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63 pages, 4971 KB  
Review
Electrochemical Nanosensors Applied to the Assay of Some Food Components—A Review
by Aurelia Magdalena Pisoschi, Florin Iordache, Loredana Stanca, Petronela Mihaela Rosu, Nicoleta Ciocirlie, Ovidiu Ionut Geicu, Liviu Bilteanu and Andreea Iren Serban
Chemosensors 2025, 13(8), 272; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemosensors13080272 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1056
Abstract
Nanomaterials’ special features enable their extensive application in chemical and biochemical nanosensors for food assays; food packaging; environmental, medicinal, and pharmaceutical applications; and photoelectronics. The analytical strategies based on novel nanomaterials have proved their pivotal role and increasing interest in the assay of [...] Read more.
Nanomaterials’ special features enable their extensive application in chemical and biochemical nanosensors for food assays; food packaging; environmental, medicinal, and pharmaceutical applications; and photoelectronics. The analytical strategies based on novel nanomaterials have proved their pivotal role and increasing interest in the assay of key food components. The choice of transducer is pivotal for promoting the performance of electrochemical sensors. Electrochemical nano-transducers provide a large active surface area, enabling improved sensitivity, specificity, fast assay, precision, accuracy, and reproducibility, over the analytical range of interest, when compared to traditional sensors. Synthetic routes encompass physical techniques in general based on top–down approaches, chemical methods mainly relying on bottom–up approaches, or green technologies. Hybrid techniques such as electrochemical pathways or photochemical reduction are also applied. Electrochemical nanocomposite sensors relying on conducting polymers are amenable to performance improvement, achieved by integrating redox mediators, conductive hydrogels, and molecular imprinting polymers. Carbon-based or metal-based nanoparticles are used in combination with ionic liquids, enhancing conductivity and electron transfer. The composites may be prepared using a plethora of combinations of carbon-based, metal-based, or organic-based nanomaterials, promoting a high electrocatalytic response, and can accommodate biorecognition elements for increased specificity. Nanomaterials can function as pivotal components in electrochemical (bio)sensors applied to food assays, aiming at the analysis of bioactives, nutrients, food additives, and contaminants. Given the broad range of transducer types, detection modes, and targeted analytes, it is important to discuss the analytical performance and applicability of such nanosensors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrochemical Sensor for Food Analysis)
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18 pages, 4103 KB  
Article
Dual-Emitting Molecularly Imprinted Nanopolymers for the Detection of CA19-9
by Eduarda Rodrigues, Ana Xu, Rafael C. Castro, David S. M. Ribeiro, João L. M. Santos and Ana Margarida L. Piloto
Biomedicines 2025, 13(7), 1629; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13071629 - 3 Jul 2025
Viewed by 554
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) is a clinically established biomarker primarily used for monitoring disease progression and recurrence in pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers. Accurate and continuous quantification of CA19-9 in patient samples is critical for effective clinical management. This study aimed to develop [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) is a clinically established biomarker primarily used for monitoring disease progression and recurrence in pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers. Accurate and continuous quantification of CA19-9 in patient samples is critical for effective clinical management. This study aimed to develop dual-emitting molecularly imprinted nanopolymers (dual@nanoMIPs) for ratiometric and reliable detection of CA19-9 in serum. Methods: Dual-emitting nanoMIPs were synthesized via a one-step molecular imprinting process, incorporating both blue-emitting carbon dots (b-CDs) as internal reference fluorophores and yellow-emitting quantum dots (y-QDs) as responsive probes. The CA19-9 template was embedded into the polymer matrix to create specific recognition sites. Fluorescence measurements were carried out under 365 nm excitation in 1% human serum diluted in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). Results: The dual@nanoMIPs exhibited a ratiometric fluorescence response upon CA19-9 binding, characterized by the emission quenching of the y-QDs at 575 nm, while the b-CDs emission remained stable at 467 nm. The fluorescence shift observed in the RGB coordinates from yellow to green in the concentration range of CA19-9 tested, improved quantification accuracy by compensating for matrix effects in serum. A linear detection range was achieved from 4.98 × 10−3 to 8.39 × 102 U mL−1 in serum samples, with high specificity and reproducibility. Conclusions: The dual@nanoMIPs developed in this work enable a stable, sensitive, and specific detection of CA19-9 in minimally processed serum, offering a promising tool for longitudinal monitoring of cancer patients. Its ratiometric fluorescence design enhances reliability, supporting clinical decision-making in the follow-up of pancreatic cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Biomedical Materials in Cancer Therapy)
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21 pages, 1968 KB  
Article
Macroscopic Evaluation of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxy valerate), PHBV-Based Nanofiber Scaffolds with Aloe Vera or Honey in Murine Wound Healing
by José Manuel Pérez-Galván, José Enrique Hernández-Rodríguez, José Luis Martín-Barrasa, Maximina Monzón-Mayor, Pedro Saavedra-Santana and María del Mar Romero-Alemán
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(7), 833; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17070833 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 432
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The utility of various biocompatible biological and synthetic polymers as substrates to provide structural support, facilitate cell migration, and promote the healing of full-thickness wounds by secondary intention has been studied. This includes intelligent structures that enable the release of natural [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The utility of various biocompatible biological and synthetic polymers as substrates to provide structural support, facilitate cell migration, and promote the healing of full-thickness wounds by secondary intention has been studied. This includes intelligent structures that enable the release of natural products or drugs for these and other purposes. In this study, the primary objective was to analyze and compare, from a macroscopic perspective, the individual behavior of the polymer poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), with Aloe vera (PHBV/Av) or honey (PHBV/Ho), in the healing process of a full-thickness skin wound over 40 days in a murine model, in addition to describing the microscopic ultrastructure of the nanofibers. Methods: Two experimental groups were established, PHVB/AV (n = 5) and PHVB/Ho (n = 5), along with one control group, PHBV (n = 5), all of which underwent biopsies that included the entire thickness of the skin and the panniculus carnosus of the mid-dorsal area of the mouse. Cylindrical pieces of each membrane, measuring approximately 7 × 0.2 mm, were placed in the wound bed and covered with a transparent dressing. No topical treatment was administered during the control process, nor were the implants changed during the healing period. Results: Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. The data show that the PHBV/Ho scaffolds reduce the diameter of the wounds by 100% after 40 days (p < 0.001), compared with PHBV/Av (100%; p = 0.211) and the control group, PHBV. Conclusions: From a macroscopic perspective, the PHBV/Ho scaffold significantly accelerated wound healing when applied once to the wound bed, outperforming both the PHBV/Av composite and PHBV alone. Notably, this effect was achieved without the need for dressing changes or additional treatment during the healing period. Full article
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16 pages, 4206 KB  
Article
Nano-Polymers as Cas9 Inhibitors
by Oksana Chepurna, Avradip Chatterjee, Yuanqing Li, Hong Ding, Ramachandran Murali, Keith L. Black and Tao Sun
Polymers 2025, 17(3), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17030417 - 5 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1155
Abstract
Despite wide applications of CRISPR/Cas9 technology, effective approaches for CRISPR delivery with functional control are limited. In an attempt to develop a nanoscale CRSIPR/Cas9 delivery platform, we discovered that several biocompatible polymers, including polymalic acid (PMLA), polyglutamic acid (PGA), and polyaspartic acid (PLD), [...] Read more.
Despite wide applications of CRISPR/Cas9 technology, effective approaches for CRISPR delivery with functional control are limited. In an attempt to develop a nanoscale CRSIPR/Cas9 delivery platform, we discovered that several biocompatible polymers, including polymalic acid (PMLA), polyglutamic acid (PGA), and polyaspartic acid (PLD), when conjugated with a trileucine (LLL) moiety, can effectively inhibit Cas9 nuclease function. The Cas9 inhibition by those polymers is dose-dependent, with varying efficiency to achieve 100% inhibition. Further biophysical studies revealed that PMLA-LLL directly binds the Cas9 protein, resulting in a substantial decrease in Cas9/sgRNA binding affinity. Transmission electron microscopy and molecular docking were performed to provide a possible binding mechanism for PMLA-LLL to interact with Cas9. This work identified a new class of Cas9 inhibitor in nano-polymer form. These biodegradable polymers may serve as novel Cas9 delivery vehicles with a potential to enhance the precision of Cas9-mediated gene editing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymers for Drug Delivery)
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20 pages, 6349 KB  
Article
Terephthalic-co-glycerol-g-fumaric Acid: A Promising Nanopolymer for Enhancing PPSU Membrane Properties
by Harith A. Alani, Qusay F. Alsalhy, Saad Al-Saadi, Faris H. Alani, Hicham Meskher, Raed A. Al-Juboori, Francesca Russo, Giampiero Chiappetta, Giuseppe Di Luca and Alberto Figoli
ChemEngineering 2025, 9(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering9010012 - 21 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1530
Abstract
This study introduces an innovative approach to modifying polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) membranes for wastewater treatment applications. Terephthalic-co-glycerol-g-fumaric acid (TGF) was used as an innovative nanopolymer pore former. By incorporating TGF at varying concentrations, our research investigates its effects on the morphological and surface properties [...] Read more.
This study introduces an innovative approach to modifying polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) membranes for wastewater treatment applications. Terephthalic-co-glycerol-g-fumaric acid (TGF) was used as an innovative nanopolymer pore former. By incorporating TGF at varying concentrations, our research investigates its effects on the morphological and surface properties of PPSU membranes. Two different solvents were used to dissolve PPSU, optimizing the properties of the fabricated membranes. The resultant PPSU/TGF membranes were systematically characterized regarding topography, morphological changes, hydrophilicity, chemical composition, and performance against protein and synthetic dyes. Experimental results revealed that adding TGF resulted in a smoother membrane surface. With 6% TGF inclusion in the casting solution, a more porous structure was achieved, as confirmed by SEM analysis, along with significant improvements in porosity and a near doubling of pore size. Although the hydrophilicity of the membranes exhibited only minor enhancement, performance evaluation demonstrated a substantial increase in pure water flux, with an improvement of more than fourfold. Moreover, the retention of BSA and two synthetic dyes was found to be directly proportional to the concentration of the nanopolymer pore former used. These findings highlight the potential advantages of TGF/PPSU membranes for protein separation and synthetic dye separation applications, underscoring their viability for wastewater treatment. Full article
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16 pages, 4966 KB  
Article
Magnetic Carbon Porous Polymer Prepared from a New Suspended Emulsion for the Absorption of Heavy Metal Ions
by Shoulian Wei, Shenwei Huang, Jun Zhou, Chun Xiao, Jiangfei Cao, Jibo Xiao and Chunsheng Xie
Polymers 2025, 17(3), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17030257 - 21 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1258
Abstract
In this study, magnetic carbon nanopolymers (Fe3O4/C@PM) were synthesized by suspension polymerization using magnetic carbon nanoparticles as the matrix, 2-thiophene formaldehyde and acrylamide as the monomers, and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as the crosslinking agent. The obtained material was [...] Read more.
In this study, magnetic carbon nanopolymers (Fe3O4/C@PM) were synthesized by suspension polymerization using magnetic carbon nanoparticles as the matrix, 2-thiophene formaldehyde and acrylamide as the monomers, and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as the crosslinking agent. The obtained material was characterized using multiple techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), N2 adsorption–desorption, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The adsorption effects of Zn2+, Cd2+, and Pb2+ in the mixed solution were evaluated using magnetic carbon nanoparticles (Fe3O4/C) and Fe3O4/C@PM as adsorbents. The adsorption isotherms, kinetic models, and cyclic regeneration of various metal ions, including Zn2+, Cd2+ and Pb2+, were studied. The results showed that the Fe3O4/C@PM maintained a slightly aggregated spherical morphology similar to Fe3O4/C and exhibited excellent adsorption capacity for all of Zn2+, Cd2+, and Pb2+, with maximum adsorption capacities of 343.3, 250.7, and 177.6 mg·g−1, respectively. The adsorption mechanisms were mainly based on the chemical interactions between metal ions and functional groups on the surface of polymers. The kinetic study revealed that the adsorption process followed a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. When Fe3O4/C@PM was reused five times, its adsorption rates for Zn2+, Cd2+, and Pb2+ remained above 81%, indicating its great potential for the treatment of wastewater containing Zn2+, Cd2+, and Pb2+. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research and Application of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers)
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18 pages, 6329 KB  
Article
Enhancing Wound Healing with Nanohydrogel-Entrapped Plant Extracts and Nanosilver: An In Vitro Investigation
by Devadass Jessy Mercy, Anbazhagan Thirumalai, Saranya Udayakumar, Balasubramanian Deepika, Gopalarethinam Janani, Agnishwar Girigoswami and Koyeli Girigoswami
Molecules 2024, 29(21), 5004; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29215004 - 22 Oct 2024
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3801
Abstract
Wound healing is a complex process that can be improved through advanced biomedical approaches. Incorporating nanopolymers and plant extracts into wound dressings offers a favorable strategy for promoting tissue repair. Nanopolymers provide a controlled environment for sustained drug release while also protecting the [...] Read more.
Wound healing is a complex process that can be improved through advanced biomedical approaches. Incorporating nanopolymers and plant extracts into wound dressings offers a favorable strategy for promoting tissue repair. Nanopolymers provide a controlled environment for sustained drug release while also protecting the wound from external contaminants. When combined with bioactive compounds from plant extracts, which possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, this hybrid approach can accelerate healing, reduce infection, and improve tissue regeneration. Hence, in this study, we have synthesized alginate/gelatin hydrogel blended with only nanosilver (Alg/gel-Ag) and with nanosilver and plant extracts like aloe vera, curcumin, plantain peel extract, and Calendula flower petal extract (Alg/gel-AgP). The synthesized hydrogels were characterized using different photophysical tools, and the cytotoxicity effect was studied using a fibroblast cell line (V79). The antibacterial effect of the hydrogels was also observed against E. coli and S. aureus, determining the MIC and MBC. The wound healing in vitro was also assessed using scratch assay which depicted a rapid wound closure for Alg/gel-AgP compared to the untreated control and Alg/gel-Ag. The combined effect between nanotechnology and natural extracts represents a novel and effective approach for enhancing the wound healing process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Discovery of Bioactive Ingredients from Natural Products, 5th Edition)
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17 pages, 7534 KB  
Article
Impact of PCLNPG Nanopolymeric Additive on the Surface and Structural Properties of PPSU Ultrafiltration Membranes for Enhanced Protein Rejection
by Younus Rashid Taha, Adel Zrelli, Nejib Hajji, Raed A. Al-Juboori and Qusay Alsalhy
Processes 2024, 12(9), 1930; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr12091930 - 8 Sep 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1454
Abstract
This research explored the use of a partially cross-linked graft copolymer (PCLNPG) as an innovative nanopolymer pore-forming agent to enhance polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) membranes for protein separation applications. The study systematically examined the impact of incorporating PCLNPG at varying concentrations on the morphological and [...] Read more.
This research explored the use of a partially cross-linked graft copolymer (PCLNPG) as an innovative nanopolymer pore-forming agent to enhance polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) membranes for protein separation applications. The study systematically examined the impact of incorporating PCLNPG at varying concentrations on the morphological and surface properties of PPSU membranes. A thorough characterization of the resulting PPSU-PCLNPG membranes was performed, focusing on changes in morphology, water affinity, porosity, pore size, and pore size distribution. The experimental findings demonstrated that the use of PCLNPG led to a significantly more porous structure, as confirmed by SEM analysis, with notable increases in porosity and pore size (nearly double). Additionally, the hydrophilicity of the PPSU membrane was remarkably enhanced. Performance evaluations revealed a substantial improvement in pure water flux, with the flux nearly tripling. The BSA retention was directly correlated with the concentration of the PCLNPG pore former for a loading range of 0.25–0.75 wt.%. The incorporation of PCLNPG also reduced the membrane fouling propensity by reducing both cake layer resistance (Rc) and pore plugging resistance (Rp). These results underscore the potential of PCLNPG-PPSU membranes for wastewater reclamation and nutrient recovery applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Processes)
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11 pages, 1864 KB  
Article
The Amount of Cross-Linker Influences Affinity and Selectivity of NanoMIPs Prepared by Solid-Phase Polymerization Synthesis
by Valentina Testa, Laura Anfossi, Simone Cavalera, Fabio Di Nardo, Thea Serra and Claudio Baggiani
Polymers 2024, 16(4), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16040532 - 16 Feb 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1660
Abstract
The cross-linker methylene-bis-acrylamide is usually present in nanoMIPs obtained by solid-phase polymerization synthesis at 2 mol% concentration, with very few exceptions. Here, we studied the influence of variable amounts of methylene-bis-acrylamide in the range between 0 (no cross-linker) and 50 mol% concentration on [...] Read more.
The cross-linker methylene-bis-acrylamide is usually present in nanoMIPs obtained by solid-phase polymerization synthesis at 2 mol% concentration, with very few exceptions. Here, we studied the influence of variable amounts of methylene-bis-acrylamide in the range between 0 (no cross-linker) and 50 mol% concentration on the binding properties of rabbit IgG nanoMIPs. The binding parameters were determined by equilibrium binding experiments and the results show that the degree of cross-linking defines three distinct types of nanoMIPs: (i) those with a low degree of cross-linking, including nanoMIPs without cross-linker (0–05 mol%), showing a low binding affinity, high density of binding sites, and low selectivity; (ii) nanoMIPs with a medium degree of cross-linking (1–18 mol%), showing higher binding affinity, low density of binding sites, and high selectivity; (iii) nanoMIPs with a high degree of cross-linking (32–50 mol%), characterized by non-specific nanopolymer–ligand interactions, with low binding affinity, high density of binding sites, and no selectivity. In conclusion, the results are particularly relevant in the synthesis of high-affinity, high-selectivity nanoMIPs as they demonstrate that a significant gain in affinity and selectivity could be achieved with pre-polymerization mixtures containing quantities of cross-linker up to 10–20 mol%, well higher than those normally used in this technique. Full article
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32 pages, 6042 KB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review of Nanotechnology Applications in Oil and Gas Well Drilling Operations
by Alhaitham M. Alkalbani and Girma T. Chala
Energies 2024, 17(4), 798; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17040798 - 7 Feb 2024
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 9341
Abstract
The field of nanotechnology has shown promise in addressing major problems and improving drilling effectiveness. An overview of the difficulties encountered during oil and gas well drilling operations and the demand for creative solutions opens the debate. This review explores how nanotechnology is [...] Read more.
The field of nanotechnology has shown promise in addressing major problems and improving drilling effectiveness. An overview of the difficulties encountered during oil and gas well drilling operations and the demand for creative solutions opens the debate. This review explores how nanotechnology is transforming the oil industry and enhancing performance as a whole. The evaluation of the uses of nanotechnology for better oil recovery, real-time monitoring, innovative materials, drilling fluids, and reservoir characterization are extensively discussed in this review. The primary function of additives is to improve the fundamental characteristics of drilling fluids. The variety of fluid additives available is a reflection of the complex drilling–fluid systems that are currently being used to enable drilling in increasingly difficult subsurface conditions. Common additives used in water- and oil-based drilling fluids include lubrication, shale stability, filtration control, rheology control, viscosification, and pH regulation. Drilling fluids frequently contain filtration control additives such as starch, polyanionic cellulose (PAC), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and nanoparticles (NP). Commonly used rheology-modifier additives are xanthan gum, carboxymethyl cellulose, guar gum powder, and, more recently, salt-responsive zwitterionic polymers that were used as viscosifiers to water-based drilling fluids. The three main additives that regulate pH are citric acid monohydrate, potassium hydroxide, and sodium hydroxide. Additives that stabilize shale, such as potassium and sodium salts and asphaltenes, are often used. A wide range of materials are included in the category of lubricating additives, including polymers, asphaltenes, glass beads, oils of various grades, and oil-surfactants. Various fibrous materials, including wood, cotton, fibrous minerals, shredded tires from vehicles, and paper pulp, are used as additives to control circulation. Furthermore, shredded cellophane, bits of plastic laminate, plate-like minerals like mica flakes, granulated inert materials such as nut shells, and nano-polymers are used in wellbores to reduce fluid loss. The incorporation of nanoparticles into drilling fluids has produced upgraded fluids with better features, including improved lubricity, thermal stability, and filtering capacities. These developments aid in lowering friction, enhancing wellbore stability, and enhancing drilling efficiency. This paper also emphasizes how nanotechnology has made enhanced drilling equipment and materials possible. Drilling equipment’s longevity and performance are increased by nanocomposite materials that have been reinforced with nanoparticles due to their improved mechanical strength, wear resistance, and thermal stability. Advanced reservoir characterisation tools, including nanoparticle tracers and nanoscale imaging methods, can help locate the best drilling sites and increase production effectiveness. On the other hand, nanofluids and nanoemulsions can potentially increase oil recovery because they enhance fluid mobility, lower interfacial tension, and alter rock wettability. Although nanotechnology has many advantages, there are also issues that need to be resolved. For an implementation to be effective, factors including nanoparticle stability, dispersion, and potential environmental effects must be carefully taken into account. This review highlights the need for future research to create scalable manufacturing procedures, improve nanoparticle behaviour, and determine nanomaterials’ long-term environmental effects. In conclusion, this in-depth analysis illustrates the use of nanotechnology in transforming the process of drilling oil and gas wells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Oil and Gas Well Engineering Science and Technology)
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26 pages, 8966 KB  
Article
Poly-Gamma-Glutamic Acid Nanopolymer Effect against Bacterial Biofilms: In Vitro and In Vivo Study
by Eman M. Elsayed, Ahmed A. Farghali, Mohamed I. Zanaty, Medhat Abdel-Fattah, Dalal Hussien M. Alkhalifah, Wael N. Hozzein and Ahmed M. Mahmoud
Biomedicines 2024, 12(2), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12020251 - 23 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2094
Abstract
In this study, a biodegradable poly-gamma-glutamic-acid nanopolymer (Ɣ-PGA NP) was investigated for its activity against clinical strains of Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes) and Gram-negative (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli), and reference strains of S. aureus ATCC 6538, S. [...] Read more.
In this study, a biodegradable poly-gamma-glutamic-acid nanopolymer (Ɣ-PGA NP) was investigated for its activity against clinical strains of Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes) and Gram-negative (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli), and reference strains of S. aureus ATCC 6538, S. pyogenes ATCC 19615 (Gram-positive), and Gram-negative E. coli ATCC 25922, and K. pneumoniae ATCC 13884 bacterial biofilms. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) effect of Ɣ-PGA NP showed inhibitory effects of 0.2, 0.4, 1.6, and 3.2 μg/mL for S. pyogenes, S. aureus, E. coli, and K. pneumoniae, respectively. Also, MIC values were 1.6, 0.8, 0.2, and 0.2 μg/mL for K. pneumoniae ATCC 13884, E. coli ATCC 25922, S. aureus ATCC 6538, and S. pyogenes ATCC 19615, respectively. Afterwards, MBEC (minimum biofilm eradication concentration) and MBIC (minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration) were investigated to detect Ɣ-PGA NPs efficiency against the biofilms. MBEC and MBIC increased with increasing Ɣ-PGA NPs concentration or time of exposure. Interestingly, MBIC values were at lower concentrations of Ɣ-PGA NPs than those of MBEC. Moreover, MBEC values showed that K. pneumoniae was more resistant to Ɣ-PGA NPs than E. coli, S. aureus, and S. pyogenes, and the same pattern was observed in the reference strains. The most effective results for MBEC were after 48 h, which were 1.6, 0.8, 0.4, and 0.2 µg/mL for K. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. aureus, and S. pyogenes, respectively. Moreover, MBIC results were the most impactful after 24 h but some were the same after 48 h. MBIC values after 48 h were 0.2, 0.2, 0.2, and 0.1 μg/mL for K. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. aureus, and S. pyogenes, respectively. The most effective results for MBEC were after 24 h, which were 1.6, 0.8, 0.4, and 0.4 µg/mL for K. pneumoniae ATCC 13884, E. coli ATCC 25922, S. aureus ATCC 6538, and S. pyogenes ATCC 19615, respectively. Also, MBIC results were the most impactful after an exposure time of 12 h. MBIC values after exposure time of 12 h were 0.4, 0.4, 0.2, and 0.2 μg/mL for K. pneumoniae ATCC 13884, E. coli ATCC 25922, S. aureus ATCC 6538, and S. pyogenes ATCC 19615, respectively. Besides that, results were confirmed using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), which showed a decrease in the number of living cells to 80% and 60% for MBEC and MBIC, respectively, for all the clinical bacterial strains. Moreover, living bacterial cells decreased to 70% at MBEC while decreasing up to 50% at MBIC with all bacterial refence strains. These data justify the CFU quantification. After that, ImageJ software was used to count the attached cells after incubating with the NPs, which proved the variation in live cell count between the manual counting and image analysis methods. Also, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to detect the biofilm architecture after incubation with the Ɣ-PGA NP. In in vivo wound healing experiments, treated wounds of mice showed faster healing (p < 0.00001) than both the untreated mice and those that were only wounded, as the bacterial count was eradicated. Briefly, the infected mice were treated faster (p < 0.0001) when infected with S. pyogenes > S. aureus > E. coli > K. pneumoniae. The same pattern was observed for mice infected with the reference strains. Wound lengths after 2 h showed slightly healing (p < 0.001) for the clinical strains, while treatment became more obvious after 72 h > 48 h > 24 h (p < 0.0001) as wounds began to heal after 24 h up to 72 h. For reference strains, wound lengths after 2 h started to heal up to 72 h. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanobiomaterials with Antimicrobial and Anticancer Applications)
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16 pages, 5455 KB  
Article
In Vitro Antiviral Activity of Hyperbranched Poly-L-Lysine Modified by L-Arginine against Different SARS-CoV-2 Variants
by Federico Fiori, Franca Lucia Cossu, Federica Salis, Davide Carboni, Luigi Stagi, Davide De Forni, Barbara Poddesu, Luca Malfatti, Abbas Khalel, Andrea Salis, Maria Francesca Casula, Roberto Anedda, Franco Lori and Plinio Innocenzi
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(24), 3090; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13243090 - 6 Dec 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2881
Abstract
The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants requires close monitoring to prevent the reoccurrence of a new pandemic in the near future. The Omicron variant, in particular, is one of the fastest-spreading viruses, showing a high ability to infect people and evade neutralization by antibodies [...] Read more.
The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants requires close monitoring to prevent the reoccurrence of a new pandemic in the near future. The Omicron variant, in particular, is one of the fastest-spreading viruses, showing a high ability to infect people and evade neutralization by antibodies elicited upon infection or vaccination. Therefore, the search for broad-spectrum antivirals that can inhibit the infectious capacity of SARS-CoV-2 is still the focus of intense research. In the present work, hyperbranched poly-L-lysine nanopolymers, which have shown an excellent ability to block the original strain of SARS-CoV-2 infection, were modified with L-arginine. A thermal reaction at 240 °C catalyzed by boric acid yielded Lys-Arg hyperbranched nanopolymers. The ability of these nanopolymers to inhibit viral replication were assessed for the original, Delta, and Omicron strains of SARS-CoV-2 together with their cytotoxicity. A reliable indication of the safety profile and effectiveness of the various polymeric compositions in inhibiting or suppressing viral infection was obtained by the evaluation of the therapeutic index in an in vitro prevention model. The hyperbranched L-arginine-modified nanopolymers exhibited a twelve-fold greater therapeutic index when tested with the original strain. The nanopolymers could also effectively limit the replication of the Omicron strain in a cell culture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Medicines)
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16 pages, 5397 KB  
Article
In Vitro Cytotoxicity and Hemolysis Effect of Poly-Gamma-Glutamic Acid Nano-Polymer Biosynthesized Using Some Isolates of Bacillus spp.
by Eman M. Elsayed, Ahmed A. Farghali, Mohamed I. Zanaty, Medhat Abdel-Fattah, Dalal Hussien M. Alkhalifah, Wael N. Hozzein and Ahmed M. Mahmoud
Microbiol. Res. 2023, 14(4), 1720-1735; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres14040118 - 29 Oct 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2522
Abstract
Natural polymers have good biological, biocompatible properties and a low degradation rate, so they can be used in medical applications. This study demonstrates an optimized biosynthesis for poly-gamma-glutamic acid nano-polymer (ɣ-PGA NP) using three bacterial isolates encoded as B4, B5, and B6. The [...] Read more.
Natural polymers have good biological, biocompatible properties and a low degradation rate, so they can be used in medical applications. This study demonstrates an optimized biosynthesis for poly-gamma-glutamic acid nano-polymer (ɣ-PGA NP) using three bacterial isolates encoded as B4, B5, and B6. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of the isolates showed 98.5, 99, and 99.8% similarity with Bacillus sp., with accession numbers MZ976778, MZ976779, and MZ956153, respectively. The optimal conditions of the biosynthesis were 35 °C, followed by incubation for 30 h, 7 pH, 0.7 O.D600 of bacterial broth, carbon sources of glutamic acid and glucose, and ammonium sulfate as the nitrogen source. Biosynthesized ɣ-PGA NPs were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Zeta sizer, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and nuclear magnetic resonance (1HNMR). The TEM study showed the formation of oval-shaped ɣ-PGA NPs with sizes 31.75–32.69 nm, 18.63–21.66 nm, and 37.57–39.22 nm for B4, B5, and B6, respectively. XRD, FT-IR, and 1HNMR confirmed the purity of the polymer. The hemolysis rates of the biosynthesized ɣ-PGA NPs were below the acceptable value. Moreover, the cytotoxicity test conducted using an MTT assay on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) revealed no significant effect on the cell viability within a dose range of up to 512 μg/mL. Full article
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33 pages, 13851 KB  
Article
Enhancing ASP Flooding by Using Special Combinations of Surfactants and Starch Nanoparticles
by Hasanain A. Al-Jaber, Agus Arsad, Sulalit Bandyopadhyay, Muslim Abdurrahman, Mohammad Yasin Abdulfatah, Augustine Agi, Suriatie Mat Yusuf, Abdulmunem R. Abdulmunem, Muhammad Tahir and Mustafa Jawad Nuhma
Molecules 2023, 28(15), 5770; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28155770 - 31 Jul 2023
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2584
Abstract
This study aimed to address the challenges faced by mature oilfields in extracting substantial oil quantities. It focused on improving the efficiency of alkaline–surfactant–polymer (ASP) flooding technique, which is a proven tertiary recovery technology, to overcome scaling issues and other hindrances in its [...] Read more.
This study aimed to address the challenges faced by mature oilfields in extracting substantial oil quantities. It focused on improving the efficiency of alkaline–surfactant–polymer (ASP) flooding technique, which is a proven tertiary recovery technology, to overcome scaling issues and other hindrances in its large-scale implementation. Appropriate materials and their suitable concentrations were selected to enhance the ASP flooding technique. Special surfactants from Indonesia were introduced to improve the interfacial tension reduction and wettability alteration. Reservoir rock model that resembling Langgak oilfield in Sumatra was utilized, and low-salinity water was employed to mimic the oilfield conditions. Starches derived from cassava nanoparticles (CSNPs) and purple yam nanoparticles (PYNPs) were combined separately with conventional hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) polymer to enhance its performance. Sodium hydroxide and sodium carbonate were used as alkaline in final ASP formula. It was demonstrated from this research that only two combinations of ASP formulations have led to improved oil recovery. One combination utilizing PYNPs resulted in 39.17% progressive recovery, while the other combination incorporating CSNPs achieved 35% incremental oil recovery. The ASP combination that resulted in recovery rate of 39.17% was composed of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at a concentration of 1.28 wt.%, PSC EOR 2.2 (0.98 wt.%), and a combined polymer consisting of HPAM (0.2 wt.%) and PYNPs nano-starch (0.6 wt.%). The second combination led to 35% recovery rate and involved NaOH also at concentration 1.28 wt.%, PSC HOMF (0.63 wt.%), and a combined polymer comprising from HPAM (0.2 wt.%) and CSNPs nano-starch (0.8 wt.%). These findings of this study highlighted the potential of this modified ASP flooding to enhance oil recovery in mature oilfields, thereby offering valuable insights for oil industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering)
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20 pages, 2890 KB  
Article
The Influence of the Dispersion Method on the Morphological, Curing, and Mechanical Properties of NR/SBR Reinforced with Nano-Calcium Carbonate
by Mehrnoosh Damircheli and AmirHossein MajidiRad
Polymers 2023, 15(13), 2963; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15132963 - 6 Jul 2023
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2911
Abstract
There are several reasons for the development of nanopolymer compounds, such as improving physical, mechanical, and chemical properties, increasing lifespan, reducing costs, and decreasing negative environmental impact. The compatibility of two rubbers and mineral nanofillers in nanocomposites is a challenge that needs to [...] Read more.
There are several reasons for the development of nanopolymer compounds, such as improving physical, mechanical, and chemical properties, increasing lifespan, reducing costs, and decreasing negative environmental impact. The compatibility of two rubbers and mineral nanofillers in nanocomposites is a challenge that needs to be studied, and the effect of nanofillers on morphological, physical, and mechanical properties should be investigated accordingly. In this study, calcium carbonate nanoparticles were added to a polymer compound that included natural rubber (NR), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), vulcanization accelerators, and other additives. For mixing nanoparticles in the polymer matrix, various methods were used, including the solvent method in toluene and W410 solvents and the surface modification of calcium carbonate nanoparticles with stearic acid. The effect of dispersion nanoparticles in nanocomposite specimens on morphology, curing characteristics, and mechanical properties was studied. The morphologies of specimens were determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The particle size of the nanocomposite was approximately 34 nm, and the interlayer spacing between crystal plates increased from 2.81 nm to 3.03 nm. These results indicate a uniform dispersion of nanoparticles, specifically with an optimum content of 3.52%, in the compounds prepared through all mixing methods, with no agglomeration observed in the nanocomposites. The results of the nanocomposites’ curing characterization demonstrate that with the addition of nanoparticles, a strong bond is created in the polymer chains, and curing properties are improved. Among the dispersion methods, the highest percentage improvement in curing properties is observed with the solvent method W410. To evaluate the effect of the addition of calcium carbonate nanoparticles and the dispersion method on improving mechanical properties, tensile, tear, hardness, and rebound resilience tests were performed. In tensile tests, the surface modification method showed the highest enhancement in ultimate stress (80%), followed by the W410 method (64%) and toluene method (63.7%). Tear strength improvements were highest in the W410-solvent sample (80%), followed by the surface modification method (57%) and the solvent-toluene method (50%). The W410 method resulted in the hardest samples, while the surface-modified samples had the lowest hardness. The addition of CaCO3 nanofillers reduced rebound resilience, with the W410 method experiencing the largest reduction (10.64%), followed by the toluene method (6.38%), and with the surface-modified samples showing the lowest reduction (4.25%). The results show that in the W410 solvent method, the nanocomposite is more elastic than for other methods. Additionally, for most of the mechanical properties, the W410 method results in the most growth in improvement. Full article
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