) foi avaliada em uma máquina de teste universal (n = 8). A largura da fenda (LF) entre o compósito e o molde foi medida em moldes metálicos polidos internamente (n = 10). O grau de conversão (GC) foi avaliado por espectroscopia de infravermelho com transformada de Fourier (n = 3). A morfologia das partículas de carga foi observada em microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) e sua composição em EDX. Brilho superficial (BS) e rugosidade superficial (RS) foram avaliados antes e após escovação mecânica (n=10). Os resultados foram submetidos à ANOVA 2-fatores e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey (α = 0,05). Menores valores médios de EP foram observados para os grupos pré-aquecidos quando comparados aos grupos não pré-aquecidos. URH e FSH apresentaram maiores valores médios de RF e MF quando comparados com UR e FS. Não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos no teste TCP. A LF foi maior para os grupos UR e FS quando comparados com URH e FSH. O GC foi maior para os compósitos pré-aquecidos quando comparados aos não pré-aquecidos. A RS do compósito UR foi maior que o FS após a escovação mecânica, enquanto o BS foi maior para os grupos FS. Em conclusão, o compósito universal testado geralmente apresentou propriedades físico-químicas semelhantes em comparação ao compósito nanoparticulado e propriedades de superfície semelhantes ou ligeiramente inferiores. O pré-aquecimento melhorou ou manteve todas as propriedades avaliadas.

Applications of Nanoparticles in Agriculture Improvement- A Review

The field of nanotechnology is quickly developing and emerging since it has enormous potential for various human uses. With their unique, size-based physical and chemical attributes, nonmaterials generated and engineered through nanotechnology have many applications in biomedicine and agriculture. Theranostics is a branch of nanomedicine that uses small, highly surface-area nanoparticles to diagnose and treat diseases. Nanomaterials have a wide range of uses in agriculture, from fertilizers that improve soil nutrient uptake by plants to nano pesticides that control a variety of pests, including fungi, phytophagous insects, and weeds, increasing food output. Agriculture and food security are intimately connected, and many researchers are interested. Agriculture production depends on many difficulties due to the severe effects of climate change, water problems and changing the distribution of insect pests. Meanwhile, it faces tremendous challenges in maintaining food security for a massive population amid declining resources. Research is actively exploring the use of nonmaterial in agriculture due to their tremendous promise. Despite their good qualities, nonmaterial present risks to the environment and human health, necessitating risk assessment studies. Green nonmaterial synthesis may lessen the usage of toxic agrochemicals that pollute the environment and enter biological systems, providing an environmentally safe, environmentally friendly, and economically advantageous option. In this critical evaluation, nanoparticles are used in agriculture.

Las nanoestructuras de ZnO y sus aplicaciones como sensor de gas H2S / The ZnO nanostructures and their applications as a H2S gas sensor

RESUMEN Existe un interés global en la detección de gases tóxicos, para la protección del medio ambiente y los seres humanos. Se han desarrollado múltiples estudios enfocados en el uso de sensores de gases basados en óxidos metálicos, como es el óxido de zinc (ZnO), el cual presenta propiedades electrónicas específicas como sensor de gases por ser un semiconductor tipo n y bajo costo de producción. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar el uso de nanoestructuras de ZnO, para la fabricación de sensores del gas ácido sulfhídrico (H2S), así como las técnicas de obtención más comunes de dichas estructuras. Las características de las nanoestructuras de óxido de zinc (NE´s-ZnO) varían por efecto del método de obtención, generando diferentes morfologías y tamaño, que impactan en la capacidad de detección de gas (0.5 ppm a 600 ppm) y en el rango de temperatura que se requiere. Los avances en la generación de diversas NE´s-ZnO facilitarán la posibilidad de generar sensores que puedan ser utilizados en detectores portátiles y operen a temperatura ambiente, lo cual es un reto actual.

ABSTRACT There is a global interest in the detection of toxic gases for the protection of the environment and human beings, using low-cost and easy-to-use sensors. Multiple studies have focused on the use of gas detectors based on metal oxides, such as zinc oxide (ZnO), which has specific electronic properties as a gas detector because it is an n-type semiconductor and it has a low production cost. The objective of this work was to analyze the use of ZnO nanostructures for the manufacturing of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas sensors, as well as the most common techniques for obtaining these structures. The characteristics of zinc oxide nanostructures (NE´s-ZnO) vary due to the effect of the obtaining method, generating different morphologies and sizes, which impacts gas detection performance (0.5 ppm up to 600 ppm) and in the temperature range that is required. Advances in the design of various NE's-ZnO will have the possibility of generating sensors that can be used in portable detectors and operate at room temperature, which is a current challenge.

La solidez de la investigación homeopática fundamental / The strength of fundamental homeopathic research

La investigación fundamental en homeopatía ha avanzado considerablemente en los últimos 20 años: desde estudios exploratorios con animales y plantas hasta la caracterización de los efectos sistémicos de los medicamentos homeopáticos y estudios in vitro con sistemas celulares aislados para evaluar los cambios en los mecanismos de adaptación celular y señalización intracelular frente a tratamientos homeopáticos variables. El número de artículos publicados a lo largo del tiempo ha permitido realizar varias revisiones sistemáticas. Recientemente, la demostración de que los medicamentos homeopáticos podrían modificar las funciones celulares a través de mecanismos epigenéticos (metilación y desmetilación de ADN) preparó el camino para un campo de investigación completamente nuevo. En paralelo, el descubrimiento de las nanopartículas y propiedades físicas específicas de las diluciones homeopáticas ha arrojado luz hacia un campo antes poco conocido, dado que se consideraba que las diluciones homeopáticas no consistían más que de agua. Así las cosas, los retos para el futuro conciernen a la demostración, o no, de la interrelación entre ambos fenómenos.

Fundamental research in homeopathy has much advanced in the past 20 years. From exploratory studies with animals and plants to the characterization of the systemic effects of homeopathic medicines and in vitro studies with isolated cell systems to assess changes in the mechanisms of cell adaptation and intracellular signaling facing variable homeopathic treatments. The amount of articles published over time enabled several systematic reviews. Recently, demonstration that homeopathic medicines might modify cell functions through epigenetic mechanisms (DNA methylation and demethylation) paved the road for a fully new field of research. In parallel, the discovery of nanoparticles and specific physical properties of homeopathic dilutions brought light to a previously poorly known field, as it was believed that homeopathic dilutions consist in nothing but water. Thus being, challenges for the future concern the demonstration, or not, of the interrelationship between both phenomena.

Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Thymus vulgaris essential oil contained and synthesis thymus (Vulgaris) silver nanoparticles / Atividades antioxidante e antimicrobiana do óleo essencial de Thymus vulgaris contido e síntese de nanopartículas de prata de timo (Vulgaris)

Abstract Several species of thymus have therapeutic properties, so they are used in traditional medicine. In this work was carried out to synthesize Thymus vulgalis silver nanoparticles (TSNPS) and evaluate antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of TSNPS and T. vulgalis essential oil extract (TEOE). The essential oils analyzed by GC-MS and were characterized. Major compounds of phenol, 2 methyl 5 (1 methylethyle) (CAS), thymol and 1,2 Benzene dicarboxylic acid, 3 nitro (CAS) (48.75%, 32.42% and 8.12%, respectively) were detected. Results demonstrated that the TSNPS gave a highest DPPH radical scavenging activity, it was obtained 97.2 at 1000 ug/ml. TSNPS, Thymus + Hexane (T+H), Thymus + Ethanol (T+E) gave the greatest antimicrobial activity than amoxicillin (AM) and ciprofloxacin (CIP). In conclusion: The essential oil of thymus (Vulgaris) and thymus (Vulgaris) silver nanoparticles can be a good source of natural preservatives as an antioxidant and antimicrobial agents for increasing the shelf life of foodstuffs.

Resumo Diversas espécies de timo possuem propriedades terapêuticas, por isso são utilizadas na medicina tradicional. Neste trabalho foi realizado para sintetizar nanopartículas de prata Thymus vulgalis (TSNPS) e avaliar as atividades antioxidante e antimicrobiana de TSNPS e extrato de óleo essencial de T. vulgalis (TEOE). Os óleos essenciais analisados por GC-MS e foram caracterizados. Os principais compostos de fenol, 2 metil 5 (1 metiletilo) (CAS), timol e ácido 1,2 Benzenodicarboxílico, 3 nitro (CAS) (48,75%, 32,42% e 8,12%, respectivamente) foram detectados. Os resultados demonstraram que o TSNPS deu uma maior atividade de eliminação do radical DPPH , foi obtido 97,2 a 1000 ug / ml. TSNPS, Timo + Hexano (T + H), Timo + Etanol (T + E) deu a maior atividade antimicrobiana do que amoxicilina (AM) e ciprofloxacina (CIP). Em conclusão: O óleo essencial de nanopartículas de prata do timo (Vulgaris) e do timo (Vulgaris) pode ser uma boa fonte de conservantes naturais como agentes antioxidantes e antimicrobianos para aumentar a vida útil de alimentos.

Application progress of domestic carbon nanoparticles suspension in sentinel lymph node biopsy for malignant tumors / 国际肿瘤学杂志

Sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) are the first lymph nodes to undergo lymph node metastasis from primary tumors, and various tracers are currently being researched in the field of SLNs. Domestic carbon nanoparticles suspension (CNP) has a good lymphatic system tropism, can indeed stain lymph nodes in a short time without entering the blood circulation, and has been widely used in various malignant tumors as a third generation specific lymphatic tracer. Although there are still many factors that affect the effectiveness of CNP tracer, CNP has the advantages of safety, high efficiency, non-radioactivity and easy operation compared with other kinds of tracers, and is expected to be a powerful means to identify SLNs metastasis of malignant tumors.

Research progress in the application of hybrid cell membrane biomimetic nano-drug delivery system in cancer treatment / 国际生物医学工程杂志

The biomimetic strategy of using the cell membrane-coated nanoparticles can retain the physical and chemical properties of the nanoparticles and show the biological characteristics of the source cell membrane, which can further enhance the role of the nanodrug in tumor treatment. A hybrid cell membrane is the fusion of two or more different types of cell membranes. A hybrid cell membrane can endow nanoparticles with multiple biofunctions derived from the source cells compared with a single cell membrane. Hybrid cell membranes provide a foundation to stimulate extensive research into multifunctional biomimetic nano-drug delivery system (NDDS), which is expected to broaden the application of biomimetic nanotechnology in drug delivery systems. In this review paper, the types of hybrid cell membrane used to construct nano-drug delivery systems, the preparation and characterization methods, and cancer treatment research progress in recent years were reviewed.

Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles from Sophora flavescens extract and their antibacterial effect against some pathogenic bacteria

Aims@#The current study was aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of biogenic synthesized golden nanoparticles from Sophora flavescens Aiton roots aqueous extract against multidrug-resistant (MDR) clinical bacterial isolates.@*Methodology and results@#The green synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) was accomplished using S. flavescens roots aqueous extract and examined using many accepted techniques. The antibacterial activity of S. flavescens extract and the aqueous AuNPs at concentrations (7% and 9%) ppm were investigated against two clinical MDR bacteria, including Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The findings demonstrate inhibitory activity against the selected MDR bacterial isolates for the aqueous extract of S. flavescens and the aqueous AuNPs noted by the significant decrease in the number of bacteria after treatment with highly significant differences (P≤0.01) compared to the untreated control.@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#Sophora flavescens root extracts and their biosynthesized AuNPs with antibacterial activity may find broad applications in fighting MDR pathogenic bacteria and therapeutic manufacturing.

Antibacterial efficacy of chemically and plant-synthesized zinc oxide nanocomposite against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli inoculated in Tilapia fillet

Aims@#Edible coatings developed from biodegradable materials such as starch and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPS) are efficient antimicrobials that could be used as a food additive to reduce the bacterial load on the food surface. Therefore, this study was aimed to examine the effect of chemical and green synthesized ZnO-NPS with different concentrations on the survival of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus in fish fillets during chilling storage at 4 ± 1°C.@*Methodology and results@#ZnO-NPS were chemically prepared by mixing zinc acetate dihydrate with sodium hydroxide. Lavandula officinalis was used for the green synthesis of ZnO-NPS. The sterile biodegradable coating containing 2 and 5% of both chemically and green synthesized ZnO-NPS were made using starch, gelatin, xanthan gum and glycerol. Different bacterial cocktail strains of both E. coli and S. aureus were inoculated onto Tilapia fillet samples. The coating solution with different antimicrobials was aseptically spread in Tilapia fillets and examined periodically within two days intervals for the survival of S. aureus and E. coli during chilling at 4 ± 1 °C. Both chemically and plantsynthesized ZnO-NPS reduced the growth of both S. aureus and E. coli by about 3.7 log10 CFU/cm2 of Tilapia fillet. The incorporation of L. officinalis increased the antibacterial activity of ZnO-NPS. Staphylococcus aureus was more sensitive than E. coli for both chemically and plant-synthesized ZnO-NPS. Moreover, zinc oxide biodegradable coating extended the shelf-life of chilled Tilapia fillets by about 4 days.@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#The results of the current study demonstrated the incorporation of L. officinalis into ZnO-NPS biodegradable coating which may be promising in reducing microbial growth on food surfaces.

Irregular-Shaped Fe3O4 Nanoparticles-Mediated Magneto-Mecha nical Force for Killing Tumor Cell / 医用生物力学

Objective To investigate tumor cell killing effect of superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles with cubic phase through magneto-mechanical force under a low-frequency vibrating magnetic field ( VMF). Methods A kind of strong magnetic and irregular-shaped Fe3O4 nanoparticles with cubic phase was synthesized by coprecipitation method. The Fe3O4 nanoparticles were exposed to a self-developed VMF and cell killing efficiency of the Fe3O4-mediated magneto-mechanical force was investigated. Results VMF alone had no effects on cell viability. After Fe3O4 nanoparticles were added, the cell viability significantly decreased with prolonging the VMF treatment time and increasing the Fe3O4 nanoparticle concentration. Lactate dehydrogenase released by damaged cells also increased with prolonging the VMF exposure time. Conclusions The irregular-shaped Fe3O4 nanoparticles can transfer magneto-mechanical force to tumor cells under VMF, cause structural damage of cells and result in cell death. The VMF generator developed in this study has simple structure and it is safe for use and convenient for operation. The developed magnetic nanoparticles and the corresponding cancer cell killing technique have the potential for clinical transformation.

Effects of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on circRNA expression profiles in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells HepG2 / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the effect of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) on the expression profile of circular ribonucleic acid (circRNA) in human hepatocytes through in vitro cell experiments, and to attempt to understand the potential mechanism of hepatotoxicity through bioinformatics analysis.@*METHODS@#TiO2 NPs were characterized from the aspects of particle size, shape and agglomeration state. The cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) was used to detect the cytotoxicity of TiO2 NPs against human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) after exposure to 0, 1.56, 3.13, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/L TiO2 NPs for 24 h or 48 h. The cells were treated at doses of 0 mg/L TiO2 NPs (control group) and 100 mg/L TiO2 NPs (treatment group), and collected after exposure for 48 h, and then RNA from the extracted cell samples was collected and sequenced. The differential circRNAs between the control and the TiO2 NPs treatment groups were screened, and then the enrichment pathway of the differential circRNA target gene was analyzed by multivariate statistics. According to the sequencing results, significantly altered genes and important genes in the significant enrichment pathways were screened, and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT-PCR) was performed to verify the results.@*RESULTS@#TiO2 NPs were spherical anatase with a hydrated particle size of (323.50±85.44) nm and a Zeta potential of (-21.00±0.72) mV in a serum-free medium. The results of the CCK8 cytotoxicity assay showed that with the increase of TiO2 NPs concentration, cell viability gradually decreased. A total of 11 478 circRNAs were found by RNA sequencing. Compared with the control groups, TiO2 NPs treatment groups (100 mg/L) had a total of 89 differential circRNAs, of which 59 were up-regulated and 30 were down-regulated. Analysis of the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway showed that the targeted genes of differential circRNAs were mainly enriched in fatty acid degradation, Fanconi anemia pathway, and fatty acid metabolism. The expression levels of circRNA.6730, circRNA.3650 and circRNA.4321 were significantly different between the TiO2 NPs treatment group and the control group, which were consistent with the sequencing results.@*CONCLUSION@#TiO2 NPs can induce changes in circRNA expression profile, and epigenetics may play an important role in the mechanism of hepatotoxicity.

Identification the key factor of pulmonary fibrosis following silica nanoparticles exposure based on bioinformatics analysis / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To investigate the main mechanisms of pulmonary fibrosis following silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) exposure through constructing the macrophage-fibroblast model in vitro, which simulated the process of pulmonary fibrosis. Methods: In January 2021, human mononuclear leukemia cells (THP-1) were treated with 0, 25, 50, 100 μg/ml SiNPs for 24 h. The supernatant of THP-1 cells was collected and applied to human embryonic lung fibroblast cells (MRC-5) which divided into control and low, medium and high dose groups at the logarithmic growth stage for 24 h. MRC-5 cell viability was detected by CCK8. The hydroxyproline (Hyp), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) expression were detected in the supernatants of MRC-5. The changed proteins were detected by liquid-phase mass spectrometry in high dose group. GeneCard database were applied to identity the differential pulmonary fibrosis proteins in high dose group. Gene Ontology (GO) was performed to identity the key biological process in differential pulmonary fibrosis proteins of high dose group. The String database was used to construct the protein-protein interactions (PPI) network of differential pulmonary fibrosis proteins. The APP of CytoHubba was applied to calculate the key protein of differential pulmonary fibrosis proteins in PPI network. Correlation coefficients between key differential pulmonary fibrosis proteins were calculated using Pearson correlation analysis. Western blotting was applied to detect the expression of key proteins of differential pulmonary fibrosis proteins in different groups. Results: CCK8 results showed that MRC-5 cell viability was increasing in low, medium and high dose groups compared with control group (P<0.05). The expression levels of Hyp and IL-1β in different group were increased compared with control group, the expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were increased in high dose group compared with control group (P<0.05). GeneCard database identified 26 differential pulmonary fibrosis proteins, which were mainly involved in extracellular matrix hydrolysis, cell inflammatory response, tissue repair, cell proliferation, inflammation response by GO analysis. The APP of CytoHubba was calculated that matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP1) played an important role in PPI network. The results of correlation analysis showed that MMP9 was correlated with the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1), matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3), TIMP1 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) (r=0.97, 0.98, 0.94, 0.93, P<0.05). Western blotting results showed that TIMP1 protein expression was increased in low, medium and high dose groups, while MMP9 protein expression was increased only in high dose group (P<0.05) . Conclusion: Differential expression proteins related with pulmonary fibrosis in MRC-5 cells mainly regulate biological processes of extracellular matrix hydrolysis, tissue repair, and cellular inflammation response following SiNPs exposure. MMP9 and TIMP1 may be the key proteins, which affected the fibrosis process in vitro pulmonary fibrosis model.

Evaluation of inhibitory effect of tumor vaccine in colon carcinoma model mice / 中国生物制品学杂志

Objective@#To evaluate the inhibitory effect of tumor vaccines in colon carcinoma model mice.@*Methods@# Mouse bone marrow⁃derived dendritic cells（BMDCs）were stimulated by using CpG β⁃glucan nanoparticles（CNP）in vitro. The BMDCs were divided into PBS group，NP group（without CpG nanoparticles），Lysate group（MC38 cell lysate）and CpG group（CpG1826），which were determined for the expression of marker molecules on the surface by flow cytometry and for the contents of interleukin⁃6（IL⁃6）and IL⁃12p40 in the culture supernatant by ELISA. The tumor lysate nano⁃vaccine was pre⁃ pared by mixing 50 mg／mL tumor lysate（MC38 cell lysate）with 200 mg／mL CNP in a volume ratio of 1∶1，with which mice were subcutaneously immunized as Vaccine group. Vaccine group，PBS group，CNP group and Lysate group were im⁃ munized once a week，for three times in total. Mice were subcutaneously inoculated with MC38 cells，2 × 105 cells for each， in the right lower limb 1 h after the last immunization，and measured for tumor volume once every three days to plot the tumor growth curve. The ratios of CD3+ CD4+ T and CD3+ CD8+ T cells in the blood were analyzed by flow cytometry and the levels of tumor necrosis factor⁃α（TNF⁃α）and interferon γ（IFNγ）in the blood and spleen of mice were determined by ELISA.@*Results@# CNP effectively increased the expression of CD11c+ CD80+，CD11c+ CD86+，CD11c+ MHC⁃Ⅱ+ and the secretion of IL⁃6 and IL⁃12p40 in BMDCs in vitro，which were significantly higher than those in other 4 groups（t = 4. 3 ~ 46. 2，each P < 0. 05）. Compared with that of the other three groups，the tumor volume of mice in Vaccine group decreased significantly（t =2.6~3.4，eachP <0. 05）；TherewasnosignificantdifferenceinCD3+ CD8+ TandCD3+ CD8+ Tcellratios（t = 0.5~ 1. 9，each P > 0. 05）；The content of IFNγ in blood increased significantly（t = 3. 8 ~ 4. 6，P < 0. 05），while thatof TNF⁃α showed no significant difference（t = 0. 4 ~ 2. 0，each P > 0. 05）；However，the contents of IFN γ and TNF⁃α in spleen increased significantly（t = 6. 3 ~ 13. 0，each P < 0. 001）.@*Conclusion@#The prepared nano⁃vaccine of tumor lysate improvedtheimmune level in mice and effectively inhibited the growth of colon carcinoma.