Polyelectrolytes assembled layer-by-layer (PEMs) are commonly used as functional coatings to build-up biological interfaces, particularly suitable as compatible layers for the interaction with a biological medium, providing suitable conditions to promote or prevent cell seeding while maintaining the phenotype. The proper assessment of the biocompatibility of PEMs and the elucidation of the related mechanisms are therefore of paramount importance. In this study, we report in detail the effect of two different PEM endings, polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) and polyethylenimine (PEI), respectively, on the cell adhesion, growth, and viability of human bone mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs).
View Article and Find Full Text PDFCombined treatments which use nanoparticles and drugs could be a synergistic strategy for the treatment of a variety of cancers to overcome drug resistance, low efficacy, and high-dose-induced systemic toxicity. In this study, the effects on human colon adenocarcinoma cells of surface modified FeO magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in combination with sodium butyrate (NaBu), added as a free formulation, were examined demonstrating that the co-delivery produced a cytotoxic effect on malignant cells. Two different MNP coatings were investigated: a simple polyethylene glycol (PEG) layer and a mixed folic acid (FA) and PEG layer.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFInt J Mol Sci
July 2020
Brain and other nervous system cancers are the 10th leading cause of death worldwide. Genome instability, cell cycle deregulation, epigenetic mechanisms, cytoarchitecture disassembly, redox homeostasis as well as apoptosis are involved in carcinogenesis. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is inversely related with the risk of developing cancer.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFExtracellular matrix (ECM) represents an essential component of the cellular niche. In this conditioned microenvironment, the proliferation rates and differentiation states of stem cells are regulated by several factors. In contrast, in experimental models, cell growth, or induction procedures toward specific cell lines usually occur in contact with plastic, glass, or biogel supports.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAstrocytes are actively involved in brain development, in mature CNS regulation, and in brain plasticity. They play a critical role in response to cerebral injuries and toxicants through a reaction known as "reactive gliosis," which is characterized by specific structural and functional features. A large amount of literature highlights the central role of astrocytes in mediating methylmercury (MeHg) neurotoxicity.
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