Nasal diseases are pervasive infections that can impair the quality of life of sufferers. In this study, a flexible modified triplochitin scleroxylon (MTS)-based Janus hydrogel (MTS@P/DLT) was obtained by disrupting the homogeneity of the system using DL-α-tocopherol (DLT) with flexible wood as the framework and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) as the outer matrix. At a PVA concentration of 10 wt %, DLT formed a homogeneous layer, as revealed by electron microscopy. Mechanical property analysis showed that chemical and hydrogel modifications significantly increased the flexibility and toughness of the hydrogel. Microscopic and macroscopic assessment of the characteristics of the two sides of the MTS@P/DLT hydrogel revealed that one side of the DLT film had antiadhesion effects. Molecular dynamics simulation was used to determine the movement law of DLT in a PVA solution. The stronger intermolecular force between DLT and PVA than that between DLT and water, as well as between DLT molecules, enabled the formation of a homogeneous DLT film by controlling the concentration of PVA. In vitro and in vivo models demonstrated the potential of MTS@P/DLT to resist infection and facilitate recovery. Thus, MTS@P/DLT is promising for medical use.
Inhibition of gut β-glucuronidase (GUS) protects the gastrointestinal tract by reducing local exposure to toxic aglycones from inactive glucuronides. Development of highly safe GUS inhibitors has attracted extensive attentions. The current study demonstrates that natural and synthetic vitamin E (VE) analogues all display potent inhibition toward GUS. dl-α-tocopherol acts as the most potent inhibitor with the Ki value of 0.14 μM, while the other analogues have Ki values below 15.1 μM. Docking analysis indicates that the amino residues in the active pocket of GUS form various hydrophobic interactions with both the chromanol ring and side chain of VE, as well as hydrogen bonds with the hydroxyl group. It is predicted that GUS inhibition readily occurs owing to the daily intake of common plant foods. The current study offers highly safe inhibitors for GUS, as well demonstrates a novel nonantioxidant target for VE providing new insights into the vitamin’s gastrointestinal protection.
危险品化学品经营许可证（带存储）