Macromolecular Research最新文献

The combination of therapeutic materials and biocompatible scaffolds to create multifunctional scaffolds with therapeutic and restorative functions has been investigated as a new therapeutic modality for bone cancers because the integration of multi-modal therapies into one platform can exhibit significant potential in overcoming the drawbacks of conventional therapy in bone cancers. In this study, we develop an IR780- and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)-loaded multifunctional polylactic acid (PLA) (E-PLMH780) composite scaffold for chemo-photothermal combination therapy without cytotoxicity. This bilayered E-PLMH780 scaffold is prepared using a layer of EGCG-loaded PLA monolith and a three-dimensionally printed PLA composite scaffold, followed by coating with IR780-loaded Mg-HA nanoparticles. The monolith layer in the composite scaffold exhibits a three-dimensional porous structure and a uniform morphology featuring small leaf-like units, whereas the three-dimensionally printed layer exhibits a uniform porous structure with a hierarchical architecture. The results of the chemo-photothermal combination therapy and cytotoxicity assays showed that the E-PLMH780 scaffold effectively inhibited bone cancer cell proliferation but did not cause cytotoxicity in normal osteoblastic cells. Therefore, chemo-photothermal combination therapy using IR780- and EGCG-loaded E-PLMH780 scaffolds can potentially provide a new generation of therapeutic modality for the improved treatment of bone cancers and repair of bone defects.

Graphical abstract

Schematic diagram of the fabrication of IR780- and EGCG-loaded E-PLMH780 scaffolds and their therapeutic efficacy on cancer cells

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) microwell patterns were fabricated using a lithography-based replica molding method to develop neural stem cell-based assays. Hippocampal neural stem cells (NSCs) were cultured on microwell patterns to construct a multi-dimensional culture system model in which cells within the microwells were mainly cultured with three-dimensional cellular aggregates (MW-3D cells), and cells on the top surfaces were mainly cultured with two-dimensional single-layer adherent cultures (TS-2D cells). It was found that self-renewal and MW-3D cell-directed migration and transformation regulate the construction of this model. Patterns without channel connections occurred earlier in the construction of this model than those with channel connections, due to the tendency of NSCs to extend to both sides along the direction of the channels. Self-renewal and stemness maintenance of NSCs within the microwells were promoted by the patterns with the channel connections as a suitable microenvironment for a prolonged period of time, and can be used to build quasi-one-dimensional neural networks within the microwells. This will become a practical model for studying the functional behavior of NSCs, with different culture systems dynamically assembled on the same platform for stem cell research and the development of stem cell-based assays.

Graphical abstract

Multi-dimensional culture system model of the hippocampal NSCs on microwell patterns. (a-b) Hippocampal NSCs were stained with Nestin and DAPI after 7 days on the (a) 100–0 μm and (b) 120–40 μm patterns. Images were obtained by multi-slice scanning with CLSM, volume rendering of the image sequence, and overlaying of the confocal fluorescence images with phase-contrast micrographs. (c-d) Cross-sectional views of the 3D reconstructed confocal microscopic images of DAPI and Nestin were used to analyze the distribution of cells inside the microwells.

Bone defects and fractures represent common health concerns, with bone repair posing a challenging physiological process. This reparative process is often complicated with the presence of bacterial toxins, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Furthermore, bone tissue, being highly metabolic, requires a substantial amount of nutrients during the healing process. These factors collectively contribute to the difficulty in spontaneous or timely bone tissue regeneration. Currently, the conventional approach to facilitate bone defect healing involves surgically implanting the patient’s autologous tissue graft at the defect sites. However, this method necessitates surgical intervention, presents challenges in deformity correction, exhibits limited plasticity, and has constrained availability, thus increasing the likelihood of associated complications. Clinically, an ideal scaffolds should exhibit attributes such as cost-effectiveness, ease of preparation, minimal invasiveness, and compatibility with the surrounding bone tissue to facilitate nutrient transportation and the formation of blood vessels. This review critically examines the merits and demerits of the two most widely employed three-dimensional (3D) biomimetic scaffolds for bone tissue repairing. Furthermore, it delves into the fundamental prerequisites and prospective advancements of 3D biomimetic porous scaffolds, emphasizing their potential future development trends.

Graphical abstract

Schematic of the process of bone fracture healing process.

The silica nanocapsules were functionalized with poly(methacrylic acid)-block-poly(2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid) (PMAA-b-PAMPS) and assembled with chitosan (CHI) by layer-by-layer deposition and cross-linking to develop lithium electrolyte nanocomposites in the presence of concentrated alkaline solutions. The inorganic/organic nanocapsules and the assembled CHI chains endowed the multilayer films with well-defined structure, great temperature tolerance, and comparable mechanical properties. The films possessed a high loading capacity of alkaline electrolytes. The entrapment of a concentrated alkaline solution in the film matrix led to high ionic conductivity (~ 0.73 mS cm⁻¹ at 25 °C) and outstanding temperature-tolerated capacity. The films maintained a constant ionic conductivity and physical strength against mechanical deformations. For the first time, the impact of molecular weight of block copolymers on electrochemical properties of electrolyte-loaded multilayer films was investigated. The lithium-ion batteries built by flexible alkaline electrolytes of nanocapsule-based multilayer films demonstrated excellent ionic conductivity and electrochemical sustainability, possessing discharge capacity of 163.5 mA h g⁻¹ and retaining 97.53% of the original capacity after 120 cycles. This work demonstrates the first proof-of-concept platform of polymer/nanocapsule composite-incorporated multilayer films with well-defined internal structure and high loading capacity for energy storage. The multilayer films could be adopted as the reliable electrolyte in lithium-ion batteries and introduce enhanced cycling ability and high rate charge–discharge performance.

Graphical abstract

We describe the structure, surface morphology, and electrochemical properties of multilayer films of block copolymer-functionalized silica nanocapsules and chitosan biopolymers via layer-by-layer deposition and cross-linking. The structure and property of the films could be manipulated by controlling the chain length of the block copolymers. In addition, the films could efficiently entrap alkaline solution, demonstrating excellent ionic conductivity and electrochemical sustainability.

Numerous studies are exploring methodologies to enhance flame resistance and minimize the emission of toxic gases and chemicals from building materials in the event of a fire, aiming to mitigate risks and save lives. To that end, this study produced an insulation material using stabilized fiber based on polyacrylonitrile (PAN). Stabilized fiber provides flame retardancy by forming aromatic bonds in existing PAN fiber through heat treatment. To manufacture an insulation material with fiber, a separate adhesive is needed to maintain the shape, and cellulose was selected as the adhesive. Cellulose is an environmentally friendly material that can be obtained from natural sources and has the additional advantages of excellent stability and heat resistance. For this study, PAN-based stabilizing fiber (PSF) insulation was prepared and further processed using cellulose adhesive (PSF-C). Combustion experiments and gas analysis were performed to assess the combustion risks of the developed PSF insulation, and the contents of the hazardous gases and smoke generated were measured. The hazardous gases and smoke released during combustion were considerably reduced, and the heat resistance of the insulation was improved. Furthermore, the pyrolysis reaction and thermal stability were investigated. The results demonstrated a substantial reduction in the combustion hazards associated with the PSF when cellulose was used, i.e., PSF-C was used. The findings of this study are expected to substantially contribute to advancing the practical applicability of PSF-C insulating materials and the development of safe building and fire prevention systems.

Graphical abstract

We developed PAN-based stabilized fiber insulation to enhance fire safety and minimize human casualties. We utilized an eco-friendly cellulose adhesive for structural integrity and studied its fire-safety properties, including HCN emissions. The developed insulation with cellulose adhesive (PSF-C) significantly reduced HCN emissions compared with a PAN insulator alone (PSF). PSF-C reduces human casualties

In this study, isobavachalcone and bavachalcone molecules obtained excellent to good inhibitory against hyaluronidase, collagenase, and elastase enzymes with IC₅₀ values of 16.65, 4.18, and 0.79 µM for isobavachalcone and 7.31, 19.38, and 10.56 µM for bavachalcone. The chemical activities of these compounds against hyaluronidase, collagenase enzyme, and elastase were evaluated utilizing the molecular modeling study. Molecular docking was used to investigate the chemical activities of isobavachalcone and bavachalcone against hyaluronidase, collagenase, and elastase. The compounds’ anti-cancer activities were tested against MDA-MB-468, Hs 281.T, AU565, CAMA-1, MCF7, NMU, SK-BR-3, and RBA cell lines. Molecular docking calculations were used to evaluate the chemical activities of isobavachalcone and bavachalcone against some of the expressed surface receptor proteins (folate receptor, EGFR, HER2, progesterone receptor, estrogen Receptor, CD47, androgen receptor, and CD44) in the mentioned cell lines. The findings revealed the most likely interactions and their properties at the atomic level. The docking values revealed that the molecules have a high affinity for enzymes. Furthermore, these molecules made direct contact with the receptors and enzymes. As a result, these chemical molecules may have the potential to inhibit cancer cells and enzymes. Furthermore, even at low doses, these compounds significantly reduced breast cancer cell viability. Furthermore, a 100 M dose of all molecules resulted in significant reductions in breast cancer cell viability.

Graphical abstract

Therapeutic Properties and Enzyme Inhibition Potentials of Some Natural Compounds on Hyaluronidase, Collagenase, and Elastase With Molecular Docking Studies.

Fluorescent conjugated polymers (CPs) emitting blue, green, and red were polymerized via the Suzuki coupling reaction. Their emissive monomer units were linked to a fluorene unit in the backbone and thus could be excited at the same wavelength to fluoresce their own emission colors. The resultant polymers were dissolved in dioctyl phthalate, which was embedded in melamine–formaldehyde microcapsules (MFMs). The CP-embedded MFMs maintained the red, green, and blue emission colors of the CPs. The three fluorescent MFMs were mixed in suitable amounts to fabricate white light-emitting MFMs under single-wavelength excitation. The microcapsule embedment could effectively avoid the unnecessary energy transfer from short- to long-wavelength emission, which is a crucial obstacle for white emission when using mixed colors. Thus, white light emission was successfully obtained using spatially separated MFMs in aqueous solution.

Graphical Abstract

White light emission was performed using spatially separated RGB conjugated polymers embedded in melamine-formaldehyde microcapsules.

Serotonin (5-HT) is an important neurotransmitter in vivo, regulating almost all human behavior and cognitive processes. Antifouling surface that can prevent undesirable adhesion is a key factor in the detection of 5-HT, hydrogels are considered as excellent candidates for non-fouling materials. It still remains a challenge to fabricate antifouling composites on electrode that can combine the properties of the hydrogels and surface morphology characteristics, at the same time, keeping good conductivity of the electrode. Herein, we report a new antifouling electrochemical biosensor for 5-HT detection. Using the photocatalytic activity of TiO₂ and the conductivity of Ag nanoparticles, the antifouling layer of P(VPA-SBMA-GMA) hydrogel was formed by in situ polymerization on the surface of hierarchical nanoscale TiO₂–Ag nanocomposite, 5-HT aptamers were further bound on the surface of the hydrogel for specific recognition. With these advantages, the constructed sensor had a wide detection range (0.5 pM–100 nM) and a lower detection limit (5 fM) for 5-HT.

Graphical abstract

Manufacturing process, material characterization and effect DPV diagram of a new electrochemical aptamer sensor.

Phenylthiourea was synthesized for the first time with a yield of 75–80% based on thiourea, in the presence of various catalysts, and optimal conditions were identified for some reactions. At the same time, the condensation of their methylene-active molecules and various aldehydes in acidic media caused the synthesis of di-, tetra-, hexahydropyrimidinethiones, which are not known in the literature so far; the role of different catalysts in this process were comparatively studied. Synthesis of heterocyclic compounds containing phenol hydroxyl, mono-, dual-, triple-amine, -thion, and hydroxyl groups in the presence of ionic liquids, CCl₃COOH CF₃COOH, NiCl₂.6H₂O catalysts as well as in the increase of yield percentages showed that the use of environmentally and economically efficient ionic liquids among these catalysts allows to obtain purposeful compounds with the highest yield (95%). The inhibition of α-glycosidase, aldose reductase, and α-amylase enzymes by functionally substituted derivatives of thiourea and phenylthiourea (1a–1f) is then observed. Compound 1d displayed the lowest inhibitory  effect against AR in these series with an IC₅₀ value of 3.25 µM, whereas compound 1c compound displayed the highest inhibitory  effect with an IC₅₀ value of 1.46 µM. The enzymes α-amylase and α-glycosidase were also easily inhibited by these substances. All substances were examined for their capacity to inhibit the α-glycosidase enzyme, with Ki values ranging between 14.321.53 and 29.322.50 µM and IC₅₀ values between 12.23 and 25.22 µM. Additionally, the IC₅₀ values for the effective inhibition profile of the α-amylase, which was determined vary from 1.02 to 7.87 µM.

Graphical abstract

Enzyme inhibitor and docking of it

Four novel triphenylamine-based (TPA-based) conjugate polymer films (one homopolymer and three co-polymers) were electrochemically synthesized from N4,N4′-bis(4-((6-(1H-indol-1-yl)hexyl)oxy)phenyl)-N4,N4′-diphenyl-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diamine (TPY) and 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) as monomers. The polymer structure was tuned by adjusting the monomer proportions. The homopolymer contains electrochromic TPA and indole groups in its backbone, while an additional electrochromic EDOT groups are present in the co-polymers. The electrochemical, optical, and electrochromic properties of the polymers were characterized along with film morphologies. Each polymer is multicolored, with electrochromic performance that depends heavily on its structure. The introduction of EDOT into the backbone significantly improved polymer-film-forming properties. In addition, the co-polymers exhibited excellent spectroelectrochemical performance and are visible–near-infrared electrochromic materials. In particular, the spectrum of oxidized PTPY–EDOT-2 covers the entire visible region, while oxidized PTPY–EDOT-3, which contains the highest amount of EDOT, strongly absorbs in the near-infrared region (> 800 nm) while absorbing fully across the visible region. Consequently, PTPY–EDOT-3 is a potential candidate for display and camouflage applications owing to its excellent properties. Double-layer electrochromic devices (ECDs) were fabricated using polymer films and WO₃ as active layers. The homo- and co-polymers exhibit particularly different electrochromic performance. The PTPY ECD performs best. It exhibited a maximum contrast of 36.7% at 720 nm in the absence of EDOT, with a coloration efficiency of 418 cm²/C recorded; moreover, it exhibited an obvious memory effect, with a memory time of 20 min recorded at 480 nm. Consequently, these polymers are potentially useful for optoelectronics applications.

Graphical abstract

Novel conjugate polymer films that contain triphenylamine, 3,4- ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) and indole groups were electrochemical polymerized. Introducing EDOT into the backbone could significantly improve polymer-film-forming properties. These films are multicolored. The electrochromic devices exhibited high coloration efficiency, high optical contrast and obvious memory effect