The advancement achieved in Tissue Engineering is based on a careful and in-depth study of cell–tissue interactions. The choice of a specific biomaterial in Tissue Engineering is fundamental, as it represents an interface for adherent cells in the creation of a microenvironment suitable for cell growth and differentiation. The knowledge of the biochemical and biophysical properties of the extracellular matrix is a useful tool for the optimization of polymeric scaffolds. This review aims to analyse the chemical, physical, and biological parameters on which are possible to act in Tissue Engineering for the optimization of polymeric scaffolds and the most recent progress presented in this field, including the novelty in the modification of the scaffolds’ bulk and surface from a chemical and physical point of view to improve cell–biomaterial interaction. Moreover, we underline how understanding the impact of scaffolds on cell fate is of paramount importance for the successful advancement of Tissue Engineering. Finally, we conclude by reporting the future perspectives in this field in continuous development.

The spread of multidrug-resistant microbes has made it necessary and urgent to develop new strategies to deal with the infections they cause. Some of these are based on nanotechnology, which has revolutionized many fields in medicine. Evaluating the safety and efficacy of these new antimicrobial strategies requires testing in animal models before being tested in clinical trials. In this context, Galleria mellonella could represent a valid alternative to traditional mammalian and non-mammalian animal models, due to its low cost, ease of handling, and valuable biological properties to investigate host–pathogen interactions. The purpose of this review is to provide an updated overview of the literature concerning the use of G. mellonella larvae as an animal model to evaluate safety and efficacy of nanoparticles and nanomaterials, particularly, of those that are used or are under investigation to combat microbial pathogens.

Nanotechnology advancements have facilitated the development of eco-friendly strategies to combat bacterial infections caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This study promotes a green method for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) utilizing Eucalyptus globulus leaf extracts as an alternative to traditional colloidal AgNPs obtained through chemical synthesis, investigating their antibacterial efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and their impact on the expression of bacterial virulence factors (pyocyanin, pyoverdine, rhamnolipids). This work demonstrates that: i. while colloidal AgNPs showed ineffective up to 120 μM, green AgNPs had a bactericidal effect already at 20 μM, without impacting bacterial virulence factors at sub-inhibitory concentrations; ii. the polyphenolic shell surrounding green AgNPs could play a crucial role in the antibacterial mechanisms, with a pro-oxidant action confirmed by a greater sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂); iii. AgNPs improved the antibacterial properties of chitosan when incorporated into thin films. Consequently, an environmentally friendly nanocomposite film with antibacterial and antibiofilm properties was produced, which holds promise for application in food packaging to mitigate the emergence of microbial contamination in food products.

The advancements achieved in Tissue Engineering are based on a careful and in-depth study of cell-tissue interaction. The choice of a certain biomaterial in Tissue Engineering is fundamental as it represents an interface for adherent cells in the creation of a microenvironment suitable for cell growth and differentiation. The knowledge of the biochemical and biophysical properties of the extracellular matrix is a useful tool for the optimization of polymeric scaffolds. The aim of this re-view is to analyse the chemical, physical and biological parameters on which it is possible to act in Tissue Engineering for the optimization of polymeric scaffolds. Understanding the scaffold impact on cell fate is of paramount importance for the successful advancement of Tissue Engineering.

Chronic wounds (CWs) are characterized by persistent inflammation and bacterial biofilms, which hinder healing and contribute to antibiotic resistance. Therefore, innovative treatments with both anti‐inflammatory and antibiofilm properties are urgently needed. Here, cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPc), a photo‐excitable dye, is combined with polyphenolic lignin to develop CoPc‐Lig nanoparticles (NPs). These NPs demonstrate antioxidant activity by scavenging reactive oxygen species and inhibiting key enzymes implicated in CW pathophysiology. Moreover, they are internalized into Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms, a critical feature for enhancing antibacterial effects. Upon near‐infrared light excitation, CoPc‐Lig NPs produce a thermal increase, which reduces bacterial viability and disrupts biofilm integrity. This mild photothermal effect is particularly advantageous in CW treatment, as excessive temperatures can damage newly formed tissue. Additionally, the NPs exhibit strong photoacoustic (PA) properties, enabling their use in PA imaging, an emerging non‐invasive technique for real‐time monitoring. The PA signal remains stable over time and is detected in ex vivo tissue phantoms. These findings highlight the potential of CoPc‐Lig NPs as a theragnostic platform for CW management, integrating antimicrobial cobalt, antioxidant polyphenols, and photo‐excitable phthalocyanines. Future studies will focus on optimizing photothermal treatment conditions and exploring synergies with debridement and antibacterial agents to enhance therapeutic outcomes.