Pharmacological and therapeutic applications of scorpion venom peptides: A Review

Introduction: In recent years, scorpion venom and its peptide compounds have attracted growing scientific interest. A remarkable biological diversity and strong therapeutic potential characterize these compounds. Aims:  to provide a comprehensive review of the therapeutic properties of scorpion venoms. Methods: This analysis is based on a collection of 53 studies published between 2020 and 2025, all of which have strict inclusion criteria and are drawn from reliable sources, including specialized platforms such as PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The studies reviewed focus on the pharmacological effects of scorpion venom and chemical components. Results: The collected data highlight the increased interest in scorpion-derived peptides as pharmacological tools in biomedical research, attributed to their diverse biological actions, including anticancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, antiparasitic, analgesic, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective. Among the described mechanisms of action are the induction of apoptosis, disruption of cell membranes, modulation of intracellular signalling pathways, and inhibition of ion channels. Most studies on the subject demonstrate significant efficacy, with low toxicity observed in both in vitro cell cultures and in vivo murine models. Conclusions: This review confirms the promising potential of scorpion venom peptides for developing novel therapeutic and biotechnological applications. However, it also emphasizes the necessity of further clinical research and standardized experimental protocols to fully harness their benefits

6th annual CNPD Conference 2025

6th annual CNPD Conference 202

3D Printing of Multilayered Hydrogel containing Hyaluronic acid and Linalool

This study presents the 3D printing and the development of multilayered hydrogel formulations containing hyaluronic acid (HA) and linalool (LN) for potential use as a personalised moisturising and anti-acne product. Various shapes were printed via 3D printing for personalised application; however, material characterisation was conducted primarily on the first layer. The average film weight was 2.11 ± 0.20 g, with optimal storage conditions identified as placement on a covered plate at 25 °C. Films containing 10% LN demonstrated a higher linalool release profile (maximum 22.66% of the nominal dose) compared to the 5% LN films, correlating with stronger antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. FT-IR analysis revealed the absence of C=C and C–H peaks in blank and 5% LN films due to water interference, while 10% LN films displayed characteristic LN peaks. Texture analysis showed that the 5% LN film exhibited greater tensile resistance, with the highest force recorded at 27.500 g. LN played an important role in the transformation of hydrogel ink to a liquid-like state under high strain. In conclusion, these findings highlight the potential of 3D-printed HA–LN hydrogels for customisable skincare applications with dual functionality in moisturising and antimicrobial effects

Sustained Release of Linalool from DLP 3D-Printed Films for Topical Antimicrobial Applications

Background Linalool is a naturally occurring antimicrobial agent with potential applications in dermatological treatments. Achieving sustained and controlled release of such volatile compounds remains a challenge in topical delivery systems. Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D printing offers precise control over formulation parameters, enabling the fabrication of customised polymeric films with tailored release properties. Aims This study aimed to investigate the sustained-release characteristics of linalool from DLP-printed polymeric films, examining the influence of formulation and printing parameters on release kinetics and therapeutic performance. Method Photocurable resins were loaded with linalool at varying concentrations and processed into films using DLP 3D printing under different conditions, including variations in resin type and projector power. Linalool release was quantified using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Structural and thermal properties were characterised via Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Antifungal activity was assessed to determine therapeutic applicability. Results Resin composition and linalool concentration significantly influenced release kinetics, with higher loading levels resulting in increased release rates. Projector power variation did not produce notable changes in the release behaviour. Films containing 20% w/w linalool exhibited strong activity against Staphylococcus aureus demonstrating both efficacy and sustained-release properties. Conclusion DLP 3D printing enables the fabrication of customised polymeric films capable of sustained linalool release, with performance through formulation adjustments. These findings suggest a promising approach for the development of topical antimicrobial delivery systems, particularly for dermatological conditions such as acne

The Proceedings of the 5th CNPD Conference: ‘Advances in Natural Products Research’, Liverpool on 19-21 June 2024.

This online conference marks the 5th anniversary of the foundation of the CNPD, which conducts externally funded and impactful natural products research with the aim of discovering new high-value natural products that will contribute to tackling current and future societal and global challenges in health and well-being, socio-economic growth, natural conservation, and environmental sustainability

Formulation and Characterization of a Transfersome-based Oral Care Gel: Development and Delivery of Encapsulated Lidocaine

Introduction: This study reports the formulation and development of oral gel-based transfersome nanoformulations prepared via the thin-film method. Lidocaine was incorporated as the active local anaesthetic agent, and different concentrations of excipients were employed to achieve the optimized gel characteristics. Aims: The aim of this research is to design, develop, and optimize a novel oral care gel in combination with lidocaine-entrapped transfersome carriers intended to promote gingival health, and improve the physicochemical and structural characteristics of the formulation for therapeutic applications in oral care. Methods: Hydrogels with lidocaine were manufactured via sequential phase A–D compounding with and without preservative (phenoxyethanol+ethylhexylglycerin or Plantaserve E), then homogenized via magnetic stirring and high-shear mixing to achieve optimum uniformity. Transfersomes were produced by thin-film hydration using a rotary evaporator. These gel-based formulations were then characterized for their rheological properties, texture analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Lidocaine entrapment efficiency was quantified using the HPLC technique and antimicrobial activity was tested against Candida albicans. Results: The optimized gel incorporated transfersome formulation with lidocaine (NF8) demonstrated near-physiological pH (~6.5) and spreadability of 3.0 cm (the same as the control product, 3.0 cm). The same gel formulation showed a viscosity of ~75,840 cP and ~28,200 cP at 2.5 and 10 rpm. The texture analyzer showed a firmness of 122.3 ± 9.1 g and a shear work of 61.7 ± 9.1 g/sec. Entrapment efficiency of lidocaine in transfersome nanoformulation was found to be 71%, whereas the particle size and zeta potential were found to be 268 nm and -3 mV. Whereas non-sonicated dispersions showed larger transfersome particle size (453 nm) and wide polydispersity (PDI of 0.81). Conclusion: These findings showed that transfersome-based gel has the potential to be used for their oral care application alongside their analgesic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects

Anti- inflammatory response of Zanthoxylum myriacanthum Wall. ex Hook.f. fruit extract

Background Zanthoxylum myriacanthum, known as Ma-khwaen, is widely used in Thai folk medicine and as a culinary spice. The whole fruits, including pericarp and seeds, extracted with 95% ethanol has anti-inflammatory potential, but the mechanisms of action need to be validated. Aims To investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of fruit ethanolic extract. Methods The extract, prepared via 95% ethanolic maceration, underwent HPLC analysis for quality control using L-asarinin as a standard. Its anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated using the cyclooxygenase inhibitor assay and RAW 264.7 macrophage cells through MTT cytotoxicity, COX inhibition, and RT-PCR assays, measuring inflammatory gene expression (COX-1, COX-2, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α). Statistical analysis (One-way ANOVA) assessed the significance of findings. Results ZL1 extract, obtained with a 14.32% yield and containing 0.040 % w/w L-asarinin, demonstrated an IC50 of 102.46 µg/mL on RAW 264.7 cells. Notably, ZL1 inhibited COX-2 activity in a dose-dependent manner, while showing no effect on COX-1. Gene expression analysis in LPS-inflamed RAW 264.7 cells further revealed that ZL1 down-regulated COX-2, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α at concentrations as low as 12.5 µg/mL, indicating its selective anti-inflammatory potential. Conclusion Zanthoxylum myriacanthum ethanolic extract (ZL1) selectively inhibited COX-2. It significantly suppressed inflammatory genes (COX-2, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells at 12.50, 25 and 50 µg/mL, demonstrating its potent anti-inflammatory effects

Exploring microalgal lipids as anti-virulence agents targeting MDR Vibrio cholerae infection: A Step Toward Developing Herbal Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS) Formulations

Introduction:Cholera, a life-threatening diarrheal disease caused by Vibrio cholerae, remains a major global health issue, especially in tropical regions. Increasing antibiotic resistance in V. cholerae strains poses a significant threat to effective treatment. Novel antivirulence strategies that do not promote resistance are urgently needed. Objectives: This study investigates the potential of lipid extracts and crude biomass derived from Chlorella variabilis (CV) and Chlorococcum sp. (CCM) microalgae to inhibit cholera toxin (CT) production by a multidrug-resistant V. cholerae strain (SRK-19), without affecting bacterial viability. Materials and Methods: Lipid extracts and crude freeze-dried biomass from CV and CCM were tested against V. cholerae SRK-19 in vitro for their effects on CT production (measured via ELISA) and bacterial viability. For in vivo validation, a rabbit ileal loop assay was performed, and fluid accumulation (FA ratio), colony-forming units (CFU), and CT levels were measured. Results: Both lipid extracts and crude biomass significantly reduced CT production in vitro in a dose-dependent manner, with up to 97.9% inhibition observed using CCM lipid extract at 150 μg/ml. Crude extracts achieved comparable inhibition, with CV and CCM biomass reducing CT levels by 93% and 97%, respectively, at 1 mg/ml. In vivo studies confirmed reduced FA ratios and CT levels in treated ileal loops, without affecting bacterial growth (CFU counts remained unchanged), indicating that bacterial viability was not compromised. Conclusion: Crude and lipid extracts from CV and CCM demonstrate potent antivirulence activity against V. cholerae by inhibiting CT production without promoting antimicrobial resistance. These findings support the development of a microalgae-based oral rehydration formulation as a promising alternative to conventional antibiotic therapy for cholera

Assessment of Aerides odorata\u27s Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic, Thrombolytic, and Antiarthritic Properties: A Comparative In Vitro Analysis of Its Different Parts

Historically, thrombosis, arthritis, cancer, wounds, and infections have all been treated with various herbal preparations. The aim of this work was to evaluate the antibacterial, thrombolytic, cytotoxic, and protein denaturation activities of ethanolic extracts from various Aerides odorata (AO) sections in vitro. Fourteen distinct microorganisms were used in the antimicrobial study; for orchid samples, ciprofloxacin was the most effective agent. AO/Leaf was the only one to exhibit antimicrobial potential; AO/Stem and AO/Root did not. Based on their LC50 values, we evaluated the cytotoxicity of plant extracts. AO/Root extract had the greatest cytotoxic activity when compared to AO/Leaf and AO/Stem extracts. Two incubation times (1.5 hours and 24 hours) and two concentrations (one thousand and one hundred ppm) were used to assess the thrombolytic activity of the extracts. The results obtained with regular streptokinase were then compared with the former. Compared to AO/Leaf and AO/Stem extract, it was discovered that AO/Root extract exhibited more thrombolytic activity. Furthermore, the herbal extract\u27s protein denaturation was investigated at four different concentrations, and the results were contrasted with those of Diclofenac sodium. In relation to other sections, the maximum protein denaturation values for AO/Stem extract were determined to be 60.07±2.33%, 47.22±1.43%, 35.05±2.07 %, and 23.74±1.66% for 500–62.5 ppm, respectively

A systematic review on the detection of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae

Introduction: Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) represents one of the most pressing and critical public health challenges associated with antibiotic resistance. Challenges persist in accurately and promptly identifying CPE despite the existence of diverse carbapenemases and multiple detection methods.                                                                           Aim: This study investigated diagnostic methods used for the detection of CPEs.                                                 Methods: The systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Electronic databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to find relevant articles. In addition, the Joanna Briggs Institute quality appraisal tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. STATA 14.0 was used for statistical analysis. Heterogeneity was assessed by using Cochran’s Q test and 12 statistics. In addition, publication bias was assessed using a funnel plot and Egger’s test. A random effect model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence.                                                     Results: The meta-analysis revealed an overall pooled proportion of 40.53% for phenotypic detection of carbapenemase activity across the 11 studies, with substantial heterogeneity observed. Subgroup analysis highlighted variations in detection proportions based on different methods, with mCIM showing the highest proportion at 58,20%, Carba NP at 27.79%, and MHT at 34,62%. Evaluation of publication bias indicated little impact on the results, maintaining the stability of the meta-analysis outcomes.                                                                                                         Conclusion: In conclusion, this systematic review showed a high prevalence of CPE across the studies. This study emphasizes the importance of standardized detection methods, global collaboration, and the integration of advanced techniques for accurate CPE detection