Nanotechnology has played a prominent role in biomedical engineering, offering innovative approaches to numerous treatments. Notable advances have been observed in the development of medical devices, contributing to the advancement of modern medicine. This article briefly discusses key applications of nanotechnology in tissue engineering, controlled drug release systems, biosensors and monitoring, and imaging and diagnosis. The particular emphasis on this theme will result in a better understanding, selection, and technical approach to nanomaterials for biomedical purposes, including biological risks, security, and biocompatibility criteria.
Developing a biomimetic material to wound care is an emerging need for the healing process. Poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL) is a polymer with the necessary dressing’s requirements often used in medicine. Their surface, physic-chemical and biological properties can be modified by adding bioactive compounds, such as andiroba seed oil (Carapa guianensis). This Amazonian natural plant has medicinal and pharmacological properties. For this purpose, PCL polymeric films incorporated with andiroba oil were investigated. The synthesis of hybrids materials was carried out in the solvent casting method. Thermal properties were evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The solvent type on the surface and hydrophilicity of samples was studied using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Additionally, contact angle measurements, functional groups analysis, fluid absorption capacity, and cell viability were performed. The results demonstrated the influences of andiroba oil under the morphology and thermal properties of the polymeric matrix; the hydrophilicity of the hybrid film obtained by acetic acid was reduced by 13%; the porosity decreased as the concentration of oil increased, but its higher thermal stability. The L929 cell line’s proliferation was observed in all materials, and it presented nontoxic nature. It was demonstrated the ability of PCL hybrid film as a matrix for cell growth. Then, the materials were proved potential candidates for biomedical applications.
18 August 2026 in Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery
The rapid expansion of the global açaí (Euterpe oleracea) market has led to an alarming increase in waste generation, particularly seeds and fibers, posing significant environmental challenges. This review explores innovative strategies to repurpose these residues through cutting-edge technologies, including nanotechnology for nanocellulose production, microbial fermentation for biopolymer synthesis, and green extraction methods for obtaining bioactive compounds. Emphasis is placed on the development of high-value-added products such as biodegradable plastics, biomaterials, and renewable energy sources, aligning with the principles of the circular economy. Additionally, the review highlights the socioeconomic potential of these innovations and their role in mitigating environmental impacts. A focus is given to the need for sustainable practices and policy-driven initiatives to maximize the value of açaí residues, calling for solutions to overcome technological and economic barriers while promoting sustainable development in the Amazon region. Graphical Abstract The figure illustrates the various applications of açaí within the concept of circular economy, highlighting how different parts of the fruit and its waste can be used sustainably. In the center, açaí is presented as the main raw material, with ramifications for five sectors: cosmetics, biofertilizers, nutraceuticals, biopolymers and biofuels. In the cosmetics area, bioactive compounds are used in skin and hair products. Organic waste is used in the production of biofertilizers, while nutraceuticals take advantage of the fruit's natural antioxidants. Biopolymers are obtained from lignocellulosic waste, with a focus on biodegradable materials. Biofuels use oils and biomass to generate renewable energy. The proposal aims to reduce waste, add value to byproducts and strengthen the sustainability of the açaí production chain
28 July 2026 in Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology
Poly(ε-caprolactone) nanocapsules containing breu branco ( Protium heptaphyllum ) essential oil were successfully prepared by nanoprecipitation and optimized using a Box–Behnken design. Spherical nanosystems were obtained, with a mean particle size of 172.10 ± 0.90 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.14 ± 0.04, a zeta potential of −25.49 ± 1.08 mV and an encapsulation efficiency above 99%, in addition to long-term colloidal stability. Cell viability assays in HaCaT cells showed high biocompatibility, with cell viability above 70% up to 6 mg/mL and only moderate toxicity at 12 mg/mL. In antimicrobial assays, the free oil had no inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus , while the nanocapsules exhibited a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.55 mg/mL, indicating enhanced antibacterial activity. Wound-healing assays further demonstrated improved keratinocyte migration compared to serum-free controls. Additionally, cytokine profiling by cytometric bead array indicated an anti-inflammatory profile, with strong suppression of IL-6 and selective increases in IL-2, IL-4, and TNF-α at higher doses (6 mg/mL) in nanocapsule-treated fibroblasts. Overall, these findings demonstrate that nanoencapsulation not only stabilizes breu branco essential oil but also enhances its antimicrobial, regenerative, and immunomodulatory effects, while fostering the sustainable valorization of Amazonian biodiversity.