Insights into the electronic and atomic structures of cerium oxide-based ultrathin films and nanostructures using high-brilliance light sources

• Paola Luches and
• Federico Boscherini

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 860–871, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.65

• -scale information about material behavior under different conditions. This thorough understanding can be leveraged to optimize materials for various applications, including energy storage, catalysis, and electronics. This review focuses on cerium oxide, an important material for catalytic and energy

• applications, examining the application of high-brilliance light sources on model systems such as supported thin films and epitaxial nanostructures. We review selected studies exploiting the high energy resolution and sensitivity of synchrotron radiation-based X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X-ray

• refined understanding of cerium oxide-based materials, particularly when examined in the form of well-controlled thin films and nanostructures prepared by physical synthesis methods. Review Studies by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and related techniques Synchrotron radiation-based X-ray photoelectron

Morphology and properties of pyrite nanoparticles obtained by pulsed laser ablation in liquid and thin films for photodetection

• Akshana Parameswaran Sreekala,
• Bindu Krishnan,
• Rene Fabian Cienfuegos Pelaes,
• David Avellaneda Avellaneda,
• Josué Amílcar Aguilar-Martínez and
• Sadasivan Shaji

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 785–805, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.60

• -powered PDs, as opposed to conventional PDs, are well suited to operate in challenging environments and their applications and benefits in fields such as wireless environmental sensing, chemical and biosensing, in situ medical-therapy monitoring are explained in detail by Xu et al. in their review [34

Serum heat inactivation diminishes ApoE-mediated uptake of D-Lin-MC3-DMA lipid nanoparticles

• Demian van Straten,
• Luuk van de Schepop,
• Rowan Frunt,
• Pieter Vader and
• Raymond M. Schiffelers

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 740–748, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.57

• human serum Human serum was acquired from five healthy adult donors, via the Mini Donor service of the University Medical Center Utrecht (Biobank number 18-774). Approval for the study was obtained from the local ethics review board, and all participants provided written informed consent. Pooled human

Nanostructured materials characterized by scanning photoelectron spectromicroscopy

• Matteo Amati,
• Alexey S. Shkvarin,
• Alexander I. Merentsov,
• Alexander N. Titov,
• María Taeño,
• David Maestre,
• Sarah R. McKibbin,
• Zygmunt Milosz,
• Ana Cremades,
• Rainer Timm and
• Luca Gregoratti

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 700–710, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.54

• beamline at Elettra is capable of in situ and operando analysis regardless of sample morphology. The review presents three different case studies illustrating the capabilities of SPEM in the investigation of catalytic materials in different conditions and processes. Keywords: nanostructured materials

• characterization shown in the review demonstrate its usefulness in the investigation on nanostructured materials regardless of their morphology. This feature is of particular interest when device prototypes, such as sensors and batteries, must be analyzed in real conditions. The combination of imaging and

Polyurethane/silk fibroin-based electrospun membranes for wound healing and skin substitute applications

• Iqra Zainab,
• Zohra Naseem,
• Syeda Rubab Batool,
• Muhammad Waqas,
• Ahsan Nazir and
• Muhammad Anwaar Nazeer

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 591–612, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.46

• 37610, Pakistan 10.3762/bjnano.16.46 Abstract The importance of electrospun membranes for biomedical applications has increased, especially when it comes to skin regeneration and wound healing. This review presents the production and applications of electrospun membranes based on polyurethane (PU) and

• silk fibroin (SF) and highlights their benefits as a skin substitute. This review also highlights the electrospinning technique used to prepare nanofibers for these biomedical applications. Silk, well-known for its excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, structural properties, and low immunogenic

• substitute applications [13]. Various materials including natural polymers, synthetic polymers, or composites have been used to create electrospun membranes. This review focuses on silk fibroin/polyurethan-based electrospun membranes. Silk fibroin (SF) is a naturally occurring biomaterial made of proteins

Nanomaterials in targeting amyloid-β oligomers: current advances and future directions for Alzheimer's disease diagnosis and therapy

• Shiwani Randhawa,
• Trilok Chand Saini,
• Manik Bathla,
• Rahul Bhardwaj,
• Rubina Dhiman and
• Amitabha Acharya

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 561–580, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.44

• formation. This review provides an in-depth analysis of various nanochaperones developed to target AβOs, detailing their mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential via focusing on two main strategies, namely, disruption of AβOs through direct interaction and the inhibition of AβO nucleation by binding

• to intermediates of the oligomerization process. Evidence from in vivo studies indicate that NMs hold promise for ameliorating AD symptoms. Additionally, the review explores the different interaction mechanisms through which nanoparticles exhibit their inhibitory effects on AβOs, providing insights

• ; dissociation; nanomaterials; Review Introduction The etiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has traditionally been linked to the presence of amyloid-β 42 (Aβ42), a protein widely recognized as a key marker of the disease. However, a growing body of recent scientific evidence suggests that it may be the amyloid

Synthetic-polymer-assisted antisense oligonucleotide delivery: targeted approaches for precision disease treatment

• Ana Cubillo Alvarez,
• Dylan Maguire and
• Ruairí P. Brannigan

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 435–463, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.34

• Ana Cubillo Alvarez Dylan Maguire Ruairi P. Brannigan School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland 10.3762/bjnano.16.34 Abstract This review explores the recent advancements in polymer-assisted delivery systems for antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and their

• potential in precision disease treatment. Synthetic polymers have shown significant promise in enhancing the delivery, stability, and therapeutic efficacy of ASOs by addressing key challenges such as cellular uptake, endosomal escape, and reducing cytotoxicity. The review highlights key studies from the

• . Emerging strategies, including stimuli-responsive polymers and advanced nanoparticle systems, offer potential solutions to these challenges. The review underscores the transformative potential of polymer-enhanced ASO delivery in personalised medicine, emphasising the importance of continued innovation to

Biomimetics and bioinspired surfaces: from nature to theory and applications

• Rhainer Guillermo Ferreira,
• Thies H. Büscher,
• Manuela Rebora,
• Poramate Manoonpong,
• Zhendong Dai and
• Stanislav N. Gorb

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 418–421, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.32

• species. Other possible sources of bioinspiration have been extensively examined by a review on functional surfaces in Hymenoptera, which include bees, wasps, and ants [5]. This diverse group of insects offers a rich array of surfaces that are adapted to realize different tasks, providing insights into

Enhancing mechanical properties of chitosan/PVA electrospun nanofibers: a comprehensive review

• Nur Areisman Mohd Salleh,
• Amalina Muhammad Afifi,
• Fathiah Mohamed Zuki and
• Hanna Sofia SalehHudin

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 286–307, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.22

• Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 10.3762/bjnano.16.22 Abstract This review examines strategies to enhance the mechanical properties of chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) electrospun nanofibers, recognized for their biomedical and

• . Key strategies for improvement are analyzed, including material modifications through blending and structural modifications like fiber orientation and multilayer constructions, and surface modifications such as coating and functionalization. The review also covers advanced characterization methods to

• [9]. In this review, we focus on the background of the electrospinning process, the properties of chitosan/PVA electrospun nanofibers, and fabrication techniques, including the effects of various parameters and post-treatment methods. We also review the characterization of chitosan/PVA electrospun

Emerging strategies in the sustainable removal of antibiotics using semiconductor-based photocatalysts

• Yunus Ahmed,
• Keya Rani Dutta,
• Parul Akhtar,
• Md. Arif Hossen,
• Md. Jahangir Alam,
• Obaid A. Alharbi,
• Hamad AlMohamadi and
• Abdul Wahab Mohammad

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 264–285, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.21

• contaminants, making it a versatile option for environmental remediation across various water and air treatment applications. These features collectively make photocatalysis an attractive approach for addressing pollution challenges in diverse settings. In recent years, several significant review papers have

• lack of understanding about these processes and their practical limitations for large-scale commercial wastewater treatment. This review concentrates on semiconductor-based photocatalytic processes and their effectiveness in eliminating antibiotics while also addressing their practical constraints. The

• enhanced antibiotic degradation from contaminated water. The discussion also includes concluding remarks and future directions of emerging techniques for sustainable wastewater treatment. Review Sources of antibiotics The primary sources of antibiotics in surface water include animal husbandry and

Radiosensitizing properties of dual-functionalized carbon nanostructures loaded with temozolomide

• Radmila Milenkovska,
• Nikola Geskovski,
• Dushko Shalabalija,
• Ljubica Mihailova,
• Petre Makreski,
• Dushko Lukarski,
• Igor Stojkovski,
• Maja Simonoska Crcarevska and
• Kristina Mladenovska

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 229–251, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.18

• . The same was also confirmed in a systematic review related to the cell toxicity and immunological effects of CNs, in which the toxicity of CNs followed the order: fullerenes < carbon black nanoparticles < MWCNTs < SWCNTs < graphene [69]. Regarding the surface modification, findings from all studies

• detail explained in a recent review by Thabet et al. [96], emphasizing its role in DNA synthesis and repair mechanisms, gene expression, protection from oxidative stress, homocysteine regulation, collagen synthesis, and effect on enzymes, on one side, and the stimulation of nucleotide synthesis and

Recent advances in photothermal nanomaterials for ophthalmic applications

• Jiayuan Zhuang,
• Linhui Jia,
• Chenghao Li,
• Rui Yang,
• Jiapeng Wang,
• Wen-an Wang,
• Heng Zhou and
• Xiangxia Luo

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 195–215, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.16

• the photothermal properties of these nanomaterials and their innovative therapeutic mechanisms. We review the latest research on photothermal nanomaterial-based treatments for various eye diseases. Additionally, we discuss the current challenges and future perspectives in this field, with a focus on

• enhancing global visual health. Keywords: multifunctional composite; ophthalmology; photothermal nanomaterial; thermal field distribution; vapor nanobubble; Review 1 Introduction The human eye, serving as a primary organ for information acquisition, is vulnerable to various diseases over a lifetime [1

A review of metal-organic frameworks and polymers in mixed matrix membranes for CO₂ capture

• Charlotte Skjold Qvist Christensen,
• Nicholas Hansen,
• Mahboubeh Motadayen,
• Nina Lock,
• Martin Lahn Henriksen and
• Jonathan Quinson

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 155–186, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.14

• frameworks (MOFs) have gained recognition as MMM fillers for CO2 capture. Here, a review of the current state, recent advancements, and challenges in the fabrication and engineering of MMMs with MOFs for selective CO2 capture is proposed. Key considerations and promising research directions to fully exploit

• the gas separation potential of MOF-based MMMs in CO2 capture applications are highlighted. Keywords: CO2 capture; gas separation; inorganic filler; metal-organic framework (MOF); mixed matrix membrane (MMM); Review 1 Introduction The continuous rise in global CO2 emissions has unfolded an era of

• , metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have received a growing focus in the past decade [5][12][23][24][25]. The MOFs play the role of versatile and porous dispersive fillers, providing a multitude of opportunities to fabricate highly efficient MOF-derived MMMs tailored for CO2 separation. The present review

Nanocarriers and macrophage interaction: from a potential hurdle to an alternative therapeutic strategy

• Naths Grazia Sukubo,
• Paolo Bigini and
• Annalisa Morelli

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 97–118, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.10

• advantages, the interaction with many biological matrices, particularly with existing macrophages, must be considered. In this review, we will explore the dual role of macrophages in NC delivery, highlighting their physiological functions, the challenges posed by the mononuclear phagocyte system, and

• delve into the intriguing potential of nanomedicine in neurology and traumatology, associated with macrophage interaction, and the exciting possibilities it holds for the future. Keywords: drug delivery; macrophages; nanomedicine; polarization; RNA-based therapies; Review 1 Introduction In the vast

• ability to recognize and engulf NCs can impede the delivery of therapeutic agents to target tissues, it also opens avenues for novel strategies that exploit macrophage behavior for benefits, like targeted drug delivery and immunomodulation [2][7][8]. This review will explore the physiological functions of

Orientation-dependent photonic bandgaps in gold-dust weevil scales and their titania bioreplicates

• Norma Salvadores Farran,
• Limin Wang,
• Primoz Pirih and
• Bodo D. Wilts

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2025, 16, 1–10, doi:10.3762/bjnano.16.1

• our knowledge never conclusively for photonic crystals (for a review, see [21]). The iridescence effect was reversed when we turned the animal to the side (not shown); hence, the effect is likely not due to the material composition or lattice periodicity differences between the scales at the top and

Natural nanofibers embedded in the seed mucilage envelope: composite hydrogels with specific adhesive and frictional properties

• Agnieszka Kreitschitz and
• Stanislav N. Gorb

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2024, 15, 1603–1618, doi:10.3762/bjnano.15.126

• ], or to animal bodies, promoting epizoochory [31][32][33]. These distinct physical features make mucilage also an important substrate for pharmaceutical, biomedical, and food industries [11][15][19][20][21]. Here, we briefly review the basic composition and structure of mucilage, its frictional and

• adhesive properties, and ecological aspects associated with these properties. We also summarise and discuss the results of our studies from the last few years conducted on mucilage envelopes and summarise them to demonstrate the current state of knowledge on this topic (Figure 2). Review Spatial structure

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles derived from algae and their larvicidal properties to control Aedes aegypti

• Matheus Alves Siqueira de Assunção,
• Douglas Dourado,
• Daiane Rodrigues dos Santos,
• Gabriel Bezerra Faierstein,
• Mara Elga Medeiros Braga,
• Severino Alves Junior,
• Rosângela Maria Rodrigues Barbosa,
• Herminio José Cipriano de Sousa and
• Fábio Rocha Formiga

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2024, 15, 1566–1575, doi:10.3762/bjnano.15.123

• cost and sustainable biosynthesis. In the perspective of using AgNPs in the development of novel insecticides for vector control, this review deals with the eco-friendly synthesis of AgNPs through seaweed extracts as reducing and stabilizing agents. In addition, assessment of toxicity of these

• as phenols, ascorbic acid, flavonoids, polyphenolics, alkaloids, and terpenes, which could act as reducing agents [21]. This review focuses on AgNPs produced in a green and sustainable way through the use of natural products as reducing agents, namely seaweed extracts. The activity of AgNPs upon A

• . aegypti and their potential role for the control and prevention of arboviruses are presented. Finally, ecotoxicity and environmental risk assessment of AgNPs are further discussed. Review Synthesis of silver nanoparticles AgNPs are metallic nanoparticles in a size range between 1 and 100 nm with unique

Polymer lipid hybrid nanoparticles for phytochemical delivery: challenges, progress, and future prospects

• Iqra Rahat,
• Pooja Yadav,
• Aditi Singhal,
• Mohammad Fareed,
• Jaganathan Raja Purushothaman,
• Mohammed Aslam,
• Raju Balaji,
• Sonali Patil-Shinde and
• Md. Rizwanullah

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2024, 15, 1473–1497, doi:10.3762/bjnano.15.118

• hybrid nanoparticles (PLHNPs) have emerged as a novel delivery system that combines the advantages of both polymeric and lipid-based nanoparticles to overcome these challenges. This review explores the potential of PLHNPs to enhance the delivery and efficacy of phytochemicals for biomedical applications

• advantageous for chronic conditions requiring long-term treatment, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders [22][23]. This review aims to discuss the ability of PLHNPs to improve the therapeutic delivery of phytochemicals for biomedical applications. In this review, we discuss

• the obstacles in the conventional delivery of phytochemicals, types of PLHNPs, different phytochemical-loaded PLHNPs for improved phytochemical delivery, challenges in clinical translation of PLHNPs, and future perspectives. Review Obstacles in the conventional delivery of phytochemicals The

Effect of radiation-induced vacancy saturation on the first-order phase transformation in nanoparticles: insights from a model

• Aram Shirinyan and
• Yuriy Bilogorodskyy

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2024, 15, 1453–1472, doi:10.3762/bjnano.15.117

• literature review reveals that the stability of materials under irradiation is influenced by numerous factors. Some of these characteristic factors include the elemental composition and chemical structure, the microstructure of the material (including grain boundaries, defects, dislocations, and interfaces

Nanotechnological approaches for efficient N2B delivery: from small-molecule drugs to biopharmaceuticals

• Selin Akpinar Adscheid,
• Akif E. Türeli,
• Nazende Günday-Türeli and
• Marc Schneider

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2024, 15, 1400–1414, doi:10.3762/bjnano.15.113

• drugs can be encapsulated into various drug delivery systems to enhance physicochemical characteristics and targeting success. Many preclinical data show that this strategy can effectively deliver biopharmaceuticals to the brain. Therefore, this review focuses on N2B delivery while giving examples of

• intranasal administration of biopharmaceuticals to target the brain. In addition, using DDSs to deliver biopharmaceuticals to the CNS can present additional advantages such as enhanced retention on the mucosal surface, drug stability, and bioavailability [35]. In this review, we focus on the recent

• in the last five years (2019–2024). We also enriched the review with different studies from the last decade to highlight important previous scholarly work. Review Nasal anatomy and intranasal drug delivery: advantages and limitations The nasal route of drug administration has gained attention over

A biomimetic approach towards a universal slippery liquid infused surface coating

• Ryan A. Faase,
• Madeleine H. Hummel,
• AnneMarie V. Hasbrook,
• Andrew P. Carpenter and
• Joe E. Baio

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2024, 15, 1376–1389, doi:10.3762/bjnano.15.111

• mean ± (standard deviation). Preparation of platelet-poor plasma and washed platelets Human blood samples were collected from volunteers at Oregon State University Student Health Services in accordance with an approved Institutional Review Board (IRB-2019-0271). Informed consent from four different

Hymenoptera and biomimetic surfaces: insights and innovations

• Vinicius Marques Lopez,
• Carlo Polidori and
• Rhainer Guillermo Ferreira

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2024, 15, 1333–1352, doi:10.3762/bjnano.15.107

• morphological features and the principles behind their functionality, we aim to identify key characteristics that can inspire innovative materials and technologies. Review General features of body cuticle The cuticle of Hymenoptera exhibits several fascinating properties. Cuticle roughness The cuticle surfaces

Functional morphology of cleaning devices in the damselfly Ischnura elegans (Odonata, Coenagrionidae)

• Silvana Piersanti,
• Gianandrea Salerno,
• Wencke Krings,
• Stanislav Gorb and
• Manuela Rebora

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2024, 15, 1260–1272, doi:10.3762/bjnano.15.102

• old description of odonatan forelegs by St. Quentin [34] and some scattered observations of the grooming behavior in some odonatan species (review in [35]), no detailed study has been performed so far. This study aims to describe the grooming devices located on the forelegs of a damselfly that are

• used to clean the head and, especially, the eyes and the antennae. The microstructures were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the presence and distribution of resilin, an elastomeric protein that enhances cuticle deformability and flexibility (review in [36]), were analyzed using

• ] and thermo-hygroreceptors [44][45][46][47][48], which need frequent cleaning. Furthermore, the need to keep a clean eye surface to guarantee the functioning of the most advanced visual systems among insects ([35], review in [49]) requires the involvement of scraping forelegs with specialized cleaning

Realizing active targeting in cancer nanomedicine with ultrasmall nanoparticles

• André F. Lima,
• Giselle Z. Justo and
• Alioscka A. Sousa

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2024, 15, 1208–1226, doi:10.3762/bjnano.15.98

• actively targeted usNPs, revealing increased tumor accumulation and retention compared to non-targeted counterparts. In this review, we explore actively targeted inorganic usNPs, highlighting their biological properties and behavior, along with applications in both preclinical and clinical settings

• . Keywords: active targeting; cancer; nanoclusters; renal clearance; ultrasmall nanoparticles; Review 1 Introduction Nanotechnology has opened new avenues for tackling unmet challenges in medicine [1][2][3]. In the field of oncology, a notable application involves the use of engineered nanoparticles (NPs

• behavior, collectively addressing limitations associated with conventional large NPs (Figure 1). In this topical review, we begin by defining inorganic usNPs, highlighting their importance in cancer nanomedicine, and discussing the implementation of active targeting strategies. Then, we explore various

Local work function on graphene nanoribbons

• Daniel Rothhardt,
• Amina Kimouche,
• Tillmann Klamroth and
• Regina Hoffmann-Vogel

Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 2024, 15, 1125–1131, doi:10.3762/bjnano.15.91

• surfaces, all related to charge differences; for a review, see [14]. Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM), a method derived from scanning force microscopy (SFM), allows one to study the local work function difference of a sample with great accuracy and with atomic resolution [15][16][17][18][19][20]. In