[go: up one dir, main page]
More Web Proxy on the site http://driver.im/
You seem to have javascript disabled. Please note that many of the page functionalities won't work as expected without javascript enabled.
 
 
Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (174)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = gellan gum

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
16 pages, 2283 KiB  
Article
ISO 10993-4 Compliant Hemocompatibility Evaluation of Gellan Gum Hybrid Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications
by Mthabisi Talent George Moyo, Terin Adali and Oğuz Han Edebal
Gels 2024, 10(12), 824; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10120824 - 13 Dec 2024
Viewed by 380
Abstract
This study examines the hemocompatibility of gellan-gum-based hybrid hydrogels, with varying gellan-gum concentrations and constant sodium alginate and silk fibroin concentrations, respectively, in accordance with ISO 10993-4 standards. While previous studies have focused on cytocompatibility, the hemocompatibility of these hydrogels remains underexplored. Hydrogels [...] Read more.
This study examines the hemocompatibility of gellan-gum-based hybrid hydrogels, with varying gellan-gum concentrations and constant sodium alginate and silk fibroin concentrations, respectively, in accordance with ISO 10993-4 standards. While previous studies have focused on cytocompatibility, the hemocompatibility of these hydrogels remains underexplored. Hydrogels were formulated with 0.3%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1% gellan gum combined with 3% silk fibroin and 4.2% sodium alginate separately, using physical and ionic cross-linking. Swelling behavior was analyzed in phosphate (pH 7.4) and acetic (pH 1.2) buffers and surface morphology was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Hemocompatibility tests included complete blood count (CBC), coagulation assays, hemolysis index, erythrocyte morphology, and platelet adhesion analysis. Results showed that gellan gum–sodium alginate hydrogels exhibited faster swelling than gellan gum–silk fibroin formulations. SEM indicated smoother surfaces with sodium alginate, while silk fibroin increased roughness, further amplified by higher gellan-gum concentrations. Hemocompatibility assays confirmed normal profiles in formulations with 0.3%, 0.5%, and 0.75% gellan gum, while 1% gellan gum caused significant hemolytic and thrombogenic activity. These findings highlight the excellent hemocompatibility of gellan-gum-based hydrogels, especially the sodium alginate variants, supporting their potential in bioengineering, tissue engineering, and blood-contacting biomedical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Alginate Hydrogels in Bioengineering Applications)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Graphical abstract
Full article ">Figure 1
<p>Swelling ratios of gellan gum hydrogels treated with (<b>A</b>) silk fibroin in PBS (pH 7.4), (<b>B</b>) sodium alginate in PBS (pH 7.4), (<b>C</b>) silk fibroin in ABS (pH 1.2), and (<b>D</b>) sodium alginate in ABS (pH 1.2). Data are mean ± SD, <span class="html-italic">n</span> = 3. Hydrogels in PBS showed significantly higher swelling ratios compared to ABS (<span class="html-italic">p</span> ≤ 0.05).</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>SEM images of scaffold surface morphology at 100 µm magnification, illustrating the surface characteristics of gellan-gum-based hydrogels, with distinct structural features observed across the silk fibroin (<b>GF1</b>–<b>GF4</b>) and sodium alginate (<b>GA1</b>–<b>GA4</b>) series, emphasizing the influence of these components on the scaffold surface.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Peripheral blood smears showing erythrocyte morphology and platelet adhesion analysis in blank samples, negative control, and hydrogel-treated blood samples at 400 µm.</p>
Full article ">
21 pages, 8687 KiB  
Article
Development and Characterization of Dual-Loaded Niosomal Ion-Sensitive In Situ Gel for Ocular Delivery
by Viliana Gugleva, Rositsa Mihaylova, Katya Kamenova, Dimitrina Zheleva-Dimitrova, Denitsa Stefanova, Virginia Tzankova, Maya Margaritova Zaharieva, Hristo Najdenski, Aleksander Forys, Barbara Trzebicka, Petar D. Petrov and Denitsa Momekova
Gels 2024, 10(12), 816; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10120816 - 11 Dec 2024
Viewed by 507
Abstract
The study investigates the development and characterization of dual-loaded niosomes incorporated into ion-sensitive in situ gel as a potential drug delivery platform for ophthalmic application. Cannabidiol (CBD) and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) simultaneously loaded niosomes were prepared via the thin film hydration (TFH) method followed [...] Read more.
The study investigates the development and characterization of dual-loaded niosomes incorporated into ion-sensitive in situ gel as a potential drug delivery platform for ophthalmic application. Cannabidiol (CBD) and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) simultaneously loaded niosomes were prepared via the thin film hydration (TFH) method followed by pulsatile sonication and were subjected to comprehensive physicochemical evaluation. The optimal composition was included in a gellan gum-based in situ gel, and the antimicrobial activity, in vitro toxicity in a suitable corneal epithelial model (HaCaT cell line), and antioxidant potential of the hybrid system were further assessed. Dual-loaded niosomes based on Span 60, Tween 60, and cholesterol (3.5:3.5:3 mol/mol) were characterized by appropriate size (250 nm), high entrapment efficiency values for both compounds (85% for CBD and 50% for EGCG) and sustained release profiles. The developed hybrid in situ gel exhibited suitable rheological characteristics to enhance the residence time on the ocular surface. The conducted microbiological studies reveal superior inhibition of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) adhesion by means of the niosomal in situ gel compared to the blank gel and untreated control. Regarding the antioxidant potential, the dual loading of CBD and EGCG in niosomes enhances their protective properties, and the inclusion of niosomes in gel form preserves these effects. The obtained outcomes indicate the developed niosomal in situ gel as a promising drug delivery platform in ophthalmology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Graphical abstract
Full article ">Figure 1
<p>Size distributions of empty and drug-loaded niosomes.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Cryo-TEM images of (<b>a</b>) empty niosomes (N6); (<b>b</b>) CBD-loaded niosomes (N5).</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Viscosity as a function of the shear rate of G6, G6N, and G6N:CBD:EGCG formulations at 25 °C.</p>
Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Variation in elastic (G′) and loss (G″) moduli as a function of shear stress (τ) of G6, G6N, and G6N:CBD:EGCG formulations. All measurements were carried out at 35 °C.</p>
Full article ">Figure 5
<p>In vitro release profile of CBD and EGCG from optimal niosomal formulation (N3) and its hybrid in situ gelling system (G6N:CBD:EGCG). N3:CBD, G6N:CBD denote cannabidiol release from niosomal suspension and hybrid niosomal gel, respectively, whereas N3:EGCG and G6N:EGCG represent the release profiles of epigallocatechin-3-gallate from niosomes and its hybrid niosomal gel formulation. Each value is presented as mean ± SD (n = 3).</p>
Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Quantitative evaluation of MRSA biofilm formation after exposure to blank (G6N) or hybrid niosomal drug-loaded gel G6N:CBD:EGCG (1/0.5 mg/mL). Legend: Co—untreated control; Dilution 1:8 = 0.125/0.06125 mg/mL; Dilution 1:16 = 0.0625/0.03125 mg/mL; Dilution 1:32 = 0.03125/0.0156 mg/mL. Each value is presented as mean ± SD (n = 4).</p>
Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Cytotoxicity on HaCaT cells of: (<b>A</b>) empty niosomes (N6); (<b>B</b>) free cannabidiol (CBD); (<b>C</b>) free epigallocatechin (EGCG); (<b>D</b>) combination of free cannabidiol and free epigallocatechin (CBD + EGCG); (<b>E</b>) dual-loaded CBD and EGCG vesicles (N:CBD:GCG, formulation) niosomes and (<b>F</b>) niosomal in situ gel based on double-loaded niosomes (G6N:CBD:EGCG), measured by MTT assay. All groups were compared statistically vs. untreated controls by one-way ANOVA with Dunnet’s post hoc test. The results are expressed as means ± SD of triplicate assays (n = 8). *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001 vs. control (CTRL, untreated control cells).</p>
Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Protective effects of (<b>A</b>) empty niosomes; (<b>B</b>) free CBD; (<b>C</b>) free EGCG; (<b>D</b>) combination of free CBD and free EGCG (CBD + EGCG); (<b>E</b>) dual-loaded CBD and EGCG (N:CBD:EGCG) niosomes and (<b>F</b>) niosomal in situ gel based on double-loaded niosomes (G6N:CBD:EGCG) in a H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub>-induced damage model in human keratinocyte HaCaT cell line. The results are expressed as means ± SD of triplicate assays (n = 8). ANOVA with Dunnett’s post-test. * <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05; ** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.01; *** <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.001 vs. H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> CTRL (untreated control cells); H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> cells treated with H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> (200 µM).</p>
Full article ">
10 pages, 845 KiB  
Article
Application of a Multi-Component Composite Edible Coating for the Preservation of Strawberry Fruit
by Rafael González-Cuello, Aura Lucia Parada-Castro and Rodrigo Ortega-Toro
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(12), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8120515 - 6 Dec 2024
Viewed by 451
Abstract
The rapid perishability of strawberries due to factors such as fungal decay, mechanical damage, and respiration significantly limits their shelf life. In this study, a novel multi-component edible coating composed of bacterial cellulose, chitosan, and gellan gum (BChG) was developed to enhance the [...] Read more.
The rapid perishability of strawberries due to factors such as fungal decay, mechanical damage, and respiration significantly limits their shelf life. In this study, a novel multi-component edible coating composed of bacterial cellulose, chitosan, and gellan gum (BChG) was developed to enhance the postharvest quality and extend the shelf life of strawberries. The coated fruits were evaluated over a 15-day storage period for key parameters such as weight loss, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), enzymatic activity, color retention, antioxidant activity, and microbiological analysis. The results demonstrated that coated strawberries exhibited significantly lower weight loss, reduced cellulase activity, and higher retention of TSS and TA compared to uncoated controls. The evaluation of microbial quality indicated that coatings, particularly those with higher concentrations of chitosan, control the growth of total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (TMAB) and molds and yeasts (MY), due to the antimicrobial properties of chitosan. This contributed to extending the shelf life of the fruit by preventing spoilage and reducing the risk of toxic compound formation. Additionally, the BChG coatings also preserved the characteristic red color of the fruit and maintained higher antioxidant activity, with BChG-4 being the most effective formulation. The inclusion of chitosan in the coatings was found to play a crucial role in reducing respiration, delaying ripening, and enhancing the fruit’s resistance to oxidative damage. Overall, multi-component coatings, particularly those with higher chitosan concentrations, offer a promising method for extending the shelf life of strawberries, reducing postharvest losses, and preserving fruit quality under ambient storage conditions. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Quality characteristics of strawberry fruits. (<b>a</b>) Soluble solids; (<b>b</b>) acidity soluble; (<b>c</b>) weight loss; and (<b>d</b>) color change (ΔE). Vertical bars indicate the standard error of the means. (** significant difference in <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05 according to LSD test for the end of the storage time; NS: there was no significant difference in <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05). Vertical bars indicate the standard error of the means.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Enzymatic and antioxidant activities of strawberry fruits. (<b>a</b>) cellulose activity; (<b>b</b>) antioxidant activity. Vertical bars indicate the standard error of the means (** significant difference in <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05 according to LSD test for the end of the storage time).</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Microbial count of control and coated strawberries during storage time. (<b>a</b>) Total mesophilic aerobic bacteria (TMAB); (<b>b</b>) Mold and yeast (MY). Values are given as means ± SD. (** significant difference in <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05 according to LSD test for the end of the storage time; NS: there was no significant difference in <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05). Vertical bars indicate the standard error of the means.</p>
Full article ">
29 pages, 5701 KiB  
Article
Polysaccharide-Stabilized Semisolid Emulsion with Vegetable Oils for Skin Wound Healing: Impact of Composition on Physicochemical and Biological Properties
by Giovanna Araujo de Morais Trindade, Laiene Antunes Alves, Raul Edison Luna Lazo, Kamila Gabrieli Dallabrida, Jéssica Brandão Reolon, Juliana Sartori Bonini, Karine Campos Nunes, Francielle Pelegrin Garcia, Celso Vataru Nakamura, Fabiane Gomes de Moraes Rego, Roberto Pontarolo, Marcel Henrique Marcondes Sari and Luana Mota Ferreira
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(11), 1426; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16111426 - 8 Nov 2024
Viewed by 738
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The demand for natural-based formulations in chronic wound care has increased, driven by the need for biocompatible, safe, and effective treatments. Natural polysaccharide-based emulsions enriched with vegetable oils present promising benefits for skin repair, offering structural support and protective barriers suitable for [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The demand for natural-based formulations in chronic wound care has increased, driven by the need for biocompatible, safe, and effective treatments. Natural polysaccharide-based emulsions enriched with vegetable oils present promising benefits for skin repair, offering structural support and protective barriers suitable for sensitive wound environments. This study aimed to develop and evaluate semisolid polysaccharide-based emulsions for wound healing, incorporating avocado (Persea gratissima) and blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) oils (AO and BO, respectively). Both gellan gum (GG) and kappa-carrageenan (KC) were used as stabilizers due to their biocompatibility and gel-forming abilities. Methods: Four formulations were prepared (F1-GG-AO; F2-KC-AO; F3-GG-BO; F4-KC-BO) and evaluated for physicochemical properties, spreadability, rheology, antioxidant activity, occlusive and bioadhesion potential, biocompatibility, and wound healing efficacy using an in vitro scratch assay. Results: The pH values (4.74–5.06) were suitable for skin application, and FTIR confirmed excipient compatibility. The formulations showed reduced occlusive potential, pseudoplastic behavior with thixotropy, and adequate spreadability (7.13–8.47 mm2/g). Lower bioadhesion indicated ease of application and removal, enhancing user comfort. Formulations stabilized with KC exhibited superior antioxidant activity (DPPH scavenging) and fibroblast biocompatibility (CC50% 390–589 µg/mL) and were non-hemolytic. Both F2-KC-AO and F4-KC-BO significantly improved in vitro wound healing by promoting cell migration compared to other formulations. Conclusions: These findings underscore the potential of these emulsions for effective wound treatment, providing a foundation for developing skin care products that harness the therapeutic properties of polysaccharides and plant oils in a natural approach to wound care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dosage Form Design and Delivery Therapy for Skin Disorders)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Flowchart of the formulation and characterization procedures. The preparation of the semisolid emulsion involves several sequential steps (<b>A</b>): weighing the individual components for the oil phase (OP) and aqueous phase (AP), heating each phase separately to 70 °C to ensure proper dissolution and mixing, combining the phases by gradually pouring the aqueous phase (AP) into the oil phase (OP) under constant stirring to form a uniform emulsion, and obtaining the final gel–cream formulation. The emulsion was subsequently characterized through various analyses (<b>B</b>): Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to assess molecular interactions and confirm compatibility among components, centrifugation to evaluate physical stability and detect any phase separation, spreadability and reology testing to determine ease of application and coverage on the skin, density measurement to assess formulation consistency, pH measurement with a pH meter to ensure suitability for skin application, bioadhesion and occlusion potential, antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity testing using cell cultures to evaluate biocompatibility and potential safety for skin use, and wound healing assay to determine efficacy.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Macroscopic (<b>A</b>) and microscopic (<b>B</b>) images of polysaccharide-based semisolid emulsions containing vegetable oils. Overall, the formulations have a whitish color, homogeneous aspect, and shiny texture. The microscopic evaluation indicates that the system effectively dispersed the oil, keeping it stable within the semisolid structure. Abbreviations: GG—Gellan gum; KC—<span class="html-italic">Kappa</span>-carrageenan; BO—Blackcurrant Oil; AO—Avocado Oil.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Infrared spectra of raw materials (<b>A</b>) and semisolid emulsions (<b>B</b>). The spectra exhibit characteristic peaks corresponding to the functional groups present in the substances. Additionally, these spectra support the compatibility among the components, as the absence of significant new peaks suggests no chemical interaction altering the molecular structure of the excipients.</p>
Full article ">Figure 4
<p>PCA model. In (<b>A</b>,<b>B</b>) are the eigenvalues graphs, which indicate that these three principal components encompass most of the chemical information in the raw materials. The red circles represent the principal components selected for the model. In (<b>C</b>,<b>D</b>) are the score plot graphs that reveal a distinct differentiation is observable between the formulations containing GG and KC, emphasizing these polysaccharides’ influence on the formulations’ ultimate chemical composition.</p>
Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Spreadability profile (<b>A</b>), spreadability factor (<b>B</b>), and viscosity (<b>C</b>) of semisolid emulsions. The developed emulsions demonstrated an increased spreading area with the application of more weight, suggesting they can expand more easily under pressure. Moreover, rheological measurements supported this behavior, as the complex viscosity (η*) of all formulations decreased with increasing angular frequency, which is a characteristic of pseudoplastic materials.</p>
Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Storage modulus (G′) and loss modulus (G″) as functions of angular frequency (ω). In (<b>A</b>,<b>B</b>) formulations containing AO stabilized with GG and KC, respectively. In (<b>C</b>,<b>D</b>) formulations prepared with BO stabilized with GG and KC, respectively. Data indicates that elastic and viscous behaviors become more pronounced at higher frequencies, suggesting a predominantly elastic rather than viscous behavior.</p>
Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Thixotropy evaluation of F1-GG-AO (<b>A</b>), F2-KC-AO (<b>B</b>), F3-GG-BO (<b>C</b>), and (<b>D</b>) F4-KC-BO. The data show that the material’s structure is temporarily disrupted under shear, but it recovers gradually when the shear is removed, which is characteristic of thixotropic materials.</p>
Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Antioxidant activity. The @ denotes the significant difference (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05) between formulations and their respective blank forms (F1-GG-AO versusF5-GG-B, and F3-GG-BO versus F5-GG-B); # represents the significant difference (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05) between polysaccharides (F1-GG-AO versus F2-KC-AO, and F5-GG-B versus F6-KC-B). NS means “not significant”. Both oils significantly enhanced the antioxidant potential of GG emulsions compared to the placebo semisolid, while emulsions stabilized with KC demonstrated higher antioxidant properties than those stabilized with GG.</p>
Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Occlusion potential. The @ denotes the significant difference (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05) between formulations and their respective blank forms (F2-KC-AO versusF6-KC-B, and F4-KC-BO versus F6-KC-B); # represents the significant difference (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05) between polysaccharides (F5-GG-B versus F6-KC-B). NS means “not significant”. Similar occlusion potential was observed among the formulations. Data also suggests that the oily components may negatively affect the KC formulations.</p>
Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Bioadhesion potential in intact and injured skin. The @ denotes the significant difference (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05) between formulations and their respective blank forms; # represents the significant difference (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05) between polysaccharides with the same oil (F1-GG-AO versusF2-KC-AO, or F3-GG-BO versus F4-KC-BO); * denotes the significant difference (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05) between oils with the same polysaccharide (F1-GG-AO versus F3-GG-BO or F2-KC-AO versus F4-KC-BO); and <span>$</span> represents the significant difference (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05) between intact and injured skin. NS means “not significant”. All formulations presented significantly higher bioadhesion in intact skin than in injured skin.</p>
Full article ">Figure 11
<p>Effect of F1-GG-AO (<b>A</b>), F2-KC-AO (<b>B</b>), F3-GG-BO (<b>C</b>), F4-KC-BO (<b>D</b>), F5-GG-B (<b>E</b>), and F6-KC-B (<b>F</b>) (1–1000 µg/mL) on the viability of L-929 cells by MTT assay. A negative control (non–treated cells) was conducted and considered 100% viability. Mean values were calculated from 3 independent results. The * denotes the significative difference from the negative control (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05). NS means “not significant”. In all formulations examined, the viability of cells is observed to decline as the concentration increases.</p>
Full article ">Figure 12
<p>Hemolytic assay of KC semisolid emulsions. The results showed a hemolytic potential of less than 1% for all tested concentrations of the KC-based emulsions.</p>
Full article ">Figure 13
<p>Representative images showing the progression of healing over time (<b>A</b>) and percentage of open wound area at different times (0, 6, and 24 h) (<b>B</b>) for the F2-KC-AO, F4-KC-BO, and F6-KC-B, compared to the negative control. The * denotes the significant difference (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05) with time zero in the same group, and # denotes the significant difference (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05) with negative control at the same time. There is a consistent reduction in the area of open wounds over time, with formulations containing oils exhibiting a more pronounced degree of cell migration, which suggests an effective healing process.</p>
Full article ">
15 pages, 2605 KiB  
Review
Gel-Based Suspension Medium Used in 3D Bioprinting for Constructing Tissue/Organ Analogs
by Yang Luo, Rong Xu, Zeming Hu, Renhao Ni, Tong Zhu, Hua Zhang and Yabin Zhu
Gels 2024, 10(10), 644; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10100644 - 10 Oct 2024
Viewed by 940
Abstract
Constructing tissue/organ analogs with natural structures and cell types in vitro offers a valuable strategy for the in situ repair of damaged tissues/organs. Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting is a flexible method for fabricating these analogs. However, extrusion-based 3D bioprinting faces the challenge of balancing [...] Read more.
Constructing tissue/organ analogs with natural structures and cell types in vitro offers a valuable strategy for the in situ repair of damaged tissues/organs. Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting is a flexible method for fabricating these analogs. However, extrusion-based 3D bioprinting faces the challenge of balancing the use of soft bioinks with the need for high-fidelity geometric shapes. To address these challenges, recent advancements have introduced various suspension mediums based on gelatin, agarose, and gellan gum microgels. The emergence of these gel-based suspension mediums has significantly advanced the fabrication of tissue/organ constructs using 3D bioprinting. They effectively stabilize and support soft bioinks, enabling the formation of complex spatial geometries. Moreover, they provide a stable, cell-friendly environment that maximizes cell viability during the printing process. This minireview will summarize the properties, preparation methods, and potential applications of gel-based suspension mediums in constructing tissue/organ analogs, while also addressing current challenges and providing an outlook on the future of 3D bioprinting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 3D Printing of Gel-Based Materials)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Three-dimensional bioprinting based on gel-based suspension mediums offers a broad printing window and more printing methods compared with traditional printing. The scheme and printing window (considering cell viability and structural fidelity) of traditional bioprinting (<b>a</b>) and the embedded bioprinting based on gel-based suspension mediums (<b>b</b>). Schematic diagram of bioprinting using a sacrificial ink (<b>c</b>) and a pure cell ink (<b>d</b>) within a gel-based suspension medium.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>The yield stress of some common gel-based suspension mediums.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Rheological properties of the gel-based suspension medium. (<b>a</b>) The schematic diagram illustrates the state changes during the 3D printing process. The suspension medium near the nozzle transitions from a solid-like to a liquid-like state, facilitating the extrusion of bioinks. Once the nozzle moves away, the liquid-like suspension medium re-solidifies, trapping the bioink in a defined spatial position. (<b>b</b>) Representative rheology of a qualified suspension medium, including yield response, shearthinning, and self-healing.</p>
Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Preparation of gel-based suspension medium. (<b>a</b>) Mechanical blending; (<b>b</b>) coacervation; (<b>c</b>) flash solidification; and (<b>d</b>) air-assisted co-axial jetting.</p>
Full article ">
30 pages, 5249 KiB  
Review
Polysaccharide-Based Bioplastics: Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Solutions for Packaging
by Ashoka Gamage, Punniamoorthy Thiviya, Anuradhi Liyanapathiranage, M. L. Dilini Wasana, Yasasvi Jayakodi, Amith Bandara, Asanga Manamperi, Rohan S. Dassanayake, Philippe Evon, Othmane Merah and Terrence Madhujith
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(10), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8100413 - 8 Oct 2024
Viewed by 4612
Abstract
Over the past few decades, synthetic petroleum-based packaging materials have increased, and the production of plastics has surpassed all other man-made materials due to their versatility. However, the excessive usage of synthetic packaging materials has led to severe environmental and health-related issues due [...] Read more.
Over the past few decades, synthetic petroleum-based packaging materials have increased, and the production of plastics has surpassed all other man-made materials due to their versatility. However, the excessive usage of synthetic packaging materials has led to severe environmental and health-related issues due to their nonbiodegradability and their accumulation in the environment. Therefore, bio-based packages are considered alternatives to substitute synthetic petroleum-based packaging material. Furthermore, the choice of packing material in the food industry is a perplexing process as it depends on various factors, such as the type of food product, its sustainability, and environmental conditions. Interestingly, due to proven mechanical, gas, and water vapor barrier properties and biological activity, polysaccharide-based bioplastics show the potential to expand the trends in food packaging, including edible films or coatings and intelligent and active food packaging. Various chemical modifications, network designs, and processing techniques have transformed polysaccharide materials into valuable final products, particularly for large-scale or high-value applications. Transitioning from petroleum-based resources to abundant bio-based polysaccharides presents an opportunity to create a sustainable circular economy. The economic viability of polysaccharide-based bioplastics is determined by several factors, including raw material costs, production technologies, market demand, and scalability. Despite their potential advantages over traditional plastics, their economic feasibility is affected by continuous technological advancements and evolving market dynamics and regulations. This review discusses the structure, properties, and recent developments in polysaccharide-based bioplastics as green and sustainable food packaging materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Biocomposites, Volume II)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Biodegradable and Non-Biodegradable Plastics: Classification Based on Raw Material Origin.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Classification of polysaccharides based on their origin.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Structure of the amylose and amylopectin.</p>
Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Structure of alginic acid.</p>
Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Chemical structure of carrageenan: (<b>a</b>) κ, (<b>b</b>) iota, (<b>c</b>) lambda.</p>
Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Chemical structure of (<b>a</b>) chitin and (<b>b</b>) chitosan.</p>
Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Chemical structures of hyaluronic acid.</p>
Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Chemical structures of gellan gum.</p>
Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Chemical structures of Xanthan gum.</p>
Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Sources and possible health risks of different raw materials used for biopolymer production.</p>
Full article ">Figure 11
<p>Bioplastic production in terms of life cycle assessment.</p>
Full article ">
23 pages, 2408 KiB  
Review
Chitosan–Clay Mineral Nanocomposites with Antibacterial Activity for Biomedical Application: Advantages and Future Perspectives
by Danina Krajišnik, Snežana Uskoković-Marković and Aleksandra Daković
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(19), 10377; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms251910377 - 26 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1426
Abstract
Polymers of natural origin, such as representatives of various polysaccharides (e.g., cellulose, dextran, hyaluronic acid, gellan gum, etc.), and their derivatives, have a long tradition in biomedical applications. Among them, the use of chitosan as a safe, biocompatible, and environmentally friendly heteropolysaccharide has [...] Read more.
Polymers of natural origin, such as representatives of various polysaccharides (e.g., cellulose, dextran, hyaluronic acid, gellan gum, etc.), and their derivatives, have a long tradition in biomedical applications. Among them, the use of chitosan as a safe, biocompatible, and environmentally friendly heteropolysaccharide has been particularly intensively researched over the last two decades. The potential of using chitosan for medical purposes is reflected in its unique cationic nature, viscosity-increasing and gel-forming ability, non-toxicity in living cells, antimicrobial activity, mucoadhesiveness, biodegradability, as well as the possibility of chemical modification. The intuitive use of clay minerals in the treatment of superficial wounds has been known in traditional medicine for thousands of years. To improve efficacy and overcome the ubiquitous bacterial resistance, the beneficial properties of chitosan have been utilized for the preparation of chitosan–clay mineral bionanocomposites. The focus of this review is on composites containing chitosan with montmorillonite and halloysite as representatives of clay minerals. This review highlights the antibacterial efficacy of chitosan–clay mineral bionanocomposites in drug delivery and in the treatment of topical skin infections and wound healing. Finally, an overview of the preparation, characterization, and possible future perspectives related to the use of these advancing composites for biomedical applications is presented. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Chemical structure of chitosan.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Schematic representation of the biomedical applications of chitosan-based bio-nanomaterials.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Schematic representation of montmorillonite (<b>a</b>) and halloysite (<b>b</b>).</p>
Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Polymer–clay composite structures formed by the interaction between polymers and lamellar clays.</p>
Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Key features of chitosan–clay nanocomposites relevant to their biomedical applications.</p>
Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Release profiles of CLX formulations in different pH media (reprinted from Onnainty, R., Onida, B., Páez, P., Longhi, M., Barresi, A., &amp; Granero, G. (2016). Targeted chitosan-based bionanocomposites for controlled oral mucosal delivery of chlorhexidine. <span class="html-italic">International Journal of Pharmaceutics</span>, 509(1–2), 408–418 [<a href="#B90-ijms-25-10377" class="html-bibr">90</a>], with permission from Elsevier).</p>
Full article ">Figure 7
<p>In vivo lesion reduction vs. time profile evaluated for the following samples: NC—0.05 chitosan oligosaccharide/HTNs nanocomposite (HNT concentration of 300 μg/mL and chitosan oligosaccharide concentration of 4 μg/mL); HNTs (concentration of 300 μg/mL); chitosan oligosaccharide (concentration of 4 μg/mL); saline solution—negative control (mean values ± sd; <span class="html-italic">n</span> = 8) (reprinted from Sandri, G., Aguzzi, C., Rossi, S., Bonferoni, M. C., Bruni, G., Boselli, C., Cornaglia, A. I., Riva, F., Viseras, C., Caramella, C., &amp; Ferrari, F. (2017). Halloysite and chitosan oligosaccharide nanocomposite for wound healing. Acta Biomaterialia, 57, 216–224 [<a href="#B92-ijms-25-10377" class="html-bibr">92</a>], with permission from Elsevier).</p>
Full article ">
11 pages, 692 KiB  
Article
Composite Coatings of Gellan Gum and Inulin with Lactobacillus casei: Enhancing the Post-Harvest Quality of Guava
by Rafael Emilio González-Cuello, Leidy Mendoza-Nova, Virginia Consuelo Rodriguez-Rodriguez, Joaquín Hernández-Fernández and Rodrigo Ortega-Toro
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(9), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8090353 - 9 Sep 2024
Viewed by 761
Abstract
Guava is a highly sought-after tropical fruit in the market due to its high content of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other phenolic compounds. However, due to its climacteric nature, it has a short post-harvest shelf life. The aim of this study was to [...] Read more.
Guava is a highly sought-after tropical fruit in the market due to its high content of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other phenolic compounds. However, due to its climacteric nature, it has a short post-harvest shelf life. The aim of this study was to develop coatings based on gellan gum (GG) and inulin (IN) incorporating Lactobacillus casei, which were tested for their potential ability to extend the post-harvest shelf life of whole guava fruit. The coatings were prepared using the following formulations: 0.5 GG/1.0 IN (w/v), 0.8 GG/5.0 IN (w/v), 0.5 GG/1.0 IN(w/v), and 0.8 GG/5.0 IN (w/v). The coated and uncoated (control) fruits were stored at 25 °C for 12 days, and various quality attributes were evaluated (including respiration rate, soluble solids, titratable acidity, weight loss, total phenol content, and color). The results indicated that the application of the coatings reduced weight loss, color change, and respiration rate in the fruits. However, the 0.8 GG/5.0 IN (w/v) formulation provided the best maintenance of post-harvest quality for the fruit evaluated. The coatings with a higher inulin content showed the highest growth of L. casei, which could enhance the antimicrobial effect of the coating. Therefore, the combined application of L. casei and inulin in coatings based on gellan gum can be considered an effective treatment to extend the shelf life and preserve the quality of guava fruits. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Physicochemical characteristics of guava fruits coated with gellan gum and inulin. (<b>a</b>) Respiration rate values; (<b>b</b>) soluble solids; (<b>c</b>) acidity; and (<b>d</b>) weight loss. (** significant difference in <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05 according to LSD test for end of the storage time; <span class="html-italic">NS</span>: there was no significant difference in <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05). Vertical bars indicate standard error of the means.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Phenolic content of guava fruits coated with gellan gum and inulin. (** significant difference in <span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05 according to LSD test for end of the storage time. Vertical bars indicate standard error of the means. Vertical bars indicate standard error of the means.</p>
Full article ">
19 pages, 6228 KiB  
Article
Induction and Suspension Culture of Panax japonicus Callus Tissue for the Production of Secondary Metabolic Active Substances
by Siqin Lv, Fan Ding, Shaopeng Zhang, Alexander M. Nosov, Andery V. Kitashov and Ling Yang
Plants 2024, 13(17), 2480; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13172480 - 4 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1103
Abstract
Using Panax japonicus as research material, callus induction and culture were carried out, and high-yielding cell lines were screened to establish a suspension culture system that promotes callus growth and the accumulation of the “total saponins” (total content of triterpenoid glycosides or ginsenosides). [...] Read more.
Using Panax japonicus as research material, callus induction and culture were carried out, and high-yielding cell lines were screened to establish a suspension culture system that promotes callus growth and the accumulation of the “total saponins” (total content of triterpenoid glycosides or ginsenosides). Using the root as an explant, the medium for callus induction and proliferation was optimized by adjusting culture conditions (initial inoculation amount, carbon source, shaking speed, hormone concentration, culture time) and a high-yielding cell line with efficient proliferation and high total saponins content was screened out. The conditions of suspension culture were refined to find out the most suitable conditions for the suspension culture of callus, and finally, the suspension culture system was established. We found that the lowest (5%) contamination rate was achieved by disinfecting the fresh roots with 75% alcohol for 60 s, followed by soaking in 10% NaClO for 15 min. The highest induction rate (88.17%) of callus was obtained using the medium MS + 16.11 μmol·L−1 NAA + 13.32 μmol·L−1 6-BA + 30.0 g·L−1 sucrose + 7.5 g·L−1 agar. The callus was loose when the callus subcultured on the proliferation medium (MS + 5.37 μmol·L−1 NAA + 13.32 μmol·L−1 6-BA + 30.0 g·L−1 sucrose + 3.8 g·L−1 gellan gum) for 21 days. The callus growth was cultured in a liquid growth medium (MS + 5.37 μmol·L−1 NAA + 13.32 μmol·L−1 6-BA + 30.0 g·L−1 sucrose) with an initial inoculation amount of 40 g·L−1, a shaking speed of 110 r/min and darkness. Cell growth was fastest with a culture period of 21 days. We replaced the growth medium with the production medium (MS + 5.37 μmol·L−1 NAA + 13.32 μmol·L−1 6-BA + 30.0 g·L−1 glucose) for maximum accumulation of total saponins. [Conclusion] A callus induction and suspension culture system for the root of P. japonicus was established. In this way, we can promote the accumulation of total saponins in callus cells and provide a basis for large-scale cell culture and industrial production of medicinal total saponins. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Tissue Culture and Plant Regeneration)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Effects of NAA/6-BA on callus proliferation of different cell lines of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus.</span> Note: Different lowercase letters indicate that different ratios of NAA and 6-BA have significant effects on callus proliferation (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05). Note: (<b>a</b>) is the effect of NAA/6-BA on the growth of L-1 cell line, (<b>b</b>) is the effect of NAA/6-BA on the growth of L-2 cell line, (<b>c</b>) is the effect of NAA/6-BA on the growth of L-3 cell line, (<b>d</b>) is shows the effect of NAA/6-BA on the growth of L-4 cell line, (<b>e</b>) is the effect of NAA/6-BA on the growth of L-5 cell line.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Effects of the concentration of NAA and 6-BA on <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> callus proliferation in different cells. Note: Different lowercase letters indicated that different concentrations of NAA and 6-BA had significant effects on callus proliferation (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05). Note: (<b>a</b>) is the effects of the concentration of NAA and 6-BA on L-1, (<b>b</b>) is the effects of the concentration of NAA and 6-BA on L-2, (<b>c</b>) is the effects of the concentration of NAA and 6-BA on L-3, (<b>d</b>) is the effects of the concentration of NAA and 6-BA on L-4, (<b>e</b>) is the effects of the concentration of NAA and 6-BA on L-5.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Normal and semi-logarithmic growth curves of callus of different cell lines of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span>. Note: (<b>a</b>) Normal growth curve of callus of different cell lines, (<b>b</b>) semi-logarithmic growth curve of callus of different cell lines.</p>
Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Comparison of proliferation coefficient and “total saponins” content of different cell lines of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span>. Note: different lowercase letters indicate significant differences in proliferation coefficients as well as saponin content between cell lines (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05).</p>
Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Effects of different curing agents on the growth of callus of <span class="html-italic">P. japonicus</span> L-1 cell line (cultured for 21 days). Note: (<b>a</b>) is the callus when the curing agent is agar, (<b>b</b>) is the callus when the curing agent is gellan gum.</p>
Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Effect of carbon source on cell growth of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> suspension culture. Note: (<b>a</b>) is the effect of carbon source on cell density; (<b>b</b>) is the effect of carbon source on cell viability; (<b>c</b>) is the effect of carbon source on suspension sedimentation volume; (<b>d</b>) is the effect of carbon source on fresh weight; (<b>e</b>) is the effect of carbon source on dry weight. Different lowercase letters indicate that different carbon sources had significant effects on the growth of <span class="html-italic">P. japonicus</span> cells. (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05).</p>
Full article ">Figure 7
<p>The effect of initial inoculation amount on cell growth in suspension culture of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> Note: (<b>a</b>) is the effect of initial weight on cell density; (<b>b</b>) is the effect of initial weight on cell viability; (<b>c</b>) is the effect of initial contact weight on suspension colonization volume; (<b>d</b>) is the effect of initial weight on fresh weight; (<b>e</b>) is the effect of initial weight on dry weight. Different lowercase letters indicated that different amounts of initial inoculation had significant effects on the growth of <span class="html-italic">P. japonicus</span> cells (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05).</p>
Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Influence of shaking speed on cell growth in the suspension culture of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span>. Note: (<b>a</b>) is the effect of shaking speed on cell density; (<b>b</b>) is the effect of shaking speed on cell viability; (<b>c</b>) is the effect of shaker rotation speed on suspension colonization volume; (<b>d</b>) is the effect of shaking speed on fresh weight; (<b>e</b>) is the effect of shaking speed on dry weight. Different lowercase letters indicated that different shaking speeds had a significant effect on the cell growth of <span class="html-italic">P. japonicus</span> (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05).</p>
Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Effects of concentrations of NAA and 6-BA on cell growth in suspension culture of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span>. Note: (<b>a</b>) is the effect of NAA and 6-BA concentration on cell density; (<b>b</b>) is the effect of NAA and 6-BA concentration on cell viability; (<b>c</b>) is the effect of NAA and 6-BA concentration on suspension sedimentation volume; (<b>d</b>) is the effect of NAA and 6-BA concentration on fresh weight; (<b>e</b>) is the effect of NAA and 6-BA concentration on dry weight; different lowercase letters indicate that NAA and 6-BA concentration had a significant effect on cell growth of <span class="html-italic">P. japonicus</span> (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05).</p>
Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Growth curve of cell suspension culture of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span>. Note: (<b>a</b>) is the change curve of cell density; (<b>b</b>) is the cell density curve; (<b>c</b>) is the volume change curve of suspension colonization; (<b>d</b>) is the change curve of fresh weight; (<b>e</b>) is the change curve of dry weight. Different lowercase letters indicate that there is a significant difference in the growth of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> cells on different culture days (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05).</p>
Full article ">Figure 11
<p>Semi-logarithmic growth curve of suspension-cultured cells of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span>.</p>
Full article ">Figure 12
<p>Effects of carbon sources on the content of “total saponins” in suspension-cultured cells of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span>. Note: Different lowercase letters indicate that different carbon sources have significant effects on “total saponins” in <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05).</p>
Full article ">Figure 13
<p>Effect of initial grafting weight on “total saponins” content in <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> cells cultured in suspension. Note: Different lowercase letters indicate that the different amount of initial inoculation has a significant effect on “total saponins” in <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05).</p>
Full article ">Figure 14
<p>Effect of shaking speed on the content of “total saponins” in <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> cells cultivated in suspension. Note: Different lowercase letters indicate that different shaking speeds have a significant effect on “total saponins” in <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05).</p>
Full article ">Figure 15
<p>Effects of NAA and 6-BA concentrations on “total saponins” content in suspended cells of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span>. Note: Different lowercase letters indicate significant effects of different concentrations of NAA and 6-BA on “total saponins” of suspended cells of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05). Note: the lower concentration (2.32 μmol·L<sup>−1</sup> NAA + 6.66 μmol·L<sup>−1</sup> 6-BA), medium concentration (5.37 μM NAA + 13.32 μM 6-BA) and higher concentration (5.37 μM NAA + 19.98 μM 6-BA); see <a href="#sec4dot3dot5-plants-13-02480" class="html-sec">Section 4.3.5</a>.</p>
Full article ">Figure 16
<p>Influence of cultivation days on the “total saponins” content in the callus tissue of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> suspension cells. Note: Different lowercase letters indicate significant differences in the “total saponins” content of the suspended cells of <span class="html-italic">Panax japonicus</span> during the different cultivation days (<span class="html-italic">p</span> &lt; 0.05).</p>
Full article ">
15 pages, 4093 KiB  
Article
Dimethyl Fumarate-Loaded Gellan Gum Hydrogels Can Reduce In Vitro Chemokine Expression in Oral Cells
by Lei Wang, Natalia dos Santos Sanches, Layla Panahipour, Atefe Imani, Yili Yao, Yan Zhang, Lingli Li and Reinhard Gruber
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(17), 9485; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25179485 - 31 Aug 2024
Viewed by 874
Abstract
Dimethyl fumarate (DMF), originally proposed to treat multiple sclerosis, is considered to have a spectrum of anti-inflammatory effects that effectively control periodontitis, mainly when applied with a hydrogel delivery system. Chemokine expression by gingival fibroblasts is a significant driver of periodontitis; thus, hydrogel-based [...] Read more.
Dimethyl fumarate (DMF), originally proposed to treat multiple sclerosis, is considered to have a spectrum of anti-inflammatory effects that effectively control periodontitis, mainly when applied with a hydrogel delivery system. Chemokine expression by gingival fibroblasts is a significant driver of periodontitis; thus, hydrogel-based strategies to deliver DMF, which in turn dampen chemokine expression, are of potential clinical relevance. To test this approach, we have established a bioassay where chemokine expression is induced by exposing gingival fibroblast to IL1β and TNFα, or with saliva. We show herein that DMF effectively reduced the expression of CXCL8, CXCL1, CXCL2, and CCL2—and lowered the phosphorylation of ERK and JNK—without affecting cell viability. This observation was confirmed by immunoassays with CXCL8. Consistently, the forced chemokine expression in HSC2 oral squamous epithelial cells was greatly diminished by DMF. To implement our hydrogel-based delivery system, gingival fibroblasts were cocultured with gellan gum hydrogels enriched for DMF. In support of our strategy, DMF-enriched gellan gum hydrogels significantly reduced the forced chemokine expression in gingival fibroblasts. Our data suggest that DMF exerts its anti-inflammatory activity in periodontal cells when released from gellan gum hydrogels, suggesting a potential clinical relevance to control overshooting chemokine expression under chronic inflammatory conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials Science)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Cell viability of gingival fibroblasts and HSC2. Cells were exposed overnight to the serum-free media with a serial dilution of DMF and formazan formation is normalized to untreated control cells. Representative live/dead staining of gingival fibroblasts allows to distinguish green living from red dead cells. Cells were grown with and without DMF in the presence of IL1β and TNFα overnight and subjected to live/dead staining. The scale bar represents 170 μm.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Gene expression of chemokines in gingival fibroblasts exposed to IL1β and TNFα. A total of 100 μM DMF significantly reduced chemokine expression. Data are expressed as x-fold over the respective untreated controls. Data points represent six and four independent experiments for PCR and ELISA, respectively. Statistical analysis was based on ratio-paired <span class="html-italic">t</span>-tests, and <span class="html-italic">p</span>-values are indicated.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Gene expression of chemokine in gingival fibroblasts under saliva (SLV). A total of 100 μM DMF significantly reduced chemokine expression. Data are expressed as x-fold over the respective untreated controls. Data points represent six and four independent experiments for PCR and ELISA, respectively. Statistical analysis was based on ratio-paired <span class="html-italic">t</span>-tests, and <span class="html-italic">p</span>-values are indicated.</p>
Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Gene expression of chemokine in HSC2 cells under IL1β and TNFα. A total of 100 μM DMF significantly reduced chemokine expression. Data are expressed as x-fold over the respective untreated controls. Data points represent six and four independent experiments for PCR and ELISA, respectively. Statistical analysis was based on ratio-paired <span class="html-italic">t</span>-tests, and <span class="html-italic">p</span>-values are indicated.</p>
Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Effects of DMF on phosphorylation of signaling molecules in IL1β and TNFα-stimulated gingival fibroblasts. The cell lysates were used for the detection of phosphorylated or total extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), p38, and p65 via Western blotting.</p>
Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Rheological properties of the hydrogels. Temperature-sweep measurements of the hydrogels with different components. 0.5%GG: 5 mg/mL gellan gum hydrogel, 0.75%GG: 7.5 mg/mL gellan gam hydrogel, 1.25%GG: 12.5 mg/mL gellan gum hydrogel, 1%GG: 10 mg/mL gellan gum hydrogel, LG: 10 mg/mL gellan gum hydrogel with 0.5 mM DMF, HG: 10 mg/mL gellan gum hydrogel with 1 mM DMF.</p>
Full article ">Figure 7
<p>(<b>A</b>) Representative SEM images of the gellan gum hydrogels with and without DMF; (<b>B</b>) injectability of the hydrogels; (<b>C</b>) swelling and degradation properties of the hydrogel. GG: gellan gum hydrogel alone; LG: gellan gum hydrogel with 0.5 mM DMF, HG: gellan gum hydrogel with 1 mM DMF.</p>
Full article ">Figure 8
<p>The release profile of the DMF-loaded hydrogels. Long-term slow-release kinetics of DMF from the gellan gum hydrogel in both LG and HG groups. LG: gellan gum hydrogel with 2.5 mM DMF, HG: gellan gum hydrogel with 5 mM DMF.</p>
Full article ">Figure 9
<p>(<b>A</b>) Schematic diagram of gingival fibroblast cocultured with hydrogel; (<b>B</b>) representative images of live/dead staining of gingival fibroblasts with hydrogels. Cells were grown with DMF-loaded hydrogels overnight and subjected to live/dead staining. WO: without treatment; GG: gellan gum hydrogel alone; LG: gellan gum hydrogel with 0.5 mM DMF, HG: gellan gum hydrogel with 1 mM DMF. Scale bars represent 170 μm.</p>
Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Gene expression of chemokines in gingival fibroblasts under IL1β and TNFα. HG and LG significantly reduced chemokine expression. Data are expressed as x-fold over the respective untreated controls. Data points represent four independent experiments for PCR and ELISA. Statistical analysis was based on ratio-paired <span class="html-italic">t</span>-tests and <span class="html-italic">p</span>-values are indicated.</p>
Full article ">
16 pages, 8276 KiB  
Article
Fish Gelatin-Based Flexible and Self-Healing Hydrogel Modified by Fe2(SO4)3
by Lili Zhang, Haimei Liu and Qin Zhao
Gels 2024, 10(9), 557; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10090557 - 28 Aug 2024
Viewed by 747
Abstract
The application of fish gelatin (FG) is limited due to its poor mechanical properties and thermal stability, both of which could be significantly improved by gellan gum (GG) found in previous research. However, the FG/GG composite hydrogel was brittle and easily damaged by [...] Read more.
The application of fish gelatin (FG) is limited due to its poor mechanical properties and thermal stability, both of which could be significantly improved by gellan gum (GG) found in previous research. However, the FG/GG composite hydrogel was brittle and easily damaged by external forces. It was found that the composite hydrogel with Fe2(SO4)3 showed good flexibility and self-healing properties in the pre-experiment. Thus, the synergistic effect of FG, GG and Fe2(SO4)3 on the mechanical properties of the composite hydrogel was investigated in this study. According to one-way experiments, response surface tests and Texture Profile Analysis, it was found that under the optimum condition of FG concentration 186.443 g/L, GG concentration 8.666 g/L and Fe2(SO4)3 concentration 56.503 g/L, the springiness of the composite cylindrical hydrogel with the height of 25 mm formed in 25 mL beakers (bottom diameter 30 mm) was 7.602 mm. Determination of the rheological properties, compression performance, adhesive performance and self-healing properties showed that the composite hydrogel had good thermal stability, flexibility and self-healing properties with good adhesion, skin compliance and compressive strength, and it was easy to remove. The composite hydrogel showed strong antimicrobial activity against A. salmonicida and V. parahaemolyticus. All hydrogels showed a uniform and porous structure. The 3D structure of the composite hydrogel was much looser and more porous than the pure FG hydrogel. The flexible and self-healing composite hydrogel with some antimicrobial activity is suitable for the development of medical dressings, which broadens the applications of the composite hydrogel. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Effects of gelling temperature (<b>a</b>), FG concentration (<b>b</b>), GG concentration (<b>c</b>) and Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub> concentration (<b>d</b>) on the springiness of fish gelatin-based flexible hydrogel.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Response surface plot and contour plot of the interaction of various factors.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2 Cont.
<p>Response surface plot and contour plot of the interaction of various factors.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>The changes of G′ and G″ of hydrogels with temperature. (<b>a</b>) FG, (<b>b</b>) FG + Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub> and (<b>c</b>) FG + GG + Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub>.</p>
Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Digital photos of the composite hydrogel under (<b>a</b>,<b>a′</b>) compression, (<b>b</b>) folding, (<b>c</b>) self-healing, (<b>d</b>) bending, (<b>e</b>) adhering to different objects and (<b>f</b>) attachment to the skin and after removal (Red dotted circle was the location where the composite hydrogel attached). (<b>a</b>–<b>f</b>) FG + GG + Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub> and (<b>a′</b>) FG.</p>
Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Images of the inhibition zone of hydrogels. (<b>a</b>) FG, (<b>b</b>) FG + Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub> and (<b>c</b>) FG + GG + Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub>.</p>
Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Inhibition zone diameter of hydrogels. (<b>a</b>) FG, (<b>b</b>) FG + Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub> and (<b>c</b>) FG + GG + Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub>.</p>
Full article ">Figure 7
<p>FTIR spectra of hydrogels. (<b>a</b>) FG, (<b>b</b>) FG + Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub> and (<b>c</b>) FG + GG + Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub>.</p>
Full article ">Figure 8
<p>SEM images ((<b>a</b>–<b>c</b>) ×25,000, (<b>a′</b>–<b>c′</b>) ×50,000) of hydrogels. (<b>a</b>,<b>a′</b>) FG, (<b>b</b>,<b>b′</b>) FG + Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub> and (<b>c</b>,<b>c′</b>) FG + GG + Fe<sub>2</sub>(SO<sub>4</sub>)<sub>3</sub>.</p>
Full article ">
29 pages, 1645 KiB  
Article
Development of an Intranasal In Situ System for Ribavirin Delivery: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation
by Iosif B. Mikhel, Elena O. Bakhrushina, Danila A. Petrusevich, Andrey A. Nedorubov, Svetlana A. Appolonova, Natalia E. Moskaleva, Natalia B. Demina, Svetlana I. Kosenkova, Mikhail A. Parshenkov, Ivan I. Krasnyuk and Ivan I. Krasnyuk
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(9), 1125; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16091125 - 26 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1058
Abstract
Recently, ribavirin has demonstrated effectiveness in treating glioblastoma through intranasal administration utilizing the nose-to-brain delivery route. Enhancing ribavirin’s bioavailability can be achieved by utilizing intranasal stimuli-responsive systems that create a gel on the nasal mucosa. The research examined thermosensitive, pH-sensitive, and ion-selective polymers [...] Read more.
Recently, ribavirin has demonstrated effectiveness in treating glioblastoma through intranasal administration utilizing the nose-to-brain delivery route. Enhancing ribavirin’s bioavailability can be achieved by utilizing intranasal stimuli-responsive systems that create a gel on the nasal mucosa. The research examined thermosensitive, pH-sensitive, and ion-selective polymers in various combinations and concentrations, chosen in line with the current Quality by Design (QbD) approach in pharmaceutical development. Following a thorough assessment of key parameters, the optimal composition of gellan gum at 0.5%, Poloxamer 124 at 2%, and purified water with ribavirin concentration at 100 mg/mL was formulated and subjected to in vivo testing. Through experiments on male rats, the nose-to-brain penetration mechanism of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) was elucidated, showcasing drug accumulation in the olfactory bulbs and brain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drug Delivery and Controlled Release)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Sequence of work according to the QbD concept.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>The concentration-time profiles of ribavirin in plasma, brain, and olfactory bulb samples were evaluated following intranasal administration to rats in the form of an in situ gel (experimental group). The data are presented as mean ± SD (M ± SD), with n = 3. Pharmacokinetic curves are presented in average format.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>The concentration-time profiles of ribavirin in plasma, brain, and olfactory bulb samples were evaluated following intranasal administration to rats in the form of a water solution (control group). The data are presented as mean ± SD (M ± SD), with n = 3. Pharmacokinetic curves are presented in average format.</p>
Full article ">
44 pages, 8948 KiB  
Review
Advancements in Gellan Gum-Based Films and Coatings for Active and Intelligent Packaging
by Hang Li, Kun Gao, Huan Guo, Rongfeng Li and Guantian Li
Polymers 2024, 16(17), 2402; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16172402 - 24 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1443
Abstract
Gellan gum (GG) is a natural polysaccharide with a wide range of industrial applications. This review aims to investigate the potential of GG-based films and coatings to act as environmentally friendly substitutes for traditional petrochemical plastics in food packaging. GG-based films and coatings [...] Read more.
Gellan gum (GG) is a natural polysaccharide with a wide range of industrial applications. This review aims to investigate the potential of GG-based films and coatings to act as environmentally friendly substitutes for traditional petrochemical plastics in food packaging. GG-based films and coatings exhibit versatile properties that can be tailored through the incorporation of various substances, such as plant extracts, microorganisms, and nanoparticles. These functional additives enhance properties like the light barrier, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial capabilities, all of which are essential for extending the shelf-life of perishable food items. The ability to control the release of active compounds, along with the adaptability of GG-based films and coatings to different food products, highlights their effectiveness in preserving quality and inhibiting microbial growth. Furthermore, GG-based composites that incorporate natural pigments can serve as visual indicators for monitoring food freshness. Overall, GG-based composites present a promising avenue for the development of sustainable and innovative food packaging solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polysaccharides: Synthesis, Properties and Applications)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Graphical abstract
Full article ">Figure 1
<p>Structure of gellan gum [<a href="#B15-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">15</a>]. (<b>a</b>) High- and low-acyl gellan gum. (<b>b</b>) Coil-to-helix and sol-gel transition of gellan gum. Reprinted with permission from Elsevier.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Appearance of gellan gum-based films. (<b>a</b>) Gellan gum film containing titanium dioxide nanoparticles [<a href="#B35-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">35</a>]. (<b>b</b>) Gellan gum/cellulose/chitosan composite film [<a href="#B32-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">32</a>]. (<b>c</b>) Gellan/gelatin film containing red radish anthocyanins [<a href="#B44-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">44</a>]. (<b>d</b>) Gellan gum film incorporating red cabbage anthocyanins [<a href="#B43-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">43</a>]. (<b>a</b>) was used under a CC-BY 4.0 license. (<b>b</b>,<b>c</b>) were reprinted with permission from the American Chemical Society. (<b>d</b>) was reprinted with permission from Elsevier.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Bibliometric network map based on the co-occurrence of terms in recent studies (2015–2024) on gellan gum-based packaging materials.</p>
Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Methods to prepare gellan gum-based films and coatings. (<b>a</b>) Preparation of film-forming solution. (<b>b</b>) Casting method to prepare film. (<b>c</b>) Methods to deposit coating onto the food surface.</p>
Full article ">Figure 5
<p>Contact angle of gellan gum-based composites. (<b>a</b>) Gellan gum/soy protein composites with <span class="html-italic">Clitoria ternatea</span> flower extracts [<a href="#B73-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">73</a>]. (<b>b</b>) Gellan gum/konjac glucomannan composites with gallic acids [<a href="#B37-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">37</a>]. Both figures were reprinted with permission from Elsevier.</p>
Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Optical properties of gellan gum-based composites. (<b>a</b>) Opacity of gellan gum composites with roselle anthocyanin and nisin [<a href="#B67-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">67</a>]. (<b>b</b>) Gellan gum/chitosan composites containing thyme essential oils [<a href="#B58-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">58</a>]. (<b>c</b>) Gellan gum/cellulose composites containing titanium oxide and copper oxide nanoparticles [<a href="#B31-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">31</a>]. (<b>d</b>) Gellan gum/polyvinyl alcohol single-layer and triple-layer composites containing <span class="html-italic">Alhagi sparsifolia</span> flower extract [<a href="#B74-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">74</a>]. (<b>a</b>–<b>c</b>) were reprinted with permission from Elsevier. (<b>d</b>) was reprinted under a CC-BY 4.0 license.</p>
Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Degradability of gellan-based composites. (<b>a</b>) Degradation of gellan gum/cellulose/chitosan composites [<a href="#B32-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">32</a>]. Reprinted with permission from American Chemical Society. (<b>b</b>) Degradation of gellan gum films containing cranberry extract and <span class="html-italic">Lactococcus lactis</span> [<a href="#B30-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">30</a>]. Reprinted with permission from Elsevier.</p>
Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Preservation of fruits and vegetables by gellan gum-based packaging materials. (<b>a</b>) Mangos coated with gellan gum/chitosan composites enriched with mustard essential oil [<a href="#B38-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">38</a>]. (<b>b</b>) Fresh-cut peppers wrapped in gellan gum/cellulose films containing titanium oxide and copper oxide nanoparticles [<a href="#B31-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">31</a>]. Both figures were reprinted with permission from Elsevier.</p>
Full article ">Figure 9
<p>Preservation of starch-based food products using gellan gum-based packaging materials. (<b>a</b>) Bread, protected with gellan/cellulose, that contains <span class="html-italic">Anethum graveolens</span> essential oil stored at room temperature. A, polypropylene bags; B, polypropylene wraps; C, D, E, gellan/cellulose films incorporating 0%, 2%, and 4% of essential oil, respectively [<a href="#B13-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">13</a>]. (<b>b</b>) Chinese steamed bread coated with different gellan gum-based composites. BE, blackberry extract; BM, <span class="html-italic">Bifidobacterium longum</span>; BO, baobab seed oil; GE, gelatin; GG, gellan gum [<a href="#B40-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">40</a>]. Both figures were reprinted with permission from Elsevier.</p>
Full article ">Figure 10
<p>Minced pork protected with <span class="html-italic">Aronia melanocarpa</span> extract-incorporated gellan gum/pea protein/chitosan bilayer films [<a href="#B72-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">72</a>]. This was reprinted under a CC-BY 4.0 license.</p>
Full article ">Figure 11
<p>Colorimetric changes of different gellan gum-based indicators. (<b>a</b>) Rose anthocyanin-containing films responding to trimethylamine. AG, alginate; AN, anthocyanin; GG, gellan gum; TMA, trimethylamine [<a href="#B51-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">51</a>]. (<b>b</b>) <span class="html-italic">Clitoria ternatea</span> anthocyanin-containing films responding to pH change [<a href="#B73-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">73</a>]. (<b>c</b>) Methyl red/bromothymol blue-containing films responding to CO<sub>2</sub> change. GG, gellan gum; MB, methyl red/bromothymol blue; SC, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose; TA, tannic acid [<a href="#B53-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">53</a>]. All figures were reprinted with permission from Elsevier.</p>
Full article ">Figure 12
<p>Freshness monitoring for aquatic food products. (<b>a</b>) Mulberry anthocyanin-containing film responding to spoilage of Chinese mitten crab [<a href="#B96-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">96</a>]. (<b>b</b>) <span class="html-italic">Clitoria ternatea</span> anthocyanin-containing films responding to spoilage of shrimp. CT, <span class="html-italic">Clitoria ternatea</span> anthocyanin; G, gellan gum; HSPI, heat-treated soy protein isolate [<a href="#B73-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">73</a>]. (<b>c</b>) RGB (red, green, blue) hue value changes of rose anthocyanin-containing films responding to increase in total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) content during carp storage [<a href="#B51-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">51</a>]. All figures were reprinted with permission from Elsevier.</p>
Full article ">Figure 13
<p>Freshness monitoring for other animal-derived food products. (<b>a</b>) Purple kale anthocyanin-containing film responding to chilled beef spoilage [<a href="#B94-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">94</a>]. (<b>b</b>) RGB (red, green, blue) hue value changes of rose anthocyanin-containing films responding to the increase in total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) content during chicken storage [<a href="#B51-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">51</a>]. (<b>c</b>) RGB hue value changes in red radish anthocyanin-containing films responding to the increase in acidity and TVB-N during milk storage [<a href="#B44-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">44</a>]. (<b>a</b>,<b>b</b>) were reprinted with permission from Elsevier. (<b>c</b>) was reprinted with permission from the American Chemical Society.</p>
Full article ">Figure 14
<p>Freshness monitoring for fruits and vegetables. (<b>a</b>) Mushrooms protected with red cabbage extract-containing gellan gum film [<a href="#B43-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">43</a>]. (<b>b</b>) Strawberries protected with methyl red/bromothymol blue-containing films. GG, gellan gum; MB, methyl red/bromothymol blue; SC, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose; TA, tannic acid [<a href="#B53-polymers-16-02402" class="html-bibr">53</a>]. Both figures were reprinted with permission from Elsevier.</p>
Full article ">
14 pages, 1398 KiB  
Article
Composite Coatings with Liposomes of Melissa officinalis Extract for Extending Tomato Shelf Life
by Rafael González-Cuello, Luis Gabriel Fuentes, Heliana Milena Castellanos, Joaquín Hernández-Fernández and Rodrigo Ortega-Toro
J. Compos. Sci. 2024, 8(7), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs8070283 - 22 Jul 2024
Viewed by 902
Abstract
In this study, active coatings based on carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) were prepared using liposomes filled with an aqueous extract of Melissa officinalis retained in high acyl gellan gum (HAG), low acyl gellan gum (LAG), and their mixture (HAG/LAG). The objective was to investigate the [...] Read more.
In this study, active coatings based on carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) were prepared using liposomes filled with an aqueous extract of Melissa officinalis retained in high acyl gellan gum (HAG), low acyl gellan gum (LAG), and their mixture (HAG/LAG). The objective was to investigate the effect of these coatings on postharvest preservation of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruits. The tomato fruits were divided into four groups: (i) coating with HAG-based liposomes (WL-HAG), (ii) coating with LAG-based liposomes (WL-LAG), (iii) coating with HAG/LAG-based liposomes (WL-HAG/LAG), and (iv) control group treated with sterile water. Over a period of 10 days, various quality attributes, such as respiration rate, soluble solids, titratable acidity, luminosity, weight loss, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, hydrogen peroxide, total phenols, and DPPH scavenging ability, were studied. The results indicated that the WL-HAG coatings significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the respiration rate, hydrogen peroxide, and MDA content compared to the control fruits and other coatings. Therefore, WL-HAG could be considered a promising option to enhance postharvest preservation of tomato fruits in the Colombian fruit and vegetable industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Composites Applications)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Respiration rate of tomato samples coated with CMC and stored for 10 days.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>Weight loss (<b>a</b>) and lightness values (<b>b</b>) of tomato samples coated with CMC and stored for 10 days.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Changes in the appearance of uncoated (control) and coated tomato fruit during storage. (<b>A</b>) control, day: zero; (<b>B</b>) control, day: 15; (<b>C</b>) WL-HAG, day: zero; (<b>D</b>) WL-HAG, day: 15; (<b>E</b>) WL-LAG, day: zero; (<b>F</b>) WL-LAG, day: 15; (<b>G</b>) WL-HAG/LAG, day: zero; (<b>H</b>) WL-HAG/LAG, day: 15.</p>
Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Behavior of MDA (<b>a</b>) and H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> (<b>b</b>) during storage of tomato stored for 10 days at 25 °C.</p>
Full article ">
14 pages, 4521 KiB  
Article
Microcrystalline Cellulose—A Green Alternative to Conventional Soil Stabilizers
by Lazar Arun, Evangelin Ramani Sujatha, Jair Arrieta Baldovino and Yamid E. Nuñez de la Rosa
Polymers 2024, 16(14), 2043; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16142043 - 17 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1186
Abstract
Biopolymers are polymers of natural origin and are environmentally friendly, carbon neutral and less energy-intense additives that can be used for various geotechnical applications. Biopolymers like xanthan gum, carrageenan, chitosan, agar, gellan gum and gelatin have shown potential for improving subgrade strength, erosion [...] Read more.
Biopolymers are polymers of natural origin and are environmentally friendly, carbon neutral and less energy-intense additives that can be used for various geotechnical applications. Biopolymers like xanthan gum, carrageenan, chitosan, agar, gellan gum and gelatin have shown potential for improving subgrade strength, erosion resistance, and as canal liners and in slope stabilization. But minimal research has been carried out on cellulose-based biopolymers, particularly microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), for their application in geotechnical and geo-environmental engineering. In this study, the effect of MCC on select geotechnical properties of kaolin, a weak, highly compressible clay soil, like its liquid and plastic limits, compaction behavior, deformation behavior, unconfined compression strength (UCS) and aging, was investigated. MCC was used in dosages of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2% of the dry weight of the soil, and the dry mixing method was adopted for sample preparation. The results show that the liquid limit increased marginally by 11% but the plasticity index was nearly 74% higher than that of untreated kaolin. MCC rendered the treated soil stiffer, which is reflected in the deformation modulus, which increased with both dosage and age of the treated sample. The UCS of kaolin increased with dosage and curing period. The maximum UCS was observed for a dosage of 2% MCC at a 90-day curing period. The increase in stiffness and strength of the treated kaolin with aging points out that MCC can be a potential soil stabilizer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biobased and Biodegradable Polymers)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
<p>Gradation curve of kaolin.</p>
Full article ">Figure 2
<p>SEM micrograph of kaolin.</p>
Full article ">Figure 3
<p>Molecular structure of MCC [<a href="#B20-polymers-16-02043" class="html-bibr">20</a>].</p>
Full article ">Figure 4
<p>Effect of MCC on the plastic behavior of kaolin.</p>
Full article ">Figure 5
<p>(<b>a</b>) Effect of MCC on compaction curves. (<b>b</b>) Effect of MCC on MDUW and OMC.</p>
Full article ">Figure 6
<p>Stress–strain response of MCC-treated soil. (<b>a</b>) 1 day, (<b>b</b>) 7 day, (<b>c</b>) 28 day, (<b>d</b>) 56 day and (<b>e</b>) 90 day.</p>
Full article ">Figure 7
<p>Effect of aging on the 2% MCC-treated kaolin.</p>
Full article ">Figure 8
<p>Effect of MCC dosage and aging on the UCS of treated kaolin.</p>
Full article ">Figure 9
<p>FTIR spectrum for koalin and MCC-treated kaolin.</p>
Full article ">Figure 10
<p>XRD diffractogram of (<b>a</b>) kaolin and (<b>b</b>) MCC-treated aolin.</p>
Full article ">Figure 11
<p>SEM micrographs. (<b>a</b>) kaolin and (<b>b</b>) MCC-treated kaolin.</p>
Full article ">
Back to TopTop