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Abstract This study explores the potential antibacterial applications of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) enhanced with silver (Ag) using plant gel (ZnO-AgO NPs). The problem addressed is the increasing prevalence of pathogenic bacteria and the need for new, effective antimicrobial agents. ZnO NPs possess distinctive physicochemical properties that enable them to selectively target bacterial cells. Their small size and high surface area-to-volume ratio allow efficient cellular uptake and interaction with bacterial cells. In this study, the average size of the synthesized ZnO-Ag nanoparticles was 77.1 nm, with a significant standard deviation of 33.7 nm, indicating a wide size distribution. The nanoparticles demonstrated remarkable antibacterial efficacy against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, with inhibition zones of 14.33 mm for E. coli and 15.66 mm for B. subtilis at a concentration of 300 µg/ml. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were determined to be 100 µg/ml for E. coli and 75 µg/ml for S. saprophyticus. Additionally, ZnO-Ag NPs exhibited excellent biocompatibility, making them appropriate for various pharmacological uses. This study utilizes Ferula latisecta gels, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to nanoparticle synthesis. Incorporating of Ag into ZnO NPs significantly enhances their antimicrobial properties, with the combined results showing great inhibition effects on pathogenic microbes. The findings suggest that ZnO-Ag NPs could be a promising candidate for addressing the challenges posed by drug-resistant bacterial infections and enhancing antimicrobial treatments.

Abstract Background The immunity induced by primary vaccination is effective against COVID-19; however, booster vaccines are needed to maintain vaccine-induced immunity and improve protection against emerging variants. Heterologous boosting is believed to result in more robust immune responses. This study investigated the safety and immunogenicity of the Razi Cov Pars vaccine (RCP) as a heterologous booster dose in people primed with Beijing Bio-Institute of Biological Products Coronavirus Vaccine (BBIBP-CorV). Methods We conducted a randomized, double-blind, active-controlled trial in adults aged 18 and over primarily vaccinated with BBIBP-CorV, an inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Eligible participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive a booster dose of RCP or BBIBP-CorV vaccines. The primary outcome was neutralizing antibody activity measured by a conventional virus neutralization test (cVNT). The secondary efficacy outcomes included specific IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 spike (S1 and receptor-binding domain, RBD) antigens and cell-mediated immunity. We measured humoral antibody responses at 2 weeks (in all participants) and 3 and 6 months (a subgroup of 101 participants) after the booster dose injection. The secondary safety outcomes were solicited and unsolicited immediate, local, and systemic adverse reactions. Results We recruited 483 eligible participants between December 7, 2021, and January 13, 2022. The mean age was 51.9 years, and 68.1% were men. Neutralizing antibody titers increased about 3 (geometric mean fold increase, GMFI = 2.77, 95% CI 2.26–3.39) and 21 (GMFI = 21.51, 95% CI 16.35–28.32) times compared to the baseline in the BBIBP-CorV and the RCP vaccine groups. Geometric mean ratios (GMR) and 95% CI for serum neutralizing antibody titers for RCP compared with BBIBP-CorV on days 14, 90, and 180 were 6.81 (5.32–8.72), 1.77 (1.15–2.72), and 2.37 (1.62–3.47) respectively. We observed a similar pattern for specific antibody responses against S1 and RBD. We detected a rise in gamma interferon (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and interleukin 2 (IL-2) following stimulation with S antigen, particularly in the RCP group, and the flow cytometry examination showed an increase in the percentage of CD3 + /CD8 + lymphocytes. RCP and BBIBP-CorV had similar safety profiles; we identified no vaccine-related or unrelated deaths. Conclusions BBIBP-CorV and RCP vaccines as booster doses are safe and provide a strong immune response that is more robust when the RCP vaccine is used. Heterologous vaccines are preferred as booster doses. Trial registration This study was registered with the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trial at www.irct.ir , IRCT20201214049709N4. Registered 29 November 2021.

Abstract The Cu3.96Ag0.04 nanoparticles were synthesized using the essence of Foeniculum vulgare Mill for the first time. The particles were fully analysed by conventional characterization methods such as powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS). The results have shown the crystal structure of silver copper particles and the crystallite size obtained by the Scherer equation was 23.2 nm. The TEM images interestingly displayed the formation of nanorods in the solid phase with nearly 5 nm widths and different lengths up to 100 nm. The hydrodynamic size is also compatible with the solid phase and crystallite sizes. Biologically, the particles were tested against infective gram negative and gram positive bacteria. The synthetic NPs show strong antibacterial properties against gram negative bacteria. Also, the synthesized nanoparticles had an inhibitory effect on the growth of cancer cells, which was dose‐ and time‐dependent.

Background: The production of bovine theileriosis vaccine involves in vitro cultivation of Theileria annulata schizont-infected cell lines. Fetal bovine serum (FBS) is commonly used in animal cell culture, including the Theileria cell line. However, we aimed to reduce the amount of serum needed for cell culture by modifying the Stoker culture medium with supplements such as excretion factor and serum substitutes. Methods: To evaluate the effectiveness of these modifications, techniques such as cell counting, cell viability assays, and genomic analysis were employed in the Parasitic Vaccines Production Department of Razi institute of Iran, from 2020 to 2022. Statistical analysis was used to compare the results of different experimental conditions. Results: The three experimental media were as effective as the commonly used 10% Stoker medium in supporting the growth and viability of cells. Conclusion: The significant reduction in the required amount of serum and the remarkable cell growth achieved by using defined serum replacements for the production of cell culture media is a significant step towards the preparation of a proper cell culture medium for the production of bovine Theileriosis vaccine.

Background: We conducted a phase III, non-inferiority trial comparing safety and efficacy of RCP recombinant spike protein Covid-19 vaccine to BBIBP (Sinopharm). Methods: Adult Iranian population received RCP or BBIBP in a randomized, double blind and an additional non-randomized open labeled trial arms. Eligible participants signed a written informed consent and received two intramuscular injections three weeks apart. In the randomized arm, an intranasal dose of vaccine or adjuvant-only preparation were given to the RCP and BBIBP recipients at day 51 respectively. Participants were actively followed for up to 4 months for safety and efficacy outcomes. Primary outcome was PCR + symptomatic Covid-19 disease two weeks after the second dose. The non-inferiority margin was 10% of reported BBIBP vaccine efficacy (HR = 1.36). Results: We recruited 23,110 participants (7224 in the randomized and 15,886 in the non-randomized arm). We observed 604 primary outcome events during 4 months of active follow-up including 121 and 133 in the randomized and 157 and 193 cases in the non-randomized arms among recipients of RCP and BBIBP respectively. Adjusted hazard ratios for the primary outcome in those receiving RCP compared with BBIBP interval were 0.91 (0.71–1.16) and 0.62 (0.49–0.77) in the randomized and non-randomized arms respectively. The upper boundary of 99.1% confidence interval of HR = 0.91 (0.67–1.22) remained below the margin of non-inferiority in the randomized arm after observing the early stopping rules using O'Brien Fleming method. Conclusion: Our study showed that the RCP efficacy is non-inferior and its safety profile is comparable to the BBIBP.

Cerium is an important element whose various biomedical properties have been proven. The purpose of the current study was to fabricate cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO-NPs) using alginate and to investigate their anti-oxidant properties and cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells and human skin fibroblasts. Cerium oxide nanoparticles were first synthesized using alginate, and their characteristics were then determined using XRD, FESEM, DLS, and FITR techniques. The antioxidant capacity of the prepared nanoparticles was measured using the DPPH biochemical method, and cytotoxicity was measured by the MTT method. Also, DAPI staining and annexin PI staining via flow cytometry were used to determine the type of cell death. Our findings indicated that the synthesized nanoparticles had IC50 values of 174, 32.5, and 16.07 µg/mL against the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line at 24, 48, and 72 h after treatment, respectively. Cell cycle assessment via flow cytometry revealed that the nanoparticles affected the ratio of the cells entering the apoptotic phase, supported by DAPI staining results showing the apoptotic activity of the synthesized nanoparticles. In conclusion, our results suggest that CeO-NPs can be considered as potential anti-cancer agents, and they are recommended to be further investigated in animal studies.

Objective(s): Boswellia essential oil possesses bioactive compounds with therapeutic properties. The present study was conducted to evaluate the anti-oxidant and antiangiogenic activities of nanoemulsion prepared from Boswellia essential oil.Materials and Methods: In this study, an oil-in-water nanoemulsion was prepared using the ultrasonic method and Boswellia essential oil (the oil phase) and Tween 80 surfactant, and water (the aqueous phase). Droplet size, dispersion index, and zeta potential of the prepared nanoemulsion were evaluated, and the ability of the nanoemulsion to inhibit DPPH free radicals was measured. Also, the angiogenic activity of the nanoemulsion was investigated using the chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model.Results: The formulated nanoemulsion revealed particles with a spherical shape, average size of 58.29 nm, a dispersion index of 0.29, and a zeta potential of -28.87. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) image of the nanoemulsion shown that the particles were almost uniformly spherical. The anti-oxidant activity of Boswellia essential oil, enclosed in O/W emulsion, was confirmed via the DPPH free radical inhibition assay with an IC50 of 61.92 μg/mL. In addition, the nanoemulsion was shown to inhibit the growth of new vessels in the CAM model, indicating anti-angiogenic effects.Conclusion: Our findings suggest that due to anti-oxidant and anti-angiogenic effects, nanoemulsion loaded with Boswellia essential oil can be used as a therapeutic agent.

A novel nanocomposite containing selenium-gold-chitosan (Se-Au-CS) was prepared and characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–Vis spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The powder X-ray diffraction has shown successful synthesis of Se nanoparticles. To further study the presence of gold nanoparticles, EDX and UV–Vis were used. The morphological studies and grain sizes have revealed polyhedral shapes with a mean particle size of ≈211 nm. The TEM images also indicated the presence of nanoparticles in the CS coating. The Anti-oxidant effects of Se-Au-CS were evaluated using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay. Moreover, in the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay, notable anti-angiogenesis effects were observed for Se-Au-CS. The results of this study demonstrated effective anti-angiogenesis effects of Se-Au-CS were evaluated using CAM assay for the first time. It also indicated the application of Se-Au-CS could be extended to the treatment of various cancer diseases.

Introduction: Many diseases associated with oxidative stress threaten human health, exaggerated by antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections due to the increasing use of antibiotics. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of a nanoemulsion prepared from Artemisia vulgaris essential oil (EO). Methods: Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized in this study. The disk diffusion method, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were used to investigate the antibacterial properties of the synthesized NPs. In addition, the microdilution method was utilized to examine the antimicrobial properties of the synthetic substance. Inhibitory concentrations (MIC and MBC) were determined against Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Finally, the antioxidant activity of the nanoemulsion was evaluated using the 1,1-diphenyl-2- picryl-hydrazyl biochemical method. Results: The findings of this study demonstrated that the synthesized NPs had significant growth inhibitory effects against Gram-positive bacteria with considerable inhibition of growth being observed for S. aureus and M. luteus. Conclusion: In general, Artemisia EO seems to be beneficial for treating bacterial infections owing to its antimicrobial properties and antioxidant effects. Further therapeutic applications of this EO as a potential drug carrier are yet to be divulged in future studies.

Objective(s): The purpose of this work was to estimate the anti-cancer properties of the nanoemulsions synthesized by Zingiber officinale L. tincture against PC3 prostate cancer cells. Materials and Methods: Fresh ginger was initially procured from a local market, and extraction was performed after complete washing. In the next step, a nanoemulsion containing ginger extract was prepared using Tween 80, and its size and zeta potential were determined by a Zetasizer. The prepared nanoemulsion was assessed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to confirm the size and morphology of the particles. The toxicity of the nanoemulsion containing ginger extract against PC3 prostate cancer cells and normal HFF skin cells was evaluated using the MTT assay. To determine apoptosis, flow cytometry was used to assess cell cycle changes. In addition, the antioxidant activity of the nanoemulsion was estimated by DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging tests. Results: The results showed that the prepared nanoparticles had a size of 67 nm (confirmed by TEM electron microscopy) and a zeta potential of -25.05 mV. The results of the MTT assay showed inverse dose-dependent toxicity for different concentrations of ginger nanoemulsion against PC3 cells. In addition to anti-cancer activity, the nanoemulsion showed a potent ability to scavenge DPPH and ABTS free radicals. Conclusion: Our results showed that the nanoemulsions containing ginger extract had toxicity against PC3 cancer cells but not normal cells, indicating their applicability as a suitable option for treating PC.

Abstract Herbal medicines are currently attracting much attention as a potential cancer treatment. Juglans regia’s wide variety of anticancer actions have been demonstrated. The aim of this study is evaluating the cytotoxic and antioxidant effects of walnut oil (J. regia) nanoemulsion (WO‐NE) on CT26 colon cancer cell line. The dimensions and structure of the nanoemulsion were studied by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The 1,1‐Diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) technique was used to determine whether or not the nanoemulsions had any antioxidant properties. The cytotoxic effects of 3‐[4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl‐2‐5‐[diphenyltetrazolium bromide] (MTT) on CT26 colon cancer cells and umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) as normal cells were measured. The DPPH experiment demonstrated that the manufactured nanoemulsion had the ability to scavenge free radicals in a dose‐dependent manner, with an IC50 of approximately 500 µg/mL. The WO‐NE were found to be toxic to both HUVEC and CT26 cancer cells, with an IC50 of 10 ± 2.6 µg/mL for the CT26 and 160 ± 7.1 µg/mL for the HUVEC after 24 h of incubation. For comparison the effects of walnut oil also have been investigated. Due to their antioxidant and anticancer capabilities, the WO‐NE synthesized here have been proposed for future study as potential anti‐tumour agents.

Abstract In this study, an attempt has been made to synthesize nanoemulsions using Trachyspermum ammi tincture. The nanoemulsion specifications are characterized by TEM, DLS, and zeta potential. The anti‐tumour and cell toxicity effects of the biosynthesized nanoemulsions are evaluated by chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and MTT assays, respectively. For the CAM test, the length and number of blood vessels are evaluated around the gelatine sponge. According to DLS analysis, the nanoemulsions synthesized by the T. ammi tincture have an average hydrodynamic size of 34 nm. The cytotoxicity test shows little toxicity for the nanoemulsions against human foreskin fibroblast cells. On the other hand, the fabricated nanoemulsions show dose‐ and time‐dependent toxicity against colon cancer cells (HT‐29) and ovarian cancer cells (A2780) with an IC50 of 14 and 0.72 μg/ml, respectively. According to the CAM assay, the number and length of blood vessels and dose dependency significantly decrease after exposure to different concentrations of the nanoemulsions. In this study, a simple approach for the biosynthesis of nanoemulsions is explained. The nanoemulsions show dose‐dependent cytotoxic effects against HT‐29 colon cancer cells and inhibit the formation of blood vessels. The observed bioeffects indicate the potential of the fabricated nanoemulsions as effective chemotherapeutics for cancer treatment.

Background/Aims: Adropin is a metabolic hormone secreted by the liver, brain, and many peripheral tissues and is involved in energy homeostasis and insulin sensitivity. Some reports have indicated a significant decrease in serum adropin levels in type 2 diabetic patients. However, the significance of a decline in adropin level in early detection of diabetic nephropathy (DN) remains to be clarified. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the serum levels of adropin in patients with type 2 diabetes with and without nephropathy. Methods: A total of 135 unrelated subjects (including 45 diabetic patients with nephropathy, 45 without nephropathy, and 45 healthy controls) were enrolled in this study. Fasting venous blood samples were collected from all patients. Serum adropin levels of all cases were analyzed by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. The correlations of serum adropin levels with anthropometric and biochemistry variables were determined. Logistic regression was performed to assess the association of adropin with odds of nephropathy. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was obtained to explore the optimum serum adropin concentration in distinguishing diabetic patients with and without nephropathy. Results: Diabetic patients with nephropathy showed lower serum adropin levels than those in patients without nephropathy and healthy controls (p < 0.001). Pearson correlation analysis indicated that serum adropin was negatively correlated with BMI, FBS, HbA1c, blood urea, creatinine, LDL, and ACR and positively correlated with HDL and albumin. Logistic regression analysis showed that serum adropin was correlated with decreased risk of developing diabetic nephropathy. Moreover, in ROC analysis, at cutoff value 3.20 (mg/dL) with an AUC = 0.830, adropin had 80% sensitivity and 60% specificity for distinguishing the diabetic nephropathy. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that decreased level of adropin is associated with renal dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Serum adropin concentrations may be used as a biomarker for early detection of diabetic nephropathy.

Abstract Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) comprise non‐toxic surface‐active lipidic agents combined with appropriate ratios of drugs or essential oils. The goal of this research was to investigate the effects of the SLN synthesised using essential oils of Foeniculum vulgare on the MCF‐7 breast cancer cell line. SLNs were prepared by homogenisation and ultrasound techniques and characterised by dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential assessment, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay (MTT assay), flow‐cytometry, and Acridine‐Orange assay were employed for assessing the biological activities of the SLNs. The average particle size was 55.43 nm and the net surface charge was −29.54 ± 11.67 mV. TEM showed that the mean particle size was 33.55 nm and the synthesised SLNs had a uniform round morphology. The MTT assay showed that the prepared SLNs had high toxicity against MCF‐7 cells and low toxicity against normal HUVECs cells. Flow‐cytometry revealed a noteworthy rise in the subG1 peak of the cell cycle in the cancer cells treated with SLNs compared to the controls, indicating apoptosis in cancer cells. The results also showed discolouration in SLNs‐treated cells, which further confirmed the induction of apoptosis and the toxicity of the SLNs against MCF‐7 cells.

Saffron is a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus L. The present study reports the antioxidant capacity and chemical compositions of various parts of saffron. The IC50 for stigma, style, stamen, petal and corm was found to be 4.94 ± 0.25, 123.68 ± 8.52, 58.97 ± 3.63, 46.02 ± 2.89 and 720.49 ± 14.32 μg/mL, respectively. The ferric reducing antioxidant power assay for these parts of saffron flower was determined and the stigma of saffron has the highest (2.36 ± 0.15 g Fe+2/100 g sample) and the corm of saffron has the lowest value (0.03 ± 0.001 g Fe+2/100 g sample). The Folin-Ciocalteu method was used to estimate the total phenolic content and the highest amount was found in stigma (183.25 ± 16.42 g quercetin/100 g sample) and the lowest amount in style of saffron (3.72 ± 0.89 g quercetin/100 g sample) respectively. The stigma and stamen of saffron were found to have 597.67 ± 11.12 and 159.14 ± 5.03 μg/g sample of carotenoid content which is highest among the selected parts of saffron. The aim of this study was to provide information about all of the saffron flower parts.

Introduction: Cancer can be defined as an illness of reformed gene expression. There are numerous agents affecting gene expression and altering cellular activities. Nanotechnology has offered the possibility of modulating tumor suppressor genes’ expression, improving kinetics of gene-targeted therapeutics, and simplifying drug delivery to tumors and across bio-complexes.Methods: Gene expressions of caspase3, 8 and 9, Bax and Bcl2 were assessed after RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in an ovarian cancerous cell line (A2780). Real-time PCR was employed to determine the change fold of apoptotic genes in the cells exposed to the biosynthesized CeO2-NPs (cerium oxide nanoparticles) at the dose of 0, 7, 9, and 11 μg/mL after 24 hours of incubation. Results: Our findings displayed a significant increase in the antioxidant genes’ expression in the A2870 cells. The results exhibited that the biosynthesized CeO2-NPs could enhance the Bax/Bcl2 ratio in a dose-dependent way. Also, the expression of caspase3, 8, and 9 up-regulated significantly under the dose of 11 μg/mL.Conclusion: Considering the effects of the bio-fabricated CeO2-NPs on the expression of apoptotic genes in ovarian cancerous cell lines, these nanoparticles (NPs) may be employed in pharmacology to develop new anti-cancer medications.

Several vaccine candidates for COVID-19 have been developed, and few vaccines received emergency approval with an acceptable level of efficacy and safety. We herein report the development of the first recombinant protein-based vaccine in Iran based on the recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in its monomeric (encompassing amino acid 1-674 for S1 and 685-1211 for S2 subunits) and trimer form (S-Trimer) formulated in the oil-in-water adjuvant system RAS-01 (Razi Adjuvant System-01). The safety and immunity of the candidate vaccine, referred to as RAZI-COV PARS, were evaluated in Syrian hamster, BALB/c mice, Pirbright guinea pig, and New Zeeland white (NZW) rabbit. All vaccinated animals received two intramuscular (IM) and one intranasal (IN) candidate vaccine at 3-week intervals (days 0, 21, and 51). The challenge study was performed intranasally with 5×106 pfu of SARS-CoV-2 35 days post-vaccination. None of the vaccinated mice, hamsters, guinea pigs, or rabbits showed any changes in general clinical observations; body weight and food intake, clinical indicators, hematology examination, blood chemistry, and pathological examination of vital organs. Safety of vaccine after the administration of single and repeated dose was also established. Three different doses of candidate vaccine stimulated remarkable titers of neutralizing antibodies, S1, Receptor-Binding Domain (RBD), and N-terminal domain (NTD) specific IgG antibodies as well as IgA antibodies compared to placebo and control groups (P

Objective(s): Today, the use of medicinal plants for treating cancer is extremely important. Over the past few years, the anti-cancer properties of Nigella Sativa L. have been proven. The aim of the present study was to evaluate, the cytotoxic effect of a nanoemulsion synthesized using N. Sativa L. tincture, against a cancerous cell line as well as its and free radical scavenging activities.Materials and Methods: The size and zeta potential of the nanoemulsion were determined using particle size analyzer and morphological shape of nano emulsion was visualized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The antioxidant activity of nanoemulsions was investigated by the DPPH assay. Cytotoxic effects of the nanoemulsions were assessed by MTT method against A2780 ovarian cancer and umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) as normal cells. To evaluate the probable molecular mechanism of cell death, acridine orange and propidium iodide staining methods were used for identifying apoptotic cells. Results: The results obtained from this study showed that the synthesized nanoemulsion had a good and dose-dependent radical scavenging capacity in the DPPH assay (IC50 of about 47μg/ml). Also, the nanoemulsion significantly reduced the bioavailability of A2780 cancerous cells (IC50 of 0.72 μg/ml); however, its toxicity against HUVEC cells was much lower (IC50 > 25 μg/ml). The pro-apoptotic effect of the produced nanoemulsion was confirmed by acridine orange and propidium iodide staining.Conclusion: Nano emulsions synthesized by N. Sativa L. tincture has a relevant potential antioxidant and anticancer effects and therefore they can be considered and studied as anticancer compounds in future experiments.

Objective(s): Nowadays, nanotechnology has offered great success in resolving concerns in cancer therapy and created a new interdisciplinary field of study incorporating various sciences, such as biology, chemistry and medicine. Apoptosis is a conserved and controlled strategy in regulating cellular growth and proliferation, as well as preserving development and general homeostasis of the body. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) are the most important and widely used nanoparticles. This study aimed to evaluate the apoptosis-inducing properties of the synthesized ZnO-NPs by aqueous extract of Rubia tinctorum against the MCF7 breast cancer cell line. Materials and Methods: Zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using Rubia tinctorum extract and characterized by some methods including dynamic light scattering (DLS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and x-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). Apoptosis was measured by the Hoechst and Acridine-Orange/Propodium Iodide staining, as well as flow cytometry. Results: The results of this study showed that the particle size of biosynthesized ZnO-NPs using R.tinctorum extract was about 40 nm and had a spherical morphology. The obtain results of the Hoechst and Acridine-Orange/Propodium Iodide staining, as well as flow cytometry showed that biosynthesized ZnO-NPs effectively and dose-dependently induced apoptosis in the MCF7 breast cancer cells.Conclusion: Therefore, the biosynthesized ZnO-NPs by watery extract of R. tinctorum can be used in the treatment of many diseases, including cancers.

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the safety and immunogenicity of a combined intramuscular/intranasal recombinant spike protein COVID-19 vaccine (RCP). Methods: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase I trial. Three vaccine strengths were compared with an adjuvant-only preparation. It included two intramuscular and a third intranasal dose. Eligible participants were followed for adverse reactions. Specific IgG, secretory IgA, neutralizing antibodies, and cell-mediated immunity were assessed. Results: A total of 153 participants were enrolled (13 sentinels, 120 randomized, 20 non-randomized open-labeled for IgA assessment). No related serious adverse event was observed. The geometric mean ratios (GMRs) and 95% CI for serum neutralizing antibodies compared with placebo two weeks after the second injection were 5.82 (1.46–23.13), 11.12 (2.74–45.09), and 20.70 (5.05–84.76) in 5, 10, and 20 µg vaccine groups, respectively. The GMR for anti-RBD IgA in mucosal fluid two weeks after the intranasal dose was 23.27 (21.27–25.45) in the 10 µg vaccine group. The humoral responses were sustained for up to five months. All vaccine strengths indicated a strong T-helper 1 response. Conclusion: RCP is safe and creates strong and durable humoral and cellular immunity and good mucosal immune response in its 10 µg /200 µL vaccine strengths. Trial registration: IRCT20201214049709N1.

Background: Plants comprise great antioxidant sources as a result of their redox and biochemical components, which are rich in secondary metabolites such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and other constituents. Haplophyllum obtusifolium from polygonaceae is widely used for preventing and managing diabetes. This study investigated the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) biosynthesized by H. obtusifolium. Methods: The aerial parts of H. obtusifolium were gathered from the north of Khorasan Razavi province, Iran and desiccated at the chamber temperature. The shoots were powdered by grinding, 5 g of the powder was mixed with 250 mL of deionized water, and the resultant blend was then filtered. Bactericidal properties and antioxidant activity of the nanoparticles were assessed using disk diffusion and DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) tests, respectively. Results: The results of this study showed that the biosynthesized nanoparticles exhibited antibacterial activity against a gram-negative (Klebsiella pneumoniae) bacterium, but they had no effects on gram-positive Staphylococcus epidermidis. Antioxidant test results showed that these nanoparticles were capable of eliminating DPPH radicals in a concentration-dependent manner so that a more potent antioxidant activity was seen in higher concentrations of the nanoparticles. Conclusion: Our results suggested that H. obtusifolium can be used as a key source of antioxidants/ antimicrobial agents in food and pharmaceutical industries.

The Zinc-doped cerium oxide nanocomposite (ZnO/CeO2 NC) was synthesized using a metal-organic framework as a precursor through the combustion method. It was characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive analysis (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and ξ-potential. The PXRD demonstrated the successful synthesis of ZnO/CeO2 NC with a crystallite size of 31.9 nm. FESEM and TEM images displayed hexagonal and spherical morphologies, and the solid-phase size was 65.03 ± 30.86 nm for ZnO/CeO2 NCs. DLS, TEM, and FESEM showed that the NCs have a high tendency for agglomeration/aggregation in both aqueous media and solid phase. The anticancer attributes of ZnO/CeO2 NC were investigated against Liver cancer cells (HepG2), which showed inhibition of cancer cell growth on a concentration-dependent gradient. The cell toxicity effects of ZnO/CeO2 nanocomposites were also studied toward NIH-3T3, in which the data displayed the lower toxicity of NC compared to the HepG2 cell line.

Introduction: Free radicals have singlet electron in their outer layer rendering them high reactivity against biomolecules (i.e., DNA, carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids). Oxidative stress is created when the production of free radicals exceeds their removal by antioxidant systems and is involved in the pathogenesis of several diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, inflammatory conditions, and various cancers. Regarding the therapeutic potential of nanoparticles (NPs) in human diseases, the purpose of this study was to synthesize cerium oxide NPs using Origanum majorana leaf extract. Methods: Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 -NPs) were synthesized using aqueous leaf extract of O. majorana. The sizes of NPs were characterized by a particle size analyzer. The antioxidant properties of the CeO2 -NPs were determined by Ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The anti-inflammatory effects of the NPs were also determined by measuring gene expressions of IL-1β and IL-10 using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: The CeO2 -NPs were successfully synthesized using O. majorana leaf extract. The results of FRAP assay showed that the anti-oxidant activities of CeO2 -NPs at concentrations of 50, 100, and 400 μg/mL were 75%, 77.1%, and 94.5%, respectively. Moreover, interleukin 10 (IL-10) gene expressions increased by 4.6 folds while the expression of IL-1β gene decreased by 0.75-fold in HUVECs. Conclusion: The CeO2 -NPs synthesized using the aqueous extract of O. majorana demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, these NPs can be used as potential therapeutic agents in medicine.

The conversion of a protein from its native conformation to the pathogenic form is a critical event in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s (AD), Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases, along with type II diabetic mellitus. Although there are several reports on the mechanism of protein aggregation, the actual conformation playing a part in the pathogenicity is yet unclear. Accordingly, the present study summarizes the early pathogenic conformation resulting in several protein aggregations. It is well-documented that a pre-molten globule (MG) structure appears at the early stages of some proteins. Pre-MG is one of the intermediate structures, which is formed during some protein unfolding processes. In addition, it is shown that the pre-molten structure is more flexible than the mature MG one and thus, protein easily rearranges to form amyloid fibrils in this conformation. Therefore, protein aggregation is halted by preventing the pre-MG structure. The strategy of protein aggregation prevention has profound implications in fighting the devastating disorder.

Background: Drug resistance due to genetic variations renders many therapeutic methods such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy unsuccessful in eradicating cancerous cells. Nowadays, application of nanoparticles (NPs) has been promising in destroying cancerous cells without side effects on normal cells. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and anticancer effects of biosynthesized cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 -NPs) on a hepatic carcinoma cell line. Methods: MTT assay was used to determine the cytotoxicity of CeO2 -NPs in concentrations of 0, 15.6, 31.2, 62.5, 125, and 250 μg/mL after 24, 48, and 72 hours of incubation. Moreover, the expression levels of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) (the antioxidant genes) were investigated at different concentrations of CeO2 -NPs using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: Our results showed a significant toxicity of the synthesized NPs against the cancerous liver cells. The IC50 calculated for CeO2 -NPs was 500 μg/mL at 24 hours of incubation. In addition, the expression levels of CAT and SOD significantly (P

Introduction: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have grabbed special attention owing to their exclusive structural features. Green synthesis (i.e., plant-mediated) of AgNPs is an efficient and cost-effective method with widespread clinical applications. Therefore, the present study aimed to synthesize AgNPs based on green synthesis method employing the seed extracts of Amaranthus cruentus and to investigate the antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of the biosynthesized AgNPs. Methods: The Ag-NPs were biologically synthesized using the A. cruentus extract which served as a reducing agent. Then, the synthesized Ag-NPs were visualized by transmission electron microscopy. Next, the antioxidant activity of the synthesized Ag-NPs was evaluated by DPPH and ABTS methods. Finally, the cytotoxicity of AgNPs was investigated against MCF-7 breast cancer cell line using MTT assay. Results: The mean diameter of the synthesized Ag-NPs ranged from 20 to 40 nm. In addition, the IC50 of free radical scavenging activity of the Ag-NPs were obtained as 500 µg/mL (DPPH) and 400 µg/mL (ABTS). Further, the AgNPs showed time and dose-dependent cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells. Eventually, at the 24-hour exposition to the 80 µg/mL dose of AgNPs, the viability of cancerous cells was 19% plunging to 2.03% and 1.9% after 48 hours and 72 hours, respectively. Conclusion: In general, plant extracts can serve as facile and eco-friendly alternatives to hazardous methods for synthesizing the metal nanoparticles. Therefore, the A. cruentus biosynthesized AgNPs can be utilized in medicine for various purposes due to their low toxicity and appropriate antioxidant activity.

A copper oxide/cerium oxide nanocomposite (CuO/CeO2, NC) was synthesized via a novel method using a metal–organic framework as a precursor. This nanomaterial was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering size analysis (DLS), and zeta potential. The PXRD showed the successful synthesis of the CuO/CeO2 NC, in which the 2theta values of 35.55° (d = 2.52 Å, 100%) and 38.73° (d = 2.32 Å, 96%) revealed the existence of copper (II) oxide. FTIR analysis showed the CeO2, hydroxyl groups, absorbed water, and some residual peaks. The solid phase analysis by FESEM and TEM images showed mean particle sizes of 49.18 ± 24.50 nm and 30.58 ± 26.40 nm, respectively, which were comparable with crystallite size (38.4 nm) obtained from PXRD, but it appears the CuO/CeO2 NC was not evenly distributed and in some areas, showed it was highly agglomerated. The hydrodynamic size (750.5 nm) also showed the agglomeration of the CuO/CeO2 NCs in the solution, which had a negatively charged surface. The CuO/CeO2 NCs showed anti-proliferative activity against human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) in a dose- and time-dependence way, while affecting normal cells less significantly.

In this study, the biosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Aspergillus niger (A/ZnO-NPs) is described. These particles have been characterized by UV–Vis spectrum analysis, X-ray powder diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. To use this biosynthesized nanoparticle as an antiproliferative and antimicrobial agent, the IC50 value against the breast cancer cell line and inhibition zone against Escherichia coli were used to optimize the effect of two processing factors including dose of filtrate fungi cell and temperature. The biosynthesized A/ZnO-NPs had an absorbance band at 320 nm and spherical shapes. The mean particles size was 35 nm. RSM (response surface methodology) was utilized to investigate the outcome responses. The Model F-value of 12.21 and 7.29 implies that the model was significant for both responses. The contour plot against inhibition zone for temperature and dose showed that if the dose increases from 3.8 to 17.2 µg/mL, the inhibition zone increases up to 35 mm. As an alternative to chemical and/or physical methods, biosynthesizing zinc oxide NPs through fungi extracts can serve as a more facile and eco-friendly strategy. Additionally, for optimization of the processes, the outcome responses in the biomedical available test can be used in the synthesis of ZnO-NPs that are utilized for large-scale production in various medical applications.