Search Results (230)

Two-dimensional cell cultures are crucial research tools, and they have been widely used, although they are not completely representative of biological processes in vivo due to the lack of tissue architecture and complexity. Recent advances in organoid technology have addressed these limitations and are revolutionizing the tools available for in vitro culture. Although there are no unified protocols for generating organoids, they can be obtained with various techniques, leading to cell aggregation by promoting cell adhesion. This work aims to generate and characterise organoid models of dental pulp from dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), a type of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells known for their high regenerative potential and ease of accessibility, to establish a model for translational studies. The organoids were subjected to osteogenic differentiation conditions. Cell viability was evaluated using a CCK-8 assay, while osteogenic morphology and mineralization were confirmed by Alizarin red analysis, Raman microspectroscopy, and by immunofluorescence for the lineage markers expression. The Alizarin red analysis indicated a higher presence of calcium phosphate deposits in the differentiated organoids than in the control group (CTR). These results were confirmed by spectral profiles obtained using Raman microspectroscopy, which were attributable to a hydroxyapatite-based biomaterial. Immunofluorescence analysis also revealed increased expression of odonto/osteogenic markers (RUNX and OSX), alongside reduced expression of stemness markers. In conclusion, the organoids appeared to have successfully differentiated into an osteogenic lineage, forming a mineralized matrix containing hydroxyapatite and showing increased expression of relevant lineage markers. Full article

Intervertebral disc degeneration is a leading cause of chronic back pain, with existing treatments focusing on symptom management rather than true tissue repair. Cellular therapies—such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), autologous chondrocytes, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)—have emerged as promising strategies for disc regeneration. In this study, fifteen New Zealand white rabbits underwent fluoroscopy-guided needle puncture of the L4-L5 discs and were allocated to receive PRP alone, PRP-chondrocytes, or PRP-MSCs eight weeks later, while the L3-L4 disc served as a healthy internal control. At 16 weeks post-injury, histological scoring revealed significant improvements in annular integrity, cellularity, and matrix composition in all treated groups compared with untreated lesions, with the greatest gains observed in the PRP-chondrocytes arm, intermediate effects with PRP-MSCs, and more modest changes with PRP alone. Complementary RT-qPCR analysis of COL2A1 and COL10A1 expression confirmed a shift toward a more regenerative phenotype, marked by enhanced COL2A1 and reduced COL10A1 levels, which was most pronounced in the PRP-chondrocytes arm. Despite these advances, none of the interventions fully restored the healthy disc architecture, underscoring the complexity of disc repair. These findings support the potential of combining PRP with chondrocytes or MSCs for intervertebral disc regeneration and demonstrate the need for further optimization of cell doses, PRP formulations, and delivery protocols before clinical translation. Full article

This research is focused on driving stability issues, which can be caused by specifics of electric vehicle (EV) powertrains. Specific driving conditions, such as intensive road curvature and low grip, require precise control from the driver and very accurate and not delayed vehicle stabilization from its active safety systems. These systems, typically anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and electronic stability programs (ESP), perform their tasks sufficiently well, but new vehicle architectures are forcing a reassessment of their reliability, sometimes requiring additional safety subsystems. In the context of EV architecture and its propulsion systems, a possible lack of stability is anticipated when operating intensive regenerative braking in EVs with a rear–wheel–drive transmission. Experimental research conducted on two popular electric vehicles confirmed this hypothesis, as additional oversteering occurs even when ESP systems have intervened. Based on the experiment, a theoretical simulation model of an EV with regenerative braking on the rear axle was created and validated in MATLAB/Simulink (R2024a). The simulations showed how relevant this issue is and how limited stability systems are; therefore, new strategies were proposed and theoretically tested to ensure car safety. These dedicated regenerative braking control subsystems enable optimal use of regenerative braking and ensure more reliable stability in slippery corners. Full article

Hydrogel scaffolds have emerged as pivotal materials in regenerative medicine due to their biocompatibility, tunable mechanical properties, and ability to mimic the extracellular matrix. However, conventional fabrication techniques often lack the precision required to create complex architectures, limiting their effectiveness in tissue engineering. This review explores advanced laser-based fabrication methods, such as two-photon polymerization, laser-induced forward transfer, selective laser sintering/melting, and laser direct writing, which offer unparalleled resolution and control over scaffold geometry. These techniques enable the production of intricate 3D structures tailored to specific clinical needs, from vascular networks to patient-specific implants. We analyze the principles, advantages, and limitations of each method, highlighting their biomedical applications and the challenges of scalability, material compatibility, and cost. By bridging the gap between laboratory research and clinical implementation, laser-based technologies hold significant promise for advancing personalized medicine and tissue regeneration. Full article

Oleosomes are submicron oil bodies of a triacylglycerol core enveloped by a phospholipid monolayer and embedded proteins, forming a naturally assembled nanocarrier with exceptional oxidative resilience, interfacial stability, and biocompatibility. Their unique architecture supports solvent-free extraction, self-emulsification, and near-complete encapsulation of highly lipophilic compounds (log P > 4), including curcumin and cannabidiol, with reported efficiencies exceeding 95%. These plant-derived droplets enhance oral bioavailability through lymphatic uptake and enable targeted delivery strategies such as magnetically guided chemotherapy, which has reduced tumor burden by approximately 70% in vivo. The review critically examines recent advances in oleosome research, spanning botanical sourcing, green extraction technologies, interfacial engineering, xenobiotic encapsulation, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic applications across oncology, dermatology, metabolic disease, and regenerative medicine. Comparative analyses demonstrate that oleosomes rival or surpass synthetic lipid nanocarriers in encapsulation efficiency, oxidative stability, and cost efficiency while offering a sustainable, clean-label alternative. Remaining challenges, including low loading of hydrophilic drugs, allergenicity, and regulatory standardization, are addressed through emerging strategies such as hybrid oleosome–liposome systems, recombinant oleosin engineering, and stimulus-responsive coatings. These advances position oleosomes as a versatile and scalable platform with significant potential for food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications. Full article

(1) Background: The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a natural scaffold for cells, creating a three-dimensional architecture composed of fibrous proteins (mainly collagen) and proteoglycans, which are synthesized by resident cells. In this study, a physiological hypoxic environment was utilized to enhance ECM production by human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), a process relevant to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. (2) Methods: hMSCs were treated with deferoxamine (DFO), a pharmaceutical hypoxia-mimetic agent that induces cellular responses similar to low-oxygen conditions through stabilization of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α). The time points 0 h 24 h, 3 h 24 h, and 24 h 24 h refer to DFO being added immediately after cell seeding (before cells adhesion), 3 h after cell seeding (during initial cells attachment), and 24 h after cell seeding (after focal adhesions formation and actin organization), respectively, to evaluate the influence of cell adhesion on ECM deposition. hMSCs incubated in culture media were subsequently exposed to DFO for 24 h. Samples were then subjected to cell viability tests, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and laser scanning confocal microscopy (CLSM) assessments. (3) Results: Viability tests indicated that DFO concentrations in the range of 0–300 µM were non-toxic over 24 h. The presence of collagen fibers in the DFO-derived ECM was confirmed with anti-collagen antibodies under CLSM. Increased ECM secretion was observed under the following conditions: 3 μM DFO (24 h 24 h), 100 μM DFO (0 h 24 h) and 300 μM DFO (3 h 24 h). SEM and AFM images revealed the morphology of various stages of collagen formation with both collagen fibrils and fibers identified. (4) Conclusions: Our preliminary study demonstrated enhanced ECM secretion by hMSC treated with DFO at concentrations of 3, 100, and 300 µM within a short cultivation period of 24–48 h without significant affecting cell viability. By mimicking physiological processes, it may be possible to stimulate endogenous tissue regeneration, for example, at an injury site. Full article

Neural tissue injuries, including spinal cord damage and neurodegenerative diseases, pose a major clinical challenge due to the central nervous system’s limited regenerative capacity. Current treatments focus on stabilization and symptom management rather than functional restoration. Tissue engineering offers new therapeutic perspectives, particularly through the combination of electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Electrospun fibers mimic the neural extracellular matrix, providing topographical and mechanical cues that enhance MSC adhesion, viability, and neural differentiation. MSCs are multipotent stem cells with robust paracrine and immunomodulatory activity, capable of supporting regeneration and, under proper stimuli, acquiring neural-like phenotypes. This systematic review, following the PRISMA 2020 method, analyzes 77 selected articles from the last ten years to assess the potential of electrospun biopolymer scaffolds for MSC-mediated neural repair. We critically examine the scaffold’s composition (synthetic and natural polymers), fiber architecture (alignment and diameter), structural and mechanical properties (porosity and stiffness), and biofunctionalization strategies. The influence of MSC tissue sources (bone marrow, adipose, and dental pulp) on neural differentiation outcomes is also discussed. The results of a literature search show both in vitro and in vivo enhanced neural marker expression, neurite extension, and functional recovery when MSCs are seeded onto optimized electrospun scaffolds. Therefore, integrating stem cell therapy with advanced biomaterials offers a promising route to bridge the gap between neural injury and functional regeneration. Full article

Linear motor electromagnetic energy regenerative suspension (LMEERS), integrating dual functionalities of energy regeneration and active control, possesses the potential to overcome the performance limitations inherent in existing suspension architectures. Research on key technologies for LMEERS aligns with the contemporary automotive development theme of “enhanced comfort, improved safety, and optimized energy efficiency”. This paper reviews the research progress of the configuration design, performance optimization, functionality switching criterion identification, and top-layer control strategies of LMEERS. Regarding configuration design, a systematic summary is provided for the design schemes of fundamental configuration and the technical features of three composite configurations. In the aspect of performance optimization, the specific approaches and their effectiveness in enhancing LMEERS comprehensive characteristics are analyzed. Concerning functionality switching criterion identification, the operating principles and performance differences among various estimation methods in identifying road surface information are discussed. For top-layer control strategies, the characteristics and applicability of various control methods in exploiting the dual functionalities of LMEERS are summarized. Future developments in LMEERS are anticipated to trend towards integration, lightweighting, standardization, intellectualization, and multi-mode operation. This review provides a theoretical reference for the design optimization and technological innovation of LMEERS, contributing to the advancement of automotive chassis systems in terms of electrification, intellectualization, and energy conservation. Full article

Advances in cardiac regenerative medicine increasingly rely on integrating artificial intelligence with spatial multi-omics technologies to decipher intricate cellular dynamics in cardiomyocyte differentiation. This systematic review, synthetising insights from 88 PRISMA selected studies spanning 2015–2025, explores how deep learning architectures, specifically Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), synergise with multi-modal single-cell datasets, spatially resolved transcriptomics, and epigenomics to advance cardiac biology. Innovations in spatial omics technologies have revolutionised our understanding of the organisation of cardiac tissue, revealing novel cellular communities and metabolic landscapes that underlie cardiovascular health and disease. By synthesising cutting-edge methodologies and technical innovations across these 88 studies, this review establishes the foundation for AI-enabled cardiac regeneration, potentially accelerating the clinical adoption of regenerative treatments through improved therapeutic prediction models and mechanistic understanding. We examine deep learning implementations in spatiotemporal genomics, spatial multi-omics applications in cardiac tissues, cardiomyocyte differentiation challenges, and predictive modelling innovations that collectively advance precision cardiology and next-generation regenerative strategies. Full article

With the rapid development of the electric vehicle (EV) industry, the regenerative braking system (RBS) has become a pivotal technology for enhancing overall vehicle energy efficiency and safety. This article systematically reviews recent research advances, spanning macro-architecture, drive and energy-storage hardware, control strategies, and evaluation frameworks. It focuses on comparing the mechanisms and performance of six categories of intelligent control algorithms—fuzzy logic, neural networks, model predictive control, sliding-mode control, adaptive control, and learning-based algorithms—and, leveraging the structural advantages of four-wheel independent drive (4WID) electric vehicles, quantitatively analyzes improvements in energy-recovery efficiency and coordinated vehicle-dynamics control. The review further discusses how high-power-density motors, hybrid energy storage, brake-by-wire systems, and vehicle-road cooperation are pushing the upper limits of RBS performance, while revealing current technical bottlenecks in high-power recovery at low speeds, battery thermal safety, high-dimensional real-time optimization, and unified evaluation standards. A closed-loop evolutionary roadmap is proposed, consisting of the following stages: system integration, intelligent control, scenario prediction, hardware upgrading, and standard evaluation. This roadmap emphasizes the central roles of deep reinforcement learning, hierarchical model predictive control (MPC), and predictive energy management in the development of next-generation RBS. This review provides a comprehensive and forward-looking reference framework, aiming to accelerate the deployment of efficient, safe, and intelligent regenerative braking technologies. Full article

Background and Objectives: In vitro evaluation of macro and microscopic features of five resorbable barrier membranes used for Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) in oral hard tissue surgery. Materials and Methods: Five different resorbable barrier membranes were analyzed by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). For each sample, surface appearance, the presence and size of ridges and depressions, number of layers, and the inner structure were recorded. Each membrane was cut into 1 × 1 cm squares to determine mass, density and thickness. In addition, an EDX microanalysis was performed. Results: Under optical microscopy, all membranes appeared rough, with ridges and depressions. In cross-section, only Sample 2 presented true stratification. On SEM, most membranes showed a three-dimensional collagen fiber architecture. Sample 3, a sheet of collagenated equine bone, differed accordingly. EDX spectra showed broadly overlapping elemental composition, characterized by N, O and C. The mass depends on the composition: bone-containing membranes weighed more; those composed predominantly of collagen weighed less. Conclusions: Pore size, surface density and roughness, and the type of cross-linking can influence cell interaction and may lead to different regenerative scenarios, potentially improving the quality and timing of tissue regeneration. Membrane selection should be dictated by the clinical scenario, prioritizing properties most advantageous for the defect. Full article

Hernia repair is among the most frequent procedures in general surgery, traditionally performed with synthetic meshes such as polypropylene. While effective in reducing recurrence, these materials are biologically inert and often trigger chronic inflammation, fibrosis, pain, and impaired abdominal wall function, with a significant impact on long-term quality of life. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, and relevant preclinical, clinical, and review articles were synthesized within a narrative review framework. Recent advances in tissue engineering propose a shift from passive reinforcement to regenerative strategies based on biomimetic scaffolds, nanomaterials, and nanocomposites that replicate the extracellular matrix, enhance cell integration, and provide controlled drug delivery. Nanotechnology enables localized release of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and pro-angiogenic agents, while electrospun nanofibers and composite scaffolds improve strength and elasticity. In parallel, 3D printing allows for patient-specific implants with tailored architecture and regenerative potential. Although preclinical studies show encouraging results, clinical translation remains limited by cost, regulatory constraints, and long-term safety uncertainties. Overall, these innovations highlight a transition toward personalized and regenerative hernia repair, aiming to improve durability, function, and patient quality of life. Full article

Additive manufacturing (AM) has emerged as a cutting-edge technology for fabricating biomimetic scaffolds with controllable architectures and compositional diversity, showing great promise in the fields of bone tissue engineering (BTE) and regenerative medicine. However, due to limitations in printing resolution and single-process capabilities, AM alone struggles to replicate the complex multiscale hierarchical structures inherent in native bone. Traditional fabrication techniques provide valuable complementary strategies to address these limitations. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in the construction of heterogeneous scaffolds from a multiscale design perspective, encompassing macro-, meso-, and microscale approaches. Emphasis is placed on the integration of major AM techniques—such as extrusion-based and light-based printing—with conventional methods including freeze-drying, gas foaming, and electrospinning. Particular attention is given to emerging in situ fabrication strategies, such as in situ foaming and mineralization, which enable spatially resolved and functionally graded architectures. Furthermore, this review explores pathways for constructing multiscale-integrated scaffolds and examines the current challenges and opportunities in clinical translation. Collectively, this work provides a comprehensive framework to guide the development of next-generation bone tissue scaffolds with enhanced biological performance and translational potential. Full article

Organoids, self-organizing, three-dimensional (3D) multicellular structures derived from tissues or stem cells, offer physiologically relevant models for studying human development and disease. Compared to conventional two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures and animal models, organoids more accurately recapitulate the architecture and function of human organs. Among the critical microenvironmental cues influencing organoid behavior, hypoxia and multilineage communication are particularly important for guiding cell fate, tissue organization, and pathological modeling. Hypoxia, primarily regulated by hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), modulates cellular proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, and gene expression, making it a key component in disease modeling. Similarly, multilineage communication, facilitated by intercellular interactions and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, enhances organoid complexity and immunological relevance. This review explores the dynamic interplay between hypoxia and multilineage signaling in 3D organoid-based disease models, emphasizing recent advances in engineering hypoxic niches and co-culture systems to improve preclinical research fidelity. We also discuss their translational implications for drug screening, regenerative medicine, and precision therapies, while highlighting current challenges and future opportunities. By integrating biophysical, biochemical, and computational approaches, next-generation organoid models may be further optimized for translational research and therapeutic innovation. Full article

Imagine picking up an e-scooter or e-bike from a charging dock on campus that combines solar panels with a filtered rainwater refill fountain, a mobile phone charging point, climbing plants, and insect habitats. What if the space also offered composting for food waste, shelter from the rain, and a space to meet friends—open to all to support the university’s civic role in the wider city? This paper explores the ideas affecting biodiversity, health, and wellbeing of co-created design explorations of 15-minute city principles on university campuses. Originating from urban planning, the 15-minute city proposes that essential needs like education, healthcare, work, and leisure are accessible by active travel. Applied to a university campus, it means students and staff can access classrooms, housing, food, and recreation in just 15 minutes. Beyond convenience, this approach is argued to foster inclusive, mixed-use, and potentially ecologically regenerative spaces. Drawing on regenerative design thinking—which aims to restore and co-evolve human and natural systems—this participatory design research critically responds to top-down models by involving students and university stakeholders in co-creating visions for a 15-minute campus. The results show that through this participatory design process, cocreators contributed to shaping ideas that foster belonging, emotional attachment, and co-responsibility for place. The research concludes by proposing an innovative reorientation of the 15-minute-city—from a model concerned primarily with needs and efficiency, to one grounded in ecological consciousness, autonomy, and human–nature co-evolution. Full article