Research

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16 pages, 5103 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Formulation and Characterization of Soybean Oil-in-Water Emulsions Stabilized Using Gelatinized Starch Dispersions from Plant Sources

by Ankita Singh, Takumi Umeda and Isao Kobayashi

Molecules 2024, 29(9), 1923; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29091923 (registering DOI) - 23 Apr 2024

Viewed by 205

Abstract

Consumers are concerned about employing green processing technologies and natural ingredients in different manufacturing sectors to achieve a “clean label” standard for products and minimize the hazardous impact of chemical ingredients on human health and the environment. In this study, we investigated the [...] Read more.

Consumers are concerned about employing green processing technologies and natural ingredients in different manufacturing sectors to achieve a “clean label” standard for products and minimize the hazardous impact of chemical ingredients on human health and the environment. In this study, we investigated the effects of gelatinized starch dispersions (GSDs) prepared from six plant sources (indica and japonica rice, wheat, corn, potatoes, and sweet potatoes) on the formulation and stability of oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. The effect of gelatinization temperature and time conditions of 85–90 °C for 20 min on the interfacial tension of the two phases was observed. Emulsification was performed using a primary homogenization condition of 10,000 rpm for 5 min, followed by high-pressure homogenization at 100 MPa for five cycles. The effects of higher oil weight fractions (15–25% w/w) and storage stability at different temperatures for four weeks were also evaluated. The interfacial tension of all starch GSDs with soybean oil decreased compared with the interfacial tension between soybean oil and water as a control. The largest interfacial tension reduction was observed for the GSD from indica rice. Microstructural analysis indicated that the GSDs stabilized the O/W emulsion by coating oil droplets. Emulsions formulated using a GSD from indica rice were stable during four weeks of storage with a volume mean diameter (d_4,3) of ~1 µm, minimal viscosity change, and a negative ζ-potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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15 pages, 6560 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vivo Wound Healing Potential and Molecular Pathways of Amniotic Fluid and Moringa Olifera-Loaded Nanoclay Films

by Akram Ashames, Munaza Ijaz, Manal Buabeid, Haya Yasin, Sidra Yaseen, Richie R. Bhandare and Ghulam Murtaza

Molecules 2024, 29(3), 729; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29030729 - 05 Feb 2024

Viewed by 847

Abstract

Cutaneous wounds pose a significant health burden, affecting millions of individuals annually and placing strain on healthcare systems and society. Nanofilm biomaterials have emerged as promising interfaces between materials and biology, offering potential for various biomedical applications. To explore this potential, our study [...] Read more.

Cutaneous wounds pose a significant health burden, affecting millions of individuals annually and placing strain on healthcare systems and society. Nanofilm biomaterials have emerged as promising interfaces between materials and biology, offering potential for various biomedical applications. To explore this potential, our study aimed to assess the wound healing efficacy of amniotic fluid and Moringa olifera-loaded nanoclay films by using in vivo models. Additionally, we investigated the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of these films. Using a burn wound healing model on rabbits, both infected and non-infected wounds were treated with the nanoclay films for a duration of twenty-one days on by following protocols approved by the Animal Ethics Committee. We evaluated wound contraction, proinflammatory mediators, and growth factors levels by analyzing blood samples. Histopathological changes and skin integrity were assessed through H&E staining. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software (version 2; Chicago, IL, USA) with significance set at p < 0.05. Our findings demonstrated a significant dose-dependent increase in wound contraction in the 2%, 4%, and 8% AMF-Me.mo treatment groups throughout the study (p < 0.001). Moreover, macroscopic analysis revealed comparable effects (p > 0.05) between the 8% AMF-Me.mo treatment group and the standard treatment. Histopathological examination confirmed the preservation of skin architecture and complete epidermal closure in both infected and non-infected wounds treated with AMF-Me.mo-loaded nanofilms. RT-PCR analysis revealed elevated concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), along with decreased levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in AMF-Me.mo-loaded nanofilm treatment groups. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of AMF-Me.mo-loaded nanofilms contributed to the decontamination of the wound site, positioning them as potential candidates for effective wound healing. However, further extensive clinical trials-based studies are necessary to confirm these findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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19 pages, 5729 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chitosan Biocomposites with Variable Cross-Linking and Copper-Doping for Enhanced Phosphate Removal

by Inimfon A. Udoetok, Abdalla H. Karoyo, Mohamed H. Mohamed and Lee D. Wilson

Molecules 2024, 29(2), 445; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29020445 - 16 Jan 2024

Viewed by 860

Abstract

The fabrication of chitosan (CH) biocomposite beads with variable copper (Cu²⁺) ion doping was achieved with a glutaraldehyde cross-linker (CL) through three distinct methods: (1) formation of CH beads was followed by imbibition of Cu(II) ions (CH-b-Cu) without CL; [...] Read more.

The fabrication of chitosan (CH) biocomposite beads with variable copper (Cu²⁺) ion doping was achieved with a glutaraldehyde cross-linker (CL) through three distinct methods: (1) formation of CH beads was followed by imbibition of Cu(II) ions (CH-b-Cu) without CL; (2) cross-linking of the CH beads, followed by imbibition of Cu(II) ions (CH-b-CL-Cu); and (3) cross-linking of pristine CH, followed by bead formation with Cu(II) imbibing onto the beads (CH-CL-b-Cu). The biocomposites (CH-b-Cu, CH-b-CL-Cu, and CH-CL-b-Cu) were characterized via spectroscopy (FTIR, ¹³C solid NMR, XPS), SEM, TGA, equilibrium solvent swelling methods, and phosphate adsorption isotherms. The results reveal variable cross-linking and Cu(II) doping of the CH beads, in accordance with the step-wise design strategy. CH-CL-b-Cu exhibited the greatest pillaring of chitosan fibrils with greater cross-linking, along with low Cu(II) loading, reduced solvent swelling, and attenuated uptake of phosphate dianions. Equilibrium and kinetic uptake results at pH 8.5 and 295 K reveal that the non-CL Cu-imbibed beads (CH-b-Cu) display the highest affinity for phosphate (Q_m = 133 ± 45 mg/g), in agreement with the highest loading of Cu(II) and enhanced water swelling. Regeneration studies demonstrated the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of Cu-imbibed chitosan beads for controlled phosphate removal, whilst maintaining over 80% regenerability across several adsorption–desorption cycles. This study offers a facile synthetic approach for controlled Cu²⁺ ion doping onto chitosan-based beads, enabling tailored phosphate oxyanion uptake from aqueous media by employing a sustainable polysaccharide biocomposite adsorbent for water remediation by mitigation of eutrophication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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16 pages, 2186 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pullulan-Graft-Polyoxazoline: Approaches from Chemistry and Physics

by Ivan M. Zorin, Petr A. Fetin, Nina G. Mikusheva, Alexey A. Lezov, Igor Perevyazko, Alexander S. Gubarev, Anna N. Podsevalnikova, Sergey G. Polushin and Nikolai V. Tsvetkov

Molecules 2024, 29(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29010026 - 19 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 643

Abstract

An approach to the preparation of pullulan-graft-poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline)s based on Cu-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition with polyoxazoline-azide was applied. All of the obtained polymers were characterized through classical molecular hydrodynamic methods and NMR. The formation of graft copolymers was accomplished by oxidative degradation of pullulan chains. [...] Read more.

An approach to the preparation of pullulan-graft-poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline)s based on Cu-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition with polyoxazoline-azide was applied. All of the obtained polymers were characterized through classical molecular hydrodynamic methods and NMR. The formation of graft copolymers was accomplished by oxidative degradation of pullulan chains. Nevertheless, graft copolymers were obtained as uniform products with varied side chain lengths and degrees of substitution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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13 pages, 3196 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sodium Alginate- and Cationic Cellulose-Functionalized Polycaprolactone Nanofibers for In Vitro and Antibacterial Applications

by Emad Tolba, Ahmed Salama, Ahmed K. Saleh, Iriczalli Cruz-Maya and Vincenzo Guarino

Molecules 2023, 28(21), 7305; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28217305 - 27 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1097

Abstract

The use of polyelectrolytes is emerging as a fascinating strategy for the functionalization of biomedical membranes, due to their ability to enhance biological responses using the interaction effect of charged groups on multiple interface properties. Herein, two different polyelectrolytes were used to improve [...] Read more.

The use of polyelectrolytes is emerging as a fascinating strategy for the functionalization of biomedical membranes, due to their ability to enhance biological responses using the interaction effect of charged groups on multiple interface properties. Herein, two different polyelectrolytes were used to improve the antibacterial properties of polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers fabricated via electrospinning. First, a new cationic cellulose derivative, cellulose-bearing imidazolium tosylate (CIMD), was prepared via the nucleophilic substitution of the tosyl group using 1-methylimidazole, as confirmed by NMR analyses, and loaded into the PCL nanofibers. Secondly, sodium alginate (SA) was used to uniformly coat the fibers’ surface via self-assembly, as remarked through SEM-EDX analyses. Polyelectrolyte interactions between the CIMD and the SA, initially detected using a FTIR analysis, were confirmed via Z potential measurements: the formation of a CMID/SA complex promoted a substantial charge neutralization of the fibers’ surfaces with effects on the physical properties of the membrane in terms of water adsorption and in vitro degradation. Moreover, the presence of SA contributed to the in vitro response of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), as confirmed by a significant increase in the cells’ viability after 7 days in the case of the PCL/CMID/SA complex with respect to the PCL and PCL/CMID membranes. Contrariwise, SA did not nullify the antibacterial effect of CMID, as confirmed by the comparable resistance exhibited by S. mutans, S. aureus, and E. coli to the PCL/CIMD and PCL/CIMD/SA membranes. All the reported results corroborate the idea that the CIMD/SA functionalization of PCL nanofibers has a great potential for the fabrication of efficient antimicrobial membranes for wound healing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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12 pages, 3489 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Polybutylene Succinate Additive in Polylactic Acid Blend Fibers via a Melt-Blown Process

by Benchamaporn Tangnorawich, Areerut Magmee, Nanjaporn Roungpaisan, Surachet Toommee, Yardnapar Parcharoen and Chiravoot Pechyen

Molecules 2023, 28(20), 7215; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28207215 - 22 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1325

Abstract

This work aimed to study the influence of the polybutylene succinate (PBS) content on the physical, thermal, mechanical, and chemical properties of the obtained polylactic acid (PLA)/PBS composite fibers. PLA/PBS blend fibers were prepared by a simple melt-blown process capable of yielding nanofibers. [...] Read more.

This work aimed to study the influence of the polybutylene succinate (PBS) content on the physical, thermal, mechanical, and chemical properties of the obtained polylactic acid (PLA)/PBS composite fibers. PLA/PBS blend fibers were prepared by a simple melt-blown process capable of yielding nanofibers. Morphological analysis revealed that the fiber size was irregular and discontinuous in length. Including PBS affected the fiber size distribution, and the fibers had a smoother surface with increased amounts of added PBS. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis (DSC) revealed that the crystallization temperature of the PLA sheet (105.8 °C) was decreased with increasing PBS addition levels down to 91.7 °C at 10 wt.% PBS. This suggests that the addition of PBS may affect PLA crystallization, which is consistent with the X-ray diffraction analysis that revealed that the crystallinity of PLA (19.2%) was increased with increasing PBS addition up to 28.1% at 10 wt% PBS. Moreover, adding PBS increased the tensile properties while the % elongation at break was significantly decreased. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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14 pages, 1227 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chitosan Enhances Low-Dosage Difenoconazole to Efficiently Control Leaf Spot Disease in Pseudostellaria heterophylla (Miq.) Pax

by Cheng Zhang, Yi Dai, Jiaqi Liu, Yue Su and Qinghai Zhang

Molecules 2023, 28(16), 6170; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28166170 - 21 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 873

Abstract

Pseudostellaria heterophylla (Miq.) Pax is a popular clinical herb and nutritious health food. However, leaf spot disease caused by fungal pathogens frequently occurs and seriously influences the growth, quality, and yield of P. heterophylla. In this work, the field control roles of [...] Read more.

Pseudostellaria heterophylla (Miq.) Pax is a popular clinical herb and nutritious health food. However, leaf spot disease caused by fungal pathogens frequently occurs and seriously influences the growth, quality, and yield of P. heterophylla. In this work, the field control roles of difenoconazole, chitosan, and their combination in the leaf spot disease in P. heterophylla and their effects on the disease resistance, photosynthetic capacity, medicinal quality, and root yield of P. heterophylla are investigated. The results manifest that 37% difenoconazole water-dispersible granule (WDG) with 5000-time + chitosan 500-time dilution liquid had a superior control capacity on leaf spot disease with the control effects of 91.17%~88.19% at 15~30 days after the last spraying, which significantly (p < 0.05) exceeded that of 37% difenoconazole WDG 3000-time dilution liquid and was significantly (p < 0.01) higher than that of 37% difenoconazole WDG 5000-time dilution liquid, chitosan 500-time dilution liquid, or chitosan 1000-time dilution liquid. Simultaneously, this combination could more effectively enhance the disease resistance, photosynthetic capacity, medicinal quality, and tuberous root yield of P. heterophylla compared to when these elements were applied alone, as well as effectively reduce difenoconazole application. This study emphasizes that chitosan combined with a low dosage of difenoconazole can be proposed as a green, efficient, and alternative formula for controlling leaf spot disease in P. heterophylla and enhancing its resistance, photosynthesis, quality, and yield. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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18 pages, 1112 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in the Human Gut Microbiome during Dietary Supplementation with Modified Rice Bran Arabinoxylan Compound

by Emily Schupfer, Soo Liang Ooi, Thomas C. Jeffries, Shaoyu Wang, Peter S. Micalos and Sok Cheon Pak

Molecules 2023, 28(14), 5400; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28145400 - 14 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1416

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of a modified rice bran arabinoxylan compound (RBAC) as a dietary supplement on the gut microbiota of healthy adults. Ten volunteers supplemented their diet with 1 g of RBAC for six weeks and 3 g of RBAC for [...] Read more.

This study investigated the effects of a modified rice bran arabinoxylan compound (RBAC) as a dietary supplement on the gut microbiota of healthy adults. Ten volunteers supplemented their diet with 1 g of RBAC for six weeks and 3 g of RBAC for another six weeks, with a three-week washout period. Faecal samples were collected every 3 weeks over 21 weeks. Microbiota from faecal samples were profiled using 16S rRNA sequencing. Assessment of alpha and beta microbiota diversity was performed using the QIIME2 platform. The results revealed that alpha and beta diversity were not associated with the experimental phase, interventional period, RBAC dosage, or time. However, the statistical significance of the participant was detected in alpha (p < 0.002) and beta (weighted unifrac, p = 0.001) diversity. Explanatory factors, including diet and lifestyle, were significantly associated with alpha (p < 0.05) and beta (p < 0.01) diversity. The individual beta diversity of six participants significantly changed (p < 0.05) during the interventional period. Seven participants showed statistically significant taxonomic changes (ANCOM W ≥ 5). These results classified four participants as responders to RBAC supplementation, with a further two participants as likely responders. In conclusion, the gut microbiome is highly individualised and modulated by RBAC as a dietary supplement, dependent on lifestyle and dietary intake. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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13 pages, 2122 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Graphene Oxide/Nitrocellulose Non-Covalent Hybrid as Solid Phase for Oligo-DNA Extraction from Complex Medium

by Georgian A. Toader, Florentin R. Nitu and Mariana Ionita

Molecules 2023, 28(12), 4599; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28124599 - 07 Jun 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1271

Abstract

A nitrocellulose–graphene oxide hybrid that consists of a commercially nitrocellulose (NC) membrane non-covalently modified with graphene oxide (GO) microparticles was successfully prepared for oligonucleotide extraction. The modification of NC membrane was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), which highlighted the principal absorption [...] Read more.

A nitrocellulose–graphene oxide hybrid that consists of a commercially nitrocellulose (NC) membrane non-covalently modified with graphene oxide (GO) microparticles was successfully prepared for oligonucleotide extraction. The modification of NC membrane was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), which highlighted the principal absorption bands of both the NC membrane at 1641, 1276, and 835 cm⁻¹ (NO₂) and of GO in the range of 3450 cm⁻¹ (CH₂-OH). The SEM analysis underlined the well-dispersed and uniform coverage of NC membrane with GO, which displayed thin spider web morphology. The wettability assay indicated that the NC–GO hybrid membrane exhibited slightly lower hydrophilic behavior, with a water contact angle of 26.7°, compared to the 15° contact angle of the NC control membrane. The NC–GO hybrid membranes were used to separate oligonucleotides that had fewer than 50 nucleotides (nt) from complex solutions. The features of the NC–GO hybrid membranes were tested for extraction periods of 30, 45, and 60 min in three different complex solutions, i.e., an aqueous medium, an α-Minimum Essential Medium (αMEM), and an αMEM supplemented with fetal bovine serum (FBS). The oligonucleotides were desorbed from the surface of the NC–GO hybrid membrane using Tris-HCl buffer with a pH of 8.0. Out of the three media utilized, the best results were achieved after 60 min incubation of the NC–GO membranes in αMEM, as evidenced by the highest fluorescence emission of 294 relative fluorescence units (r.f.u.). This value corresponded to the extraction of approximately 330–370 pg (≈7%) of the total oligo-DNA. This method is an efficient and effortless way to purify short oligonucleotides from complex solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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16 pages, 7639 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interfacial Adhesion Property of Asphalt Binder with Calcium Alginate Carrier of Asphalt Rejuvenator

by Yan Li, Bowei Sun, Zirui Wu, Lina Wang and Xiaogang Guo

Molecules 2023, 28(11), 4447; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28114447 - 30 May 2023

Viewed by 947

Abstract

Recently calcium alginate has been successfully applied to encapsulate asphalt rejuvenator, which can protect asphalt rejuvenator from early leakage and release asphalt rejuvenator when triggered by specific factors such as cracks. The interfacial adhesion property of asphalt binder with calcium alginate carrier is [...] Read more.

Recently calcium alginate has been successfully applied to encapsulate asphalt rejuvenator, which can protect asphalt rejuvenator from early leakage and release asphalt rejuvenator when triggered by specific factors such as cracks. The interfacial adhesion property of asphalt binder with calcium alginate carrier is of great importance to its actual performance. In this paper, the molecular model of the interface region between asphalt binder and calcium alginate was established, and molecular dynamics simulations were performed on it to investigate the molecular interaction at the interface region. By extracting and processing the data during the simulation process, the interfacial adhesion behavior was expounded using the spreading coefficient (S), permeation depth and permeation degree. Furthermore, the interfacial adhesion strength was evaluated by adopting the interfacial adhesion work. Results showed that the value of S was greater than 0, implying that asphalt binder could wet the surface of calcium alginate. Saturate had the highest value of permeation degree, followed by resin, aromatic and asphaltene. However, asphalt binder could not infiltrate into the interior of TiO₂, only accumulating and spreading on the surface of TiO₂. The interfacial adhesion work of unaged and aged asphalt binder to calcium alginate was −114.18 mJ/m² and −186.37 mJ/m², respectively, similar to that of asphalt–aggregate interface. The van der Waals interactions contributed the most to the formation of the interfacial adhesion strength. In addition, a certain degree aging of asphalt binder and addition of titanium dioxide in the calcium alginate carrier were helpful to enhance the interfacial adhesion strength. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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17 pages, 3396 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dextran Methacrylate Reactions with Hydroxyl Radicals and Hydrated Electrons in Water: A Kinetic Study Using Pulse Radiolysis

by Kamila J. Szafulera, Radosław A. Wach and Piotr Ulański

Molecules 2023, 28(10), 4231; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28104231 - 22 May 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1204

Abstract

Dextran methacrylate (Dex-MA) is a biodegradable polysaccharide derivative that can be cross-linked by ionizing radiation. It is therefore considered a potential replacement for synthetic hydrophilic polymers in current radiation technologies used for synthesizing hydrophilic cross-linked polymer structures such as hydrogels, mainly for medical [...] Read more.

Dextran methacrylate (Dex-MA) is a biodegradable polysaccharide derivative that can be cross-linked by ionizing radiation. It is therefore considered a potential replacement for synthetic hydrophilic polymers in current radiation technologies used for synthesizing hydrophilic cross-linked polymer structures such as hydrogels, mainly for medical applications. This work is focused on the initial steps of radiation-induced cross-linking polymerization of Dex-MA in water. Rate constants of two major transient water radiolysis products—hydroxyl radicals (^•OH) and hydrated electrons (

e_{aq}^{-}

)—with various samples of Dex-MA (based on 6–500 kDa dextrans of molar degree of substitution or DS with methacrylate groups up to 0.66) as well as non-substituted dextran were determined by pulse radiolysis with spectrophotometric detection. It has been demonstrated that these rate constants depend on both the molecular weight and DS; reasons for these effects are discussed and reaction mechanisms are proposed. Selected spectral data of the transient species formed by ^•OH- and

e_{aq}^{-}

-induced reactions are used to support the discussion. The kinetic data obtained in this work and their interpretation are expected to be useful for controlled synthesis of polysaccharide-based hydrogels and nanogels of predefined structure and properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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13 pages, 4933 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Surface Modification of Bi₂O₃ Nanoparticles with Biotinylated β-Cyclodextrin as a Biocompatible Therapeutic Agent for Anticancer and Antimicrobial Applications

by Jogy Alex and Thomas V. Mathew

Molecules 2023, 28(8), 3604; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28083604 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1380

Abstract

Bismuth oxide nanoparticles with appropriate surface chemistry exhibit many interesting properties that can be utilized in a variety of applications. This paper describes a new route to the surface modification of bismuth oxide nanoparticles (Bi₂O₃ NPs) using functionalized beta-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) [...] Read more.

Bismuth oxide nanoparticles with appropriate surface chemistry exhibit many interesting properties that can be utilized in a variety of applications. This paper describes a new route to the surface modification of bismuth oxide nanoparticles (Bi₂O₃ NPs) using functionalized beta-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) as a biocompatible system. The synthesis of Bi₂O₃ NP was done using PVA (poly vinyl alcohol) as the reductant and the Steglich esterification procedure for the functionalization of β-CD with biotin. Ultimately, the Bi₂O₃ NPs are modified using this functionalized β-CD system. The particle size of the synthesized Bi₂O₃ NPs is found to be in the range of 12–16 nm. The modified biocompatible systems were characterized using different characterization techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Differential Scanning Calorimetric analysis (DSC). Additionally, the antibacterial and anticancerous effects of the surface-modified Bi₂O₃ NP system were also investigated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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11 pages, 1446 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chitosan Spraying Enhances the Growth, Photosynthesis, and Resistance of Continuous Pinellia ternata and Promotes Its Yield and Quality

by Fengfeng Chen, Qinju Li, Yue Su, Yang Lei and Cheng Zhang

Molecules 2023, 28(5), 2053; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28052053 - 22 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1169

Abstract

The continuous cropping obstacle has become the key factor that seriously restricts the growth, yield, and quality of Pinellia ternata. In this study, the effects of chitosan on the growth, photosynthesis, resistance, yield, and quality of the continuous cropping of P. ternata [...] Read more.

The continuous cropping obstacle has become the key factor that seriously restricts the growth, yield, and quality of Pinellia ternata. In this study, the effects of chitosan on the growth, photosynthesis, resistance, yield, and quality of the continuous cropping of P. ternata were investigated by two field spraying methods. The results indicate that continuous cropping significantly (p < 0.05) raised the inverted seedling rate of P. ternata and inhibited its growth, yield, and quality. Spraying of 0.5~1.0% chitosan effectively increased the leaf area and plant height of continuous P. ternata, and reduced its inverted seedling rate. Meanwhile, 0.5~1.0% chitosan spraying could notably increase its photosynthetic rate (Pn), intercellular carbon dioxide concentration (Ci), stomatal conductance (Gs), and transpiration rate (Tr), and decrease its soluble sugar, proline (Pro), and malonaldehyde (MDA) contents, as well as promoting its superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) activities. Additionally, 0.5~1.0% chitosan spraying could also effectively enhance its yield and quality. This finding highlights that chitosan can be proposed as an alternative and practicable mitigator for alleviating the continuous cropping obstacle of P. ternata. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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Review

Jump to: Research

24 pages, 6783 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sodium Starch Glycolate (SSG) from Sago Starch (Metroxylon sago) as a Superdisintegrant: Synthesis and Characterization

by Okta Nama Putra, Ida Musfiroh, Sarah Elisa, Musa Musa, Emmy Hainida Khairul Ikram, Chaidir Chaidir and Muchtaridi Muchtaridi

Molecules 2024, 29(1), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29010151 - 26 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1656

Abstract

The characteristics of sago starch exhibit remarkable resemblances to those of cassava, potato, and maize starches. This review intends to discuss and summarize the synthesis and characterization of sodium starch glycolate (SSG) from sago starch as a superdisintegrant from published journals using keywords [...] Read more.

The characteristics of sago starch exhibit remarkable resemblances to those of cassava, potato, and maize starches. This review intends to discuss and summarize the synthesis and characterization of sodium starch glycolate (SSG) from sago starch as a superdisintegrant from published journals using keywords in PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020). There are many methods for synthesizing sodium starch glycolate (SSG). Other methods may include the aqueous, extrusion, organic solvent slurry, and dry methods. Sago starch is a novel form of high-yield starch with significant development potential. After cross-linking, the phosphorus content of sago starch increases by approximately 0.3 mg/g, corresponding to approximately one phosphate ester group per 500 anhydroglucose units. The degree of substitution (DS) of sodium starch glycolate (SSG) from sago ranges from 0.25 to 0.30; in drug formulations, sodium starch glycolate (SSG) from sago ranges from 2% to 8% w/w. Higher levels of sodium starch glycolate (SSG) (2% and 4% w/w) resulted in shorter disintegration times (within 1 min). Sago starch is more swellable and less enzymatically digestible than pea and corn starch. These investigations demonstrate that sago starch is a novel form of high-yield starch with tremendous potential for novel development as superdisintegrant tablets and capsules. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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24 pages, 2452 KiB

Open AccessReview

Recent Progress in 1,2-cis glycosylation for Glucan Synthesis

by Akihiro Ishiwata, Katsunori Tanaka, Yukishige Ito, Hui Cai and Feiqing Ding

Molecules 2023, 28(15), 5644; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28155644 - 25 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1535

Abstract

Controlling the stereoselectivity of 1,2-cis glycosylation is one of the most challenging tasks in the chemical synthesis of glycans. There are various 1,2-cis glycosides in nature, such as α-glucoside and β-mannoside in glycoproteins, glycolipids, proteoglycans, microbial polysaccharides, and bioactive natural products. [...] Read more.

Controlling the stereoselectivity of 1,2-cis glycosylation is one of the most challenging tasks in the chemical synthesis of glycans. There are various 1,2-cis glycosides in nature, such as α-glucoside and β-mannoside in glycoproteins, glycolipids, proteoglycans, microbial polysaccharides, and bioactive natural products. In the structure of polysaccharides such as α-glucan, 1,2-cis α-glucosides were found to be the major linkage between the glucopyranosides. Various regioisomeric linkages, 1→3, 1→4, and 1→6 for the backbone structure, and 1→2/3/4/6 for branching in the polysaccharide as well as in the oligosaccharides were identified. To achieve highly stereoselective 1,2-cis glycosylation, including α-glucosylation, a number of strategies using inter- and intra-molecular methodologies have been explored. Recently, Zn salt-mediated cis glycosylation has been developed and applied to the synthesis of various 1,2-cis linkages, such as α-glucoside and β-mannoside, via the 1,2-cis glycosylation pathway and β-galactoside 1,4/6-cis induction. Furthermore, the synthesis of various structures of α-glucans has been achieved using the recent progressive stereoselective 1,2-cis glycosylation reactions. In this review, recent advances in stereoselective 1,2-cis glycosylation, particularly focused on α-glucosylation, and their applications in the construction of linear and branched α-glucans are summarized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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23 pages, 2539 KiB

Open AccessReview

Recent Developments and Applications of Microbial Levan, A Versatile Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer

by Marta Domżał-Kędzia, Monika Ostrowska, Agnieszka Lewińska and Marcin Łukaszewicz

Molecules 2023, 28(14), 5407; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28145407 - 14 Jul 2023

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4090

Abstract

Polysaccharides are essential components with diverse functions in living organisms and find widespread applications in various industries. They serve as food additives, stabilizers, thickeners, and fat substitutes in the food industry, while also contributing to dietary fiber for improved digestion and gut health. [...] Read more.

Polysaccharides are essential components with diverse functions in living organisms and find widespread applications in various industries. They serve as food additives, stabilizers, thickeners, and fat substitutes in the food industry, while also contributing to dietary fiber for improved digestion and gut health. Plant-based polysaccharides are utilized in paper, textiles, wound dressings, biodegradable packaging, and tissue regeneration. Polysaccharides play a crucial role in medicine, pharmacy, and cosmetology, as well as in the production of biofuels and biomaterials. Among microbial biopolymers, microbial levan, a fructose polysaccharide, holds significant promise due to its high productivity and chemical diversity. Levan exhibits a wide range of properties, including film-forming ability, biodegradability, non-toxicity, self-aggregation, encapsulation, controlled release capacity, water retention, immunomodulatory and prebiotic activity, antimicrobial and anticancer activity, as well as high biocompatibility. These exceptional properties position levan as an attractive candidate for nature-based materials in food production, modern cosmetology, medicine, and pharmacy. Advancing the understanding of microbial polymers and reducing production costs is crucial to the future development of these fields. By further exploring the potential of microbial biopolymers, particularly levan, we can unlock new opportunities for sustainable materials and innovative applications that benefit various industries and contribute to advancements in healthcare, environmental conservation, and biotechnology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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21 pages, 837 KiB

Open AccessReview

Valorization of Fibrous Plant-Based Food Waste as Biosorbents for Remediation of Heavy Metals from Wastewater—A Review

by Ahasanul Karim, Zarifeh Raji, Antoine Karam and Seddik Khalloufi

Molecules 2023, 28(10), 4205; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28104205 - 20 May 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1660

Abstract

Mobilization of heavy metals in the environment has been a matter of concern for several decades due to their toxicity for humans, environments, and other living organisms. In recent years, use of inexpensive and abundantly available biosorbents generated from fibrous plant-based food-waste materials [...] Read more.

Mobilization of heavy metals in the environment has been a matter of concern for several decades due to their toxicity for humans, environments, and other living organisms. In recent years, use of inexpensive and abundantly available biosorbents generated from fibrous plant-based food-waste materials to remove heavy metals has garnered considerable research attention. The aim of this review is to investigate the applicability of using fibrous plant-based food waste, which comprises different components such as pectin, hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin, to remove heavy metals from wastewater. This contribution confirms that plant-fiber-based food waste has the potential to bind heavy metals from wastewater and aqueous solutions. The binding capacities of these biosorbents vary depending on the source, chemical structure, type of metal, modification technology applied, and process conditions used to improve functionalities. This review concludes with a discussion of arguments and prospects, as well as future research directions, to support valorization of fibrous plant-based food waste as an efficient and promising strategy for water purification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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26 pages, 1653 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Classification, Molecular Structure and Biological Biosynthesis of Flavonoids, and Their Roles in Biotic and Abiotic Stresses

by Wei-Bing Zhuang, Yu-Hang Li, Xiao-Chun Shu, Yu-Ting Pu, Xiao-Jing Wang, Tao Wang and Zhong Wang

Molecules 2023, 28(8), 3599; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28083599 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3194

Abstract

With the climate constantly changing, plants suffer more frequently from various abiotic and biotic stresses. However, they have evolved biosynthetic machinery to survive in stressful environmental conditions. Flavonoids are involved in a variety of biological activities in plants, which can protect plants from [...] Read more.

With the climate constantly changing, plants suffer more frequently from various abiotic and biotic stresses. However, they have evolved biosynthetic machinery to survive in stressful environmental conditions. Flavonoids are involved in a variety of biological activities in plants, which can protect plants from different biotic (plant-parasitic nematodes, fungi and bacteria) and abiotic stresses (salt stress, drought stress, UV, higher and lower temperatures). Flavonoids contain several subgroups, including anthocyanidins, flavonols, flavones, flavanols, flavanones, chalcones, dihydrochalcones and dihydroflavonols, which are widely distributed in various plants. As the pathway of flavonoid biosynthesis has been well studied, many researchers have applied transgenic technologies in order to explore the molecular mechanism of genes associated with flavonoid biosynthesis; as such, many transgenic plants have shown a higher stress tolerance through the regulation of flavonoid content. In the present review, the classification, molecular structure and biological biosynthesis of flavonoids were summarized, and the roles of flavonoids under various forms of biotic and abiotic stress in plants were also included. In addition, the effect of applying genes associated with flavonoid biosynthesis on the enhancement of plant tolerance under various biotic and abiotic stresses was also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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16 pages, 1868 KiB

Open AccessReview

Chitosan and Chitosan Nanoparticles: Parameters Enhancing Antifungal Activity

by Pawel Poznanski, Amir Hameed and Waclaw Orczyk

Molecules 2023, 28(7), 2996; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28072996 - 27 Mar 2023

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2948

Abstract

Chitosan (CS), a biopolymer derived from chitin, is known for strong antifungal activity while being biodegradable, biocompatible, and non-toxic. Because of its characteristic it has been widely used in control of fungal pathogens. Antifungal activity of chitosan can be further enhanced by obtaining [...] Read more.

Chitosan (CS), a biopolymer derived from chitin, is known for strong antifungal activity while being biodegradable, biocompatible, and non-toxic. Because of its characteristic it has been widely used in control of fungal pathogens. Antifungal activity of chitosan can be further enhanced by obtaining chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs). However, most of the experiments using CS and CSNPs as antifungal agents were performed under various conditions and using diverse CS batches of different characteristics and obtained from different sources. Therefore, it is essential to systematize the available information. This work contains a current review on how the CS parameters: molecular weight, degree of deacetylation, acetylation pattern and dispersity of these features shape its antifungal activity. It also considers how concentration and protonation (pH) of CS water solutions define final biological effect. Review explains in detail how CS parameters affect characteristics of CSNPs, particle size, zeta potential, and dispersities of both and determine antifungal activity. In addition to the parameters of CS and CSNPs, the review also discusses the possible characteristics of fungal cells that determine their susceptibility to the substances. The response of fungi to CS and CSNPs varies according to different fungal species and their stages of development. The precise knowledge of how CS and CSNP parameters affect specific fungal pathogens will help design and optimize environmentally friendly plant protection strategies against fungi. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymer: Recent Development and Applications)

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