Search Results (731)

This study employed a sol–gel route to fabricate mesoporous silica (MS) carriers capable of simultaneously encapsulating two widely utilized UV absorbers—benzophenone-3 (BP-3) and octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC)—resulting in the composite sunscreen agent S4M1B1. Comprehensive characterization using FTIR, TGA, UV–vis spectroscopy, DSC, SEM, and standard photoprotective indices (SPF and UVA-PF) confirmed the successful immobilization of both active ingredients within the MS porous structure, achieving a notably high loading of up to 72 wt%. Sunscreen formulations incorporating the encapsulated composite demonstrated superior photoprotective performance, exhibiting SPF and UVA-PF values approximately 40% higher than equivalent physical mixtures of the same actives. Additionally, the MS encapsulation significantly enhanced the photostability of BP-3 and OMC, effectively maintaining their UV-protective efficacy after prolonged simulated solar exposure. Franz glass diffusion cell assays further revealed that encapsulation markedly reduced the in vitro skin permeation of both BP-3 and OMC by over 55%, substantially diminishing transdermal absorption risks. The dual benefits of enhanced UV-protection efficiency and reduced dermal penetration underscore the composite’s potential as a safer and more effective active ingredient in cosmetic sunscreen products, with promising applications in advanced skincare and cosmeceutical formulations. Full article

For monitoring animal adaptation when facing environmental challenges, and more specifically when addressing the impacts of global warming—particularly responses to heat stress and short-term fluctuations in osmotic regulations in the different organs influencing animal physiology—there is an increasing demand for digital tools to understand and monitor a range of biomarkers. Microneedle arrays (MNAs) have recently emerged as promising devices minimally invasively penetrating human skin to access dermal interstitial fluid (ISF) to monitor deviations in physiology and consequences on health. The ISF is a blood filtrate where the concentrations of ions, low molecular weight metabolites (<70 kDa), hormones, and drugs, often closely correlate with those in blood. However, anatomical skin differences between human and farm animals, especially large animals, as well as divergent tolerances of such devices among species with behavior specificities, motivate new MNA designs. We addressed technological challenges to design higher microneedles for farm animal (pigs and cattle) measurements. We designed microneedle arrays composed of 37 microneedles, each 2.8 mm in height, using dextran-methacrylate, a photo-crosslinked biocompatible biopolymer-based hydrogel. The arrays were characterized geometrically and mechanically. Their abilities to perforate pig and cow skin were demonstrated through histological analysis. The MNAs successfully absorbed approximately 10 µL of fluid within 3 h of application. Full article

Organ failure constitutes a significant global concern requiring urgent attention. While organ transplantation offers prospective treatment, it remains suboptimal. The scarcity of donor organs and the need for lifelong immunosuppressive treatments highlight the necessity for innovative approaches in regenerative medicine. In response, tissue engineering has emerged as a promising alternative, particularly through advancements in three-dimensional (3D) and four-dimensional (4D) printing technologies. These approaches enable the fabrication of complex, patient-specific constructs for regenerating tissues such as skin, bone, cartilage, and vascularized organs. This review systematically examines 3D printing techniques, commonly used biomaterials (e.g., hydrogels, bio-inks, and polymers), and their applications in dermal, cardiovascular, bone, and neural regeneration. In addition to discussing 3D technology, an introduction to 4D bioprinting is provided, enabling advanced biomedical applications and establishing itself as an innovative tool that enhances the classic approach to 3D bioprinting in the context of regenerative medicine. Finally, key challenges and ethical considerations are discussed to provide a comprehensive perspective on the current state and future of printed scaffolds in regenerative medicine. Full article

This study investigates the valorisation of sour orange (Citrus aurantium L.) flowers using supercritical antisolvent fractionation (SAF) with CO₂ as an antisolvent. SAF was applied to selectively recover bioactive compounds from ethanolic extracts, using supercritical CO₂ to induce precipitation. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize operational conditions across a pressure range of 8.7–15 MPa and CO₂ flow rates of 0.6–1.8 kg/h, at a constant temperature of 40 °C. Pressure showed a statistically significant positive effect on precipitate yield, while higher CO₂ flow rates led to reduced recovery. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis identified naringin (33.7%), neohesperidin (21.6%), and synephrine (9.0%) as the main components of the enriched fractions. SAF enabled the selective concentration of these compounds, supporting its application as a green separation technique. As a complementary evaluation, preliminary in silico predictions of ADMET properties and skin permeability were performed. The results indicated favourable absorption, low predicted toxicity, and limited dermal permeation for the major flavonoids. These findings are consistent with available experimental and regulatory safety data. Overall, the study demonstrates the potential of SAF as an effective green technology for the selective extraction and enrichment of high-value bioactive compounds derived from Citrus aurantium flowers, with promising applications in cosmetic, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical formulations. Full article

Repeated UV exposure, air pollution, and toxins promote skin oxidative stress. ROS destroy macromolecules, changing cellular mechanisms and signaling cascades. Inflammation and injury to skin cells degrade function and accelerate aging, causing wrinkles, firmness loss, and dermatological disorders. Gymnema inodorum (GI) contains phytochemical antioxidants such polyphenols and triterpenoids that lower ROS and strengthen skin. GI extracts (GIEs) have never been examined for their effects on dermal skin fibroblasts’ oxidative stress and intracellular cytoprotective mechanisms. In this study, GIEs were prepared as a water extract (GIE0) and ethanol extracts with concentrations ranging from 20% to 95% v/v (GIE20, GIE40, GIE60, GIE80, and GIE95). These extracts were assessed for phytochemical content, antioxidant capacity, and free radical scavenging efficacy. The results were compared to a commercially available native Gymnema extract (NGE) obtained from Gymnema sylvestre. During principal component analysis (PCA), the most effective extracts were identified and subsequently evaluated for their ability to mitigate oxidative stress in fibroblasts. Cytoprotective effects of GIE and NGE against H₂O₂-induced human dermal fibroblast injury were investigated by cell viability, intracellular ROS production, and signaling pathways. GIE0, GIE80, GIE95, and NGE were the best antioxidants. By preserving ROS balance and redox homeostasis, GIE and NGE reduce fibroblast inflammation and oxidative stress-induced damage. Decreased ROS levels reduce MAPK/AP-1/NF-κB and PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathways, diminishing inflammatory cytokines. In conclusion, GIE and NGE have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities that can reduce H₂O₂-induced fibroblast oxidative stress and damage, thereby preventing skin aging and targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts. Full article

This study explores the antioxidant potential and delivery performance of five structurally distinct cannabinoids, with a particular focus on cannabinol (CBN). Comprehensive structural characterization using mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) revealed key molecular features relevant to antioxidant function. Among the tested compounds, CBN exhibited the most potent and balanced radical scavenging activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl, and superoxide radicals. Based on these findings, CBN was selected for formulation into soy lecithin liposomes. The resulting CBN-loaded liposomes displayed favorable colloidal properties, with an average size of approximately 122.9 ± 0.4 nm. Results indicating increased membrane order upon CBN incorporation suggest enhanced stability of the liposomal bilayer. Antioxidant activity assays showed that CBN-loaded liposomes retain significant radical scavenging capacity, though with a moderate reduction compared to free CBN. EPR imaging further demonstrated superior diffusion of liposomal CBN through a gelatin-based semi-solid model compared to the control solution. While the current model does not replicate skin architecture, it provides a cost-effective and reproducible platform for early-stage screening of formulation mobility. These results position CBN-loaded liposomes as a promising candidate for dermal antioxidant applications, combining favorable physicochemical properties with enhanced diffusion behavior. Full article

Bixin, an apocarotenoid from Bixa orellana seeds, is a valuable natural pigment with industrial and pharmacological applications. Traditional extraction methods rely on organic solvents, but eco-friendly alternatives like silk fibroin solution (SFS) are emerging. This study evaluated SFS for bixin extraction from annatto seeds, optimizing conditions using Box-Behnken Design (BBD). The optimal parameters 1.5% SFS, 60 °C, and 60 min yielded 10.87 mg/mL (liquid extract of annatto seeds, LEAS + SFS) and 150.72 mg/g (solid extract of annatto seeds, SEAS + SFS). Cell viability was assessed in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFn) and RAW 264.7 murine macrophages via MTT assay. After 24 and 72 h, LEAS + SFS, SEAS + SFS, purified bixin (PB), and SFS maintained >70% viability in HDFn cells. Similarly, RAW 264.7 cells showed >70% viability after 24 h, indicating low cytotoxicity. These results highlight the biocompatibility of SFS-extracted bixin, supporting its potential in food, cosmetics, and biomedicine. The study demonstrates that SFS is an effective, sustainable alternative to traditional solvents, offering high extraction efficiency and minimal toxicity. This method aligns with green chemistry principles, providing a promising solution for bixin production. Full article

Burn injuries remain a complex clinical challenge, particularly in reconstructive settings where donor sites are limited. Integra^® Dermal Regeneration Template (IDRT), a bilayer dermal substitute, facilitates neodermis formation and supports functional and aesthetic recovery following burn trauma. This narrative review and expert opinion synthesizes current literature and clinical experience on the application of IDRT in post-burn reconstruction. It discusses the biological mechanism of dermal regeneration, surgical protocols including wound bed preparation and grafting, and considerations for anatomical regions such as the face, torso, and limbs. The review emphasizes key factors influencing successful outcomes, including patient selection, timing, and multidisciplinary coordination. Potential complications, such as infection, hematoma, and poor graft adherence, are addressed along with prevention and management strategies. Special considerations for pediatric and elderly populations are also highlighted. Through evidence-based insights and illustrative case examples, this review aims to inform surgical decision-making and promote best practices in reconstructive burn care using IDRT. Full article

Nanotechnology has been widely employed in the field of cosmeceuticals, promoting the development of innovative cosmetic formulations characterized by notable pharmacological activity. The use of nanocosmeceuticals allows for better skin penetration of active compounds, their controlled release over time, and greater physico-chemical stability. Chitosan nanoparticles have generated significant interest in the scientific community as dermal and transdermal delivery systems for natural compounds. In particular, the encapsulation of polyphenols within chitosan nanosystems has been proposed as a method to enhance the effectiveness of bioactives in cosmeceutical formulations. This review discusses the most relevant scientific literature on the topic, with particular attention to studies published in recent years. Chitosan-based nanosystems improve the stability, bioavailability, and skin compatibility of polyphenols, offering promising solutions for the prevention and treatment of skin disorders due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review provides a comprehensive update on the development of chitosan nanoparticles containing polyphenols and their potential clinical applications, highlighting the role of these systems as nanocosmeceuticals. Full article

Skin aging is commonly characterized by increased wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and hyperpigmentation, significantly affecting personal appearance and quality of life. Although botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) has been widely applied in cosmetic anti-wrinkle treatments, its intrinsic cytotoxicity limits broader clinical applications. In this study, we developed a novel exosome-based BTX-A composite delivery system designed to synergize the anti-aging properties of exosomes with the wrinkle-reducing effects of BTX-A while reducing toxicity. Human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells were genetically modified via lentiviral transduction to overexpress Synaptic Vesicle Glycoprotein 2C (SV2C), the receptor of BTX-A, thereby producing SV2C-enriched functionalized exosomes (EXO^SV2C). These exosomes (2.0 × 10⁷ particles/mL) were incubated with BTX-A (3 U/mL) to generate the EXO^SV2C-BTX-A complex. In vitro, EXO^SV2C-BTX-A significantly promoted the proliferation and migration of human dermal fibroblasts and effectively alleviated D-galactose (D-gal)-induced cellular senescence and collagen type I loss. These effects were superior to those observed with either BTX-A or exosomes alone. In vivo, intradermal injection of EXO^SV2C-BTX-A for 28 days markedly suppressed D-gal-induced skin aging in 8-week-old male KM mice, as evidenced by reduced malondialdehyde levels in dermal tissue, enhanced collagen type I expression, and preserved skin structure. Notably, the composite exhibited significantly lower toxicity compared to free BTX-A. Collectively, these findings highlight EXO^SV2C-BTX-A as a promising exosome-mediated BTX-A delivery platform with enhanced anti-aging efficacy and improved biocompatibility, offering a potential therapeutic strategy for skin rejuvenation. Full article

Background: In recent years, botulinum toxin (BoNT) has been increasingly employed not only as a corrective aesthetic intervention but also as a proactive strategy to delay the visible signs of facial aging. This systematic review aims to evaluate the scientific evidence supporting the preventive role of BoNT in facial aging, focusing on its long-term effects, mechanisms of action, and clinical outcomes when used in younger, pre-symptomatic populations. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Inclusion criteria encompassed clinical trials and observational studies addressing the use of BoNT for proactive aesthetic strategies. Results: Evidence suggests that early BoNT application may reduce muscle hyperactivity, delay the formation of dynamic wrinkles, and minimize the development of static lines over time. Histological studies indicate a potential remodeling effect on dermal collagen. However, data remain heterogeneous, and long-term safety and efficacy outcomes are not yet fully established. Conclusion: Preventive BoNT injections represent a promising tool in the proactive management of facial aging. Further longitudinal, high-quality studies are needed to substantiate its role within evidence-based aesthetic protocols. Full article

Melanin overproduction contributes to hyperpigmentation disorders such as melasma and solar lentigines, leading to increasing demand for safe and effective skin-lightening agents. D-cycloserine (DCS), a known antimicrobial agent, has not been previously evaluated for dermatological applications. This study aimed to explore the potential of DCS as a novel anti-melanogenic compound and to elucidate its underlying molecular mechanisms in melanogenesis inhibition. The cytotoxicity and anti-melanogenic effects of DCS were assessed in B16F10 melanoma cells stimulated with α-MSH. Cell viability was determined via MTT assays, while melanin content, tyrosinase activity, and the expression levels of MITF, TYR, TRP-1, TRP-2, and major signaling proteins (e.g., CREB, MAPKs, GSK-3β/β-catenin) were evaluated using colorimetric assays and Western blotting. A 3D human skin model was also used to confirm in vitro findings, and a primary skin irritation test was conducted to assess dermal safety. DCS significantly reduced α-MSH-induced melanin content and tyrosinase activity without cytotoxicity at concentrations ≤100 µM. It downregulated MITF and melanogenic enzyme expression and modulated signaling pathways by enhancing ERK activation while inhibiting CREB, JNK, and p38 phosphorylation. Additionally, DCS suppressed β-catenin stabilization via GSK-3β activation. These effects were confirmed in a 3D human skin model, and a clinical skin irritation study revealed no adverse reactions in human volunteers. DCS exerts its anti-melanogenic effect by targeting multiple pathways, including CREB/MITF, MAPK, and GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling. Its efficacy and safety profiles support its potential as a novel cosmeceutical agent for the treatment of hyperpigmentation. Further clinical studies are warranted to confirm its therapeutic utility in human skin pigmentation disorders. Full article

Seeds of Cucurbitaceae crops represent a promising yet underexplored source of bioactive compounds with potential applications beyond nutrition, particularly in the cosmetics industry. This review examines the seeds of Citrullus lanatus (watermelon), Cucumis melo (melon), and Cucurbita pepo (pumpkin), focusing on their biochemical composition and evaluating their functional value in natural cosmetic development. Although these fruits are widely consumed, industrial processing generates substantial seed by-products that are often discarded. These seeds are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and phytochemicals, positioning them as sustainable raw materials for value-added applications. The incorporation of seed-derived extracts into cosmetic formulations offers multiple skin and hair benefits, including antioxidant activity, hydration, and support in managing conditions such as hyperpigmentation, acne, and psoriasis. They also contribute to hair care by improving oil balance, reducing frizz, and enhancing strand nourishment. However, challenges such as environmental instability and low dermal permeability of seed oils have prompted interest in nanoencapsulation technologies to improve delivery, stability, and efficacy. This review summarizes current scientific findings and highlights the potential of Cucurbitaceae seeds as innovative and sustainable ingredients for cosmetic and personal care applications. Full article

Nanocrystals, defined as crystalline particles with dimensions in the nanometer range (<1000 nm), exhibit unique properties that enhance the efficacy of poorly soluble active compounds. This review explores the fundamental aspects of nanocrystals, including their characteristics and various preparation methods, while addressing critical factors that influence their stability and incorporation into final products. A key focus of the review is the advantages offered by nanocrystals in dermal applications. It also highlights their ability to enhance passive diffusion into the skin and facilitate penetration via particle-assisted dermal penetration. Additionally, the review discusses their capacity to penetrate into hair follicles, enabling targeted drug delivery, and their synergistic potential when combined with microneedles, which further enhance the dermal absorption of active compounds. The review also addresses several commercial products that successfully employ nanocrystal technology, showcasing its practical applications. Summary: Nanocrystals with their special properties are an emerging trend for dermal applications, particularly the development of plantCrystals—natural nanocrystals sourced from plant materials—which represent a promising path for future research and formulation strategies. These advancements could lead to more sustainable and effective dermal products. Full article

Serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBEM) is a powerful technique for three-dimensional ultrastructural analysis of biological samples, though its application to in vitro cultured human cells remains underutilized. In this study, we present an optimized SBEM sample preparation protocol using human dermal fibroblasts and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The method includes key modifications to the original protocol, such as using only glutaraldehyde for fixation and substituting the toxic cacodylate buffer with a less hazardous phosphate buffer. These adaptations result in excellent preservation of cellular ultrastructure, with high contrast and clarity, as validated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The loss of natural cell morphology resulted from fixation during passage, when cells formed a precipitate, rather than from fixation directly within the culture medium. The protocol is time-efficient, safe, and broadly applicable to both stem cells and differentiated cells cultured under 2D conditions, providing a valuable tool for ultrastructural analysis in diverse biomedical research settings. Full article