Muhammad Abdul Basit

Dextran, a neutral exopolysaccharide, is biosynthesized through lactic acid fermentation. Its chemical structure consists of α‐1,6‐linked D ‐glucose units with abundant hydroxyl functional groups. These features allow for diverse chemical modifications, enabling the development of novel nanostructures with tailored and controlled properties. Due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, non‐toxicity, and non‐immunogenic nature, dextran and its derivatives have been widely explored across various biomedical domains, including food sciences, pharmaceuticals, biomedicines, and nutraceuticals. In this review, we highlight recent advancements in dextran‐based nanostructures, with a particular focus on their applications in drug delivery. Common fabrication techniques such as nanoprecipitation, emulsification, and self‐assembly are first discussed. We then critically evaluate the reproducibility and suitability of these methods in achieving essential drug‐loading criteria, including encapsulation efficiency and structural stability. Key challenges in the field are also addressed, especially the impact of fabrication methods and chemical modifications on the physicochemical properties and biocompatibility of dextran nanostructures. Finally, we explore the potential of dextran‐based systems for targeted drug delivery and their influence on drug efficacy.

Heavy metal contamination, especially cadmium (Cd) in agricultural lands had significantly impacted sustainability and wheat production. This study tested the effectiveness of organic and inorganic amendments viz. phosphorus-modified biochar (PMBC), vermicomposting, and bentonite for their beneficial impact on plant biomass, physiological parameters, and biochemical assays, including oxidative stress markers. Results indicated that PMBC, vermicompost, and bentonite significantly improved wheat studied parameters and their effect was more pronounced at BN1% + VC2% + PMBC2% amendment combination at 5, 10 and 15 mg kg⁻¹ Cd levels compared to control. The wheat dry biomass (51%, 41% and 44%), root surface area (35%, 37% and 33%) significantly increased, while enhancing physiological traits such as chlorophyll a and b (21%, 24% and 21% and 19%, 23% and 18%), carotenoids content (22%, 24% and 27%), and the membrane stability index (MSI) (34%, 43% and 43%) were improved at BN1% + VC2% + PMBC2% compared to control at 5, 10 and 15 mg kg⁻¹ Cd levels, respectively. Similar treatment also significantly reduces Cd-induced oxidative stress by improving Cd stress indicators viz. malondialdehyde (MDA), proline and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) through enhancing activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Along with growth and physiological improvements, the treatment BN1% + VC2% + PMBC2% provides a significant reduction in soil Cd, its uptake and translocation in wheat plants. Hence, it can be concluded that integration of PMBC, VC and BN is a sustainable and eco-friendly technology in improving wheat growth, physiology and yield along with alleviating oxidative damage to wheat and Cd translocation in wheat through roots.