Papers

Artificial engineering of the protein corona at bio-nano interfaces for improved cancer-targeted nanotherapy

Researchers reviewed how engineering the protein corona — the layer of proteins that coats nanoparticles in biological fluids — through modifications like PEGylation and protein pre-coating can improve nanoparticle targeting for cancer drug delivery by controlling how immune cells recognize and clear the particles.

Toxic effects on enzymatic activity, gene expression and histopathological biomarkers in organisms exposed to microplastics and nanoplastics: a review

This review summarizes research from 2016 to 2021 on how microplastics and nanoplastics affect enzymatic activity, gene expression, and tissue structure across various organisms. Researchers found that these plastic particles can disrupt normal enzyme function, alter gene regulation, and cause visible tissue damage in species ranging from fish to mammals. The study identifies these biological markers as valuable tools for assessing the health impacts of plastic particle exposure.

Dental microplastics as emerging neurotoxicants: a systematic review on human data

This research review looked at studies examining whether tiny plastic particles from dental sources might harm the brain and nervous system. The evidence suggests there could be a connection between microplastic exposure and neurological problems, but the studies done so far aren't strong enough to prove microplastics actually cause brain damage. More long-term research on real people is needed to determine if these microscopic plastics pose a genuine health risk to our nervous systems.

Microplastics Controlling Approaches: Removal Reaction Pathways, Kinetics, and Toxicity Evaluation of the Products

This review examines the formation, environmental impacts, and removal technologies for microplastics, covering methods like advanced oxidation, membrane filtration, and biological degradation. The researchers assess the effectiveness and reaction pathways of various approaches, while also evaluating the toxicity of breakdown products. Understanding both how to remove microplastics and what byproducts are generated is essential for developing safe and effective remediation strategies.

Do microplastics play a role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases? Shared pathophysiological pathways for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease

This review explores the emerging connection between microplastic exposure and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, identifying shared pathophysiological pathways. Researchers found that microplastics can cross the blood-brain barrier and may trigger oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and protein aggregation, which are hallmarks of these conditions. The study suggests that chronic microplastic exposure could be a contributing environmental factor in neurodegeneration, though direct causal evidence in humans is still lacking.

Impact of nanoparticles on microalgae and the prospects for biofuel production: Current advancements and future outlook

This study investigates the impact of nanoparticles on microalgae growth and their implications for biofuel production. Researchers reviewed current knowledge on how various nanoparticles can either enhance or inhibit algal growth depending on concentration and type. The findings suggest that understanding nanoparticle-microalgae interactions is important for developing sustainable biofuel technologies while managing environmental pollution concerns.

Green Synthesized Polymeric Iodophors with Thyme as Antimicrobial Agents

Researchers developed a green antimicrobial formulation combining polyvinylpyrrolidone-complexed iodine with thyme and aloe vera extracts through a simple one-pot synthesis. The formulation demonstrated strong antibacterial and antifungal activity against multiple pathogens and retained its effectiveness for over 18 months when applied to surgical materials and face masks. The study suggests this bio-based approach could help address antimicrobial resistance while reducing reliance on conventional antibiotics.

Antimicrobial Biomaterial on Sutures, Bandages and Face Masks with Potential for Infection Control

Researchers tested an antimicrobial formulation combining Aloe Vera, trans-cinnamic acid, and iodine in a polyvinylpyrrolidone matrix impregnated into sutures, bandages, and face masks, finding excellent antifungal and strong antibacterial activity against 10 microbial strains. The authors propose the formulation as a reusable, AMR-resistant alternative to disposable single-use antimicrobial medical materials.

Assessing the Migration of BPA and Phthalic Acid from Take-out Food Containers: Implications for Health and Environmental Sustainability in India

Researchers developed an analytical method to measure how much bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalic acid migrate from common plastic food containers into food simulants under realistic temperature conditions, finding that prolonged heat exposure substantially increased leaching — especially from polyethylene pouches. A microbial bioassay further confirmed the mutagenic potential of the migrated plasticizers, strengthening the evidence that plastic food packaging poses direct chemical risks to human health.

Environmental toxicants

The comparative analysis of the indoor air pollutants in occupied apartments at residential area and industrial area in dubai, united arab emirates

Researchers conducted a comparative analysis of indoor air pollutant concentrations in occupied apartments in residential versus industrial areas of Dubai, UAE, measuring hazardous chemical substances under real living conditions to identify internal and external pollutant sources. The study found differences in indoor air quality between the two area types and identified both outdoor pollution infiltration and indoor emission sources as contributing factors to chemical exposure in Dubai households.