MOVING FORWARD
Dr Eudald Casals, Project Manager and R&D&I Coordinator at Premium Research, has actively contributed to this work, which was recently published (June 2025).
This study presents a novel approach that combines synthetic nanozymes with natural antioxidants in a single nanocomposite, aiming to address key challenges associated with oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. A core-shell type nanocomposite has been developed, integrating cerium oxide nanozymes (CeO₂NZs) and the flavonoid quercetin within a mesoporous silica nanocarrier (mSiO₂).
This nanoformulation enables cells exposed to excessive oxidative stress to sustainably eliminate reactive oxygen species (ROS)—the culprits of cellular damage—thanks to the antioxidant properties of quercetin and the redox behaviour of the CeO₂NZs. The results show a reduction of ROS levels to physiological ranges, as well as a more significant decrease in the expression of inflammatory markers compared to the individual use of CeO₂NZs and quercetin. This enhanced effect is attributed to the synergistic action between cerium's ROS-scavenging ability and quercetin’s antioxidant effects, which target different cellular pathways.
This platform represents an innovative strategy to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of natural compounds, overcoming limitations such as low solubility, instability and rapid metabolism, while also expanding the applications of nanozyme-based medicine. Furthermore, the integration of natural products with nanotechnology could facilitate the future translation of these nanomedicine solutions into clinical practice.
Shi Y, Zeng M, Casals E, Casals G, Liu N. Metal and Covalent Organic Frameworks Meet OB-GYN: Advancing Applications in Women's Health and Pregnancy Care. Small. 2025 Jun 25:e2504366. doi: 10.1002/smll.202504366. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 40557583.
