Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common gastrointestinal disorder, characterized by the retrograde flow of gastric contents into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation. Although many patients with symptomatic GERD show no visible mucosal injury, impairment of its integrity at microscopic level is considered a relevant factor contributing to symptom generation and inflammation. In this scenario, protection of esophageal mucosa by topical agents has become a potential therapeutic approach. We investigated the protective and regenerative effects of a new natural formulation (GSE Reflusolve Rapid), using a dynamic culture based on MIVO® esophagus-on-chip platform, compared to an alginate/carbonate-based product. Results demonstrate that both products preserved esophageal integrity following acid stimulation, mitigating transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) decline and upregulating MUC5B expression. Moreover, the natural formulation showed a significant reduction in IL-8 levels (p < 0.05) in contrast to the alginate-based formulation, despite the lack of a buffer action. TEER measurement, FITC-dextran permeability assay and histological analysis showed also the reparative properties of both mucosal protectants after acidic insult. In particular, the natural formulation showed a more pronounced and uniform expression of MUC5B throughout the tissue. These findings highlight that GSE Reflusolve Rapid may be a valid alternative to control long-term GERD-symptoms.

Skin irritation and itching, often intense, are common consequences of mosquito bites. Interest in cosmetics formulated with natural ingredients has markedly increased among consumers, perceiving them as healthier, safer and more sustainable. We developed a natural formulation based on botanical ingredients for the treatment of mosquito bites. In this work, we tested the physicochemical and microbiological stability of this novel formulation, as well as its skin tolerance. Moreover, we performed an in vitro test to assess its soothing efficacy in comparison with an ammonia-based product. According to our findings, the natural formulation resulted in a stable oil-in-water emulsion, with an appealing texture and good skin tolerance; no cases of erythema or edema were observed in any of the volunteers with sensitive skin after product application. In addition, an in vitro test performed on a keratinocytes cell line showed that our formulation significantly reduced IL-1α levels, with a displayed efficacy comparable to the ammonia-based product. This study emphasizes the promising potential of botanical ingredients in the field of cosmetic dermatology, offering high-performance, well-tolerated skincare products suitable for the treatment of common skin irritations, such as mosquito bites.

Itch is the most common symptom of various dermatological disorders and can negatively impact patients' quality of life, especially when linked to chronic conditions such as dry skin and atopic dermatitis. While the specific mechanism of pruritus remains unclear, a decline in skin barrier function and release of key mediators of itch signaling are believed to play a pivotal role in itch stimulus. While topical corticosteroids are widely used to alleviate pruritus by suppressing inflammation, long-term use is limited by side effects, including skin atrophy. This study investigates the soothing potential of an innovative natural emulsion (NF). We used MIVO® skin-on-chip model to assess LTB₄ release after substance P stimulation, a key mediator in itch signaling. We found that NF effectively reduced LTB₄ secretion to a level comparable to that achieved with a corticosteroid product. Additionally, a cohort of subjects with skin prone to atopy (itchy, dry, and subject to recurrent erythema) was recruited to assess clinical efficacy and tolerability of NF. Compared to baseline, treatment with NF improved barrier function, skin hydration and erythema. Additionally, all participants reported an improvement in itching sensation after treatment. Collectively, these findings suggest that topical treatment with NF has the potential to mitigate itch-related inflammatory responses and skin barrier disorders.