XANTHAN GUM

Human umbilical cord blood serum (UCBS) represents a potential reservoir of growth factors, neurotrophic factors, and cytokines, with anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to synthesize a temperature sensitive interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN) of diethyl acrylamide and xanthan gum enriched with UCBS for damaged skin tissue. The advantages of 3D IPN hydrogel are enhanced material-exchange, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties adjustability. The semi-IPN containing 1% xanthan gum exhibited the lower critical solution temperature of about 32 °C. 70% of the loaded UCBS in hydrogel was released within 24 h. The semi-IPN dramatically promoted cells proliferation and adhesion. 99% wound closure happened by the hydrogel loaded UCBS. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses indicated that the gel reduced inflammation, downregulated surface CD31 markers, increased collagen density, and accelerated re-epithelialization in the healed tissue, suggesting improved tissue regeneration. These findings highlight the strong potential of semi-IPN diethyl acrylamide-xanthan gum hydrogel dressing for effective management of open wounds.

Bigels (BGs) have gained significant interest as versatile semisolid systems capable of immobilising both hydrophilic and lipophilic phases, making them suitable carriers for drug delivery. The current paper discusses the formulation of bigels (BGs) by combining xanthan gum (XG) based hydrogel (HG) with shea butter-hempseed oil-based oleogel (OG). The influence of emulsifier types, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), soy lecithin (SL) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), along with varying polymer concentration (1-5% w/w), on the physicochemical properties of the BGs was systematically investigated and characterized. The prepared bigels showed high oil binding capacity (>95%), indicating good structural integrity. Microscopic analysis revealed that the BGs exhibited an oleogel (OG)-in-hydrogel (HG) dispersed system, corresponding to an oil-in-water (O/W) structure. Rheological studies revealed dominant elastic behaviour (G' > G''), with CTAB-based formulations showing greater network strength. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) confirmed successful integration of hydrogel and oleogel phases without significant chemical interactions. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis indicated improved thermal stability with increasing XG concentration, along with variations in crystallinity depending on emulsifier type. The in vitro drug release studies of Mupirocin (Mup) were best fitted by Korsmeyer-Peppas and Peppas-Sahlin models, suggesting Fickian diffusion as the principal release mechanism, with SL-based bigels showing comparatively higher drug release (~46%), Furthermore, the Mup-loaded BGs exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with inhibition zones of approximately 2.9 cm, confirming their suitability for topical drug delivery applications.

Functional hydrogel dressings that combine excellent mechanical properties, biological activity, and environmental responsiveness are urgently needed in wound management. Polyphenols have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. However, their impact on structural fidelity and long-term stability in 3D-printed hydrogel systems remains poorly understood. Additionally, previous studies lack systematic investigation into swelling behavior within the dynamic pH environment of wound healing. This study aims to develop a multifunctional wound dressing capable of adapting to dynamic pH changes within wounds through systematic modification with polyphenols. Functionalized hyaluronic acid (HA)-xanthan gum (XG)-N-acryloylglycine (NAGA) composite hydrogels (NHX) were prepared using a polyphenol (tea polyphenols (TP), tannic acid (TA), and gallic acid (GA)) immersion modification strategy. The effects of polyphenol type, concentration, and immersion time on the material properties were systematically investigated. Incorporating TPs synergistically optimized mechanical properties (337% tensile strain, 0.45 MPa stress), pH-responsive swelling behavior (up to 160% swelling at pH 9), and antioxidant activity (ABTS scavenging >99%) of the hydrogel by forming dynamic hydrogen bonds within the polymer network. In vitro anti-inflammatory experiments confirmed that the NHXTP hydrogel significantly upregulates IL-10, and suppresses IL-1β and TNF-α expression. In a rat full-thickness skin defect model, NHXTP dressings markedly accelerated wound closure (98.1% healing rate at 14 days) and promoted organized tissue regeneration. These findings contribute to the development of next-generation high-performance wound dressings.

This study investigated the antibacterial mechanism and preservation efficacy of the XG₂₅/ZnO₁₀ composite film against E. coli and S. aureus. The film, containing sweeping-frequency ultrasonic (SFU) modified xanthan gum (XG) and nano zinc oxide (ZnO), showed significant antibacterial activity. Multiple analyses revealed a synergistic mechanism between the components. Simulation confirmed SFU generated the uniform acoustic field, enhancing process efficiency. In a 21-day refrigerated storage test, the composite film effectively maintained grape quality. It significantly improved retention rates of soluble solids (66.24%), total phenols (66.01%), and ascorbic acid (58.37%) compared to control. The film maintained microbial load at 3.94 log CFU·g -1 , substantially lower than traditional polyvinyl chloride packaging (6.23 log CFU·g -1 ).

To investigate the potential benefits of Xanthan-based chlorhexidine gel application in addition to professional mechanical plaque removal (PMPR) in the treatment of peri-implant mucositis (PM). Subjects diagnosed with PM were consecutively included in this randomized split-mouth study. All participants received a single session of PMPR using titanium curettes, followed by the application of an air-polishing glycine powder device. Implants allocated to the Test group were additionally treated with local delivery of Xanthan-based chlorhexidine gel. Clinical evaluation was performed at T0 (i.e., baseline), at 30 (T1), 90 (T2) and 180 days (T3) after treatment, while treatment success was evaluated at T2 and T3. Change in bleeding on probing (BoP) was considered as primary outcome measure. A logistic multivariate regression model was developed to explore the predictive role of implant and patient-level variables on primary outcome measure. Fifty-nine patients (mean age: 65.4 ± 8.7 years; 54.2% male; 88.1% non-smokers) and 182 implants completed the study. At T1, only the Test group displayed a significant reduction in BoP (p < 0.001), PPD (p = 0.021) and PI (p = 0.021) compared to T0, while at T2 and T3 clinical improvements were recorded within both groups without any statistically significant difference between groups (p > 0.05). T2 Treatment success as well as the frequency distribution of complete (BoP = 0) and partial (BoP ≤ 1, ≤ 2, ≤ 3) disease resolution did not significantly differ between groups (p > 0.05). Multiple regression model revealed that smoking (p = 0.008), and implant position (i.e., premolar p = 0.009) did significantly affect the primary outcome measure. The adjunctive use of XanCHX gel did not result in any statistically significant clinical benefit compared to PMPR alone in the treatment of PM up to 6 months, despite the reported clinical positive effects within the first month after treatment.

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by oxidative stress, innate immune dysregulation, vascular instability, and microbiome-related triggers. Glycyrrhiza glabra (Gg, licorice) root contains phenolics and triterpenoids with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-angiogenic properties that may benefit rosacea-prone skin. Xanthan-gum hydrogels containing 2% methanolic Gg extract (S1, S2) were prepared and characterized. Rheology, in vitro release, and in vitro permeation were evaluated, with the aim of assessing their suitability as topical formulations for rosacea-prone skin. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Antimicrobial effects were tested against S. pyogenes , S. aureus , and C. acnes . Safety and bioactivity were examined through HaCaT keratinocyte assays (MTT, Neutral Red, LDH), the HET-CAM irritation test, and the CAM angiogenesis assay. Immunocytochemistry was performed on rosacea-related inflammatory markers. Both hydrogels showed suitable rheology, sustained release, and preserved strong antioxidant activity. Moderate antimicrobial effects were observed, particularly against S. pyogenes and C. acnes . HaCaT cell viability remained above 84% for the S2 formulation at the highest concentration (200 µg/mL), indicating improved cytocompatibility compared with formulation S1. The hydrogels were non-irritant in the HET-CAM model and reduced neovascularization in the CAM assay, with a more sustained effect observed for formulation S2. Immunohistochemistry supported potential modulation of inflammatory pathways relevant to rosacea, evidencing suppressed VEGF expression and preserved CD44-mediated integrity, particularly in the Labrasol-based formulation (S2), while Caspase-3 staining indicated a controlled apoptotic profile. Overall, Gg hydrogels are safe, biocompatible, non-irritant, and exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-angiogenic activities, supporting their potential as biocompatible topical formulations with antioxidant and pathway-modulating properties relevant to the biological features associated with rosacea, while underscoring the importance of formulation design.

Laurus nobilis hydrosol (HyLN), a water-soluble byproduct of essential oil extraction, containing beneficial antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds, was used as a sustainable ingredient in the development of a natural antioxidant-rich hydrogel formulation. Hydrogels were formulated using sodium hyaluronate and xanthan gum, natural ingredients with beneficial effects on the skin, while β-cyclodextrin (βCD) was added to enhance the stability of antioxidants in HyLN. Extensive rheological and textural analyses were employed to optimize the hydrogel formulation for dermal administration, while stability studies assessed the chemical and physical stability of developed formulations. A combination of sodium hyaluronate and xanthan gum provided several HyLN hydrogel formulations with tunable rheological and textural properties, presenting adequate physical and microbiological stability over 6 months of storage. The use of βCD failed to stabilize inherently unstable antioxidants in HyLN hydrogels, yet their residual antioxidant activity remained notable. An in vitro scratch test using a human keratinocyte cell line showed that the developed HyLN gel does not interfere with wound healing. HyLN hydrogels showed a pronounced occlusive effect in vitro, reaching up to 80% of that measured for Vaseline, which helps maintain skin hydration and appearance.

Microemulsions (MEs) are delivery systems that can enhance the rate of drug dissolution due to their supramolecular structure. However, adding drugs, such as menthol, and thickness agents, like xanthan gum (XG), can significantly modify these nanoscaled architectures. This study aimed to understand the mechanistic basis of supramolecular structural modifications in oleic acid-based MEs induced by XG and menthol addition. A multitechnique approach combining electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), rheology, and texture analysis was employed to characterize formulations containing concentration ranges of menthol (0.1-1.0%w/w) and XG (0.1-0.5%w/w). This complementary analytical strategy enabled the detection of structural changes across different length scales. Our findings revealed that menthol addition leads to droplet diameter modulation (DLS: 127-157 nm; SAXS: 108-136 nm), suggesting drug entrapment within the oil phase. XG addition produces a distinctive interconnected "pearl-necklace" supramolecular architecture without significant droplet size changes (DLS: 102-111 nm; SAXS: 102 nm). Crucially, rheological and textural analyses detected physical property modifications not identified by light scattering techniques, with XG dramatically influencing consistency, firmness, and adhesiveness, while menthol enhanced adhesive properties. These structure-function correlations showed that rational ME design can be achieved through controlled excipient addition. Collectively, the nanoscaled pearl-necklace architecture and enhanced adhesive properties suggest promising applications for sustained topical drug delivery, warranting future investigation of skin permeation kinetics and therapeutic efficacy in dermatological formulations.

Melanoma is an aggressive type of skin cancer due to its ability to rapidly spread to various organs. The oral drug administration is preferred for its convenience. However, the oral route faces challenges, including the first-pass metabolism and delayed onset of action. Therefore, the transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) offers an alternative approach to overcome these limitations. This work developed an iontophoresis-based transdermal patch using LCB and XG hydrogel as the drug matrix. In addition, PAIn:PSS was synthesized and employed as the drug carrier, whereas Imatinib was used as the model drug. LCB:XG hydrogels were fabricated at the various weight ratios. The LCB:XG (60:40%w/w) hydrogel exhibited the largest pore size (261.3 ± 67.3 μm). In-vitro release and permeation studies demonstrated that a lower XG ratio resulted in increased Imatinib release. Additionally, incorporating PAIn:PSS further enhanced the release efficiency. Applying an electric field significantly improved drug permeation due to the electrorepulsion which promoted the transport of drug molecules across the skin. Additionally, the permeated release at the pH of 5.5 was slightly lower than that at the pH of 7.4; this can be attributed to the increased positive charge of Imatinib reducing skin permeation due to increased hydrophilicity. Cytotoxicity tests revealed that incorporating PAIn:PSS into the hydrogel patch maintained the high cell viability of 84%, confirming that the hydrogel patch was safe for human tissues. These findings highlight the potential of LCB:XG hydrogel-based transdermal patches combined with PAIn:PSS and iontophoresis for the controlled drug release and efficient Imatinib transdermal delivery.

This study aimed to develop and evaluate a dermal gel formulation incorporating the methanolic leaf extract of Guiera senegalensis (GS) for potential topical antimicrobial application. Dermal gel formulations of GS leaf extracts may offer safe and effective alternatives against bacterial and fungal skin infections, particularly beneficial for pediatric and geriatric individuals who are most susceptible to such conditions. Leaves of GS were extracted by maceration using methanol and fractionated with solvents of increasing polarity. The extract and fractions underwent phytochemical screening, antibacterial evaluation, and spectral characterization (GC-MS and FT-IR). Xanthan gum-based gels were formulated and evaluated for pH, viscosity, spreadability, extrudability, swelling, erosion, and antibacterial activity. The methanolic extract (26.36% yield) contained abundant phytochemicals, including flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, and terpenoids. Fractionation revealed the polarity-based distribution of phytochemicals but did not enhance antibacterial potency. The methanolic extract showed the strongest activity against Staphylococcus aureus (22.24 ± 0.12 mm). GC-MS and FT-IR confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds and functional groups linked to antimicrobial effects. The gels exhibited skin-compatible pH (5.95-6.65), appropriate viscosity (11.23-63.23 Pa·s), and desirable spreadability. Among all, formulation F2 showed the best overall characteristics for topical use. GS leaf extract-loaded gels demonstrated excellent physicochemical properties and antibacterial activity. Although fractionation provided no added antimicrobial advantage, it offered insights into phytochemical distribution. Formulation F2 represents a promising natural, plant-based topical antimicrobial candidate.

To meet the demands of wearable flexible electronics, a xanthan gum (XG)-stabilized liquid gallium (Ga) nanoparticle-reinforced poly(vinyl alcohol)/poly(acrylic acid) (PVA/PAA) double-network conductive hydrogel (Ga-PXA) was developed. XG enables uniform dispersion of Ga nanoparticles via coordination stabilization. Under thermal initiation with APS, and potentially assisted by Ga itself, the system subsequently forms a synergistically strengthened dual-network conductive nanocomposite structure. The rigid chemically cross-linked PAA network interpenetrated with the soft physically cross-linked PVA network, endowing the hydrogel with high stretchability (>500%), toughness, and excellent cyclic stability and fatigue resistance through efficient energy dissipation. Uniformly distributed liquid-metal nanoparticles established continuous conductive pathways, achieving an electrical conductivity of 0.9 S m -1 . The reversible deformation of the double-network structure enabled strain sensors with high sensitivity (GF = 4.8), a wide sensing range, and fast response. Abundant -OH and -COOH groups imparted strong adhesion to substrates such as porcine skin (68.04 kPa). The hydrogel also exhibited favorable biocompatibility and antibacterial activity. This strategy demonstrates the synergistic enhancement of mechanical, electrical, and interfacial properties of hydrogels via double-network design coupled with functional nanoparticle incorporation, showing promise for electronic skin and wearable health monitoring applications.

This study aims to develop and characterize novel dermatocosmetic formulations designed to hydrate the skin, improve its appearance, reduce wrinkles, and provide antioxidant, anti-ageing, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory benefits, along with potential protection against UVA and UVB radiation. The formulations contain the following ingredients: xanthan gum (0.5%), Calendula officinalis oil (5%), Argania spinosa oil (5%), Helianthus annuus oil (5%), liposomes containing a hydroalcoholic extract of pomace from local red or white grapes (2%), an olive oil-based emulsifier (6%), vitamin E (0.5%), cetearyl alcohol (3%), propylene glycol (8%), and purified water (up to 100%). The natural ingredients used in these formulations, i.e., the red or white grape pomace extract from the aforementioned Romanian varieties, the oils of Calendula officinalis , Argania spinosa , and Helianthus annuus , xanthan gum, and the olive oil-based emulsifier (Olliva), promote the concept of 'green cosmetics'. The use of liposomes to deliver bioactive substances from hydroalcoholic extracts allows the gradual release of active ingredients into the skin. An alternative for incorporating grape pomace extract into a cream-type matrix involves the use of liposomes. Liposomes loaded with red or white grape pomace extract were prepared using the thin-film hydration technique, followed by ultrasonication and extrusion. The obtained formulations were characterized using bio-physico-chemical analysis procedures in terms of consistency, colour, homogeneity, aroma, pH, stretch, texture, stability, and antioxidant activity/free radical scavenging capacity, as well as in vitro polyphenol release behaviour. These newly developed dermatocosmetic formulations were the subject of a patent application in Romania.