Anti-Arthritis and Biosafety Properties of Green Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Loaded with Cedrus libani Extract

This study aimed to develop a simple and safe green synthesis method for zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using ethanolic extract and aqueous fraction of Cedrus libani to enhance their therapeutic efficacy and biosafety as potential anti-arthritis agents. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using UV-visible spectrophotometry, FTIR, FESEM, EDX, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential analysis. The results confirmed successful synthesis of ZnO NPs with particle sizes of 71 and 44 nm. In vitro evaluations demonstrated superior anti-arthritic activity of the synthesized nanoparticles compared to plant extracts and sodium diclofenac, through albumin denaturation inhibition and human red blood cell membrane stabilization assays. Ex vivo permeability studies also revealed high skin permeability, supporting their potential for topical application. In vivo experiments showed significant inhibition of carrageenan-induced paw edema and improvement in inflammatory biomarkers, including C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), with better outcomes than the standard drug. Acute and subacute dermal toxicity studies confirmed the safety and biosafety of the synthesized nanoparticles. Overall, the green synthesized ZnO nanoparticles showed high permeability, superior efficacy, and excellent safety, making them a promising natural therapeutic candidate for arthritis - International Journal of Nanomedicine

1 - September - 2025

Molecular diagnosis and epidemiological aspects of cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Aleppo: Current status

For many decades, Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) has been endemic in Aleppo, Syria. The situation has worsened due to the ongoing war. Currently, CL diagnosis in Syria relies mainly on conventional methods, such as clinical symptoms and microscopic examination. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PCR (polymerase chain reaction) in diagnosing suspected CL cases. Two PCR protocols were applied: kDNA PCR for CL diagnosis and ITS2 PCR to identify the Leishmania parasite species. The results were compared with conventional methods, and correlations between CL prevalence and demographic factors were explored. Between January 2021 and October 2022, 105 suspected CL patients were screened at the Leishmania Center in Aleppo. kDNA PCR showed a sensitivity of 100 %, detecting positive results in 92 samples. Microscopic examination had a sensitivity of 76.1 %, identifying Leishmania amastigotes in 70 out of 92 samples. ITS2 PCR revealed that L. tropica was the dominant species (96.0 %) in Aleppo. Prevalence of CL was higher among men (54.3 %), the 13–25 years age group (39.1 %), and those with poor to moderate living conditions (87.0 %). Patients typically had an average of 3 lesions, with the upper extremities (55.4 %) and face (35.9 %) being the most affected areas. The study recommends using kDNA PCR for CL diagnosis due to its high sensitivity. Furthermore, the reported demographic and epidemiological data can inform public health authorities in their efforts to treat and prevent leishmaniasis in the country. - Parasite Epidemiology and Control

1 - February - 2025

Optimization of extraction process to maximize phenolic content, flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of Prosopis farcta using response surface methodology

Prosopis farcta (Banks et Sol.) Eig., is a widely distributed plant, that is rich in health benefits components. This study aims to optimize the ultrasonic-assisted extraction parameters of P. farcta leaves in order to maximize total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity, using response surface methodology (RSM). A Box-Behnken design (BBD) with three levels and three variables was employed, the independent variables were extraction temperature (20, 40 and 60°C), extraction time (20, 40 and 60 minutes) and ethanol concentration (20, 45 and 70%). Results show that all three extraction parameters have great effects on the TPC, TFC, and DPPH scavenging values, the optimal conditions were (extraction temperature: 53.93°C, extraction time: 51.11 minutes and ethanol concentration: 65.45%), under these conditions, the experimental results were (TPC: 109.89 mg GAE/g DW, TFC: 11.287 mg RE/g DW and DPPH: 37.503%), these results are matching well with the theoretical predicted values which proves that RSM models were accurate and reliable. Strong correlations were found between TPC, TFC, and DPPH scavenging activity. This study revealed the importance of P. farcta as a natural source of antioxidants, and highlighted the optimal extraction conditions that can be effectively employed for maximizing production of natural antioxidants from P. fractal leaves. - Bulletin of Pharmaceutical Sciences Assiut

1 - July - 2024

3D bioprinting

This research discusses 3D Bioprinting, an advanced technology that combines biotechnology and additive manufacturing to fabricate living tissues and potentially functional organs using living cells and biomaterials known as bioinks. The study explains the development stages of bioprinting technology and describes major printing techniques such as: Inkjet bioprinting Laser-assisted bioprinting Extrusion - The Second Pharmaceutical Sciences Conference at the Arab Private University for Science and Technology – Syria

24 - May - 2024

Anti inflammatory properties and safety of green synthesized metal and metal oxidenanoparticles: A review article

This review article discusses the anti-inflammatory properties and safety of green-synthesized metal and metal oxide nanoparticles produced using plant-mediated methods. The study highlights green synthesis as an eco-friendly and safer alternative to conventional chemical nanoparticle synthesis methods. In this approach, natural phytochemicals from plant extracts are used to reduce and stabilize metallic nanoparticles. The review covers several types of nanoparticles, including: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) Gold nanoparticles Zinc oxide nanoparticles Iron oxide nanoparticles Cerium oxide nanoparticles The article explains their ability to: Inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines Reduce oxidative stress Enhance anti-inflammatory therapeutic activity Minimize side effects compared with traditional anti-inflammatory drugs. The study also addresses safety and toxicological concerns, indicating that some nanoparticles may induce cellular toxicity at high concentrations. Therefore, the authors emphasize the need for further in vivo pharmacological and toxicological studies before these nanoparticles can - European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry Reports

1 - May - 2024

Radiographic Study to Evaluate the Effect of Acetaminophen Injection on Orthodontic Tooth Movement in Rats

This study investigated the effect of acetaminophen injection as an analgesic during orthodontic treatment on orthodontic tooth movement and root resorption in rats. The experiment was conducted on Wistar rats subjected to orthodontic forces, while acetaminophen was administered to evaluate its influence on tooth movement and radiographic changes associated with root resorption. The main objective was to determine whether acetaminophen could reduce inflammatory reactions and root damage caused by heavy orthodontic forces without significantly interfering with orthodontic tooth movement. The findings suggested that acetaminophen may help minimize inflammatory effects and reduce root resorption while maintaining acceptable orthodontic tooth movement, making it a relatively safe a - Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Technology and Innovation (AJPTI)

1 - April - 2024

Some Herbs and Flowers Growing on Green Spaces During the Spring in the City of Aleppo

This study investigates several herbs and flowers growing in green spaces during the spring season in the city of Aleppo, focusing on plant diversity and the ecological characteristics of vegetation found in parks and public green areas. The research aims to document common plant species within Aleppo’s urban environment and evaluate their environmental and aesthetic importance, including their role in improving air quality and maintaining ecological balance within the city. The study also discusses the influence of spring climatic conditions on plant growth and flowering in urban green spaces. The paper includes descriptions of various herbaceous plants and wildflowers commonly found in Aleppo, highlighting their morphological characteristics, flowering periods, and some of their ecological or medicinal uses. The study further emphasizes the importance of preserving urban vegetation and green spaces because of their positive environmental and psychological impacts on residents. - Al-Baath University Journal – Basic Sciences Series

1 - December - 2023

A Comparative Study of the Effect of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) and Biodentine on Formation of the Dentin Bridge after Direct Pulp Capping (In Vivo Study)

This research presents a comparative study evaluating the effects of two materials used in direct pulp capping treatment: Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) Biodentine The study aimed to determine which material is more effective in stimulating dentin bridge formation after direct pulp exposure. The research was conducted as an in vivo study, assessing the pulp tissue response and the ability of each material to: Protect dental pulp Reduce inflammation Stimulate reparative dentin formation Preserve tooth vitality This research presents a comparative study evaluating the effects of two materials used in direct pulp capping treatment: Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) Biodentine The study aimed to determine which material is more effective in stimulating dentin bridge formation after direct pulp exposure. The research was conducted as an in vivo study, assessing the pulp tissue response and the ability of each material to: Protect dental pulp Reduce inflammation Stimulate reparative dentin formation Preserve tooth vitality The findings indicated that both materials showed good biocompatibility and supported dentin bridge formation. However, Biodentine demonstrated faster healing and reparative responses in some aspects compared to MTA, along with easier clinical handling - Tishreen University Journal for Research and Scientific Studies – Medical Sciences Series

Applications of Nanotechnology in Cosmeceuticals

This research discusses the applications of nanotechnology in cosmeceuticals, products that combine cosmetic and therapeutic benefits for skin and hair care. The study focuses on the use of nanoparticles and nanocarrier systems to improve the effectiveness of active ingredients in cosmetic formulations. Nanotechnology helps: Enhance skin penetration Improve stability of active compounds Increase absorption and therapeutic efficiency Provide controlled and sustained release of active ingredients. The article reviews several nanocarrier systems commonly used in cosmeceuticals, including: Liposomes Nanoemulsions Solid lipid nanoparticles Nanospheres and metallic nanoparticles. The research highlights applications of nanotechnology in: Anti-aging products Sunscreens Skin-whitening formulations Hair care products Treatments for wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. The paper also discusses potential safety concerns related to nanomaterials, particularly nanoparticle toxicity and skin penetration risks, emphasizing the importance of rigorous safety evaluation and proper regulatory guidelines before widespread commercial application - Research Journal of Topical and Cosmetic Sciences