搜索结果：Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)

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Mucosa can be found in the eyes, oral cavity, bladder, vagina, airways, and gastrointestinal tract. It is an attractive route of administration for systemic or topical delivery of therapeutics. However, the mucus layer acts as a protective barrier, limiting the amount of biomolecules that reach the underlying epithelium. Mucoadhesion, mucodiffusion, and mucolysis are well-established mucointeractive strategies that can improve therapeutic outcomes, but due to their individual limitations, the resulting delivery is often still unsatisfactory. In recent years, drug delivery systems have emerged that combine multiple mucointeractive strategies, which we define here as hybrid mucointeractive delivery systems. This work aims to provide a general overview of such drug delivery systems, which include particle-releasing macrostructures such as gels, foams, films, and fibers, as well as systems such as zeta potential-changing particles and self-emulsifying drug delivery systems. Their potential, possible future, and limitations are discussed as well.

The genus Annona is scarcely investigated for its neuropharmacological and toxicological activities, especially regarding its seeds. To explore the effects on the central nervous system (CNS) and the acute toxicity (LD50) of the polar extracts and fractions obtained from the A. macroprophyllata seeds, their potential as a possible source of anxiolytic drugs was evaluated. After determining LD50, one or two doses were selected to evaluate the neuronal activity using electrocorticographic (ECoG) recordings, and the anxiolytic-like behavior in mice treated with the crude extracts or some of their fractions was assessed in the experimental models of anxiety, such as the open-field, hole-board, and plus-maze tests. Phytochemical analysis was carried out to identify the most abundant constituents, whose possible mechanism of action was also evaluated by in silico analysis. Results showed CNS depressant activity associated with an anxiolytic-like behavior, in which cherimolacyclopeptide D and squamins C and D were identified. According to a docking analysis, the inhibitory receptors GABAA and 5-HT1A of serotonin are possible mechanisms of action involved in the anxiolytic-like effects of these cyclopeptides, which, in conclusion, might be potential molecules for anxiety therapy.

Aberrant self-assembly of ataxin-3 (ATX3) into amyloid aggregates is a key pathological event in spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3). Bioactive nutraceutical compounds, particularly polyphenols, have emerged as promising candidates for targeting protein aggregation and cellular stress responses associated with neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we investigated cinnamon bud extract as a natural source of neuroprotective molecules, focusing on its total extract (Etot) and two bioactive fractions: a polyphenol-enriched fraction (Fr. B) and a cinnamaldehyde-rich fraction (Fr. C). By integrating biochemical and biophysical techniques, we demonstrate that cinnamon-derived compounds modulate ATX3 aggregation by reducing the formation of β-sheet-rich amyloid assemblies and promoting the generation of SDS-resistant, soluble, structurally distinct, non-fibrillar species. NMR profiling identified flavonoids, cinnamaldehyde, and cinnamic acid as key ATX3-interacting molecules, supporting their contribution to the anti-amyloidogenic activity of the extract. Moreover, in a Caenorhabditis elegans SCA3 model, Etot and Fr. B improved locomotor defects and enhanced resistance to oxidative and thermal stress, indicating broader cytoprotective effects beyond direct aggregation modulation. Overall, these findings highlight cinnamon bud extract, particularly its polyphenol-rich fraction, as a promising nutraceutical source of bioactive compounds with potential neuroprotective properties and provide a basis for further investigation of nutraceutical strategies targeting polyglutamine-related neurodegenerative diseases.

Background: With the increase in the middle-aged population and sedentary lifestyle, a high incidence of obesity has been observed in humans and in animals. Obesity is consequent or correlated to multiple diseases, such as metabolic-dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD), diabetes, dyslipidemia, etc. The attention of many researchers is focused on understanding the specific cellular mechanism and the role of inflammation, particularly chronic, in the development of this pathology as well as its link with dysmetabolic conditions, which seriously affect the survival of both humans and animals. Objective: The aim of this review is to discuss the mechanism responsible for obesity, the specific drugs used in the treatment of this disease, and, considering the link between obesity and inflammation, the possible employment of Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a natural lipidic mediator with anti-obesity activity in humans and animals. Materials and Methods: The selection of articles chosen for this review paper was performed through the most important electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar); the specific inclusion criteria were applied systematically each time to ensure that the selection of papers closely aligned. Results: The treatment of obesity is focused on the management of weight through dietary caloric restriction, sustainable nutritional behaviors and long life therapy, which are also useful to prevent comorbidities. Several specific drugs for the treatment of this pathologic condition are available in both human and veterinary medicine. However, considering the documented link between inflammation and obesity, the possible use of PEA, authorized in veterinary medicine as a food supplement, could represent a valid therapeutic strategy in the treatment of human obesity. Conclusions: From studies present in the literature on obesity and its therapeutic approach in both human and veterinary medicine, and considering the importance of natural molecules in health management, the use of PEA as a dietary supplement, for its anorexic and fat-losing properties, could be considered a valid tool to counteract overweight and obesity in humans and animals and to avoid the onset of consequent comorbidities.

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) has been recognized as an environmentally friendly solvent in chemical synthesis. To better understand how PEG behaves as a chemical solvent, this study focuses on cyclohexane as a solute, which is only sparingly soluble in PEG200. Results from 1H-NMR spectra and 1H-NMR relaxation measurements indicate solubility to be below a cyclohexane mole fraction of 0.06. For this low concentration range, the concentration dependence of density, viscosity, and cyclohexane and PEG200 self-diffusion coefficients all display linear dependence with cyclohexane mole fractions. However, evaluation of the hydrodynamic radii of cyclohexane results in unrealistically low values, suggesting the presence of dynamical heterogeneity. Furthermore, very large negative excess molar volumes that become less negative with increasing temperature suggest a strong structural reorganization response of the PEG200 oligomers near the cyclohexane solutes. However, the presence of cyclohexane clusters or aggregates as a possible explanation is not supported by 1H-NMR relaxation and dynamic light scattering results. Preliminary qualitative results from classical MD simulations further support the absence of aggregates at low concentrations, but they also reveal the progressive formation of pairs, groups, and ultimately patches of cyclohexane molecules with increasing cyclohexane concentration.

Octyl (N-(5-(1H-indol-2-yl)-2-methoxyphenyl)sulfamoyl)carbamate has previously been characterized as substrate-specific inhibitor of the linoleic acid oxygenase activity of mammalian ALOX15 orthologs. Here we aimed at optimizing the inhibitory properties of this compound by three different chemical modifications: (i) replacement of the indole core by a phenylpyrrole; (ii) introduction of hydrophilic residues into the aliphatic hydrocarbon chain of the lead compound or by replacing this building block by a triethylene glycol moiety; (iii) replacement of the sulfamoylcarbamate group by a sulfonamide. The inhibitory potencies of the modified compounds for pure rabbit ALOX15 were quantified by in vitro inhibitory assays, and our data indicate that the replacement of the rigid indole core induced a partial loss in the inhibitor's potency. The introduction of a hydrophilic group into the aliphatic hydrocarbon chain or its replacement by a triethylene glycol moiety improved the solubility of the compound in aqueous solution, but reduced the inhibitor potency by more than one order of magnitude. Finally, the replacement of the sulfamoylcarbamate moiety by sulfonamide improved the substrate selectivity of the inhibitor for rabbit and human ALOX15. The new compounds were highly potent for human and rabbit ALOX15, but did not inhibit human ALOX15B and were less effective for mouse Alox15 (ortholog specificity).

Microbial inulinases are enzymes produced by bacteria, yeasts, and fungi that can hydrolyze inulin into fructose and fructooligosaccharides (FOSs). The article discusses the various types of inulinases (exo- and endo-inulinases), microbial sources, biochemical properties, and optimal activity conditions, which are critical for their use in biotechnological and food processes. Special emphasis is placed on inulin degradation products, particularly FOSs, which are known for their prebiotic properties. They promote the growth of beneficial intestinal microbiota, helping to maintain digestive health and improve nutrient absorption. Compounds produced by inulinases may play an important role in the prevention of metabolic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemias by modulating the microbiota and regulating energy metabolism. In conclusion, microbial inulinases are a promising biotechnological tool for developing nutritional strategies to prevent metabolic diseases and improve overall health. Recent evidence demonstrates that advances in recombinant expression systems, enzyme engineering, immobilization technologies, and microbiome research have substantially expanded the industrial and biomedical potential of microbial inulinases. This review highlights emerging trends toward sustainable enzyme production, precision nutrition, and microbiome-targeted functional foods while identifying current limitations and future research priorities.

Oral administration of narrow therapeutic index anticoagulants like phenprocoumon (PHP) necessitates careful control of the kinetic release of the drug to avoid dose dumping and severe haemorrhagic effects. This study was carried out to prepare and characterize novel PHP delivery systems based on κ-carrageenan hydrogels, exploring the importance of potassium ion (K+) stabilization in controlling the release process. FT-IR, TG/DTG, and in vitro release studies were employed in combination with a new validated RP-HPLC assay. FT-IR and thermal analysis results showed that PHP is physically encapsulated into the polysaccharide matrix, where there are no chemical incompatibilities between them. Furthermore, potassium ions increase the stability and heat resistance of the polymer network. However, when K+ was considered for modelling the kinetic release using the Korsmeyer-Peppas equation, it was observed that PHP is released from the K+ stabilized matrix in a relaxation dominated diffusion-controlled transport. Ionic cross-linking effectively reduces the initial burst effect, demonstrating that these matrices are promising vehicles for the sustained delivery of phenprocoumon.

The environmental crisis caused by hydrocarbon-contaminated sediment from the oil industry remains a pressing concern. While sediment microbial fuel cells (SMFCs) offer a potential remediation strategy, they suffer from low power densities and high internal resistance, compounded by a lack of integrated knowledge on electrogenic bacteria. The methodology involved an analysis and systematic mapping of 933 documents retrieved from Scopus (2010-2026) using RStudio (R 4.3.1) with Bibliometrix (4.1.4), VOSviewer (1.6.20), and Plotly Studio (4.10.4), complemented by an analysis of system configurations, electrode materials, and electrochemical performance parameters. The results show exponential growth in scientific production (R2 = 0.9959), with China serving as the central hub for international collaboration, followed by the United States and Japan. The most influential authors (Li Y., Li X.) achieve H-indices of 94.33 and collaboration networks of up to 88 co-authors. The most studied strains are Geobacter sulfurreducens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, achieving hydrocarbon removal efficiencies of up to 80% and a maximum power density of 7280 mW/m2 using a castor oil powder cathode. The predominant configurations are dual-chamber cells with PEM membranes and single-chamber air-cathode cells, employing carbon-iron electrodes and nanomaterials. The main bottlenecks identified are industrial scalability, lack of automation, limited durability (6-24 months), and the absence of regulatory frameworks.

Two thiourea-based chiral solvating agents (CSAs), S-1 and S-2, were evaluated for the enantiomeric discrimination of representative α-arylacetic acids by 1H NMR spectroscopy in the presence of DMAP. Enantiomeric discrimination was assessed by monitoring chemical shift nonequivalence (ΔΔδ) arising from the formation of diastereomeric host-guest complexes. S-1 exhibited concentration-dependent enantiomeric discrimination toward all investigated carboxylic acid derivatives, reaching a maximum ΔΔδ value of 0.021 ppm. In contrast, S-2 failed to produce detectable signal splitting under identical experimental conditions. A 1D ROESY experiment together with association constant measurements supported the proposed diastereomeric host-guest complexation model and the preferential binding of one enantiomer by S-1. To further expand the substrate scope, two thiohydantoin derivatives were also examined, and S-1 produced measurable chemical shift nonequivalences, with the largest ΔΔδ value reaching 0.019 ppm. Comparison with previously reported thiourea-based CSAs further highlighted the importance of hydrogen-bonding ability, aromatic anisotropy, and overall molecular architecture in governing enantiomeric discrimination. Overall, these findings provide useful structural insights for the rational design of thiourea-based chiral solvating agents for NMR enantiomeric analysis.

The spiroindoline framework is a privileged scaffold in medicinal chemistry, appearing in natural products and in synthetic bioactive compounds, such as BAY 1214784, RO8994, and RK-287107, with reported activities ranging from antimitotic effects to kinase inhibition. This review covers the methods developed between 2020 and 2025 for constructing spiroindoline frameworks, organized first by the site of spirocyclization (C2 versus C3 of the indole) and then by catalyst class: second- and third-row transition metals, first-row transition metals and main-group Lewis acids, organocatalysis, and visible-light photoredox. For each method we discuss the reaction design, the accessible substrate scope, and mechanistic insights, with particular attention to how stereochemistry is controlled. We also highlight representative downstream transformations that demonstrate the synthetic utility of the produced spiroindolines. Progress over the past five years has been substantial, particularly in enantioselective methods that create a single stereocenter and in cascade designs that build complex polycyclic frameworks in a single operation. Asymmetric construction of multiple adjacent stereocenters, gram-scale demonstrations, and genuinely sustainable conditions remain less developed; these areas are priorities for future work.

Finding cost-effective and eco-friendly ways to remove toxic heavy metals from wastewater remains a critical challenge for industrial sustainability. This study presents a comparative performance matrix of coal fly ash (CFA) and bone charcoal (BC) for the high-capacity remediation of Cd(II) and Pb(II) ions. This work establishes a direct cross-matrix comparison between a heterogeneous aluminosilicate phase (CFA) and a uniform calcium-phosphate structure (BC) under identical systemic boundaries. SEM/EDS, FT-IR, and complementary TG/DTG/DTA screenings confirmed that distinct material-specific functional frameworks drive a predominantly physical mechanism governed by electrostatic and van der Waals interactions. Equilibrium data fitted the non-linear Langmuir model well (R2 > 0.99 at 20 &#xb0;C). BC proved to be significantly more effective, achieving maximum sorption capacities (qmax of 397.55 mg/g for Pb(II) and 325.09 mg/g for Cd(II), outperforming CFA (118.22 and 105.59 mg/g, respectively). Sorption capacities decreased with temperature up to 80 &#xb0;C, confirming the exothermic nature of the process, which was further substantiated by negative enthalpy values (&#x2206;H0 = -7.27 to -14.19 kJ/mol). Thermodynamic parameters indicated a spontaneous process (&#x2206;G0 < 0, -9.55 to -19.33 kJ/mol) with positive entropy changes (&#x2206;S0 = 5.82 to 39.09 J/(mol&#xb7;K)). Adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model, with intraparticle diffusion acting as a key rate-limiting step. Regardless of the adsorbent, Pb(II) ions were immobilized faster and more efficiently than Cd(II) due to a smaller hydration radius. In conclusion, both industrial by-products represent promising, sustainable options for heavy metal wastewater treatment, with BC demonstrating superior performance.

The stability of anthocyanins is a key factor limiting their use as functional natural colorants. This study evaluated the protective effect of zein on anthocyanins extracted from red corn (Zea mays) chaff, which is an underutilized agro-industrial byproduct. The extraction of anthocyanins was optimized using a Box-Behnken design, employing a 55.5% (v/v) aqueous ethanol solution at 45.21 &#xb0;C and a solid-to-solvent ratio of 1.86 mg/mL (w/v). The resulting extract was rich in acylated anthocyanins derived from cyanidin, pelargonidin, and malvidin, which were identified using electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FIA-ESI-FTICR-MS). The interaction between zein and the anthocyanins was found to be thermodynamically spontaneous (indicated by a negative &#x394;G), endothermic (&#x394;H = 19.8 kJ mol-1), and primarily driven by hydrophobic interactions (&#x394;S = 84.5 J mol-1 K-1). The addition of zein significantly decreased the degradation rate constant of the anthocyanins and increased their half-life, especially at pH 4 and storage temperatures of 4 &#xb0;C and 20 &#xb0;C. Moreover, the activation energy (Ea) for the zein-anthocyanin complex formation was lower (ranging from 63.64 to 47.75 kJ mol-1) than that of the extract without zein (ranging from 59.36 to 74.71 kJ mol-1), indicating that the zein complex has lower thermal sensitivity. Additionally, zein enhanced the red hues of the extract (increasing a* to 62.66) and preserved its antioxidant capacity, which even increased by up to 3.5 times under accelerated degradation conditions. Zein serves as an accessible and effective plant-based alternative for stabilizing anthocyanins in acidic environments, with potential applications in the development of functional natural colorants for the food industry.

Accurate shelf-life prediction of perishable products remains challenging because quality deterioration involves multiple physicochemical changes that are not adequately captured by conventional univariate approaches. This study proposes a multivariate shelf-life prediction framework for sweet corn based on near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy coupled with multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS). NIR spectra were collected from sweet corn samples and analyzed using MCR-ALS to extract chemically interpretable concentration and spectral profiles. A total of 100 and 85 corn samples were used for model training and validation, respectively. The dominant MCR-ALS component showed strong correlations with total soluble solids, dry matter, and individual sugar contents (sucrose, glucose, and fructose), effectively describing the overall quality degradation process. Based on the zero-order kinetic model, the predicted shelf lives were 41.3, 11.0, and 8.9 days at 4, 13, and 25 &#xb0;C, respectively. Arrhenius analysis of the MCR-ALS concentration profile yielded a temperature-dependent degradation rate with an activation energy of 54.05 kJ mol-1 (R2 = 0.8387). The practical applicability of the proposed framework was further examined using a separate harvest batch of sweet corn that underwent repeated non-destructive NIR measurements throughout storage. Overall, the proposed NIR-MCR-ALS framework provides a rapid, non-destructive, and chemically interpretable approach for shelf-life prediction and postharvest quality monitoring of perishable produce.

Potato starch extrudates, chemically modified by a K2CO3 catalyst and enriched with two types of edible oils (rapeseed or sunflower) at varying concentrations (3%, 6%, 9%), were used as film substrates. This study was carried out as a continuation of previous research on analogous extrudates in the form of dry powders and liquid solutions. The main objective was to determine surface properties of polysaccharide films as a function of oil type and concentration to monitor their wettability, biocompatibility, and functional characteristics (e.g., transparency, colour, thickness, flexibility, solubility). Advancing and receding contact angles for polar liquids (water and formamide) and non-polar diiodomethane were measured on the base and oil-modified extruded starch films. Based on these measurements, the surface free energy of the films was determined using the contact angle hysteresis (CAH) model. Optical profilometry confirmed the wettability results through surface morphology and roughness evaluation. Additionally, FTIR analysis of the films was compared to the FTIR spectra of extruded starch powders. Combining these methods provided an in-depth characterization of the films, thereby improving control over their stability and wettability, which is essential for applications in the pharmaceutical and food industries to extend product freshness and enhance resistance to oxidation and spoilage.

The extraction of bioactive compounds using supercritical fluids has attracted increasing scientific attention as a sustainable alternative to conventional extraction methods. This study presents a bibliometric analysis aimed at providing an overview of the scientific development, collaboration patterns, and thematic trends in this research field. Bibliographic data were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database for the period 1995-2025, resulting in a dataset of 2159 publications. The records were analyzed using the Bibliometrix package in R and complementary Web of Science tools to evaluate scientific productivity, leading contributors, collaboration patterns, keyword analysis (frequency and co-occurrence), thematic evolution, citation topics, and alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The results reveal sustained growth in scientific production, particularly during the last decade, reflecting the increasing interest in environmentally friendly extraction technologies and the growing demand for natural bioactive compounds. Brazil emerged as the leading contributor, followed by China and Spain. Collaboration patterns indicate the presence of international research partnerships among the most productive countries. Keyword analysis highlights antioxidant activity and polyphenols as the most frequent research topics. Thematic analysis reveals a progressive shift from compound characterization to process optimization and application-oriented research, with increasing emphasis on extraction performance, assisted extraction technologies, and the valorization of agro-industrial by-products as alternative sources of bioactive compounds. These findings provide a comprehensive overview of the evolution and main research directions in this field.

Recent advances in vaccinology have accelerated the shift from conventional live-attenuated and inactivated vaccines toward subunit and nucleic acid-based platforms. Although these next-generation vaccines offer improved safety, rapid adaptability, and manufacturing flexibility, their relatively low intrinsic immunogenicity often requires efficient adjuvants and delivery systems. Nanoparticle-based vaccine platforms have therefore emerged as versatile tools capable of protecting antigens, improving targeted delivery, and modulating both innate and adaptive immune responses. This review summarizes the major classes of nanovaccine platforms, including lipid and polymeric nanoparticles, self-assembling protein nanostructures such as virus-like particles and ferritin nanocages, saponin-based self-assembling complexes, and inorganic nanomaterials. Particular attention is given to how vaccine performance is determined not only by material composition but also by nanoparticle physicochemical properties, biodistribution, cellular uptake, and mechanisms of immune activation. We further discuss the major challenges limiting clinical translation, including scalable manufacturing, safety evaluation, quality control, regulatory requirements, and long-term biocompatibility. Finally, emerging strategies involving hybrid and personalized nanovaccine platforms are highlighted, illustrating how nanotechnology and immunoengineering are transforming vaccine development for both prophylactic and therapeutic applications.