Work

Encapsulation of Snail Slime in Metal–Organic Framework ZIF-8

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The literature consistently identifies Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8) as an excellent material for on-demand drug delivery. Its appeal results from its superior loading capacity, inherent stability within physiological environments, and the ability to fine-tune its drug release kinetics. In this work, we investigated the encapsulation of snail slime extracted from Cornu aspersum mucus into ZIF-8. PXRD, SEM microscopy, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, and fluorescence microscopy were used for a detailed characterization of the nanoparticles. The antibacterial potential of the ZIF-8-based biocomposite was assayed in vitro against Staphylococcus epidermidis. Overall, the results indicate that encapsulating the snail slime within ZIF-8 enhances its antibacterial activity, yielding a potent antimicrobial material.

Source: Journal of Functional Biomaterials

DOI: 10.3390/jfb16120443

Authors: Maria Cristina Cassani, Francesca Bonvicini, Maria Francesca Di Filippo, Barbara Ballarin, Silvia Panzavolta, Valentina Di Matteo

Institution: University of Bologna

Language: English

Topic: Metal-Organic Frameworks: Synthesis and Applications

Subfield: Inorganic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258