Quantum dots (QDs) have diverse applications, ranging from optics and energy to biomedical. In this study,
carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were synthesized using glucose and tryptophan as precursors using one-step
microwave (MW) and sand bath (SB) thermal methods, and the CQDs exhibit distinct photoluminescence
behaviors. CQD-SB shows enhanced and stable fluorescence despite its amorphous structure, likely due
to prolonged thermal treatment, facilitating the formation of robust surface states and stable reaction
products. Notably, CQD-SB generates a dual emissive bands activated at both shorter and longer
excitation wavelengths (330–390 nm) reveals both core-localized and surface bound group emission.
This stable dual emission suggests a hybrid fluorescence mechanism involving excitation, concentration
and size-dependent effects. However, CQD-MW possesses a partially crystalline structure and exhibits
excitation-dependent dual emission even at higher excitation energies, showing less stability. This
behavior of CQD-MW is due to rapid carbonization and limited passivation owing to instant microwave
heating. Fluorescence staining reveals that CQD-SB offers stronger and more stable blue and green
emission in human buccal and onion epidermal cells, supporting its potential as an efficient bioimaging
probe and alternative to synthetic dyes.

Glioblastoma is a type of glioma with a low incidence but a high mortality rate due to its malignancy. Current treatments for glioblastoma focus on surgery followed by chemotherapy; however, the systemic administration of antineoplastic drugs damages healthy tissues. For this reason, research is being conducted into their local application and controlled release. Local administration, in conjunction with adjuvant therapies such as photodynamic therapy (PDT), can enhance the therapeutic effect.

Previously, electrospun polymeric nanofibers based on derivates of poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic anhydride) (PMVEMA) were developed and characterized as efficient drug delivery systems for antineoplastic agents such as doxorubicin (DOX) and carmustine (BCNU). These materials showed encapsulation efficiencies above 80% and a rapid drug release profile, analyzed by HPLC. The passively released drug exhibited a greater therapeutic effect than its free form after 24 hours on glioblastoma patient-derived cell lines (HGUE-GB), while showing low toxicity in human astrocytes. Building on these results, the current work focuses on the functionalization of PMVEMA with photosensitizers (porphyrins) for PDT. Functionalized porphyrins were successfully synthesized and conjugated to PMVEMA (PMVEMA-PS) through a carbodiimide-mediated, microwave-assisted reaction. The coupling was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and UV–Vis spectroscopy, yielding a functionalization degree of 54% (w/w). The resulting photoactive polymers are currently being evaluated in glioblastoma spheroids derived from HGUE-GB lines to assess their phototoxic effect and singlet oxygen generation under irradiation.

The functionalized polymers obtained will be incorporated into PMVEMA nanofiber delivery systems together with the antineoplastic drugs. Future studies combining photodynamic therapy and drug release will be conducted in glioblastoma spheroids to evaluate their effect on the tumor microenvironment.

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-based biosensors have attracted considerable interest in biomedical applications due to their exceptional sensitivity, non-destructive nature, and inherent multiplexing capability. The effective translation of SERS into bioanalytical platforms relies on strong electromagnetic enhancement from plasmonic nanostructures, coupled with efficient probe–target interactions, to enable trace-level detection of disease-related biomolecules. In this study, we report the fabrication of SERS nanotags composed of gold nanorods (AuNRs) functionalized with Raman reporter molecules and specific targeting ligands for biomarker detection. AuNRs are well suited for SERS biosensing owing to their strong optical absorption and scattering properties. First, AuNR-based SERS nanotags incorporating Raman reporters and cell-specific aptamers were developed for cervical cancer cell detection, demonstrating high selectivity. Second, a highly sensitive and selective strategy for the determination of miR-29a, a cancer-associated microRNA biomarker, was achieved using SERS nanotags in combination with magnetic separation, enabling detection in the picomolar concentration range. Finally, SERS nanotags were constructed for the analysis of glycated human serum albumin (GHSA), a protein biomarker of diabetes mellitus, achieving nanogram-level detection limits. Collectively, these results highlight the strong potential, feasibility, and versatility of AuNR-based SERS biosensors as robust platforms for sensitive and selective biomolecular analysis in medical diagnostics and monitoring.

Liposomes are among the most widely used nanocarriers owing to their high biocompatibility and biodegradability, with extensive applications in drug delivery, vaccine development, nucleic acid transport, diagnostic imaging, and dermal therapy. Although liposomal nanoformulations are versatile, their development is greatly hampered by inherent complexity and the sensitivity of their physicochemical properties to preparation methods. Predictive, data-driven strategies that quantitatively link molecular structure to physicochemical behavior are therefore essential for overcoming inefficient trial-and-error experimentation and enabling the rational design and application of liposomal nanocarriers. In this study, we adapt a computational methodological workflow originally developed for hard multicomponent nanomaterials to soft nano-mixtures (i.e., from metal-based to liposomes). To this end, eight mathematical formulations were employed to calculate complex nanodescriptors describing liposomes composed of multiple lipids at defined molar fractions (covering 18 different lipid types). These nanodescriptors were combined with a genetic algorithm and three machine learning methods, i.e., k-nearest neighbors, support vector regression, and kernel-weighted local polynomial regression, to develop nano-quantitative structure-property relationship models for predicting liposomal zeta potential, a key indicator of colloidal stability. Among all models, the combination of square-root-fraction weighted mean nanodescriptor and k-nearest neighbors achieved the highest performance (R² = 0.919, RMSE_C = 10.157, Q²_CVloo = 0.876, RMSE_CVloo = 12.572, Q²_Ext= 0.854, RMSE_Ext = 12.046), accurately capturing the complex relationships between liposomal molecular features and their zeta potential. Permutation importance analysis revealed that liposomal zeta potential depends on interfacial surface characteristics (especially the extent of highly electrotopological regions), lipophilicity, charge distribution, and overall molecular complexity. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that a multicomponent nanodescriptor methodology can be successfully transferred from hard to soft nanomaterials, establishing a computational framework for the rational design of stable liposomal nanocarriers. The proposed approach is readily extensible to other soft nano-mixtures, thereby accelerating the development of functional nanosystems, particularly in biomedical applications.

Platinum-based chemotherapeutics remain the backbone breast cancer treatment. Nevertheless, their clinical efficacy is frequently limited by systemic toxicity, drug resistance, and poor selectivity. We synthesized Asplatin, a platinum(IV) prodrug, by conjugating cisplatin with acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), to combine the DNA-damaging activity of platinum with the anti-inflammatory and chemosensitizing properties of aspirin. This offers synergistic anticancer potential. Nevertheless, the systemic premature reduction of asplatin and its limited tumor-specific activation hinder its therapeutic translation. In this work, we engineered thermo-responsive nanoliposomes encapsulating asplatin to enable hyperthermia-triggered drug release and enhanced anticancer efficacy against triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Nanoliposomes, composed of DPPC, DSPE-PEG2000, and cholesterol were statistically optimized using a Box–Behnken design. The produced nanoscale vesicles have an average size of 114.1 ± 1.6 nm, low dispersity (PDI = 0.15 ± 0.02), and high drug entrapment efficiency (84.1 ± 2.8%). The optimized formulation exhibited excellent stability at physiological temperature and a pronounced heat-triggered release profile, with minimal drug leakage at 37 °C and rapid release reaching approximately 90% at 40 °C. In vitro evaluation in MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cells revealed that hyperthermia-activated asplatin-loaded liposomes significantly improved cytotoxicity, achieving an IC₅₀ of 0.9 mg mL⁻¹, in contrast to 3.83 mg mL⁻¹ for free asplatin under identical thermal conditions. This corresponds to a four-fold increase in anticancer potency. Mechanistically, the hybrid cisplatin–aspirin prodrug delivered via thermo-responsive liposomes strongly activated the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, as evidenced by significant upregulation of Bak (5.6-fold), Bax (7.2-fold), and P53 (1.3-fold), coupled with significant reduction of BCL-2 and BCL-xL (up to 85%). Overall, this study highlights the therapeutic potential of combining cisplatin–aspirin synergy with heat-triggered nanodelivery, offering a promising approach to boost platinum-based chemotherapy while minimizing off-target toxicity in aggressive breast cancers.

Inflammatory skin diseases remain a significant therapeutic challenge due to their chronic course, tendency to relapse, and the need for long-term topical treatment. In response to these limitations, the present study focuses on developing a novel dermatological hydrogel intended as a carrier for lipid-based nanoformulations containing plant-derived active compounds with anti-inflammatory potential.

The hydrogel matrix was designed through qualitative and quantitative optimization of the gelling agent and preservative system. Preservatives were selected based on compliance with the preservative efficacy test defined in the European Pharmacopoeia. Physicochemical characterization of the base included measurements of pH, density, and viscosity. Rheological analysis confirmed a non‑Newtonian behavior with pseudoplastic traits, as indicated by the viscosity–shear rate relationship in a plate–plate measurement system (25 °C). The pH values remained unchanged during a two-month storage period under both room and refrigerated conditions.

Subsequently, lipid nanoformulations encapsulating a mixture of active pharmaceutical ingredients were incorporated into the hydrogel. The process led to gel thickening, highlighting the importance of selecting an appropriate gelling agent concentration during the initial testing phase. Despite this, the final formulation demonstrated a homogeneous structure and suitable consistency for topical application. Cryo-TEM imaging and nanoparticle tracking analysis verified the presence and integrity of nanoparticles within the hydrogel matrix. The final hydrogel demonstrated stability with respect to pH and visual appearance throughout the storage period (2 months at 4 °C and 25 °C), supporting its potential application in dermatological therapy for inflammatory skin disorders. The developed system constitutes a promising platform for further biological and pharmacological evaluation.

Funding: Research aimed at developing a new, innovative pharmaceutical form for the topical treatment of psoriasis vulgaris is being implemented as part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, as part of Investment D3.1.1 Comprehensive development of research in medical sciences and health sciences, reference number: 2024/ABM/03/KPO/KPOD.07.07-IW.07-0043/24-00.

Hybrid nanostructures combining magnetic nanoparticles with metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) represent a promising approach for developing multifunctional platforms for advanced cancer theranostics. In this work, a γ-Fe₂O₃/ZIF-8 composite was synthesized via a stepwise seeded-growth strategy, enabling controlled growth of ZIF-8 onto pre-formed flower-like γ-Fe₂O₃ nanoflowers. X-ray diffraction confirmed the coexistence of both crystalline phases, while electron microscopy and elemental mapping revealed a well-defined hybrid architecture with homogeneous distribution of magnetic and MOF components. Magnetic measurements showed that the composite retains superparamagnetic behavior, with a reduced saturation magnetization (≈30 emu g⁻¹) compared to pure γ-Fe₂O₃ (≈75 emu g⁻¹), attributed to dilution by the non-magnetic ZIF-8 phase. Despite this reduction, the hybrid nanostructure exhibits efficient heat generation under an alternating magnetic field. The specific loss power depends on field amplitude and frequency and deviates from Linear Response Theory predictions, likely due to particle size distribution and magnetic interactions within the nanoflower structure. Importantly, the composite rapidly reaches therapeutically relevant temperatures (42–45 °C), confirming suitability for magnetic hyperthermia. The ZIF-8 component demonstrates excellent radiolabeling capability with the therapeutic radionuclide ¹⁶¹Tb, achieving yields above 94%. The γ-Fe₂O₃/ZIF-8 composite shows similarly high labeling yields (>95%) and outstanding radiochemical stability over 14 days, while pure γ-Fe₂O₃ exhibits significantly lower labeling efficiency (~50%). These results indicate that ZIF-8 plays a crucial role in radionuclide binding. Consequently, γ-Fe₂O₃/ZIF-8 hybrid nanostructures function as a single theranostic carrier integrating magnetic hyperthermia and stable radionuclide delivery, enabling synergistic treatment strategies where hyperthermia enhances therapeutic efficacy of radionuclide therapy.

Acknowledgement

This research was supported by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia, Grant No. 7282, Project title "Design of radioactive magnetic nanoconstructs for tumour therapy by synergy of nanobrachytherapy and magnetic hyperthermia" (Acronym: RADIOMAG).

Quantum dots are semiconductor nanocrystals which can be organic- (carbon-based) or inorganic-based and have unique properties such as good chemical and photostability and fluorescence. Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) possess the attributes of photoluminescence, easy functionalization, biocompatibility, and adjustable size properties. CQDs are used in bioimaging (in vitro and in vivo), biosensors, drug delivery, and cancer diagnostics fields.

In this experiment, the microwave-assisted pyrolysis technique is used to synthesize CQDs from Turkish coffee ground waste, which remains at the bottom of the cup. Turkish coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in Turkey and differs from other coffees in its brewing and preparation method. The aim of this study is to recycle Turkish coffee ground waste as the main carbon source and use it for the green synthesis of CQDs.

In the study, collected Turkish coffee ground waste was dried in an oven at 80°C. The dried Turkish coffee ground waste was then roasted at different levels, at 250 °C for 0, 5, 10, 15 minutes, to observe the effect of the roasting level of the waste on the properties of the CQDs. The most optimized CQD synthesis conditions were then selectedin terms of time (30–120 minutes) and the four different ethanol concentrations at 220 °C at 600 rpm. The synthesized CQDs were then characterized using FTIR, DLS, TEM, SEM, EDS, and UV-Vis instruments and Zeta Potential analysis was conducted after purification using a dialysis membrane, and the optimal synthesis parameters were selected for each roasting level accordingly. The effect of the CQDs on the cell viability was tested on HepG2, MCF-7, and HEK293 cell lines uisng the CCK-8 assay, and the cellular localization of the CQDs was assessed utilizing a fluorescent microscope.

Psoriasis is a prevalent, chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects approximately 3% of the global population. While 20-hydroxyecdysone, a compound with recognized immunomodulatory effects, shows potential as a therapeutic agent, its low topical bioavailability limits its efficacy. Nanoformulations, such as niosomes, offer a promising solution to enhance the delivery of this compound. Niosomes, composed of lipids and surfactants, present several advantages, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, low production costs, and ease of large-scale manufacturing. These attributes make them an attractive option for enhancing the topical delivery of 20-hydroxyecdysone in the treatment of psoriasis.

This study aimed to characterize and evaluate niosomal formulations with different compositions of surfactants and cholesterol for the encapsulation of 20-hydroxyecdysone. The formulations were prepared using the thin-film hydration method, followed by sonication to achieve a uniform particle distribution. Characterization was performed using a Zetasizer Nano ZS for particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential measurements, an osmometer for osmolarity determination, and a pH meter for pH measurements. Encapsulation efficiency was determined using HPLC.

The resulting niosomal formulations exhibited favorable physicochemical properties and demonstrated good stability. The formulations showed an osmolarity of approximately 290 mOsm/kg and a pH of roughly 7, both of which are well-suited for potential topical skin applications.

The composition of the niosomal formulations and their proportions were found to influence properties, suggesting the possibility of further optimizing the formulation. These results provide support for the continued investigation of niosome-based delivery systems for 20-hydroxyecdysone in the treatment of psoriasis.

Funding: Research aimed at developing a new, innovative pharmaceutical form for the topical treatment of psoriasis vulgaris is being implemented as part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, as part of Investment D3.1.1 Comprehensive development of research in medical sciences and health sciences, reference number: 2024/ABM/03/KPO/KPOD.07.07-IW.07-0043/24-00.

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that significantly impairs patients’ quality of life and requires long-term treatment. Despite the availability of topical, systemic, and biological therapies, their effectiveness is often limited by adverse effects, insufficient skin penetration, high costs, and interindividual variability in therapeutic response. Consequently, there is a growing need for novel topical delivery systems that improve efficacy and safety. One promising bioactive compound is 20-hydroxyecdysone (20-HE), a naturally occurring ecdysteroid found in plants and arthropods. Although it is not hormonally active in humans, 20-HE exhibits beneficial biological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, regenerative, and cytoprotective effects. Due to its physicochemical characteristics, advanced carrier systems are required to enhance its stability and skin delivery. Liposomes and ethosomes are lipid-based nanocarriers known for their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and suitability for topical applications.

Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to develop, optimize, and compare two nanoformulations—liposomes and ethosomes—containing 20-HE, with a focus on formulation design, preparation methods, and stability evaluation.

Materials and methods: Liposomal and ethosomal formulations were prepared using phospholipids with different degrees of purification, 20-HE, aqueous media, and ethanol in the case of ethosomes. Reference formulations without the active substance were also developed. Various preparation techniques were applied and optimized. The obtained nanoformulations were characterized in terms of physicochemical properties and evaluated for stability under controlled storage conditions.

Conclusions: The study demonstrated the feasibility of developing stable liposomal and ethosomal nanoformulations containing 20-HE. Lipid-based nanocarriers represent a promising strategy for improving topical delivery of 20-HE and provide a foundation for further research into their potential dermatological applications.

Funding: This work was funded by grant No. 2024/ABM/03/KPO/KPOD.07.07-IW.07-0043/24-00 from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, Poland.