2026

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://repository.iuls.ro/handle/20.500.12811/6034

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 29

listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
The Role of Polyhydroxyalkanoates in Veterinary Medicine: Biosynthesis, Material Modifications and Clinical Applications
(MDPI, 2026-09-16) Aniță, Adriana-Elena; Aniță, Dragoș-Constantin; Neguț, Irina; Ristoscu, Carmen
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are a structurally diverse family of microbially synthesised, biodegradable polyesters that accumulate as intracellular carbon and energy reserves under conditions of nutrient imbalance. Their combination of adjustable mechanical performance with controlled hydrolytic and enzymatic degradation, and non-toxic degradation intermediates (ex. D-3-hydroxybutyrate) has made them a longstanding candidate biomaterial for human tissue engineering, drug delivery, and resorbable implants. Comparatively, their application in veterinary medicine remains an emerging and fragmented field, despite an arguably stronger practical case: veterinary practice faces acute pressure to replace non-degradable sutures, orthopaedic hardware, and single-use plastics with materials that avoid secondary retrieval surgery, that can be produced at low cost for large-scale animal use, and that align with growing regulatory and consumer demand for sustainable animal healthcare. This review consolidates current understanding of PHA biosynthesis, covering the core: phaA-phaB-phaC pathway, medium-chain-length variants, microbial producers, feedstock flexibility, and metabolic engineering strategies for yield improvement. It also examines material modification strategies, including blending, chemical grafting, surface functionalisation, electrospinning, and additive manufacturing, used to adapt PHAs for specific veterinary form factors. The clinical and preclinical evidence base is presented in detail across wound management, orthopaedic and soft-tissue regeneration, cardiovascular tissue engineering, drug delivery, and surgical devices, with attention to species-specific considerations in companion animals, horses, and food-producing ruminants. This review relies exclusively on peer-reviewed literature for its quantitative claims, while transparently noting where veterinary-specific data are lacking, extrapolated from rodent or human models, or in need of independent verification. Persistent barriers like production cost, batch-to-batch variability, absence of veterinary-specific regulatory pathways, and limited long-term in vivo safety data in large animals are analysed critically, alongside translational opportunities including waste-feedstock valorisation, hybrid PHA/ceramic and PHA/natural-polymer composites, and stimuli-responsive formulations. We conclude that PHAs are scientifically well positioned but institutionally under-validated for veterinary translation, and we outline a concrete research agenda to close this gap.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Oxytocin modulates social preference and anxiety-like locomotor behavior in albino and non-albino zebrafish
(Association of Basic Medical Sciences of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, 2026) Dănilă, Ana-Maria; Savuca, Alexandra; Nicoară, Mircea-Nicușor; Ciobîcă, Alin-Stelian; Novac, Bogdan; Chiriac, Ștefan; Tomiță, Daniela; Ilie, Ovidiu-Dumitru
Socio-emotional and exploratory behaviors in zebrafish (Danio rerio) are shaped by conserved neuromodulators such as oxytocin (OXT), yet phenotypic variation (e.g., albinism) may modify sensitivity to OXT-dependent regulation. Here, we tested whether pigmentation phenotype alters behavioral responses to acute OXT across structured social and anxiogenic contexts. Adult albino (A; n = 30) and non-albino (N; n = 30) zebrafish (total n = 60; equal allocation across 6 groups, n = 10/group) were exposed to OXT by immersion (33.2 ng/mL, 15 min) under a 2 × 3 factorial design (Phenotype × Dosing regimen: Vehicle; OXT single exposure assessed at 24 h; OXT repeated exposure assessed at 48 h) and evaluated using the social preference test (SPT), social interaction (SI) test, and novel tank test (NTT). In the SPT, decision-zone occupancy and mean distance to the non-social arm were robustly modulated by dosing (p < 0.0001; p = 0.007) without phenotype × dosing interactions; locomotor outputs (swimming distance, p = 0.040; velocity, p = 0.041; counterclockwise rotations, p = 0.006) also showed dosing effects only, supporting a dissociation between social allocation and global motor output. In the SI test, stimulus-zone occupancy showed a significant main effect of phenotype (p = 0.009), independent of dosing, and locomotor indices similarly exhibited phenotype effects without interaction (swimming distance and velocity, p = 0.017; mobile-state duration, p = 0.002). In contrast, the NTT revealed phenotype-dependent locomotor regulation: highly mobile duration showed a significant interaction (p = 0.002) with strong main effects of phenotype and dosing (both p < 0.001), while immobile duration displayed an interaction (p = 0.015) and dosing effect (p = 0.005), driven primarily by the non-albino phenotype; clockwise rotation (p = 0.018) and active-state duration (p = 0.030) further indicated phenotype-related differences. Collectively, OXT exerts context- and dosing-regimen-dependent modulation in zebrafish, with social allocation primarily dosing-driven and largely phenotype-independent, whereas anxiety-related locomotor dynamics show marked phenotype specificity.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Some of the Newest Therapeutic Methods in Canine Atopic Dermatitis
(MDPI, 2026-04-20) Mazilu, Constantin-Cătălin; Strichea, Anamaria-Hortensia; Solcan, Gheorghe
Canine atopic dermatitis is a hereditary chronic inflammatory and pruritic skin disease, which is mediated by T cells and requires long-term, individualized management. In recent years, numerous studies have described a wide range of therapeutic approaches for canine atopic dermatitis, including fast-acting symptomatic treatments, long-term immune-modulating interventions, and strategies to support skin barrier function and microbial balance. This review summarizes the principal treatment modalities currently available, including glucocorticoids, cyclosporine A, mycophenolate, Janus kinase inhibitors, lokivetmab, and allergen-specific immunotherapy, as well as complementary strategies aimed at restoring skin barrier integrity. Emphasis is placed on the importance of a multimodal and personalized approach to optimize long-term disease control and improve quality of life in affected dogs. Providing an integrated overview of current evidence, this article aims to guide clinicians in making informed, evidence-based decisions and to support the safe and effective management of canine atopic dermatitis.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Micro- and Nanoplastics as Drivers and Modulators of Hepatotoxicity in Zebrafish (Danio rerio): Interactions with Environmental Co-Contaminants and Molecular Mechanisms
(MDPI, 2026-05-28) Szilagyi, Alexandra; Jităreanu, Alexandra; Olărița, Alina Iliuța; Solcan, Carmen
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have emerged as pervasive contaminants in aquatic ecosystems, raising concerns regarding their biological impacts on aquatic organisms. The liver plays a central role in metabolism, detoxification, and immune regulation, making it particularly vulnerable to MNP-induced toxicity. Importantly, MNPs also function as vectors and modulators of co-occurring environmental contaminants, including heavy metals, pesticides, antibiotics, PFASs, algal toxins, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), thereby influencing contaminant bioavailability and hepatic toxicity. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on hepatic alterations induced by micro- and nanoplastic exposure in zebrafish (Danio rerio), with emphasis on histopathological changes and underlying mechanisms. Relevant peer-reviewed studies were identified through systematic searches of Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and ScienceDirect, covering the period 2013–2026, and screened according to predefined inclusion criteria focusing on hepatic endpoints in zebrafish exposed to micro- and nanoplastics. Across the available literature, MNPs consistently accumulate in hepatic tissue and induce structural alterations, including hepatocellular vacuolization, steatosis, inflammatory infiltration, and necrosis. Mechanistically, these pathological changes are closely linked to oxidative stress, impairment of antioxidant defense systems, reprogramming of lipid and glucose metabolism, and activation of inflammatory and regulated cell death signaling pathways. In addition, interactions with co-occurring environmental contaminants—such as heavy metals, pesticides, antibiotics, and algal toxins—frequently exacerbate hepatic injury through synergistic toxicological mechanisms. Disruption of the gut–liver axis and intestinal microbiota has also emerged as an important contributor to systemic metabolic and inflammatory responses. Overall, zebrafish studies demonstrate that the liver represents a critical target organ for MNP toxicity. Future research should prioritize environmentally realistic exposure scenarios, standardized particle characterization, and integrated multi-omics approaches to improve ecological and human health risk assessment.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Stress in Free-Roaming and Shelter-Housed Dogs: A Review of Neurobiological, Physiological and Behavioral Mechanisms Relevant to Welfare Assessment
(MDPI, 2026-07-14) Rotaru, Gheorghița; Hrițcu, Teodor-Daniel; Mălăncuș, Răzvan-Nicolae; Hrițcu, Luminița-Diana; Soponaru, Camelia; Nechifor, Florin; Boghian, Vasile; Cherșunaru, Alexandra Andreea; Munteanu, Alexandru; Spătaru, Mihaela-Claudia
Stress is a major influencing behavior, health, and welfare in free-roaming dogs, particularly in environments characterized by unpredictability, social instability, and frequent human interactions. Although research on canine stress responses has expanded considerably, current knowledge remains fragmented across the neurobiological, physiological, and behavioral domains, limiting the development of comprehensive welfare assessment strategies. Importantly, free-roaming and shelter-housed dogs should not be viewed as entirely separate populations, since many shelter dogs originate from free-roaming environments and share similar stress-related experiences. This narrative review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence on stress mechanisms in free-roaming and shelter-housed dogs The literature was explored across major scientific databases, and a total of 69 relevant studies were included. Particular emphasis was placed on the activation and regulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, associated neuroendocrine alterations, and their behavioral expression. The strengths and limitations of commonly used physiological indicators, including cortisol measured in blood, saliva, feces and hair, were critically examined in relation to their applicability in real-world contexts. Behavioral manifestations of stress, such as fear- and anxiety-related responses, aggression, withdrawal, and stereotypic behaviors, were analyzed as functional outcomes of neurobiological activation and environmental challenges. Environmental stressors typical of shelter conditions as well as the role of human–dog interactions in stress modulation are also discussed. By combining neurobiological, physiological, and behavioral perspectives, this review highlights the importance of multidimensional stress assessment and proposes a conceptual framework linking biological mechanisms with observable behavioral indicators of welfare across the continuum from free-roaming to shelter environments. These findings may support the development of evidence-based welfare assessment and management strategies for free-roaming and shelter-housed dog populations.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Dose-Dependent Effects of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal on Growth and Health of Common Carp
(MDPI, 2026-04-03) Dîrvariu, Lenuța; Barbacariu, Cristian-Alin; Burducea, Marian; Dumitru, Gabriela; Todirașcu-Ciornea, Elena; Șerban, Dana-Andreea; Rîmbu, Cristina-Mihaela; Horhogea, Cristina-Elena; Lazăr, Mircea; Simeanu, Daniel
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of incorporating Black Soldier Fly Meal (BSFLM) into the diet of two-year-old carp on growth and health status. Four concentrations of BSFLM were tested, T1-0% (control), T2-10%, T3-20%, and T4-30%, in common carp with an initial body weight of 112.06 ± 3.86 g over a 12-week feeding period. The results showed that final weight and weight gain were 17.3% (349.15 g) and 23% (233.6 g) higher in the T4 group compared to the control (298.63 g and 189.79 g, respectively). Flesh composition showed no significant changes. Hematological variations were insignificant. Oxidative stress assessment revealed increased activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) alongside reduced lipid peroxidation. The counts of anaerobic microorganisms and Enterobacteriaceae in intestine increased linearly in BSFLM groups. Histological examination showed normal intestinal and hepatopancreatic morphology in the 10% and 20% BSFLM groups (T2 and T3). In contrast, the 30% inclusion level (T4) was associated with hepatocellular vacuolization and alterations in villus architecture. In two-year-old carp, dietary BSFLM induced dose-dependent responses, whereby higher inclusion levels supported weight gain but adversely affected the morphological integrity of the intestine and hepatopancreas
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Evaluation of radiographic heart size measurement repeatability and reproducibility among veterinary students with varying training levels
(Elsevier, 2026-05-23) Baisan, Radu-Andrei; Vulpe, Vasile
Vertebral heart scale (VHS) and vertebral left atrial size (VLAS) are commonly used to assess the heart size. It remains unknown if observers with different levels of training within the same protocol would improve the repeatability and reproducibility. This study aims to describe the measurement errors and to assess if different levels of experience can influence the outcome. Radiographs of healthy dogs and dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease were included. Nine veterinary students were divided into three groups and followed a learning phase by measuring a set of 10, 30 and 50 images respectively, followed by an assessment of measurement error. Next, each group measured 20 radiographs twice, and the measurements of an experienced observer were used to calculate the reproducibility and repeatability. For VHS and VLAS measurements, 67.8% and 54.1% respectively, had at least one error. Interobserver agreement for VHS was comprised between 0.948 and 0.993 while for VLAS between 0.819 and 0.978. Intraobserver agreement for VHS was comprised between 0.959 and 0.995, while for VLAS between 0.71 and 0.994. This study shows that the measurement errors are common, however all students obtained a substantial to almost perfect agreement, suggesting that measuring experience does not influence the result.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
The Effects of a Mixture of Monochromatic Green and Blue Light on Growth Performance and Immune Response in Bursa of Fabricius by Morphometry Using Staining and Immunohistochemistry in Broiler Chickens
(MDPI, 2026-04-17) Horodincu, Loredana; Cotrutz, Victor; Herțanu, Radu; Petrovic, Adriana; Popovici, Ivona; Solcan, Gheorghe; Ciubotariu,Alexandra; Henea, Mădălina; Galan, Lenuța; Pogoreanu, Rareș; Dinuț-Cebuc, Adina-Ștefana; Stafie, Silviu; Solcan, Carmen
The use of colored LED lights is a tool for controlling the development of lymphoid organs and the immune system in general. This study aims to analyze the effects of using simple and combined colored LED lights throughout a 6 week period (1–42 days of age). In this study, 336 one-day-old chicks were used, separated randomly into four groups with different sex and lighting systems, with each group being divided into four separate replicates (4 × 21 birds). The chicks in the WL-Male and WL-Female were exposed to white LED light (WL, 400–760 nm) for 6 weeks, while the chicks in the G-GxB-BL-Male and G-GxB-BL-Female were exposed to a combination of monochromatic lights as follows: green (560 nm) from 1 to 14 days of age, green and blue (480–560 nm) for 15–28 days of age, and blue lights (480 nm) for 29–42 days of age. The use of a mixture of green and blue LED lights (G-GxB-BL) resulted in a significant decrease in the average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio compared to white light, without causing changes in the body weight of the chicks, average daily gain, mortality rate, and coefficient of variability. G-GxB-BL lights also improved the morphological development of the bursa of Fabricius (BF) compared to white light by significantly increasing the organ index and the lymphoid follicle area. At the same time, G-GxB-BL light compared to white light improved B lymphocytes proliferation in the BF by significantly increasing the lymphocyte density in lymphoid follicles, as well as the number of PCNA-positive cells. This light treatment had these results due to the activation of melatonin receptors, which led to a significant increase in Mel1a-positive cells and a significant decrease in the number of RORα-positive cells. These results demonstrate that G-GxB-BL lights improved the growth performance and immune response in the BF of broiler chickens.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Risk Factors and Antibiotic Utilization Patterns in Multidrug-Resistant Surgical Infections: A Retrospective Study From a Romanian Tertiary-Care Center
(Wiley, 2026-06-19) Ambrosie, Lucian; Dan, Maria; Ilie, Ovidiu-Dumitru; Condrea, Tabita-Daniela; Purice, Mihaela; Blaj, Mihaela; Ionescu, Lidia; Timofte, Daniel-Vasile
Background Multidrug-resistant (MDR) infections represent a major challenge in surgical patients, particularly in settings with prolonged hospitalization and intensive care exposure. Identifying risk factors and their impact on mortality is essential for optimizing antimicrobial stewardship and infection control strategies. Methods We conducted a retrospective observational study including surgical patients admitted to a Romanian tertiary-care hospital between 2020 and 2022. Demographic, clinical, microbiological, and antibiotic utilization data were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to identify factors associated with MDR infection and in-hospital mortality. Results Prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) stay and longer hospitalization were the main independent predictors of MDR infection. Antibiotic prophylaxis was also associated with MDR status, likely reflecting increased antimicrobial exposure in high-risk patients, while a higher comorbidity burden showed an inverse association. MDR infections were strongly associated with increased in-hospital mortality and remained an independent predictor after adjustment, alongside ICU stay and older age. MDR cases were characterized by more frequent use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, whereas non-MDR patients more commonly received narrower-spectrum regimens. The most frequent MDR pathogens included Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii. Conclusions MDR infections in surgical patients are primarily driven by prolonged healthcare exposure, particularly ICU admission and extended hospitalization. These findings highlight the importance of targeted infection control measures and optimized antimicrobial use to reduce mortality and limit the spread of resistance.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Edema and Structural Remodeling in Equine Suspensory Ligament Injury: A Severity Gradient Associated with Microvascular Dysfunction
(MDPI, 2026-05-08) Lazăr, Constantin; Vulpe, Vasile; Baisan, Andrei-Radu; Pivariu, Dalma; Bora, Florin-Dumitru; Crecan, Cristian-Mihăiță
Suspensory ligament injury is a major cause of lameness in sport horses, yet its underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. The aim of this study was to characterize histopathological alterations of the equine suspensory ligament and to evaluate their association with imaging features. A comparative descriptive study was performed on sport horses with forelimb lameness, combining clinical evaluation, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, and histopathological analysis. Ligament samples were collected post-mortem from anatomically defined regions selected based on imaging findings to allow regional imaging–histopathology correlation. The results showed a consistent presence of edema in perivascular, interfascicular, and intrafascicular compartments, indicating a diffuse disturbance of tissue fluid balance. Lesions with lower severity were characterized by increased vascular permeability and mild extracellular matrix expansion, whereas lesions with greater structural severity demonstrated vascular remodeling, including endothelial thickening, vascular wall changes, and perivascular connective tissue proliferation, associated with collagen disorganization. Regional differences were observed, with more pronounced alterations in the proximal region compared to the branch region. These findings are consistent with a pattern of structural changes associated with microvascular alterations, demonstrating variation in lesion severity across samples and supporting an association between imaging categories and semi-quantitative histological features. However, given the cross-sectional design, causality cannot be established.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Immunohistochemical and western blot expression of MMPs, TIMPs, and cytokeratin 10 in feline squamous cell carcinoma
(Frontiers Media, 2026-04-10) Tutu, Paul; Altamura, Gennaro; Bocăneți Daraban, Florentina; Hrițcu, Ozana Maria; Pașca, Aurelian-Sorin; Dascălu, Mihaela Anca; Horodincu, Loredana; Tănase, Oana Irina; Mareș, Mihai; Borzacchiello, Giuseppe
Background: Feline oral and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are aggressive neoplasms characterized by high local invasiveness. Given its spontaneous occurrence and molecular similarities, feline SCC represents a robust comparative model for human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HHNSCC). This pilot study aimed to characterize the expression of metalloproteinases (MMPs), their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs), and cytokeratin 10 (CK10) in relation to Papillomavirus (PV) status, and to explore the viral-molecular relationship in feline oncology. Methods: Ten feline SCC samples (3 oral and 7 cutaneous) were analyzed. PV DNA was detected using PCR with degenerated primers FAP59/FAP64. Protein expression of MMP-2, -9, -13, -14, TIMP-2, -3, and CK10 was analyzed and quantified via immunohistochemistry (IHC) (H-score) and validated through Western blot analysis. Statistical correlations were determined using the Spearman rank correlation coefficient, and statistical differences between groups were assessed via Mann–Whitney U test. Results: PV DNA was identified in 6/10 samples. IHC analysis revealed that MMPs (-2, -9, -13, -14) exhibited stronger cytoplasmic and nuclear immunostaining compared to the more restricted signals of TIMPs and CK10, showing a strong inverse correlation with MMP-2, linking invasiveness to dedifferentiation. Significant positive correlations were found between MMP-9/TIMP-3 and MMP-2/MMP-9. TIMP-2 expression was significantly higher in PV-negative samples. Western blot confirmed these results, showing consistent bands. Conclusion: This pilot study provides the first characterization of MMPs, TIMPs, and CK10 in feline SCC, establishing a foundation for future research into feline PV species and reinforce the value of the feline model in comparative oncology.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Acute Toxicity of Three Synthetic Cannabinoids: First In Vivo Preclinical Study
(MDPI, 2026-07-05) Filipiuc, Silviu-Iulian; Tamba, Bogdan-Ionel; Filipiuc, Leontina-Elena; Bild, Veronica; Ababei, Daniela-Carmen; Stanciu, Gabriela-Dumitrița; Gogu, Maria-Raluca; Urîtu, Cristina-Mariana; Solcan, Carmen; Foia, Cezar Ilie; Bil, Walther
Background and Objectives: Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are new psychoactive substances associated with acute intoxications. Experimental data obtained under controlled and comparable conditions remain limited for this category of compounds. This descriptive, hypothesis-generating screening study aimed to characterize the acute toxicity profile of three SCs, JWH-007, AM-694, and MAB-CHMINACA. Materials and Methods: Acute toxicity was evaluated in female Swiss Albino mice, in accordance with the OECD 423 guideline, following oral and intraperitoneal administration. Animals were monitored for 14 days for behavioral and clinical signs of toxicity. At the end, histopathological examination was performed to describe organ-level changes. Serum concentrations of the tested compounds were quantified by LC-ESI-MS/MS 24 h after intraperitoneal administration. Results: The three compounds were associated with distinct behavioral, clinical, and histopathological observations. JWH-007 was associated with transient behavioral depression and histopathological changes in peripheral organs. AM-694 was associated with histopathological changes in systemic organs and limited behavioral manifestations. MAB-CHMINACA was associated with acute behavioral toxicity and central nervous system lesions, including neuronal vacuolization, necrosis, oedema, and inflammatory changes. Conclusions: These preliminary findings describe compound-specific in vivo toxicity patterns and may inform the design of future confirmatory studies on SCs’ toxicity. The observed behavioral and histopathological changes should be interpreted as hypothesis-generating and require statistical validation before conclusions can be drawn regarding comparative toxicity, structural class effects, or predictive value for risk stratification.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Zinc Potentiates the Renoprotective Effects of SGLT2 Inhibitors in Experimental Diabetes Mellitus in Rats
(MDPI, 2026-05-09) Anton, Irina Claudia; Solcan, Carmen; Mititelu Tarțău, Liliana; Amalinei, Cornelia; Poroch, Mihaela; Poroch, Vladimir; Buca, Beatrice Rozalina; Tarțău, Cosmin-Gabriel; Pelin, Ana-Maria; Botnariu, Gina Eosefina
background: Diabetic kidney disease is a common and serious complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and represents a major contributor to chronic kidney disease (CKD) globally. While sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have demonstrated significant renoprotective effects, the potential advantages of combining these agents with micronutrients such as zinc (Zn), known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory properties, have not been fully investigated. This study aimed to assess the effects of dapagliflozin (DAPA) and empagliflozin (EMPA), administered either alone or alongside Zn, in an experimental diabetes model. Methods: T2DM was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats through a high-fat diet (HFD) followed by a low dose of streptozotocin (STZ). Seven experimental groups were established: a control group, an untreated diabetic group, and treatment groups receiving DAPA, EMPA, or their combinations with Zn. Metabolic parameters, renal function, and histopathological alterations were assessed, while immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate the expression of inflammatory and fibrotic markers. Results: Diabetic rats exhibited sustained hyperglycemia, metabolic imbalance, and significant renal damage, accompanied by elevated levels of inflammatory and fibrotic markers. Treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors improved metabolic status, mitigated kidney injury, and reduced inflammatory marker expression. Zn association further potentiated these effects, with the most pronounced benefits observed when combined with EMPA. Conclusions: These findings suggest that SGLT2 inhibitors exert strong renoprotective effects in experimental diabetic nephropathy. Zn supplementation may amplify these benefits through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. The combination of EMPA and Zn demonstrated the greatest protective effect, highlighting the potential of multi-target therapeutic strategies in diabetic kidney disease.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Cationic curdlan-based hydrogels loaded with Calendula officinalis-decorated silver nanoparticles: Synthesis, characterization and in vitro biological properties
(Elsevier, 2026-07-06) Suflet, Dana M.; Popescu, Irina; Luca, Andreea; Butnaru, Maria; Rîmbu, Cristina-Mihaela; Horhogea, Cristina-Elena; Constantin, Marieta
Curdlan, known for its biomedical applications, and a quaternary derivative thereof with antimicrobial properties were used to prepare new hydrogels for potential applications in wound dressings. To enhance the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, silver nanoparticles synthesised in the presence of Calendula officinalis, known for its wound healing activity, were entrapped in the hydrogels. The parameters of the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles were studied to determine the optimal conditions. Then, the spherical nanoparticles (22 nm) containing biologically active compounds from the plant extract were introduced into the cross-linking process of curdlan and quaternary derivative. The hydrogels exhibited a well-defined porous morphology (60–70 μm) with interconnected pores, which can retain up to 20.34 g/g fluid under skin-simulated conditions. The new hydrogels, with an elastic modulus between 4.85 and 11.31 kPa, exhibit complete and rapid shape recovery after progressive compression of at least five cycles. In addition, they have been shown to be biocompatible in contact with human dermal fibroblasts and can even induce their migration and proliferation within the first 8 h of contact. They have antioxidant properties and antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and E. coli, and the entrapment of silver nanoparticles leads to the augmentation of these properties.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Bioactive-Enriched Chitosan/Poly(vinyl Alcohol) Electrospun Nanofibers for Wound Healing: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation
(MDPI, 2026-04-05) Iurașcu, Teodora; Iacob, Andreea-Teodora; Solcan, Carmen; Urîtu, Cristina-Mariana; Profire, Bianca-Ștefania; Marangoci, Narcisa Laura; Coroaba, Adina; Andrei Szilagyi; Costăchescu, Ivona; Gogu, Maria-Raluca; Filipiuc, Leontina-Elena; Profire, Lenuța
Background: Wound healing remains a major clinical challenge, often impaired by persistent inflammation, oxidative stress, and abnormal extracellular matrix remodeling. Electrospun nanofibers (NFs) have emerged as promising wound dressing platforms due to their biomimetic structure and capacity to incorporate multiple bioactive compounds (ACs) with synergistic therapeutic effects. Objectives: This study aimed to biologically assess novel chitosan/poly(vinyl alcohol) (CH/PVA) NFs functionalized with natural active compounds (L-arginine—ARG, allantoin—ALA, royal jelly—RJ, and curcumin—CUR) as multifunctional systems for wound healing and tissue remodeling. Methods: The nanofibrous systems performed the in vitro evaluation of antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, PRAP), anti-inflammatory potential (protein denaturation test), hemocompatibility, and cytocompatibility using dermal fibroblasts. In vivo healing performance was evaluated in an excisional wound model using macroscopic wound contraction analysis, histopathology, and immunohistochemical staining (MMP-9, CD31, VEGF-A, α-SMA). Results: The bioactive-enriched CH/PVA NFs exhibited strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, excellent hemocompatibility (hemolysis < 5%), and excellent cytocompatibility, with promoting fibroblast proliferation. In vivo experiments revealed that the treated groups exhibited accelerated wound closure, improved re-epithelialization, increased angiogenesis, and showed more efficient tissue remodeling compared to the controls, as validated by histological and immunohistochemical studies. Conclusions: The findings indicate that bioactive-enriched CH/PVA NFs serve as effective, biocompatible, and multifunctional matrices for wound healing, hence endorsing their potential for further translational advancement in skin regeneration applications.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Evaluation of Functional Electrospun Chitosan-Based Nanofibers Loaded with Norfloxacin for Enhanced Burn Wound Healing Response
(MDPI, 2026-06-30) Coman, Corneliu-George; Gardikiotis, Ioannis; Solcan, Carmen; Tarțău, Cosmin-Gabriel; Caroline Chabot; Dodi, Gianina; Mititelu Tarțău, Liliana
Nanofibrous materials based on chitosan (CS) have attracted considerable attention for advanced wound management due to their excellent biocompatibility and their suitability as drug delivery systems for wound healing applications. Additional surface modification may improve their interaction with the wound environment and influence tissue repair mechanisms. TMC/CS nanofibers were fabricated via electrospinning and subsequently processed into three formulations: unloaded fibers (NCC), norfloxacin-loaded fibers (NCX), and norfloxacin-loaded fibers modified with 2-formylphenylboronic acid (NCXA). The resulting materials were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and UV–Vis spectroscopy. Their therapeutic performance was evaluated in a standardized deep dermal burn model in Wistar rats, with Vaseline gauze and silver sulfadiazine serving as reference treatments. Wound healing progression was assessed through macroscopic examination, histopathological analysis, immunohistochemical evaluation of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-17, VEGF, VCAM, and CD163 expression, and systemic IL-8 determination. Physicochemical characterization confirmed homogeneous nanofiber formation, efficient incorporation of norfloxacin, and successful surface modification. All electrospun formulations promoted improved healing outcomes compared with the untreated control group. Among them, the norfloxacin-loaded nanofiber formulation demonstrated the most pronounced wound-healing effect, characterized by faster re-epithelialization, attenuation of inflammatory mediators during later healing stages, and superior tissue architecture restoration. Conversely, the 2-formylphenylboronic acid-modified norfloxacin-loaded fiber formulation maintained a more persistent inflammatory state and exhibited a slower transition into the remodeling phase. Trimethyl chitosan-based nanofibers loaded with norfloxacin show strong potential as multifunctional wound dressing platforms capable of controlled drug release. The findings indicate that formulation composition plays a critical role in regulating inflammation and tissue regeneration, underscoring the need for continued refinement of chitosan-derived nanosystems for burn wound therapy.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Biocompatible and Antimicrobial Cellulosic Support via Bioactive Emulsion-Based Film
(MDPI, 2026-04-28) Danila, Angela; Chirilă, Laura; Popescu, Carmen-Mihaela; Voinea, Ionela Cristina; Rîmbu, Cristina-Mihaela; Türkoglu, Gizem Ceylan; Mureșan, Emil-Ioan; Costea, Mariana
Due to biodegradability, functionalization, and sustained release, polymer-based films are widely used in different industries. This study explores a bioactive emulsion-based film obtained using high-methoxy pectin (HMP), Origanum onites L. essential oil, and a hydroalcoholic extract of Thymus vulgaris L., prepared using various emulsion recipes. The emulsions obtained were applied to cellulose supports intended for topical applications. Bioactive textiles were analyzed using SEM-EDS elemental mapping, ATR FT-IR spectroscopy, biocompatibility assessment, antimicrobial activity assays, and analysis of comfort indices. SEM images of textile supports treated with bioactive emulsions confirmed the creation of a film surface and that the homogeneity of the film increases with increasing amount of glycerin, which acts as a plasticizer. Infrared spectra combined with their second derivatives and PCA indicate the presence of oregano essential oil, thyme extract, and pectin on the surface of the cotton. The biocompatibility evaluation of functionalized cotton supports revealed minimal cytotoxic effects on HaCaT human keratinocytes after 24 h of exposure. The results of the analyses showed that bioactive textile supports also exhibit antimicrobial activity. Therefore, the active emulsions with pectin, oregano essential oil, and hydroalcoholic extract of thyme provide biocompatible and antimicrobial active films by applying on cellulosic supports.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Azole–Flavonoid Hybrids as Emerging Anticancer Agents: A Bioactivity-Focused Review
(MDPI, 2026-02-20) Lipovanu, Mihaela; Miron, Anca; Filip, Nina; Horhogea, Cristina-Elena; Aprotosoaie, Ana Clara
Despite notable progress in drug discovery, cancer treatment remains hindered by limited therapeutic efficacy, poor target specificity, adverse effects, and the development of drug resistance. Molecular hybridization, which integrates two or more bioactive entities into a single molecule, has shown considerable potential to overcome these limitations. Since both azoles and flavonoids have demonstrated anticancer potential, extensive studies have been undertaken to combine the two entities and enhance the bioactivity of the resulting hybrids. In this context, numerous azole–flavonoid hybrids have been synthesized and investigated for their anticancer potential. This review provides an overview of the azole–flavonoid hybrids that are promising candidates for novel anticancer drug development, highlighting their superior antitumor potency compared to reference drugs, multitarget activity, tumor-selective cytotoxicity, efficacy against drug-resistant tumor cells, and structure–activity relationships. The review covers 250 hybrids, primarily triazole–chalcone hybrids but also triazole–flavone, flavanone, flavonol, and isoflavone hybrids, as well as other azole–flavonoid hybrids (imidazole–, pyrazole–, isoxazole–, and thiazole–flavonoid hybrids).
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
The Role of Spacer Segments in Increasing the Transfection Efficacy of Au-Core Polymeric-Shell Nanoparticulate Gene Vectors
(American Chemical Society, 2026-01-14) Bostiog, Denisse I.; Năstasă, Valentin; Cristina M. Al-Matarneh; Peptanariu, Dragoș; Mareș, Mihai; Pașca, Sorin-Aurelian; Bostănaru Iliescu, Andra-Cristina; Crăciun, Bogdan F.; Vasiliu, Tudor; Puf, Răzvan; Maier, Stelian S.; Pinteală, Mariana
The surface chemistry of gold nanoparticles is a key determinant of their final biological properties. In this study, we investigated the influence of the PEG chain length, positioned between the gold core and the cationic polymer, on the transfection efficiency in HeLa and HGF cell lines. Two types of nonviral vectors were synthesized from the same AuNPs, which were subsequently functionalized with PEG of 1000 and 2500 Da, respectively. Onto these PEG chains, identical copolymeric sequences of PEI2000-PEG500-GA were covalently attached to provide quasi-shielding (via PEG500) and enable tumor targeting/accumulation (via GA). Both vectors demonstrated that such functionalization enhances cellular uptake and targeting specificity while exhibiting excellent DNA delivery efficiency, minimal in vitro cytotoxicity, and no detectable in vivo adverse effects following intravenous administration in animal models. A superior loading capacity was observed when the PEG linked to the gold core was 2500 Da, suggesting a contribution from solvation-driven interactions.
listelement.badge.access-status Open Access ,
Co-encapsulated fluorescent magnetic nanoparticles for potential applications in breast cancer therapy: Exploratory in vitro and in vivo studies
(Elsevier, 2026-04-26) Sandu, Ștefan; Dodi, Gianina; Gardikiotis, Ioannis; Crețu, Bianca-Elena-Beatrice; Luca, Andreea; Cojocaru, Florina Daniela; Vereștiuc, Liliana; Pașca, Sorin-Aurelian; Balan, Vera
This study describes, for the first time in the literature, a suitable approach to develop co-encapsulated magnetic nanoparticles based on fluorescent biotinylated N-palmitoyl chitosan, hydrophobic magnetite, Docetaxel and Verapamil. The multicomponent nanostructures were obtained using a two-step method: ultrasonication-induced self-assembly followed by ionic gelation. Structural composition was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy; the magnetic nanostructures displayed an average hydrodynamic diameter of 322.20 ± 2.50 nm, a positive surface charge (5.63 ± 0.16 mV), good magnetic saturation (13.35 emu/g) and superparamagnetic behavior. In vitro drug release studies revealed a pH-responsive behavior for both encapsulated agents, with an enhanced release of the Verapamil. Cytotoxicity evaluation using live/dead assays on MCF-7 tumor spheroids embedded in collagen-based hydrogels demonstrated a substantial therapeutic effect. Serum interleukin-8 (IL-8) levels were quantified to evaluate systemic inflammatory responses following intravenous administration of drug free magnetic nanoparticles. IL-8 concentrations were considerably increased at day 3, indicating an acute inflammatory response, decreased during the subacute phase (days 7 and 14) and returned to control levels by day 21, demonstrating good biocompatibility. No significant toxicity was observed for magnetic nanoparticles in the rats. Overall, these findings suggest that the developed magnetic nanoplatforms represents a promising candidate for breast cancer applications and merits further in vivo investigation to elucidate the action mechanism of encapsulated therapeutics and their pharmacologic activity.

Browse

Recent Submissions