Micro-crack formation and resultant bacterial infiltration are major causes of secondary caries formation in dental resin-based composite restorations. Improving dental resin composites’ mechanical and biological properties using highly bendable nanoparticles (NPs) can resolve this issue. This study aims to develop novel Diethylaminoethyl (DEAE)-Dextran silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and subsequently modify composite resins with these NPs to enhance their mechanical and antibacterial properties. DEAE-Dextran AgNPs were successfully synthesized using a chemical reduction method that was confirmed with the help of ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Zeta potential, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Antibacterial activity of a composite disc with DEAE-Dextran AgNPs was tested against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and oral microcosm. The composite discs prepared with DEAE-Dextran AgNPs exhibited excellent antibacterial activity compared with composite resin reinforced by simple AgNPs (p < 0.05). Mechanical properties were significantly enhanced by adding DEAE-Dextran into composite resin (p < 0.05). Moreover, unlike AgNPs, DEAE-Dextran AgNPs were found to be less hemolytic. The results establish strong ground applications for DEAE-Dextran-modified dental composite resins in restorative dental applications.

Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a global threat to the human population, with manifestations resulting from alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) and non-alcohol fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD, if not treated, may progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Furthermore, inflammation leads to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Vitexin, a natural flavonoid, has been recently reported for inhibiting NAFLD. It is a lipogenesis inhibitor and activates lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation. In addition, owing to its antioxidant properties, it appeared as a hepatoprotective candidate. However, it exhibits low bioavailability and low efficacy due to its hydrophobic nature. A novel rat model for liver cirrhosis was developed by CCL4/Urethane co-administration. Vitexin encapsulated liposomes were synthesized by the ‘thin-film hydration’ method. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was coated on liposomes to enhance stability and stealth effect. The diseased rats were then treated with vitexin and PEGylated vitexin liposomes, administered intravenously and orally. Results ascertained the liposomal encapsulation of vitexin and subsequent PEG coating to be a substantial strategy for treating liver cirrhosis through oral drug delivery.