S-Methylmethionine (SMM), also called vitamin U, shows antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, radioprotective and anti-irritant activity, as well as enhanced wound healing. In addition, vitamin U affects the regeneration and renewal of the skin hydrolipid mantle and offers some UVB-protective effects on the skin. Since there are currently no reports in the scientific literature concerning the release of vitamin U from cosmetic formulations, the present study was undertaken as a preliminary and exploratory pilot investigation. The research focused on evaluating the release behavior of SMM (synthetic methylmethionine), a compound recognized for its potential skin-regenerating, soothing, and protective properties, from several commonly used topical delivery systems. Therefore, the various topical formulations, including oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions, as well as hydrogel formulations, were evaluated as potential, effective vitamin U skin delivery systems. Vitamin U-loaded emulsions (O/W and W/O) differing in droplet size in the internal phase and a hydrogel were prepared. The physicochemical properties of the formulations, such as emulsion type, stability, viscosity, pH and droplet size, were evaluated. The study of vitamin U release was performed in thermostatic diffusion chambers at a temperature of T = 32 °C using the Spectra/Por Standard Regenerated Cellulose dialysis membrane. A phosphate buffer (PBS) with pH 7.4 was used as the receptor solution. The concentration of the released S-Methylmethionine was analyzed with ninhydrin-based spectrophotometric assays. The obtained results showed that the type of the formulation significantly influenced the SMM release. The highest release of SMM was observed from hydrogel and O/W emulsions.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted material sciences, particularly polymer composites, which played a crucial role in personal protective equipment (PPE), medical devices, and packaging. This study explores the modifications and advancements in polymer materials developed to meet the urgent demands of the pandemic. Key innovations include enhanced filtration efficiency in PPE, integration of antimicrobial nanoparticles, and the development of biopolymer alternatives to address environmental concerns. The incorporation of silver, copper oxide, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide nanoparticles improved antiviral and antibacterial properties, while polymer modifications enhanced durability, thermal resistance, and recyclability. Additionally, research into biodegradable polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) gained momentum as sustainable alternatives to fossil-based plastics. The findings underscore the necessity of material innovation during global crises and highlight the future potential of modified polymer composites in healthcare and environmental sustainability.