Nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dot regulates cell proliferation and differentiation by endoplasmic reticulum stress.

Quantum dots have diverse biomedical applications, from constructing biological infrastructures like medical imaging to advancing pharmaceutical research. However, concerns about human health arise due to the toxic potential of quantum dots based on heavy metals. Therefore, research on quantum dots has predominantly focused on oxidative stress, cell death, and other broader bodily toxicities.

Stimulation of the extracellular matrix production in dermal fibroblasts by velvet antler extract.

Background: Fibroblasts produce many components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and so they contribute to the maintenance of connective tissue integrity.

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of velvet antler extract (VAE) on the ECM production of dermal fibroblasts cultured in vitro.

Methods: Primary cultured human dermal fibroblasts were treated with VAE, and then the ECM production was determined by RT-PCR, ELISA and Western blot analysis.