This study highlights a practical formulation strategy to enhance the skin penetration of 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10H2DA), a key bioactive compound in royal jelly. By incorporating anionic cross-linked polymers, the authors achieved more than a tenfold increase in 10H2DA permeation compared with royal jelly extract alone. The study further confirmed epidermal penetration using DESI imaging mass spectrometry and demonstrated that higher skin hydration strongly promotes 10H2DA delivery. These findings emphasize that both formulation design and skin condition are critical for improving the dermal delivery of low-molecular-weight amphiphilic compounds.

The inaugural Goethe Science Diplomacy Award was presented on June 19, 2026, during Goethe University’s Summer Reception for international guests and researchers. The award, established by the Foundation for the Promotion of International Scientific Relations at Goethe University Frankfurt, recognizes researchers whose work strengthens international cooperation, promotes academic freedom and fosters dialogue across societal, cultural and political boundaries.

A 31-year global analysis covering 204 countries shows the absolute burden of viral skin diseases has surged by over one-third since 1990, now affecting 84.7 million people annually. The study identifies children under 15 and older adults as the most vulnerable groups and reveals widening socioeconomic disparities, calling for targeted public health interventions to address inequities.

A 31-year global analysis covering 204 countries shows the absolute burden of viral skin diseases has surged by over one-third since 1990, now affecting 84.7 million people annually. The study identifies children under 15 and older adults as the most vulnerable groups and reveals widening socioeconomic disparities, calling for targeted public health interventions to address inequities.

Chronic diabetic wounds heal slowly and are highly vulnerable to infection. Researchers have developed an AI-guided, 4D-printed microneedle patch that actively closes wounds, fights bacteria, and promotes tissue repair. Inspired by the carnivorous plant Drosera capensis, the device combines shape-changing materials, adhesive DNA nanoparticles, and antibacterial zinc treatment, demonstrating how AI can transform biological inspiration into programmable medical technology.

Cronkhite–Canada syndrome (CCS) is a rare, non-hereditary hamartomatous polyposis syndrome of the gastrointestinal tract accompanied by ectodermal changes. The cause has remained unknown for decades, with no clear germline mutations identified. A new multi-omics study reveals that expanded TNF-α-producing CD4⁺ T cells and IL-1β-secreting macrophages drive excessive mucus secretion and colonic hamartoma formation through a positive feedback loop inducing epithelial prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) production, offering potential therapeutic targets for this puzzling disease.

A recent study identified carbonic anhydrase III (CAR3) as a previously unrecognized protein critical for healthy bone development and regeneration. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, genetically modified mice, and bone repair models, researchers found that CAR3 helps osteoblasts mineralize collagen and strengthen bone tissue by interacting with collagen and bone sialoprotein. Mice lacking CAR3 developed low bone density and impaired bone formation, while CAR3-functionalized scaffolds significantly improved bone healing and regeneration following skeletal injury.